Key Takeaways
- American Airlines’ Boeing 787 Premium Economy bridges the gap between Main Cabin Extra and Business Class, offering larger recliner seats, better dining, and lounge-style perks.
- The 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft feature 2-3-2 seating with a 38-inch pitch and wider armrests.
- Premium Economy passengers enjoy enhanced meal service, priority boarding, and noise-reducing headphones.
- It’s one of the most consistent mid-tier products among U.S. carriers, competing well with Delta Premium Select and United Premium Plus.
- Ideal for long-haul flyers who want comfort and service upgrades without the cost of Business Class.
American Airlines’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet powers most of its long-haul international routes, connecting the U.S. to Europe, Asia, and South America. For travelers seeking more space and comfort without paying business-class fares, the Premium Economy cabin has become a popular middle ground.
Launched in 2017 and refined through 2025, American’s 787 Premium Economy offers a significant step up from economy, with upgraded seats, better dining, and more personal space.
Want to see how travelers rank American’s Premium Economy experience by route? Join the Talk Travel United Airlines Forums to compare cabin reviews and upgrade strategies.
Cabin and Seat Design
American’s Boeing 787 Premium Economy features a 2-3-2 layout, compared to the 3-3-3 layout in Main Cabin. There are 21 to 28 Premium Economy seats, depending on the aircraft type (787-8 or 787-9).
Seat Specs
- Seat pitch: 38 inches
- Seat width: 19 inches
- Recline: 7 inches
- Configuration: 2-3-2
- Power: AC + USB port
- IFE screen: 13.3-inch touchscreen
Each seat includes a footrest (bulkhead rows get leg rests), adjustable headrest, and a large tray table. The leather recliners are far more spacious than Main Cabin Extra, offering real legroom for overnight flights.
Cabin lighting, humidity, and noise levels are improved thanks to the Dreamliner’s advanced pressurization system , a noticeable comfort boost on long hauls.
Dining and Service
Meals in Premium Economy are plated and served on real china with metal cutlery, similar in style to domestic first class.
Typical Meal Service
- Pre-meal beverage (wine, beer, or soft drink)
- Starter: salad or cold appetizer
- Main course: choice between chicken, pasta, or beef
- Dessert: ice cream or mousse
Passengers receive a Casper pillow and blanket, a small amenity kit, and noise-reducing headphones. Service feels more attentive than in Main Cabin, though it doesn’t match the polish of Business Class.
Wine and spirits are complimentary, and mid-flight snacks are available in the galley.
According to American Airlines’ Premium Economy page, the menu and amenities are refreshed seasonally on long-haul routes.
In-flight Entertainment and Wi-Fi
Every Premium Economy seat includes a 13.3-inch touchscreen, USB and power outlets, and access to hundreds of movies, live TV, and music options.
Wi-Fi is available across the entire 787 fleet, with prices ranging from $19–$25 depending on route length. Free messaging is supported on most flights via iMessage and WhatsApp.
The Dreamliner’s cabin design includes larger windows with electronic dimming, creating a more open, calm atmosphere compared to traditional wide-body jets.
For an overview of how this compares to Delta’s product, read our Delta Premium Select vs American Airlines Premium Economy.
Ground Experience and Perks
Premium Economy passengers enjoy many of the same ground perks as Business Class, including:
- Priority check-in and boarding (Group 4)
- Two free checked bags
- Priority baggage delivery
However, lounge access is not included unless purchased separately or granted through elite status.
For travelers connecting through hubs like DFW, JFK, or MIA, the Flagship Lounge (paid or elite access) offers upgraded dining and showers, ideal before long-haul flights.
Routes and Pricing
The 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft operate most of American’s international long-haul routes.
| Route | Aircraft | Duration |
| DFW – London (LHR) | 787-9 | 9 hrs |
| MIA – Buenos Aires (EZE) | 787-8 | 9 hrs |
| LAX – Tokyo (HND) | 787-9 | 11 hrs |
| ORD – Paris (CDG) | 787-8 | 8 hrs |
Average Premium Economy fares range between $1,200 and $2,000 round trip, depending on the season and destination.
AAdvantage award redemptions typically start around 40,000–55,000 miles one-way, which often represents solid value compared to Business Class awards that can exceed 100,000 miles.
Comparison: Premium Economy vs Business Class
| Feature | Premium Economy | Business Class |
| Seat Type | Recliner | Lie-flat |
| Layout | 2-3-2 | 1-2-1 |
| Lounge Access | No | Yes |
| Amenity Kit | Basic | Premium |
Premium Economy offers about 70% of the comfort at less than half the price, making it a great compromise for travelers prioritizing value over luxury.
Conclusion
The American Airlines Boeing 787 Premium Economy cabin delivers one of the best mid-tier flying experiences among U.S. carriers. With wider seats, better meals, and quieter cabins, it’s a strong choice for long-haul travelers seeking comfort without Business Class pricing.
While the lack of lounge access and limited recline may deter some, the consistent product quality across routes makes it one of the most reliable ways to fly long-haul in comfort.
For route reviews, upgrade discussions, and seat recommendations, join the Talk Travel United Airlines Forums to see how travelers rank American’s 787 Premium Economy experience.
FAQs
1. Does American Airlines 787 Premium Economy have lie-flat seats?
No. Premium Economy seats recline deeply and include footrests but do not convert into beds. For lie-flat comfort, Business Class is required.
2. Is the 787 Premium Economy worth it on long-haul flights?
Yes, especially on overnight routes to Europe or Asia. The extra space, upgraded meals, and quieter cabin make a noticeable difference in comfort and rest.
3. What perks come with Premium Economy?
You’ll get priority check-in, two checked bags, enhanced dining, amenity kits, and larger seats with personal entertainment screens.
4. Which routes offer 787 Premium Economy?
American deploys Premium Economy on most long-haul 787 routes, including London, Tokyo, Paris, and Buenos Aires.
5. Can I upgrade from Premium Economy to Business?
Yes, AAdvantage miles or Systemwide Upgrades can be used if Business Class award space is available. The upgrade cost varies by route and fare class.