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Uncover The Truth: Is American Airlines Premium Economy Worth The Upgrade?

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.

What To Know

  • American Airlines offers Premium Economy on select international and transcontinental flights, promising a more comfortable and spacious experience than Economy.
  • Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to upgrade to American Airlines Premium Economy is a personal one.
  • If you’re looking for a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience on a long-haul flight, Premium Economy is a solid option.

If you’re planning a long-haul flight and considering upgrading to Premium Economy, you may be wondering if it’s worth the extra cost. American Airlines offers Premium Economy on select international and transcontinental flights, promising a more comfortable and spacious experience than Economy. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of American Airlines Premium Economy to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next flight.

What is American Airlines Premium Economy?

American Airlines Premium Economy is an intermediate cabin class between Economy and Business Class. It offers several amenities and perks that are not available in Economy, including:

  • Wider seats with more legroom and recline
  • Adjustable headrests and lumbar support
  • Footrests for added comfort
  • In-seat entertainment with a larger screen
  • Complimentary noise-canceling headphones
  • Priority boarding and check-in
  • Two checked bags instead of one

Is it Worth the Upgrade?

Whether or not Premium Economy is worth the upgrade depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Comfort and Convenience:

Premium Economy offers a significantly more comfortable experience than Economy. The wider seats, extra legroom, and footrests make a big difference on long-haul flights. The adjustable headrests and lumbar support also help reduce fatigue.

Amenities and Entertainment:

Premium Economy provides several amenities that are not available in Economy, such as in-seat entertainment with a larger screen, noise-canceling headphones, and priority boarding. These amenities can enhance your overall travel experience.

Cost:

The cost of upgrading to Premium Economy varies depending on the flight and route. It’s typically more expensive than Economy but less expensive than Business Class. If you’re looking for a more comfortable experience without breaking the bank, Premium Economy may be a good option.

Comparing with Other Airlines

American Airlines Premium Economy compares favorably to Premium Economy offerings from other airlines. It offers a similar range of amenities and benefits, including wider seats, extra legroom, and in-seat entertainment. However, some airlines may offer additional perks, such as amenity kits or dedicated lounges.

Who Should Consider Upgrading?

Premium Economy is a good upgrade option for travelers who:

  • Are flying on a long-haul flight and want extra comfort and space
  • Value amenities such as in-seat entertainment, noise-canceling headphones, and priority boarding
  • Are willing to pay a higher price for a more enjoyable travel experience
  • Are not interested in the full luxury of Business Class

Who Should Not Consider Upgrading?

Premium Economy may not be worth the upgrade for travelers who:

  • Are flying on a short-haul flight where the extra space and amenities are not as necessary
  • Are on a tight budget and cannot afford the higher cost of Premium Economy
  • Are comfortable with the standard legroom and amenities offered in Economy
  • Are eligible for Business Class upgrades through loyalty programs or other perks

Key Points: Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to upgrade to American Airlines Premium Economy is a personal one. If you’re looking for a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience on a long-haul flight, Premium Economy is a solid option. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer the amenities of Business Class, you may want to consider other options.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: How much does it cost to upgrade to Premium Economy on American Airlines?
A: The cost of upgrading varies depending on the flight and route. It’s typically between $200 and $500 per person.

Q: What are the seat dimensions of Premium Economy on American Airlines?
A: The seat width is 19 inches, the legroom is 38 inches, and the recline is 7 inches.

Q: Does Premium Economy have access to airport lounges?
A: No, Premium Economy passengers do not have access to airport lounges.

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Jane

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.
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