fly first class on American Airlines

American Airlines Business Class vs. First Class

Did you know that American Airlines is the largest airline in the world, sporting more than 6,700 daily flights to 350 destinations in 50 countries alone? Combined with the OneWorld Alliance, American Airlines passengers enjoy almost 15,000 daily flights to more than 1,000 destinations in 150 countries across the globe! 

American Airlines has several cabins that provide round-trip fares at various price points. Some offer more legroom for a few extra bucks. Still, to enjoy the best American has to offer, you’ll want to compare Flagship Business Class and Flagship First Class.

Many often confuse the two premium cabins, using the terms interchangeably. However, there are significant differences between these cabins, starting with price. Business class seats provide an upgraded experience with more comfort during long-haul flights. First class, on the other hand, is an exclusive, luxurious experience with all the extras.   

Business ClassFirst Class
A focus on comfort and amenities that ease the burden of long-haul flights. A luxurious flying experience with premium amenity kits, private crew, and ultimate comfort. 

Business class is an excellent way to experience some of the added comforts airlines offer without forking out thousands for the top experience. First class is perfect for those looking for some pampering. However you decide to fly, Business Class Experts have the best business and first class flight deals

Traveling with American Airlines Business Class

American Airlines’ business class product is available on several aircraft, including the Boeing 777-300er and Boeing 787-9. It takes the name Flagship Business and provides passengers a comfortable way to travel. Business Class Experts can help you find the best business class seats at the lowest prices. 

Checking in for your flight

American Airlines business class passengers unlock priority access at the airport. Business class tickets allow for priority check-in, rapid security lanes, and priority boarding access. These express check-ins enable passengers to relax at the airport lounge before departure. 

Baggage allowance

American Airlines has a standard baggage practice with business class passengers allowed up to two checked bags complimentary. These bags should be less than 62 inches (158 cm) in total outside dimensions. Plus, business class allows bags to weigh up to 70 pounds (32 kg).

American Airlines lets all passengers bring one personal bag and one carry-on bag at no extra charge. However, the crew may ask passengers to valet those bags if the bag doesn’t fit overhead. 

In-flight amenities

Business class is the second highest tier cabin aboard American Airlines flights. Although you might not notice, with its chef-inspired, pre-flight selected meals, lie-flat seats, and free entertainment.

When it is time to use the lie-flat seats, American Airlines provides a blanket and pillow. Business class passengers also receive an amenities kit with essentials like toothbrushes, sleep masks, and moisturizers. 

Additional perks

Extras set airlines apart from each other, and business class flights on American Airlines offer some pretty nice extras. If you fly into London’s LHR, be sure to stop at the arrival lounge with showers, valet ironing, meals, and champagne. 

Otherwise, business class tickets unlock American Airlines’ Admirals Club Lounge. These lounges offer pre-flight snacks, house beverages, and personal travel assistance. Some Admirals Clubs even provide full meal service and business centers.

Booking your flight

American Airlines’ business class product is available on several aircraft, including the Boeing 777-300er and Boeing 787-9. It takes the name Flagship Business and provides passengers a comfortable way to travel. Business Class Experts can help you find the best business class seats at the lowest prices. 

Checking in for your flight

American Airlines business class passengers unlock priority access at the airport. Business class tickets allow for priority check-in, rapid security lanes, and priority boarding access. These express check-ins enable passengers to relax at the airport lounge before departure. 

Baggage allowance

American Airlines has a standard baggage practice with business class passengers allowed up to two checked bags complimentary. These bags should be less than 62 inches (158 cm) in total outside dimensions. Plus, business class allows bags to weigh up to 70 pounds (32 kg).

American Airlines lets all passengers bring one personal bag and one carry-on bag at no extra charge. However, the crew may ask passengers to valet those bags if the bag doesn’t fit overhead. 

In-flight amenities

Business class is the second highest tier cabin aboard American Airlines flights. Although you might not notice, with its chef-inspired, pre-flight selected meals, lie-flat seats, and free entertainment.

When it is time to use the lie-flat seats, American Airlines provides a blanket and pillow. Business class passengers also receive an amenities kit with essentials like toothbrushes, sleep masks, and moisturizers. 

Additional perks

Extras set airlines apart from each other, and business class flights on American Airlines offer some pretty nice extras. If you fly into London’s LHR, be sure to stop at the arrival lounge with showers, valet ironing, meals, and champagne. 

Otherwise, business class tickets unlock American Airlines’ Admirals Club Lounge. These lounges offer pre-flight snacks, house beverages, and personal travel assistance. Some Admirals Clubs even provide full meal service and business centers.

american airlines first class flights

Whichever You Choose, Book Through Business Class Experts

The difference between business class and first class on American Airlines flights can be challenging to distinguish. First class provides a slightly better meal experience and amenities kits. But, business class still provides passengers a premium cabin with tons of privacy, quality entertainment, and lie-flat seats. 

In terms of experience versus cost, American Airlines Flagship Business is the better choice. This business class service is close enough to the first class experience to justify saving thousands in avoiding the Flagship First cabin. Plus, Flagship Business is available on more aircraft, making it easier to find flights with Business Class Experts to your favorite destinations. 

Business ClassFirst Class
DefinitionAn elevated experience with exceptional amenities for long-haul flights.Most exclusive, personalized flight experience for intercontinental destinations.
Checking inPriority Privileges check-in, security, and boarding.Priority Privileges check-in, security, and boarding.
Baggage allowanceTwo complimentary bags under 70 pounds (32kg) and 62 inches (158cm). Three complimentary bags under 70 pounds (32kg) and 62 inches (158cm).
In-flight amenitiesLie flat seats
In-flight entertainment
Amenities kits
Chef-inspired meals
Lie flat seats with Casper sleep set
In-flight entertainment
Premium amenities kits
Higher-quality chef-inspired meals
Additional perksAdmirals Lounge access
Arrivals Lounge at LHR
Flagship First lounge
Additional AAdvantage miles
Arrivals lounge at LHR

Thanks to American Airlines’ extensive destination list, you can easily add flights to Hawaii, San Francisco, or overseas to your itinerary. Don’t book through the airline, though, as you’ll overpay for your flight! Instead, partner with Business Class Experts who can help you find the best prices on American Airlines flights. 

Whether you book Flagship Business Class or Flagship First Class, Business Class Experts have the tools to get the lowest prices, all while allowing passengers to select seats and enjoy world-class amenities!