Experience two of the biggest carriers in the United States – Delta Air Lines and American Airlines.
Delta Air Lines first began operations on June 1929. Today, they are serving over 350+ destinations in over 50 countries worldwide. Their most exclusive cabins, including Delta One (their business class), has splendid amenities and awesome perks.
On the other hand, American Airlines (AA) is among the largest carriers in the world by fleet size and passengers. It was founded in 1926 and is counted as one of the oldest airline companies. Like Delta, AA has been leading the way when it comes to offering premium cabins regionally and internationally.
Let’s take a closer look at both Delta and AA’s business class offerings in this Delta One Business Class vs. American Airlines Flagship Business Class comparison.
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Quick Glance: Delta Business Class vs. American Airlines Flagship Business Class
| Delta One Business Class | American Airlines Flagship Business Class | |
| Ground Experience | In most international destinations, guests can enjoy access to the Sky Club lounge with Sky Priority options for speedy check-in and baggage handling. There’s also a free checked baggage allowance of up to two pieces of luggage (70 pounds and below). | Guests receive priority check-in and boarding. Access to the Flagship Lounge, in most hub cities, is provided including access to Admirals Club lounges. |
| Seat | Delta One is Delta’s Business Class offering. It has fully lie-flat seats and is available on international and domestic routes like LAX to JFK and DCA to LAX. Seats on Boeing 777-200LR, A330-900neo, or A350 have the Delta One Suite with full-height doors and direct aisle access. These offer a width of 19 to 22.5 inches and all face forward. | Aboard the 777-300ER, AA offers 52 Flagship business seats in a 1-2-1 layout at a reverse herringbone configuration. These have a 45-inch pitch and 21.5-inch width. The 787-9 as well as the 777-200 both carry a pitch of 60-61 inches and a 21-inch width. On the 787-9 are 30 seats while the 777-200 carries 37 forward-facing Rockwell Collins Super Diamond seats in a 1-2-1 configuration. As for the 787-8, it has 20 business seats in a 1-2-1 design with a 60-62 inch pitch and 21-inch width. |
| Amenities | Their Tumi-branded amenity kits were replaced in 2022 with an eco-friendly offering from Someone Somewhere. Delta is switching to more environmentally friendly alternatives so inside the kit are a handcrafted eye mask, a hand cream, a bamboo toothbrush, and a Grown Alchemist lip balm. | Shinola amenity kits in slim pouches contain essentials like a hand lotion, earplugs, dental kit, eye mask, pen, and socks. On the seat is a shrink-wrapped Casper pillow and duvet. |
| Food and Beverage | On the Delta App, guests can choose to preorder meals and make special requests. Guest receive pre-flight drinks and shortly after takeoff, the meal service starts. In-flight snacks are at the galley and upon request while breakfast starts at least 90 minutes before landing. | Guests can expect extensive food and drinks menu at AA’s Flagship Business Class. You can pre-order meals 30 days ahead. Onboard, guests receive printed menus. There are no pre-flight drinks but after takeoff, you can ask for one. Meal service starts shortly after takeoff with everything served from carts. Dinner is finished with AA’s signature Haagen Dazs sundae. Breakfast consists of an omelet or fruit plate as options. |
| Entertainment | Delta Studio is the in-flight entertainment center for its 18-inch touchscreen monitor. The IFE is pre-filled with hundreds of movies and shows, including an airshow for AVgeeks. Delta-branded headphones are given too. | AA has fitted an 18-inch touchscreen monitor on most of its international fleet. It has over 300+ movies and 230+ shows. The domestic fleet has seen their monitors removed in exchange for streaming content instead. Guests are lent Bang & Olufsen H9i headphones for the duration of the flight. |
| Lavatories | Lavatories depend on the type of aircraft. These are similar to regular lavatories except for higher-quality toiletries. For Delta business class, it’s Malin + Goetz products. | There are 3 lavatories onboard the 777 for business class passengers. |
| Bed | The seat lies fully flat, transforming into a 76-inch bed (approx. 6 feet 4 inches). Beddings and pillows from COZ-Z-Z are made from recycled plastic. No turndown service is available. | All seats lie flat measuring 81 inches long. Armrests can be lowered for a wider room. A pillow and blanket are on the seat upon boarding. |
| Service | Excellent service. Guests receive personalized attention from their attendants. | Service is hit or miss. If you happen to chance on a veteran crew then you can expect a good time. |
| Wi-Fi | Delta offers free messaging on WhatsApp and Messenger. However, Wi-Fi is available for $12.95 per hour for streaming speeds. For $6.95. you can browse and check your email. If you need more data and travel frequently, go for the $69.95 monthly data plan. | A full-flight Wi-Fi pass is available for $35 without any data cap. The lowest plan is $10. Monthly plans for frequent flyers start at $49.95 per month for one device and $59.95 per month for two devices
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The Details: Delta One Business Class vs. American Airlines Flagship Business Class
Delta One Business Class
Delta One Business Class – A350. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
Ground Services
Considered the top-tier cabin in Delta’s roster, Delta One is essentially a business class cabin available on most of Delta’s transatlantic flights. You might also luck out and find these in key domestic routes but it’s quite limited.
