An unexpected and last-minute trip to Europe has provided the opportunity to try American Airlines’ new 787-9 Flagship Suite business class product.
Booked: American Airlines 787-9 Dreamliner, British Airways, SAS
I’ve been tied up with work the last several weeks (being busy is a good thing, I tell myself…) such that I had to cancel my summer vacation to Germany…not something I do lightly, but the responsibilities I am facing now are such that it would have been irresponsible to take time off.
But my wife and kids were still able to make the trip, which I am thankful for, and enjoyed a lovely week in Germany with my in-laws in the beautiful Black Forest of Baden-Württemberg. Last week, when it came time to fly back, my wife had a thought: let the kids stay another week with their grandparents. Germany is not as moderate temperature-wise in the summer as it used to be, but the kids were having a great time; Augustine was at camp and Claire Marie was taking swimming lessons.
We decided to let them stay another week, with Heidi flying home alone and me going back to pick them up ahead of school resuming next week.
That was ideal in so many ways:
- The kids could spend an extra week in Germany
- Heidi could fly back to the USA in business class and actually relax
- I get a trip anyway…even if just for a day on the ground in Germany
My default is to use my (two million) SAS miles when I can, and I was pleased to find business class space back to California for the three of us. On the way out, there was no saver SAS space but AA had space on the new 787-9 (“787P”) from Los Angeles to Chicago to London in business class, with a connection on British Airways to Basel, all for 57.5K miles in business class and $59 in taxes and fees…what a great value.
I am thrilled to try AA’s latest business class product not only on a domestic flight from LAX to ORD, but all the way to LHR. Even better, I grabbed seat 11A from Chicago to London, a Flagship Preferred Suite with more legroom and amenities.
As usual, I’ll bring you first impressions along the way.
After spending a couple of nights in Germany, we will fly back to the USA on SAS…as I said, I want to spend down as many miles as possible before SAS devalues or folds into Flying Blue, because I find the program very valuable now.
See you in the skies!
> Read More: My American Airlines 787-9 Tour: Here’s A Look At Every Cabin On New Flagship Dreamliner
It’ll be nice to read about what’s different. Any idea if PHL-ZRH is still getting the new suites starting next month? I’m scheduled to fly the route in November but still keep seeing it listed as a 788.
LOL no
That’s a big part of why I chose that route and if AA publicly retracted the plan it didn’t get mentioned on mainstream travel blogs so admittedly I’m not finding this as funny as you do.
You get to compare the LAX and ORD Flagship lounges on the same trip.
Both are underwhelming compared to Polaris and Delta One lounges, but still a nice step up from connected Admirals Clubs.
I’d even say the ORD Sky Club is nicer than the ORD Flagship lounge…
Interesting. I haven’t been for a couple of years but I like the flagship at Ord. Usually tons of space. Nice views. Food average but lower priority for me than the latter factors.
I like the flagship in Dallas for the same reasons.
When BA and EI moved from T5 to T3 a few years ago it now has a less space in the afternoon and evenings…not saying it’s a bad lounge, just that the other 2 are definitely nicer overall.
Let me guess, because someone put duct tape on the glory hole you drilled so your mouth doesn’t get cut as much.
You must be speaking from experience.
Matthew, thanks for another great article.
Maybe I misread, but, I was not aware that AA’s new Flagship Business cabin on their 787P routes were already available for their LAX-ORD segment.
Great to hear that!
I flew it over last week. It’s a great seat, but you still get AA service. Seat is great though….but 11A isn’t really that unique. The bulkhead middles are the true suites. Personally, I’d prefer a left-turn window over the rear cabin front window, but hopefully your review will tell me I’m wrong. Enjoy!
Good job snagging the business suite.
Looking forward to reading how AA leaves you disappointed again
Yet another thirst trap pic. Oh, how you tease us!
I don’t know why but I predict this trip will be a huge disappointment and won’t come close to the very low standards you would find on an Untied flight.
I sometimes imagine how hot Matthew could be if he dressed well.