American Airlines Updates First Class: Champagne+Bedding
Intro
On my way back from Brazil I had the opportunity to fly American Airlines Flagship First Class from New York to Los Angeles on their A321T and noticed a few differences from the past few times I have flown the route. Eventually, I will get to the full review, but for now, I wanted to share a quick look at some of the changes.
The Champagne Has Been Upgraded
For the past while, American Airlines has rotated its First Class champagne selection to the point where they were serving Lionne Royale retailing at around 38$. As someone who enjoys champagne, this certainly wasn't their best.
However, as of now, American Airlines has upgraded to a much more respectable champagne: Ayala Brut Majeur, which retails around 67$ bottles per bottle. I found this to be a lot more flavorful than the previous First Class offerings.
The reasoning: American Airlines had received feedback from plenty of customers stating that the champagne was unacceptable, and thus the company decided to upgrade it. I am not going to see that this is on the level of Singapore Airlines, or even Qatar Business, but I appreciate this small gesture.
However, there is a downside when it comes to catering, as I noticed that the options seemed to be a bit lackluster compared to the previous flight I was on. No steak or a short rib?
The Two-Part Bedding Is Gone
For the longest time, one of the perks of flying American Airlines in First Class across the country was that you would get a second blanket and a second pillow. While the second pillow wasn't quite like United's PS service, it was still a nice added touch (I would cuddle with it haha).
Well, that has also now changed to simply providing the long-haul business-class bedding. This is a big letdown in my book as it's not quite as comfortable as before. Not that it is bad...
Final Thoughts
Part of me is going to miss Flagship First Class when it leaves, okay, mainly due to the lack of Chelsea Lounge access... However, I am happy in a way that American Airlines has listened to their customers regarding the champagne selection, as it is a big step up (for AA, let's not speak of a proper First Class). There is something to be said about the bedding, if you are planning to fly again on the A321T in First Class, don't expect the two-part bedding like before.
A lot of people have an issue with Flagship First, but I don't see it that way. I think that American prices this product very reasonably for what is included; direct aisle access, Chelsea Lounge access, the best champagne across the country, and usually* good prices make this a good product. Considering Delta often prices D1 higher than AA F, I am taking AA F any day of the week ending in Y 😅.
While I am a United flyer, I always wish the best to American as I rarely have a bad flight with them..;
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