On the ground, Delta One business class passengers get to enjoy access to Delta Sky Club Lounges, domestically and internationally. The airline is known for delivering cutting-edge and sophisticated airport lounges, so much so they’re considered among the best airport lounges in the U.S.
For international travelers, the Sky Lounges are in key cities like Detroit, Atlanta, JFK, Seattle, and Los Angeles. Inside the lounges, they offer ample seating, a modern, fresh design, and an impressive selection of food and drink items. There’s a mix of alcoholic beverages, self-serve sodas, and a coffee machine.
You’ll also find a business center, and a restroom, while certain Sky Club Lounges offer showers that can be reserved ahead of time if you need to use them. Keep in mind these lounges serve all of Delta’s premium passengers so it can get crowded during busy flight times.
As soon as boarding starts, business class passengers receive priority check-in and boarding. Passengers can also check in two bags (up to 70 pounds) for free.
Seat
Delta Air Lines Delta One Business Class Front View. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
Delta business class seats are some of the most stylish in the air right now. Featuring diamond-patterned upholstery and a forward-facing private suite design, the Delta One Business class seats promise utmost comfort.
Seat design and layout can vary depending on the aircraft. Certain aircraft like the Boeing 777-200LR, A350, and the Airbus A330-900 neo make the experience extra special as these seats feature full-height sliding doors, creating private chambers. Each seat has a pull-out side table, a glorious touchscreen monitor loaded with hundreds of movies and shows, ample storage cubbies, and a convenient footwell.
The full-height screen doors are absent in the Boeing 767-400, instead, the Delta One seat here includes open dividers. For the Airbus A330-300, the center aisle seats include partial dividers to give guests some privacy.
All of the seats have a 1-2-1 layout with 19 to 22.5 inches width.
Amenities
Delta Air Lines recently switched their Tumi-branded amenity kits in 2022. This move is part of Delta’s commitment to using more eco-friendly items. This time, they’ve partnered with the Mexican-based brand Someone Somewhere.
While the pouch is flimsy, it’s all handmade and distinctive. Inside, there’s a handmade eye mask, a bamboo toothbrush from Humble Companies, a hand cream as well as a lip balm from Grown Alchemist.
There’s a pillow and bedding from the brand Coz-z-z. These also stick to Delta’s eco-friendly vow and are made from recycled plastic. Surprisingly, they are comfortable, with a pleasant cotton feel. Delta-branded headphones are found in each seat. These are decent quality and work great with the Delta Studio entertainment system.
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Food and Beverage
Delta Air Lines Delta One Business Class Dining Service. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
Delta One business class passengers are entitled to choose their meals before departure. You can do this by logging into the Delta App and picking from a selection of mains, desserts, and drinks. If there are special requirements or dietary restrictions, you can input this too and the airline will try to accommodate it as best as possible.
Aboard the flight, multi-course meals are presented. If you chose a meal beforehand, the attendant will reconfirm your order and make sure it is accurate. But you can also order from the provided menu available in case you didn’t preorder anything.
