American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Economy Class (Phoenix – New York JFK)

Taking a domestic flight within the United States? American Airlines’ Boeing 737 MAX 8 gives a competitive experience in Economy Class. Features like at-seat power, device holders and an A-grade app experience make the journey more pleasant and seamless.

I’m no stranger to American Airlines. After all, AA is Qantas’ largest airline partner in the US. But it’s my first time flying American’s Boeing 737 MAX 8 – here’s what to expect.

Departing Phoenix

I catch a morning glimpse of Phoenix Airport from my nearby hotel. It’s a quick shuttle ride to the terminal. The lines for regular economy are a little lengthy today. But thanks to my Qantas status, I can use the swift priority queue. (You can do the same with Qantas Silver / oneworld Ruby or higher).

Speaking of Qantas status, it comes in handy a second time before completing check-in. When booked on their own, US domestic Economy flights – like this one on American’s Boeing 737 MAX – don’t include free baggage. But when you have Qantas or other oneworld status, you’re all set.

I’m on a three-week trip to blend multiple conferences together, so I’m loaded up with suits, shoes and all that jazz. With my Qantas Platinum number on the ticket (giving me 3x32kg checked bags for free), it’s not a problem. Even Qantas Silver members get 1x23kg bag for free, and Qantas Gold members get 2x23kg. Given I had a single bag weighing about 30kg, I was glad to have the extra weight, even though I didn’t need the extra ‘pieces’.

Fast-forward to security, and I know that Phoenix Airport can be incredibly busy. I’m not leaving anything to chance – I’ve pre-reserved a security screening time through PHX Reserve. It’s completely free, minimises the time spent queueing and maximises my time in the lounge.

Speaking of lounges, you don’t get that by default when flying Economy on American Airlines’ Boeing 737 MAX 8. But again, the right frequent flyer tier or credit card can help you out.

I stop by the AA Admirals Club, which welcomes Qantas Club cardholders and Qantas Gold frequent flyers (and above). In short, I’m not impressed. It’s crowded, the offerings are basic – frankly, the terminal is more comfortable. Instead, I make use of Phoenix’s American Express Centurion Lounge, then it’s time to board.

Economy Class seating on the American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8

American Airlines’ Boeing 737 MAX 8 follows the industry norm with a typical 3-3 layout. In fact, AA is big on cabin consistency, so it’s the same seat you’d also get on the airline’s Boeing 737 NGs. But if you’re new to AA, here’s what to expect.

Along with the usual tray table, there’s a handy device holder that lives above. You can use this to support a mere smartphone or a tablet on the smaller side. A retractable bracket also lifts from the back of the mechanism to help hold your device in place. That saves it flying to the floor during turbulence or when the passenger in front abruptly reclines. That said, my Surface Pro was just too big to fit, making the usual tray table its home for this flight.

There’s also USB power in front, AC power below and storage by the knees. A single mesh pocket keeps your belongings visible, reducing the chances of something being left on board.

Today, I’m sitting in a standard row. Legroom is acceptable, as my knees aren’t pressed against the chair in front. I’ve kept my small bag down by my feet. It’s flat in photos to illustrate, but it’s promptly turned to its side to maximise space. Speaking of space, I appreciate that American has fitted some exceptionally large overhead lockers here. Wheeled cabin bags fit side-on on the thin edge, rather than lying flat and taking up much more space. I don’t see anybody being sent back and asked to gate-check a bag.

Food and beverage in American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 Economy Class

Feeling thirsty during your American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 flight? Non-alcoholic refreshments are free, with literally 20 options to choose from. I always appreciate finding Diet Sprite on the menu, for something less caloric without caffeine being obligatory. Beer, wine and spirits can be purchased, or are complimentary for AA’s own Executive Platinum and ConciergeKey members.

As for food, it’s a different story. Pretzels and Biscoff biscuits are gratis. Anything else is for purchase, but the options are still slim. Today’s flight offers packets of almonds, Doritos or a fruit and cheese plate – nothing more substantial.

Service and entertainment in Economy on the American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8

While food may be lacking, I love it when technology makes a journey easier. Today is one such day, which begins with my timed security reservation. I’ll let you in on a little secret… I booked a time initially – a bit later than needed, in case of check-in delays. But when walking to security, I could edit my booking to make my time literally right now. I waltz past the line to the separate entrance. ‘Yes, I have a booking.’ Ha.

But to American Airlines, you’ll want to download and use AA’s mobile app for your Boeing 737 MAX 8 Economy flight. It makes online check-in a breeze, you can keep tabs on the best available seat, and see the latest updates for your flight. This includes baggage tracking at every stage of your trip, including confirmation that your bag made it on board.

I spot another interesting option – the ability to accept a flight change for at least US$600 in compensation. While it’s tempting, I have an onward flight from New York to London tonight on a separate ticket, so I stay put. Maybe next time. You can also connect to the inflight hotspot for free video streaming or paid Wi-Fi.

The verdict

All things considered, I find Economy more pleasant on American Airlines than most other domestic US carriers. Sure, the food is lacking – but the competition isn’t serving meals in Coach either. Instead, AA wins my vote through its partnership with Qantas. I suspect, many other travellers heading Stateside would agree.

Even by having Qantas Silver, your journey gets more pleasant. Priority check-in gets you on your way faster, and priority boarding helps ensure you don’t need to gate-check a bag. Make that Qantas Gold and you’ve got lounge access included too – even if you’re only taking a US domestic Economy flight. While it’s standard in the US, I also really appreciate live baggage tracking. The comfort of knowing your bag is on board is wonderfully relaxing.

Still, I’m glad to have my aisle seat. With this American Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 8 flight hitting five hours from gate to gate, it’s great to be able to stretch my legs at a whim, and without being a nuisance. I’d highly recommend the same.

Also read: How to avoid checked baggage fees on US domestic flights

All photography by Chris Chamberlin, who travelled at Point Hacks’ expense.

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