American Airlines 787-8 Business Class: Just Okay?
Let's be honest, flying business class sounds amazing. Luxury, comfort, maybe even a little champagne. But the reality can sometimes fall short of the hype. I recently flew American Airlines' 787-8 Dreamliner in business class, and while it wasn't terrible, it wasn't the mind-blowing experience I’d hoped for either. So, was it just "okay"? Let's dive in.
The Good Stuff: Not a Total Disaster
The seats themselves were alright. They fully reclined into a lie-flat bed, which was a lifesaver on a long haul. Seriously, sleeping in a semi-comfortable position is a game-changer on long flights. The IFE (in-flight entertainment) system was pretty decent too – plenty of movies and shows to keep me occupied. No complaints there. They also offered a pretty good selection of food and drinks – not Michelin-star quality, but definitely above average for airline food. I mean, let’s be real, that's a pretty low bar to clear.
The Not-So-Good Stuff: Where it Fell Short
Okay, here’s where things get a little less rosy. The cabin itself felt a bit dated. I've seen newer business class cabins on other airlines that just look and feel more luxurious. American’s 787-8 business class feels… well, kinda average. Nothing to write home about. The service was also a mixed bag. Some flight attendants were fantastic – friendly, attentive, and helpful. Others? Let's just say they were less enthusiastic. It felt hit or miss, which is frustrating when you're paying a premium price.
The Little Things That Matter
Small things can really make or break a business class experience. For example, the amenity kit was pretty basic – not exactly the luxury pampering you might expect. And the noise level in the cabin was higher than I'd hoped. I could definitely hear conversations from other rows, which isn't ideal for trying to relax and sleep. Little details like these add up, impacting the overall feeling.
The Verdict: A Decent, but Not Exceptional, Experience
So, was it just "okay"? Yeah, pretty much. The American Airlines 787-8 business class is perfectly serviceable. You'll get a lie-flat bed, decent food, and entertainment. But it lacks the wow factor. It feels like a solid, reliable option, but not one that'll leave you breathless with excitement. It's certainly not bad, but it’s not the peak of luxury air travel either. For the price, I expected a little more pizzazz. Maybe I've been spoiled by other airlines! I’d recommend comparing options before booking.
Tips for Future Travelers
- Check the aircraft type: Not all 787-8s are created equal. Some might have older cabin configurations.
- Read recent reviews: See what other passengers are saying about their recent experiences.
- Manage your expectations: Remember that even business class can have its downsides.
Ultimately, my experience was pretty average. It wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't the extraordinary business class experience I’d hoped for. Hopefully, this honest review helps you decide if it's the right choice for your next flight!