American Airlines plans to reduce fourth-quarter mainline capacity by 3 percent year over year,

the carrier announced. AA previously expected fourth-quarter capacity to be roughly flat compared with the same period in 2010. "While our advance bookings are generally in line with last year, we are taking these additional steps in light of the uncertain economic environment, ongoing high fuel costs and to ensure we run a reliable schedule for our customers given additional pilot retirements we anticipate throughout the fourth quarter," according to chief commercial officer Virasb Vahidi. The carrier also announced plans to retire next year up to 11 Boeing 757s.