Looking for that next sweet ride to get you over the pond? Come with us, as we take you through American Airlines’ first class offering on the Boeing 777-300 known as the Flagship Suite. American promises that ‘getting there is as good as being there’. Here’s a little ‘try before you buy’ to help you decide if it has the right level of luxury for your next trip to Dallas, New York (via Dallas) or Sao Paulo, Brazil.
If after this descriptive and photographic tour you decide that travelling on American Airlines’ Flagship Suite is the only prelude you need for a restful trip to the US or South America, then simply drop your SkyClub travel concierge a line. We’ll get it sorted for you with minimum fuss.
The Cabin
Upon boarding, you know you’re in for a treat as you enter the cabin through a theatrical archway set off by mood lighting which adds to the drama. You’ll promptly arrive at the walk-up bar, complete with a plasma screen and a ceiling lit up like a starry night, and stocked with a selection of snacks, sandwiches and assorted sweets that you can access throughout your flight. The walk-up bar is a first for any US carrier.
The first class cabin is elegant with a minimalist design that features neutral tones for an understated look. Its interior is trimmed with stylish finishes ‘inspired by luxury touches and trends of high-end cars, hotels and restaurants.’
The Seat
First class is comprised of just two rows of four Zodiac UK seats which are in a league of their own. With an industry-first swivel feature, the seats are configured in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout with the two middle seats angled towards each other and the wall seats angled outward. Compared to the 16 seats found in the first class cabin on the older aircraft, the 777-300ER provides a far more intimate feel – perfect for getting a good night’s rest or plenty of work done before landing.
Each Flagship Suite is 20 inches wide, or 21 inches when the arm rests are lowered, with the entire suite itself measuring at 45 inches wide. When extended, the seat unfolds to an impressive fully flat, 80-inch bed which you’ll find very comfortable in both the take-off and landing position – quite useful if you’re planning to get the most out of your sleep throughout the flight. The seats have a wood grain design throughout and provide a soft and luxurious feel with its combination of cloth and leather upholstery.
The large, well-padded ottoman located just under the TV forms part of the bed but also serves as a visitor seat so that your travelling companion can comfortably join you for a mid-air conference or leisurely drink, or even for a meal. If you want time out from your companion however, the centre seats have a large, electronically controlled retractable privacy divider that can be lowered or raised at your command.
You’ll feel like a pilot yourself when you handle the small LCD tablet to control all the functions of your suite. There are pre-set positions and general controls which you can fiddle with for infinite adjustments. You can also find the ‘do not disturb’ light here – very hotel-like indeed!
Amenity Kits
As you approach your suite, you’ll find your amenity kit waiting for you. Inside you’ll find all the traveller’s creature comforts. Designed by Eames Office, the kit also doubles as an iPad case which contains toothbrush and toothpaste, pen, tissues, a towelette, a wipe for your sunglasses or phone, eye mask, socks, ear plugs and a comb.
Be treated to Dermalogica products which include lip balm, Active Moist Lotion and Multivitamin Hand and Nail Treatment. Upon departure, you’ll be handed slippers and offered pyjamas.
Inflight Entertainment System
Take a little down time for yourself mid-flight and enjoy your very own 17-inch personal video monitor. The system is loaded with over 200 movies and nearly as many television options. It is controlled by an easy to use, handheld entertainment controller. Powered by Panasonic, the eX2 system has a touchscreen user interface that’s very responsive. The Bose Quiet Comfort 15 Acoustic Noise Cancelling headset completes the cinematic entertainment experience.
Storage Galore
There’s plenty of space for all your travel bits and pieces. There are large overhead bins for each passenger and multiple compartments including a shoe compartment, a tray for a laptop or tablet under the desk, and room for a bag under the ottoman. There is a connectivity box that stores all your cables but threads out at the bottom and, when you open the door, there is also a pop-out vanity mirror – nice touch!
Ready to experience American Airlines’ Flagship Suite? Do you have your travel dates? Your SkyClub consultant is waiting to help you make it happen.
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