American Airlines recently announced it is getting rid of first-class seats on international flights because people aren’t booking the cabin.
“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 this week.
Raja’s statement caused a stir because many observers assumed he was announcing a new move by the airline. However, a spokesperson from the company clarified that Raja was referring to the carrier’s announcement from September on long-haul flights.
Last month, American unveiled new suites and premium seating that will be available in 2024 on upcoming Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321XLR aircraft, MSN reported.
“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.”
