5 days ago
The Future of American Airlines Travel Starts Today
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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More than 200 customers made the trip from Chicago (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX) today aboard American Airlines' new Boeing 787-9. The plane's takeoff marked the start of a new chapter in the company's aviation history.
The flight coincided with the launch of American's new international and domestic summer travel routes.
"We're excited that you are part of the beginning of this plane's journey," American's Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden said in a note to passengers on Flight 2012. "Everything you see on board today was designed with you in mind: from the design details to Bluetooth connectivity to state-of-the-art entertainment, your comfort is our priority."
The plane seats 244 passengers. It features American's redesigned Main Cabin and reimagined Premium Economy cabins, which are designed to deliver a more premium experience to passengers.
Flagship Suite seat onboard an American Airlines plane.
Flagship Suite seat onboard an American Airlines plane.
American Airlines
In the Main Cabin, there are 4K monitors with Bluetooth connectivity and USB Type-C and AC power ports at every one of the 161 seats. Premium Economy's 32 passengers get that plus a privacy headrest with wings, adjustable calf and footrests, wireless charging and water bottle storage.
Fifty-one Flagship Suite seats are available on the plane. They offer personal storage space, a wireless charging pad, privacy door, chaise lounge feature, reading light mirror and trinket tray. Booking one of these seats also gets you additional perks like Priority check-in, security, boarding and baggage handling. International flyers also get access to American's Flagship lounge and a multi-course meal, pillow and duvet blanket.
Flagship Suite Preferred seats build on the Flagship Suite offers with 19 percent more bed space and 42 percent more living area. There are just eight of those seats available.
Brandon Blackwood for American Airlines amenity kit.
Brandon Blackwood for American Airlines amenity kit.
American Airlines
Brandon Blackwood amenity kits will be available through early September for passengers in several fare classes. Flagship First and Flagship Suite Preferred customers receive a compact travel version of Blackwood's trademark Portmore handbag, made of denim and with a wraparound zip closure.
Flagship Business and Flagship Suite seats fliers get a black pouch with red accents along the zipper and Blackwood's signature checkered pattern on the interior.
Premium Economy passengers receive a blue and white checkered pattern kit.
American's upgraded offerings debut at a time when the industry's luxury and premium offerings are receiving upgrades across the board. From added onboard amenities like a large snack area to finer linens and better food and beverage options, domestic and international airlines are finding new ways to appeal to customers.
