Key Takeaways
- American Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 Business Class, marketed as First Class on domestic routes, offers a 2-2 recliner-style layout for short- to mid-haul comfort.
- Expect larger seats, hot meals, priority perks, and free drinks, but no lie-flat beds or lounge access.
- The Project Oasis retrofit modernized seats and power outlets but removed seatback screens in favor of streaming entertainment.
- Service quality and catering vary slightly by route and hub, but it remains a solid upgrade for travelers prioritizing space and convenience.
- Ideal for domestic business travelers or leisure flyers who want comfort without paying long-haul business fares.
The Boeing 737-800 is the backbone of American Airlines’ domestic fleet. Whether you’re flying from Dallas to Los Angeles or Chicago to Miami, chances are you’re on one. For frequent flyers, the 737-800’s Business Class (labeled as First Class on U.S. routes) is often the best way to enjoy a little extra comfort on shorter flights.
This 2025 review breaks down what to expect , seats, meals, entertainment, Wi-Fi, and overall value , and compares it against other American Airlines premium products.
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Cabin and Seating
American’s 737-800 Business Class features 16 seats arranged in a 2-2 configuration across four rows. It’s a recliner-style seat, not a flatbed, designed for comfort on flights under five hours.
- Seat pitch: 37–38 inches
- Seat width: 21 inches
- Recline: 6 inches
- Power: AC and USB ports at every seat
- Wi-Fi: Available fleet-wide
The newest aircraft, updated under the Project Oasis retrofit, come with refreshed leather upholstery, adjustable headrests, and larger tray tables.
However, legroom is slightly tighter than older configurations, and many aircraft no longer have seatback screens , instead, passengers use their own devices via the AA inflight entertainment portal.
For a closer look at American’s transcontinental lie-flat product, read our American Airlines Airbus A321 Business Class Review (2025 Guide).
Meals and Drinks
Meal service on the 737-800 depends on flight length and departure time.
- Flights over 900 miles: Full hot meal service (breakfast, lunch, or dinner)
- Flights under 900 miles: Snack basket and drinks
Typical breakfast includes fruit, yogurt, and a hot dish such as an omelet or pancakes. Lunch or dinner service often features a salad, hot entrée (chicken, beef, or pasta), and dessert.
Beverages , including wine, beer, and spirits , are complimentary. While the quality is solid for a domestic flight, catering consistency varies by hub (best from DFW, MIA, and CLT).
According to American Airlines’ meal policy, the carrier tailors meals by distance and time of day.
Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity
The 737-800 experience is split between aircraft types:
- Older aircraft: Still feature seatback screens with DirecTV.
- Newer aircraft: Rely on streaming entertainment through the AA app.
Wi-Fi is available on almost all flights, priced between $10–$19, and free messaging works for iMessage and WhatsApp.
Pro tip: Download shows before boarding in case your aircraft has no personal screens.
For premium connectivity comparisons, see our American Airlines Boeing 777 Business Class Review (2025 Guide).
Ground Experience
American’s 737-800 Business Class passengers receive priority check-in, security, and boarding (Group 1). They also get two free checked bags.
However, domestic First tickets on the 737 do not include Admirals Club access, unless you hold an eligible membership or credit card like the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard.
For routes connecting to long-haul international flights, Business Class travelers may access Flagship Lounges at airports like DFW, JFK, or MIA.
Routes and Fares
The 737-800 operates on hundreds of routes, including many of American’s most frequent business markets:
| Route | Duration | Service Type |
| DFW – LAX | 3 hrs | Full meal |
| CLT – MIA | 2.5 hrs | Snack |
| ORD – LAS | 4 hrs | Full meal |
| PHX – SEA | 3 hrs | Full meal |
Average Business Class fares range from $350–$700 one-way, with mileage upgrades starting at 15,000–20,000 AAdvantage miles plus a copay.
For short routes, paying cash may yield better value than redeeming miles.
Comparison: 737-800 vs A321 and 777
| Feature | 737-800 | A321T | 777-300ER |
| Seat Type | Recliner | Lie-flat | Lie-flat |
| Layout | 2-2 | 1-1 | 1-2-1 |
| Lounge Access | No | Yes (Flagship) | Yes (Flagship) |
| Ideal For | 1–5 hr domestic | Transcon premium | International |
While the 737-800 offers comfort and efficiency, it’s not designed for overnight or luxury flights. For that, America’s Flagship routes on the A321T and 777 are far superior.
Conclusion
American Airlines’ Boeing 737-800 Business Class delivers a dependable short-haul premium experience. With comfortable recliners, complimentary meals, and priority perks, it’s a worthwhile step up from economy for frequent flyers or anyone wanting extra comfort.
That said, it’s not a luxury cabin , no flatbeds, limited entertainment, and no guaranteed lounge access. For longer or overnight trips, consider connecting to the 777 or A321T for the full Flagship experience.
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FAQs
1. Does American Airlines 737-800 Business Class have lie-flat seats?
No. It has recliner-style seats with extra legroom, ideal for domestic and short international flights under five hours.
2. Is American’s 737-800 the same as First Class?
Yes. American markets its domestic Business Class as First Class, but the seat and service align with short-haul business standards internationally.
3. Are meals included in 737-800 Business Class?
Yes. Hot meals are offered on flights longer than 900 miles, while shorter routes receive snack baskets and drinks.
4. Does a 737-800 Business Class ticket include lounge access?
Not automatically. Admirals Club access requires elite status, membership, or an eligible credit card.
5. Is upgrading from Main Cabin to Business worth it?
If you value space, priority boarding, and better meals, yes. For short flights, it’s mainly about comfort and convenience rather than luxury.