Posted on 10/29/2017 3:59:31 PM PDT by 2ndDivisionVet
We’re not surprised American Airlines is not interested in blinged-out first and business class cabins. But we’re still slightly puzzled at the U.S. carriers’ anger toward the Gulf airlines. Yes, Emirates, Etihad and Qatar receive government assistance, but so do a lot of airlines.
Don’t expect American Airlines to introduce on-board bars, first class showers, or business class seats that convert to double beds anytime soon.
That news shouldn’t come as a surprise to frequent flyers, who know U.S. carriers such as American prefer more utilitarian premium cabins — with flat-bed seats and gourmet food, but without the over-the-top luxury often favored by the three largest Gulf carriers. During the past decade, Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways have taken share from U.S airlines and their European partners, especially on routes to the Middle East, Africa and India, by offering unusually opulent premium products.
Like its main U.S. competitors, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, American has objected to the three Gulf carriers, alleging they compete unfairly by taking subsidies from their governments. The three U.S. carriers, through a trade association, have argued the Gulf carriers should be barred from adding new U.S. routes until addressing the subsidy issues. Emirates, Etihad and Qatar deny they receive illegal government assistance.....
(Excerpt) Read more at skift.com ...
I have world travelling friends that SWEAR by Emirates as being the BEST FIRST CLASS AIRLINE!!
From the pictures I’ve seen, they’re probably right. Doesn’t look inexpensive.
But the Turkey bacon still sucks
regular rates for first class $8-10k+ r/t
NOTHING great is cheap!
Glad to see the economy is doing well.
There are several YouTube videos showing what these ‘extreme’ first class cabins are like. Private suites, showers, etc. Very like the best of the Pullman Cars from the 1930s (except for the big screen TV and other modern touches). A lot of money for renting a room for 11 or 12 hours.
“regular rates for first class $8-10k+ r/t”
Keeps the riff Raff out...like me. But NFL guys can afford it.
My experience has been that, if I’m flying to a foreign destination, I’ll take a foreign flag airline if possible. British Airways is the one I’m familiar with. They have a coach plus class that’s really good. It costs about eighty percent more than standard sewerage. In return you get a seat that’s equivalent to an ordinary domestic first class seat and business class food. Just try, try to find that on a domestic airline running the same route. The BA,business class is also very good, offering a private compartment with a full stretch out seat.
Emirates Business is amazing. Even Ethihad coach beat my last American Airlines First Class experience; which made me rethink flying American ever again.
Where is Ethihad from??
Ethihad is out of the UAE. Abu Dhabi is their main hub. I was heading to Mumbai. I have had exceptional experience on foreign carriers. Took Aer Lingus to Ireland, amazing service at that time. I really detest AA most times I use them
Thanks!
In December,
R/T, JFK to DXB, on American $8300 to $9400
$19,400 to $26,500 on Emirates
I recently returned from S Africa. It certainly appeared Emirates and Ethihad had the bulk of the business. Several of the relatives made trips while I was there to Europe and one to China. I think all flew Emirates—even though they were going to Europe. Much longer flight but lower price and better accomadations than BA.
I have enough United Airlines frequent flier miles that I use them for 1st class for overseas travel. The United Dreamliner flight between Denver and Tokyo is pretty good. Singapore Airlines Business Class is very good.
Most domestic carrier US 1st class is only so-so by comparison, but better than US coach class.
“A lot of money for renting a room for 11 or 12 hours.”
FLYING rooms ain’t cheap.
How’s their economy class?
Isn’t it weird how some Arab countries are medieval armpits and others such as the Emirates are state of the art?
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