Flight Review: American Airlines Boeing 787-9 Flagship Suites – ORD-DFW

I had a change of plans today and that found me switching my itinerary to go from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tampa International Airport (TPA) with a connection in Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) on the way. This would normally be annoying, but today I got to check out American’s brand new Boeing 787-9 aircraft with Flagship Suites installed. These aircraft are going to be used mostly for long-haul flights to Europe and Australia, but today I got to try it out on a short domestic hop. 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: I used the app to check in and found it quite simple. I also checked a bag (one of the few times that I ever do) and that process was simple. The flight departed on time and landed a little early. The flight attendants were friendly and the seat was really comfortable. I liked the design so much more than most of what Delta and United are currently offering in Delta One® and Polaris®, respectively. I loved that the Flagship Suite had a door that closed to provide extra privacy. I was seated behind the Flagship Suites Preferred seats (these offer more space and some additional amenities on longer flights). I’ll have to check these out on another flight. I have nothing negative to say about the flight other than the wireless charger was not in operation. This was not a huge deal as there are universal AC, USB-A, and USB-C outlets also provided.

Booking

The flight was more than I would have wanted to spend for the airfare between Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Tampa International Airport (TPA). United had some nonstop options, but those were even more expensive. I paid $690 for both legs and I’m glad I got to check out this cool new seat along the way.

Boarding

The flight boarded and took off on time. 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 First Class 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 11D was one of the only choices. I prefer the bulkhead (and would have liked to check out the Flagship Suites Preferred seats), but found this great for the flight. The seat was comfortable and I loved how private it felt.

A Flagship Suites Preferred seat in front of me (10D pictured).

A 21-inch touchscreen offered a good selection of entertainment options.

Headphones were found in a side compartment.

Another small cabinet was next to the seat.

The Flagship Suite had two different lights.

It also offered individual air nozzles and overhead lights.

A pocket in front held the safety card and another card that explained the seat features.

A wheel on the side controlled seat positions and lighting. It also offered a “do not disturb” button.

A remote control could be used for the in-flight entertainment.

A wireless charger was on the armrest. It did not work during the flight. The counter above it was a little dirty.

A Universal AC outlet and a UBB-C port were also available.

A small tray folded out near the literature pocket. This was meant to hold a beverage. A larger tray table was under the IFE screen.

After takeoff, the flight attendants came around and unlocked the suite doors. I loved being able to close this during the flight.

Food

A predeparture beverage of water or orange juice was offered (pictured above). Shortly after takeoff, flight attendants came around to take drink orders. A snack basket was also brought around.

I had a ginger ale and Tiny Tate’s cookies.

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 $18 for one hour or $24 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. I found the Wi-Fi to be speedy and I was able to get a good amount done during the flight.

Lavatory

The lavatory closest to me was huge. I realized after that it was the wheelchair-accessible restroom. The extra space was great and the lavatory was pretty clean. It included a changing table, toilet, and sink.

Service

The flight attendants were friendly and attentive. Drink refills were offered on the short flight. I did not like the way the flight attendants allowed the plane to deplane. We were in the second Business Class cabin and they let the entire front cabin get off before they allowed anyone seated in rows 10 and higher to deplane. Those seated where I was are also Business Class and should not be treated differently.

Overall Impression: I loved the new Flagship Suites and hope to fly them again on a much longer flight in the future. The flight was comfortable and got me where I needed to be.