American Airlines New Suites Delayed. Could First Class Be Staying?
Intro
Recently, I took a flight onboard American Airlines in First Class on their 777-300 from Miami to Los Angeles and found some aspects of the experience to be improved. This got me thinking about why American Airlines would improve their First Class product if they were going to throw it away.
Now, as OMAAT has cited, the new 787s featuring the flagship suites have now been delayed with no timeline; I am curious to see if these two aspects add up.
While none of this is confirmed, let's get into a little bit of cross-analysis research😅
American Airlines Flagship Suites Delayed
Originally, Flagship suites were due to be debuted on the Dallas-Brisbane route beginning in October 2024 by the 787-9 Dreamliner. However, due to "aircraft delays", this has now been delayed until no certain date.
With this being said, I'm not 100% certain when American Airlines will take delivery. There is no set timetable at the moment, and I could see a potential outcome where these planes won't be in service until 1st or 2nd quarter of 2024.
Let's be frank with ourselves, though; all new business-class products have been somewhat delayed from Lufthansa Allegris to the JAL A350-1000.
Upgraded First Class
Having flown on American Airlines flagship First multiple times, there is one thing that has always stood out to me: the lack of a good first-class product. However, a couple of days ago, I took a flight from Miami-Los Angeles on the 777-300 in First and was pleasantly surprised.
For starters, there were full wine lists as well as flute glasses for champagne!
Now, why might American Airlines be improving their First Class service if it is going to be gone by next year? My hypothesis and I could be wrong: American Airlines is seeing if there is a market to continue with First Class.
With the upgraded lounges, flagship first check-in, and flagship first dining, they already have everything in place to continue this product. I guess only time shall tell...
Final Thoughts
American Airlines has a unique opportunity to continue First Class, even if the market is wholly there. With the new Flagship Suites being delayed, coupled with the upgraded First Class, one has to wonder if American Airlines are testing the waters on keeping First Class in the air for the time being. Only time shall tell.
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