American Airlines Believes It Doesn’t Need Over-the-Top Luxury to Compete With Gulf Carriers
Photo Credit: American Airlines has made major improvements in its premium product in recent years, including a new flagship dining facility in New York. American Airlines
Skift Take
We're not surprised American Airlines is not interested in blinged-out first and business class cabins. But we're still slightly puzzled at the U.S. carriers' anger toward the Gulf airlines. Yes, Emirates, Etihad and Qatar receive government assistance, but so do a lot of airlines.
Don't expect American Airlines to introduce on-board bars, first class showers, or business class seats that convert to double beds anytime soon.
That news shouldn't come as a surprise to frequent flyers, who know U.S. carriers such as American prefer more utilitarian premium cabins — with flat-bed seats and gourmet food, but without the over-the-top luxury often favored by the three largest Gulf carriers. During the past decade, Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways have taken share from U.S airlines and their European partners, especially on routes to the Middle East, Africa and India, by offering unusually opulent premium products.
Like its main U.S. competitors, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, American has objected to the three Gulf carriers, alleging they compete unfairly by taking subsidies from their government
