American Airlines Premium Economy

Last Updated on Dec 12th, 2024 by Neha Sharma, Leave a Comment

In May 2017, American Airlines became the first major U.S. airline to introduce a true premium economy class. Today, American Airlines Premium Economy seats are available on most long-haul international flights & select domestic routes. If you’re planning a trip and want to upgrade your comfort without breaking the bank on business class, American Airlines Premium Economy could be the perfect fit.

Why Choose Premium Economy on American Airlines?

American Airlines’ Premium Economy is above regular economy but below the luxurious business class experience. Premium Economy offers travelers extra comfort, space, & service at a price more affordable than business or first class. You can book premium economy seats on American Airlines’ Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 aircraft, primarily used for international flights.

Compared to Basic Economy on American Airlines, which provides a simple seat with limited perks, Premium Economy elevates your travel experience with additional amenities, such as priority boarding, larger seats, complimentary food and drinks, and in-flight entertainment.

Related – How to manage American Airlines booking: A step-by-step guide

Key Features of American Airlines Premium Economy Seats

One of the primary reasons people choose American Airlines Premium Economy is for the upgraded seating. Here’s what makes Premium Economy seating a worthy option:

1. Larger Seats and Extra Space
   American Airlines Premium Economy seats measure around 18.5 to 19 inches in width, compared to 16-18 inches in Basic Economy on American Airlines. The pitch (distance between seats) is around 38 inches, giving you much more legroom than the economy, which averages around 31-32 inches.
2. Additional Recline and Footrests
   Premium Economy on American Airlines provides extra reclining, and most seats have footrests or leg rests to make your journey more comfortable. The seat design is very similar to the domestic first-class seats, including an entertainment screen and remote.
3. Seat Configurations

American Airlines Premium Economy seats are arranged in a 2-3-2 layout on Boeing 787 flights, while Boeing 777s feature an 8-seat per row layout (2-4-2 configuration). Couples can select window seats for added privacy, and families can enjoy the middle row seats.

Food and Beverage Service in American Airlines Premium Economy

On international flights, American Airlines Premium Economy International travelers are treated to chef-inspired meals served on real tableware, with white tablecloths for a more premium feel. Beer, wine, & spirits are also complimentary. However, meal quality can vary depending on your route. For instance, flights to destinations like Alaska or Hawaii may have a simpler meal service.

Tip: Not every premium economy route has these premium meal options, so be sure to check ahead for specific routes if meal service matters to you.

Related – A Comprehensive Guide to American Airlines Meals

Additional Perks for Premium Economy Passengers

American Airlines Premium Economy offers several other advantages:

1. Priority Check-In and Boarding
   Premium Economy passengers have access to Priority check-in lines and early boarding (Group 4), giving them a more relaxed boarding experience.
2. Complimentary Checked Bag Allowance
   Unlike Basic Economy on American Airlines, which often requires fees for checked bags on domestic flights, Premium Economy includes one or two checked bags, depending on your ticket type and route.
3. Amenity Kits
   On long-haul international flights, Premium Economy travelers receive a Casper sleep set, including a lumbar pillow and day blanket, along with a Shinola and D.S. & Durga amenity kit. This includes basics like socks, an eye mask, earplugs, and lotion.
4. Noise-Reducing Headphones
   For enhanced in-flight entertainment, Premium Economy passengers are given noise-reducing headphones.

Related – How to upgrade on American Airlines: A Complete Guide

American Airlines Premium Economy vs. Basic Economy

If you’re trying to decide between Basic Economy on American Airlines & Premium Economy, it’s essential to understand the differences. Basic Economy is the most budget-friendly but offers the fewest perks, such as limited seat selection & no free checked baggage. Additionally, American Airlines Basic Economy Cancellation options are minimal, & the American Airlines Basic Economy Seat Fee is applied if you want to choose your seat in advance. Premium Economy, on the other hand, includes priority services, additional baggage, & a more spacious, comfortable seat.

Related – American Airlines Minor Policy – What it is and how it works?

How to Book American Airlines Premium Economy

When booking with American Airlines, Premium Economy fares are listed separately, and you can choose between American Airlines Economy, Basic Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Premium Economy American Airlines tickets refundable?

A: Yes, as long as they are purchased at least two days before departure, Premium Economy tickets can be refunded. However, all tickets, including Basic Economy on American Airlines, are refundable within 24 hours of booking.

Q: What is the carry-on policy for Basic Economy and Premium Economy?

A: In American Airlines Basic Economy, you can bring a personal item but may need to pay for a carry-on depending on your route. Premium Economy allows a carry-on bag and one personal item without additional fees.

Q: How does Premium Economy compare to Main Cabin on American Airlines?

A: The Basic economy American Airlines vs. Main Cabin comparison mainly involves perks like checked baggage fees, priority boarding, and seat selection options. Main Cabin offers more flexibility than Basic Economy, but Premium Economy takes it up a notch with improved seats, dining, and priority services.

Q: Is Premium Economy Worth the Cost?

A: For travelers who want a little extra comfort without the premium cost of Business Class, American Airlines Premium Economy offers a great middle-ground option. With spacious seats, premium dining on long-haul flights, priority services, and more, this option makes international and long-haul domestic travel far more comfortable.

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