American Airlines to revamp long-haul fleet
American Airlines has unveiled plans to redesign the interiors of its international wide-body aircraft fleet.
As part of this revamp, American’s entire fleet of Boeing 777-200ERs will be installed with flat-bed business class seats with aisle access for every seat, Wi-Fi, seatback screens in all cabins, and the airline’s new premium economy offering, Main Cabin Extra. American’s B767-300ERs will also be installed with flat-bed business class seats with aisle access and Main Cabin Extra seating.
“This redesign will comprehensively improve our future international wide-body experience through fully lie-flat all-aisle access seats, in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi, and will place our product among the industry leaders. This is something our people are excited to see as we work toward a new and modern American Airlines,” said Virasb Vahidi, American’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Our decision to invest in our international wide-body aircraft demonstrates significant forward progress, consistent with our plan, and paints a picture of the future for our customers and people.”
Up to 45 new flat bed business class seats will be offered aboard American’s B777s, along with approximately 45 premium economy seats. In-seat entertainment will feature more than 700 hours of on-demand programming, including up to 120 movies, 180 TV shows, 350 audio selections and 30 games. Every seat will feature individual power outlets and USB ports. The B767s meanwhile, will have 28 flatbed seats in business class and 14 Main Cabin Extra seats.
The redesign is expected to begin in early 2014, but the new products will also be installed on 10 new B777-300ERs being delivered to American in 2012 and 2013.