Business class seats will replace first-class seats on American Airlines international flights.
During a conference call with investors, American’s chief commercial officer, Vasu Raja, expanded on the news announced last month. “The [international] first class will not exist … at American Airlines for the simple reason that our customers aren’t buying it,” during a Q&A session.
He added, “The quality of the business class seat has improved so much. And frankly, by removing [first class], we can provide more business class seats, which is what our customers most want or are most willing to pay for.”
American Airlines mentioned that “Flagship Suites” would soon replace some of the space once occupied by the former first-class seats. These suites will feature doors for additional privacy and seats that can convert into beds.
While noteworthy, the news should not come as a surprise to experienced travelers, even those that frequently fly with American Airlines.
Many of the company’s planes for international flights have already removed the dated first-class seats. In these planes, more business-class seats are available to customers alongside their traditional premium and standard economy options.
Rivals Delta and United dropped their first-class seating options on international flights years ago.
