American Airlines - Surprise on the upside - Lounge and Flights

[NinnyPoo]

I returned last week from JFK to HKG via LAX.

I had the "dread" on what the experience would be, even though flying business.

Arrived @ JFK with 2 hours to spare and had the TSA obligatory 30 mins que. Then went to the new "Flagship Lounge" for Emerald and First Class passengers. Despite it being a Friday night the lounge was half full and had great views as well as a good drink selection (about 10 beers and top shelf spirits including Hendricks). Real Champagne was even being served.

Then flew on the new A321 to LAX in business. While tight the bed is fully flat. Food just ok, but key is being able to sleep. The best part was the new 777-300ER from LAX to HKG. The plane looked new and the hard product felt superior to Cathay. Slept 10 hours on a 14 hour flight. I didn't eat aside from a continental breakfast, so can't comment on food. I would definitely travel this from LAX to SYD.

Having had the 767-200 from LAX to JFK many times the latest inflight and pre flight experience really did impress. LAX gets a new flagship lounge soon as well.

 

[Dudditz]

I just flew AA J class on their Dreamliner from PVG - ORD return and was actually impressed with their product expecting the worst. Decent champagne, wine and better than expected food along with attentive service. Also slept soundly both ways and for the price paid would fly them again!

The ORD flagship lounge was pretty ordinary and in need to a facelift though. I was actually impressed with the new Phoenix Admirals Club (I think terminal C) with a modern fit out including staff serving complimentary margaritas and Mexican canapés.

 

[bryanjones]

I think the keyword is "flagship"...

 

[opusman]

Sorry to be a pedant, but it's "queue", not "que". "Que" is what Manuel says.

 

[cjd600]

Sorry to be a pedant, but it's "queue", not "que". "Que" is what Manuel says.

...what Manuel used to say

 

[opusman]

...what Manuel used to say

... true

 

[bsb]

Thanks for the report. I've done a lot of F intra-US AA flying and am always so grateful that's not my home carrier or airport experience. I'm using them up to LAX in a couple of months (mainly because I'm not using QF until they get rid if those awful J 380 seats) and you've given me hope. I'd resigned myself to likely not eating at all and being underwhelmed by the FAs. But I get domestic is another beast.

 

[serfty]

By the middle of next year there will be a new Flagship lounge at ORD, co-located with a refurbished A/C at the H/K junction. The F/L at the end of K pier will be used to 'enhance' retail space.

 

[TomVexille]

By the middle of next year there will be a new Flagship lounge at ORD, co-located with a refurbished A/C. The F/L at the end of K pier will be used to 'enhance' retail space.

Hopefully finished by the time we're there next year