As expected, American Airlines has now followed United and Delta in announcing 'basic economy' fares that offer cheaper fares in return for a stripped-down experience that offers little more than a seat—and you can't pick which one.
AA will put the fares on sale near the end of February on "selected routes," which means primarily those where they are competing directly with the ultra-low-cost carriers such as Sprint and Frontier.
The AA basic economy shares a number of features with the other majors' programs, but has a few differences, including some concessions for its elite members and for holders of some AA-branded credit cards.
- Basic economy fliers will board last—unless they have priority privileges through their status or cards, in which case they will board with their regular group.
- No checked bag is included, and only a carry-on that can fit under the seat, not in the overhead. Elite and card-entitled basic fliers, though, will get their regular allowance.
- Unlike United, American will give out AAdvantage miles as usual for the ticket. Elite-qualifying points are also earned, but only half as many as on regular fare.
- No upgrades, no matter what status; no changes at any price; seat assignment at the airport (but you can buy a seat assignment 48 hours before the flight. AA says it will try to seat families with young children together, but no guarantee.
Once on board, though, American says the distinctions will disappear, and all economy and basic economy passengers will have the same entertainment, drinks and snacks and the same seats.
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