American Airlines Business Class: DFW-EZE B787-9

My first international trip outside of North America since February 2020 when COVID-19 started was to Argentina. I was able to find “C” class availability using ExpertFlyer on the DFW-EZE segment which allowed me to upgrade my Premium Economy ticket to Business Class for 15,000 AA miles one-way. Flying on American’s 787-9 meant I would be flying their B/E Aerospace Super Diamond seat which is the best they offer in Business Class. I was ready to get back into lie-flat international flying again 🙂

I flew into DFW from LAX in the evening prior to the ~11PM flight to Buenos Aires. Unfortunately due to COVID, the international terminal (Terminal D) at DFW was a ghost town with only 1 restaurant serving a hot meal. I was able to grab a bite and a beer at the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium. Boarding was a bit chaotic due to COVID testing paperwork audits prior to entry to the jet bridge. I found my seat, 1L, which was a bulkhead Business Class seat and settled in. Casper bedding and a pillow were provided along with Bang & Olufsen’s headphones. The quality of service hasn’t changed from the years I flew AA to Sydney so don’t expect great service. It’s an amazing seat to fly in, but that’s where it stops.

Dinner was served after takeoff and I opted for the beef short rib. It was not edible. Way overcooked and the flight attendant didn’t even attempt to remediate the issue. It was by far the worst Business Class meal ever. I ate some carrots and mashed potatoes from the dish. For dessert, I selected the chocolate cheesecake tart and again it was barely edible as it was still frozen rock hard with dry ice still on the plate. AA really needs to step up their game!

Inflight Satellite WiFi powered by Panasonic was offered for $35 for the full flight with unlimited usage. The speeds were plenty fast at 30Mbps down and 1Mbps up. I was able to catchup on some emails before heading to bed.

I was able to get a solid 6 hours of sleep on the way down to EZE thanks to an amazing seat and bedding. Prior to landing, I opted for a light breakfast of yogurt and fruit which was great.

 

Conclusion: It was a comfortable flight down to Buenos Aires in AA Business Class, but food and service were subpar. It’s a great value if you have AA miles sitting around!