What Is American Airlines’ Premium Economy Offering On International Flights?

American Airlines is leading the way in introducing premium economy cabin products among US airlines. The airline debuted its brand-new premium economy seats on its first Boeing 787-9 aircraft in October 2016. After receiving market recognition and evaluating its success, American Airlines began implementing the premium economy product across other aircraft operating international routes in June 2017.

Now, premium economy is available on American Airlines’ Boeing 777-300s, 787-8s (operating both internationally and to Alaska), 787-9s, and 777-200s. These aircraft predominantly serve long-haul routes connecting the mainland U.S. with destinations such as Hawaii, Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, and New Zealand. Looking ahead to 2024, American Airlines plans to introduce new premium economy cabins across its fleet of Airbus A321XLR and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

American Airlines premium economy

Back in 2016, American Airlines introduced its premium economy product, positioned as a high-end option following its Flagship, Business, or First products. It serves as a superior alternative to its Main Cabin Extra, Main Cabin, and Basic Economy offerings.

American Airlines’ premium economy fares offer an enhanced travel experience compared to standard economy seating. They provide various on-the-ground privileges, such as expedited check-in, security, boarding procedures at the airport, and priority baggage handling upon arrival.

In addition, passengers and comforts include wider seats, complimentary entertainment, “chef-inspired” dining options, WiFi access, power outlets, and additional amenities. Marketed as a business class-like upgrade from the main cabin, this premium economy cabin utilizes the same seats found in many of the airline’s domestic first-class cabins.

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Sitting pretty

American Airlines’ premium economy offers a larger and broader seat compared to the economy class. American Airlines opted for Collins Aerospace MiQ seats for its premium economy product, which are slightly wider, ranging from approximately 18.5 to 19 inches, in contrast to the economy seats that typically measure between 16 and 18 inches.

Furthermore, premium seats provide approximately 38 inches of pitch, offering more legroom and allowing for a deeper recline compared to the approximately 31 to 32 inches in economy class.

The familiarity of these seats may stem from their use in American Airlines’ domestic first-class cabins on retrofitted domestic fleets. However, American Airlines’ premium economy seats surpass these domestic first-class seats in several respects. The primary advantage lies in including an in-flight entertainment screen and remote, rather than just a tablet holder in domestic first class. Additionally, all premium economy seats come equipped with either a foot rest or a leg rest.

American Airlines has installed between 21 and 28 premium economy seats across various aircraft types, spanning three to four rows. The primary discrepancy lies in the seating configuration, which varies depending on the width of the aircraft.

Specifically, on Boeing 777 aircraft, there are eight seats per row: two adjacent to each window and four in the middle. Conversely, American’s 787 aircraft feature seven seats per row arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration. Consequently, couples may prefer securing window seats together, while families may gravitate towards the middle seats.

The food on board

American Airlines’ premium economy service boasts “chef-inspired dining” alongside complimentary beer, wine, and spirits. During long-haul international flights, passengers are treated to multi-course meals served with real metal silverware atop white tablecloths, enhancing the dining experience. Coupled with its extensive drink menu, an American Airlines premium economy ticket can rival the offerings found in business class on certain airlines.

Photo: American Airlines

Travelers flying with American Airlines can anticipate an elevated dining experience thanks to their partnership with the prestigious James Beard Foundation. As the official airline partner, American Airlines offers menus curated by renowned chefs, ensuring a variety of flavorful dishes across their First, Business, and Premium Economy cabins.

Additionally, passengers can enjoy complimentary beverages, carefully selected to complement the inflight menu, as part of the airline’s award-winning wine program. American Airlines presents health-forward options for health-conscious travelers.

These dishes prioritize flavor, sustained energy for health-conscious travelers, hydration, digestion, and immune support, promising a nourishing journey for travelers.

Amenities to enjoy

In addition to the spacious seats, passengers in American Airlines’ premium economy class receive a Casper sleep set, an amenity kit, and headphones on selected international flights.

Premium economy sleep set

American Airlines furnishes premium economy passengers with a Casper sleep set, albeit not as comprehensive as those provided in business and first class. Nonetheless, including a lumbar pillow and a “day blanket” adds a touch of comfort not available in economy class.

Photo: American Airlines

Premium economy amenity kit

Since May 2021, American Airlines has collaborated with Shinola and D.S. & Durga to craft its amenity kits. These kits for premium economy class contain essentials such as socks, an eye mask, hand and body lotion, a dental kit, earplugs, and a pen.

However, not all American Airlines premium economy routes feature amenity kits. The airline specifies that amenity kits are exclusively offered on international flights, meaning premium economy routes to Hawaii and Alaska are excluded. Moreover, passengers on certain short-haul international routes in the premium economy do not receive amenity kits.

Photo: American Airlines

Other premium economy Perks on American Airlines

Headphones: Premium economy passengers on American Airlines are provided with “noise-reducing headphones,” subject to availability on eligible routes.

Priority Check-in and Boarding: American Airlines’ premium economy class passengers are entitled to use the Priority check-in line and board during Group 4 priority boarding.

Have you flown American Airlines Premium Economy recently? What did you think of the experience? Please share your thoughts with Simple Flying.