When it comes to traveling, one has to decide on many things, including the Airline – and hear us out; it is not a small decision. Your whole trip depends on it, and sometimes some rigid policies and inconvenient systems could put you in a place of misery.
To avoid the same, it becomes essential that you research well, so when and if the time comes, you are prepared, and no surprises are left for you. American Airlines caters to a very significant consumer base at present – from flight cancellation & change policies to seat selection and membership programs, there is simply a lot that one will have to consider before entrusting them.
What fare classes does American Airlines offer?
American Airlines offers some eight classes – these differ based on amenities provided and fares charged. However, the services also differ; the deciding factor of what amenities are offered in what fare range is the destination and plane type.
Opting for Flagship First makes sense for those looking for a premium and luxurious flying experience. With several services offered like private check-in, five-star services during and before the flights, lounges, lie-flat seats, and more – if you want to splurge on a trip – this is the particular service you want to opt for.
While Flagship First offers the most premium services at obviously the most premium rates – Flagship Business is the second most luxurious airline experience that you buy yourself via American Airlines. It also includes priority services and comfortable and luxurious amenities like lie-flat seats. All in all, a more affordable version of Flagship First.
People traveling First Class can expect priority privileges too. More like the Flagships, they can also look forward to premium dining options and comfortable seats (better than the economy, a little less luxurious than Flagships). People tend to have mixed opinions about these services – while some love the space and comfort, some criticize the customer service.
The business class works best for shorter international flights, which might not be as memorable as long flights due to a lack of comfort. This is because wide seats with obviously good legroom might feel more comfortable when the travel time is maybe 3-4 hours.
Finally, for economy travelers, American Airlines offers Premium economy, Standard Economy, and Basic Economy. If you opt for premium economy, you will be able to experience a few luxury experiences like premium dining with alcoholic beverages and amenity kits. The Airline allows for early boarding, spacious seats, and complimentary snacks for Standard Economy travelers. The best benefit that Basic Economy travelers enjoy is the cheap price.
Change and Cancellation Policies
To change your flight options to something that costs more, basically for upgrades, one definitely will have to pay the difference. For those who are changing to a lesser-expensive flight, the difference will be paid back to them, however, in the form of credit only. If you’ve ever been to target, you’ll understand how that works better.
Baggage Policies and Fees
Here’s the good thing about American Airlines – they let you carry one, free of charge, carry-on-bag and one personal item – the carry on bag has to be smaller in dimension than 22x14x9 inch, and the personal item should be suitable enough for the small luggage compartment. First-class travelers are allowed 2-3 checked bags, again free of charge, and business-class passengers can bring two complimentary bags not exceeding the weight limit of 70 pounds. For economy passengers, the weight limit is 50 pounds, and two complimentary bags are allowed to them, whereas main cabin passengers are charged for carrying the same weight.
Seats and Legroom
Seat selection seems very important, especially when the flight duration is long. While some airlines only allow the same for an extra charge, the good thing with American Airlines is that it becomes easier with such an extensive bifurcation of type of flights and amenities. For example, the Flagship travelers are free of this stress since they know they’ll be getting lie-flat seats only. For those traveling First and Business class, the seats are quite comfortable; thus, only a very few people choose to go through the process. Economy travelers, however, might feel the need to select seats, and that option is available to them for a very nominal charge.
Amenities and Entertainment
Especially those covering a significant distance, look for entertainment options on their flights because no one wants to sleep in an 8-9 hour long flight straight and wake up with bad back pain. American Airlines allows free entertainment in all fare classes, not just that it is also possible for one to purchase Wi-Fi subject to the flight type. One can leverage the infotainment at the back of passenger seats to browse series, movies, and a lot – however, the same is only for selected flight types. Others, they are always allowed to use their personal devices. Which often comes as a surprise and turn off for people who prefer the infotainments instead of using their personal devices.
Regarding complimentary snacks, the same is offered, subject to the duration of the flight. Those traveling economy class can expect a few complimentary options, while business and first-class travelers can expect alcoholic beverages too.
How is the overall in-flight experience?
While we can not obviously compare the travel experience of the Flagship with the Basic Economy – we can say the prices justify the services and amenities offered. From whatever we have heard, sure, a wide-leg seat can’t be in competition with lie-flat seats, but as far as you get what you pay for is concerned – we think it’s all justified for a trip.
What do we like the best about the Airline?
- The complimentary baggage system is absolutely appreciable since we all know how restrictive Airlines are when it comes to luggage. Most flights expect passengers to pay for even single carry-on bags, which is not the case with American Airlines.
- The extensive bifurcation of fare classes and amenities helps make decisions quicker and saves passengers.From any doubts Bansal Travels will helps you.