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A business trip had me flying to California today. I was originally booked nonstop from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), but my schedule changed and I moved onto a connecting flight to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). I have been flying American more lately as I’m looking to maintain the AAdvantage® Platinum Pro status that was granted to me through a promotion with Hyatt.
Anthony’s Take: The flight took off and landed early. The flight attendants were friendly and the meal was pretty good. Wi-Fi was expensive and a bit slower than I would like, but I made do with what was offered. I found the app easy to use and check-in was simple. I’ve flown so much this year that I already have United Premier 1K® way past being done, Delta Platinum Medallion will be secured soon, and I should hit Platinum Pro with AAdvantage® with minimal effort. It’s interesting flying the three airlines not so much as a free agent, but someone with elite status that buys premium cabin fares.
Booking
The flight was in line with what United and Delta wanted for the airfare between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). United had some nonstop options, but timing did not work with what I needed. I paid $759, which I did not think was terrible for a four-plus-hour flight.
Boarding
The flight boarded on time and took off early. The boarding area was pretty empty even though the flight was full. The gate agent called for those needing additional time and ConciergeKey℠. Then she called for Group 1 and I boarded. American has ConciergeKey℠, First Class, Business Class (if applicable), family boarding, and then nine other groups.
Seats
Since I moved onto this flight late, seat 3A was my only choice. I prefer the bulkhead, but found this fine for the flight. The seat was not the most comfortable and I had enough space even with the guy in front of me reclining the entire flight.
There were no screens on the plane, but personal device entertainment was available. The pocket in front had a safety information card and a credit card application. The flight attendants made no less than three announcements soliciting credit card applications.
There were reading lights and air nozzles above.
The seats did recline.
A power outlet was in the center area, but it did not work for me.
Food
A predeparture beverage of water, apple juice, or orange juice was offered (pictured above). Shortly after takeoff, flight attendants came around to take meal orders. Those who had placed orders were told that they were not catered. Everyone had a choice of Chicken Enchiladas or a vegetarian dish that the flight attendant could not describe.
Hot towels were distributed (they were tiny and not hot). A nice sized bowl of mixed nuts and beverages were brought around next. I ordered a ginger ale.
Meals were served next. The Chicken Enchiladas were quite tasty.
Bread was brought around after. It was not warmed.
Dessert was a choice of ice cream or a fruit and cheese plate. I would rate this meal as being a bit better than what I have had recently on United and Delta.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi was available, but it’s expensive. Delta is working to make it free on all domestic flights and United charges $8. American offers 20 minutes free for watching an ad. To purchase, it’s $20 for one hour or $29 for the flight. This is way more than it needs to be in order to be competitive. There is also a decent selection of in-flight entertainment. I did some work and did not watch anything on this flight.
Lavatory
The lavatory was what is to be expected on a narrow-body aircraft. This one was filthy. Someone had urinated all over the toilet and floor. There were no paper towels or tissues either. I mentioned this to the flight attendants and they restocked both. I am so disgusted when I see people going to the bathroom in socks. Um, you’re stepping in pee.
Service
The flight attendants were friendly and attentive. Drink refills were consistently offered. The only annoying thing was the repeated pitching of the AA credit cards.
Overall Impression: The flight got the job done. Nothing was particularly memorable, but I also have nothing to complain about other than a few lapses in Wi-Fi connectivity.
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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
2 comments
I didn’t think the seat was that comfortable. There’s not much padding, and the area under the seats in front has supports where you might want to put your feet.
Used to fly for AA – heating the nuts and bread is so very easy. Makes a difference.