It’s time for another of Snapshots from my most recent trip, this time focusing on the passenger experience on American Airlines 882 between Chicago and Atlanta (Main Cabin – Exit Row).
I’m sure you know how I do this travel writing thing by now. But for those reading this for the first time, I have two major travel writing styles:
- Trip Reports—These are full, deep-dive reports that take you into the experience, the small things and the big things!
- Snapshots – These are bite-sized reviews that show you the product in some gentle headlines (and normally, only images shot on the phone)
We’re on the Snapshots to start with – the trip report will be launching in a few weeks (as other things in our pipeline will affect this publication run).
Booking
This was booked as one of the return options I had. I chose this… for fun, if I’m honest. Seat selection was carried out in advance.
Check-in
Check-in was carried out at O’Hare Terminal 3, with your author selecting the oneworld priority lines. After failing to check in using a machine, I was directed over to a person who was able to check my bags all the way to Heathrow and issue the boarding passes.
Security
Priority security took around 5 minutes to pass through, even at this high point when TSA staff were not being paid, and US ICE was being deployed to the airports.
Lounge
I was able to access the American Airlines Flagship Lounge on this itinerary with my Royal Jordanian status.
This is used by the airline as an international business-class lounge with full catering options.
Boarding
Boarding was from Gate K9, near the lounge complex.
The Aircraft
An Airbus A319 would provide the lift for this one and a half hour flight to Atlanta.
The Seat
On this Airbus A319, American Airlines used the Collins Meridian in economy class, finished in the usual grey and red accents.
This seat had extended legroom (34″), as it was in an exit row.
IFE
No IFE Screens provided on the aircraft. IFE was accessible via the streaming platform on board.
Connectivity
American Airlines uses the Intelsat (ex Gogo) 2Ku connectivity system, wrapped in its AAInflight portal.
Connectivity was free at the point of login to the platform.
Food and Drink
A single drinks pass was offered by the crew, with both biscotti and pretzels offered.
Landing
The aircraft made some turns, arriving in Atlanta in the dead of night. Upon landing, the aircraft taxied to the T Gate (Terminal Gates) to discharge its passengers.
Arrivals and Transfers
With the aircraft safely connected to a jetbridge, I was able to disembark the A319 and commence transit to the F Gates, without exiting and reclearing security.
The Views
The full trip report is in the works.
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