American Airlines ditching first class on international flights because 'customers aren't buying it'
An American Airlines executive made the revelation on an earnings call this week
Check out what's clicking on FoxBusiness.com
American Airlines is getting rid of first-class seats on international flights because people simply are not booking them, an executive for the airline revealed this week.
"The first class will not exist on the 777 or for that matter, at American Airlines for the simple reason that our customers aren't buying it," Chief Commercial Officer Vasu Raja said during an earnings call Thursday.
The comment caused a stir because many observers assumed Raja was announcing a new move by the airline, but an American Airlines spokesperson clarified to FOX Business that Raja was referring to the carrier's announcement from last month pertaining to long-haul flights.
In September, American unveiled new suites and premium seating that will be available on upcoming Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which are set to make a debut in 2024.
An American Airlines Boeing 777 plane takes off from Paris Charles de Gaulle airport in Roissy-en-France near Paris, France, December 2, 2021. (Reuters/Sarah Meyssonnier/File Photo / Reuters Photos)
| Ticker | Security | Last | Change | Change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAL | AMERICAN AIRLINES GROUP INC. | 15.99 | +0.26 | +1.65% |
AMERICAN AIRLINES FORECASTS STRONG PROFIT FOR DECEMBER QUARTER
The entryway to American Airlines new Boeing 787-9 features illuminated panels with American’s red-lined Flight Symbol. (Copyright: American Airlines)
The American Airlines Premium Economy seats on the new Boeing 787-9 have wide headrest wings to increase privacy. They also have larger in-seat entertainment screens. (Copyright: American Airlines)
The American Airlines Premium Economy seats on the new Boeing 787-9 will have 32 seats, which is 11 more than the current Boeing 787-9 in American’s fleet. (Copyright: American Airlines)
The new American Airlines Boeing 787-9 will have 51 Flagship Suite seats, which is 21 more than the current Boeing 787-9 that American has in its fleet.
American Airlines Flagship Suite has an integrated entertainment system, document cubby, storage shelf and charging outlets on the Boeing 787-9.
The American Airlines Flagship Suite on the new Boeing 787-9 has convertible lie-flat seating that can be turned into a chaise lounge for resting.
American Airlines Flagship Suite customers will get access to an expansive personal accommodation with desks and storage areas on the Boeing 787-9.
GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE
"The quality of the Business Class C has improved so much," Raja explained on the call. "And frankly, by removing it, we can go provide more business class seats, which is what our customers most want or most willing to pay for."
FOX Business' Cortney Moore contributed to this report.