American Airlines has introduced its latest premium offering with the launch of Flagship Suite seats aboard the new Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Tickets for the first flight featuring this upgraded product are now available on the airline’s website and mobile app. The first service takes off on June 5 from Chicago O’Hare to Los Angeles as Flight 2012, before returning to Chicago and continuing to London Heathrow as Flight 98.
The airline welcomed two of the new wide-body jets to its Dallas-Fort Worth hub on May 7 and has plans to add 30 more Boeing 787-9 aircraft by 2029. With these new additions, American aims to increase its lie-flat and Premium Economy seats by 50 percent before the end of the decade.
In addition to the initial Chicago to London route, American Airlines will expand service on the 787-9 to other long-haul destinations. Starting August 6, the aircraft will operate from Philadelphia to London Heathrow, followed by flights from Philadelphia to Zurich beginning September 3. Later in the year, on October 26, the service will launch between Dallas Fort Worth and Brisbane, Australia.
These new routes mark the international expansion of the Flagship Suite experience, which the airline has designed to elevate comfort and privacy on long-haul flights.
Premium cabin design focused on comfort and privacy
Travelers aboard the 787-9 will experience 51 Flagship Suite seats located at the front of the aircraft. Each suite includes a privacy door, expanded storage, a wireless charging pad, and a chaise lounge seating configuration complete with an adjustable headrest pillow. This layout supports both work and relaxation throughout the journey.
Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer, shared, “Every aspect of our new 787-9 is designed to feel premium in nature. Whether flying for business or pleasure, having the opportunity to explore other parts of the world should be an exciting and memorable experience that begins the moment you book your flight, long before you reach your final destination.”
Elevated airport and inflight services
Passengers traveling in Flagship Suite® class also benefit from services that start well before boarding. These include Priority check-in, faster security screening, boarding privileges, and expedited baggage handling. Travelers also receive access to American’s Flagship® Lounge, which offers regional dishes and a variety of signature cocktails.
During the flight, Flagship Suite® customers enjoy a multicourse meal designed to pair with award-winning wines. They also receive a premium amenity kit stocked with skincare products, a duvet, and a dual-sided pillow with cooling fabric on one side and traditional material on the other.
Looking ahead, American Airlines plans to install Flagship Suite® seating on all newly delivered Boeing 787-9 aircraft, as well as the upcoming Airbus A321XLR and its retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER fleet.
This rollout supports the airline’s plan to provide more premium travel options on its expanding international network.
