Nowadays, all major airlines in the United States offer some sort of basic economy fares. In this post, I’d like to take a detailed look at American Airlines basic economy, to reflect what it’s like nowadays. Separately, I’ve covered similar fares offered by Alaska, Delta, JetBlue, and United.
Basic economy is ultimately a tool for airlines to better segment the market. Those looking for the cheapest fares might book American basic economy rather than a competitor, while the airline hopes that most consumers are willing to “buy up” to more expensive fares, which come with fewer restrictions.
Another consideration is that nowadays a large portion of airline profits come from loyalty programs. Getting people onto aircraft and getting them to sign-up for the loyalty program makes it easier to market credit cards to more people. So there’s huge value to just getting people onto aircraft, even if their tickets directly aren’t that profitable.
Restrictions with American basic economy fares
If you choose to book an American Airlines basic economy ticket, what restrictions are you agreeing to? Below is what you can expect, in no particular order.
However, when booking a basic economy fare:
- All passengers can pay to assign a seat at the time of booking
- AAdvantage elite members who are eligible can select Main Cabin Extra seats at the time of booking at no cost; this includes Concierge Key, Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Platinum members, while AAdvantage Gold members can select Main Cabin Extra within 24 hours of departure
- Those traveling with children 14 and under will automatically be assigned seats together, as part of American’s family seating commitment
Board the plane last
If you book a basic economy fare on American Airlines, you’ll generally be in boarding group eight or nine, which are the last boarding groups. The downside to boarding last is that there might not be space for your carry-on, so you may have to gate check it.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on One Mile at a Time.
