American Airlines Airlines – First Class (Domestic)

Introduction

This is my review of American Airlines‘ First Class seat on domestic routes. Technically it’s the Business Class offering, as the next ‘step down’ is Main Cabin, which is the economy offering.

I’ve previously reviewed American’s Transcon service going from San Francisco to New York, but this isn’t the only type of aircraft American operate from East to West; American operate this First Class offering on similar flights, such as Philadelphia to New York.

The seat isn’s strictly limited to domestic either – in fact flights to Mexico, Canada and Cuba are operated by this style of First Class.

Whether you’re flying on the Boeing 737 or A320 series, the seats are the same – unless it’s a Transcon.

The Layout

Unlike most European carriers, who block out the middle seat of otherwise Main Cabin/Economy, American’s First Class has specific seats.

The seats are similar to arm chairs, and are wide and very comfortable!

The layout is in 2-2 format, meaning you may get to know your neighbor rather well!

Privacy

Perhaps unsurprisingly, there is no privacy at all.

The Seat

The seat sits in 2-2 format, and is very comfortable.

The only adjustment offered to the seat is a recline function, which is a single button.

Table

I was sitting in 1A, and had the table which is stowed in the side of the seat. I believe that rows 2 and beyond have tables which are in the back of the seat (ie in the back of row 1, in row 2).

Once deployed the table folds in half and has some holders for devices. American seem to be going down a route of removing entertainment from planes, instead opting for people to be able to stream for free using their network. Consequently, somewhere to hold an iPad or phone for a few hours is becoming quite important!

Although the tables in the sides of the seat can be more bendy, I actually prefer these for working. However, if you’re in need of a bathroom break and are using your laptop – some careful planning is needed!

One feature that does add to the tightness of the space is a small pullout table for drinks – this offers a little more practical working space!

Storage

There are two places to store stuff in this seat.

One is in a compartment next to the seat, and the other is in the pockets in front of you.

This means if you’re using a laptop or have other things – you’ll need to get them out after takeoff.

Charging/Power

There is only a UK/Euro/US socket, and no USB. However in row 2, they do have one – so I can’t but wonder if row 2 had row 1’s. Either way, if you’re sitting in row 1, and want to charge your device – you’ll need some kind of power adaptor to USB.

Air Circulation

I was glad that American have retained their investment in air circulation!

Conclusion

This is actually a very comfortably way to fly from East to West coast (or vice versa), and if you’ve work to do – then the time quickly passes.

With that said, the charging is annoying – and you do need to well plan what you need and where, as the space is quite tight to be working in.