Starter drinks and appetizers are served in stunning Alessi service ware. Mains are usually choices of beef, poultry, pasta, or seafood. Meanwhile, the drinks are poured via carts at your side.
There’s a premium wine list for you to choose from including Peach Bellini, Grey Goose Vodka, Bacardi Rum, and a host of reds and sparkling choices.
Meals are served shortly after takeoff and at least two hours before landing.
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Entertainment
Delta Air Lines Delta One Business Class Overview. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
Each seat has a built-in 18-inch touchscreen monitor. it’s filled with more than 300+ movies and over 200+ TV shows so you have plenty of choices to keep you busy. There’s also an airshow for AV geeks to indulge in. Live TV, music, and podcasts are also available for use here.
Aside from directly using the screen, you can also control the monitor using a handheld remote tucked away on one of the armrests. USB ports and other charging ports are nearby in case you brought your own entertainment.
Wi-Fi
Like most airlines in the U.S., there’s a monthly subscription option for frequent flyers at $69.95. Those who need less can use the Wi-Fi for messaging or Whatsapp for free. If you only need to browse websites, there’s a $6.95 plan but if you need streaming speed connections, opt for the $12.95 per hour plan.
Even better, if you have a T-Mobile or Sprint line, then you’re entitled to an hour’s internet free.
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Lavatories
The lavatory number depends on the kind of aircraft you’re flying in. These lavatories are similar to the ones in the other cabin save for the upscale Malin+Goetz toiletries.
Bed
Sleeping on the Delta business class seats is a delight for most guests. The seats lie fully flat with ample room for the feet as well as on the sides since the armrests can be lowered at the push of a button. Seats offer up to 76 inches in length when laid flat. This can accommodate anyone up to 6 feet and 4 inches.
As mentioned, the bedding is provided as soon as you arrive on your seat. Delta offers an environmentally friendly, Coz-z-z pillow and blanket. It’s worth noting there’s no turndown service available on the flight.
Staff and Guest Services
The service you get on Delta One Business Class is among the best for U.S. airlines. The attendants are prompt and accommodating, giving guests a chance to enjoy their flight without a worry.
Who Is It For?
Flying Delta One Business class is ideal for anyone traveling the transatlantic and who wants the most comfort while they do. The seats are fantastic with the best food and meal service around.
Delta Business Class Gallery
Delta Air Lines Delta One Business Class. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
Delta One A330 300 Business Class. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines Delta One Business Class. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines
American Airlines Flagship Business Class
American Airlines Flagship Business Class. Image Credit: American Airlines
Ground Services
American Airlines prides itself as one of the leaders in the airline industry, harboring one of the biggest airline fleets in the world today. It’s no surprise they would also take care of guests while on the ground.
There’s fast-track check-in and priority boarding even expedited security in certain hubs. In particular airports, Flagship Business class guests receive access to the American Airlines Flagship Lounges. If it’s not available, they also have access to over 50 Admirals Club lounges or AA partner lounges across the globe.
If you’re wondering where to find AA Flagship lounges, you’re guaranteed to find an American Airlines Flagship Lounge when flying out of airports like LAX (Los Angeles), JFK (New York), MIA (Miami), DFW (Dallas Fort Worth), and ORD (Chicago).
Depending on the airport and time of day, these lounges can also get crowded but it’s sure to have ample seating, excellent gourmet food (with both hot and cold options), premium drinks, coffee, and more.
Seat
American Airlines Flagship Business Class. Image Credit: American Airlines
Ranked as one of the top-tier business cabins available domestically, American Airlines Flagship business class elevates travel for both transcontinental and local guests.
Both the seats and design will vary according to the aircraft you’re flying in. On the B777-300ER, there are 52 Safran Cirrus business class seats arranged in a reverse herringbone layout. The 1-2-1 layout is convenient, giving guests wiggle room. On the 787-9 and the 777-200, American Airlines has 30 and 37 (respectively) front-facing Rockwell Collins Super Diamond Seats, also in a 1-2-1 layout. They carry a pitch of 60-61 inches and a 21-inch width.
Finally, there’s the 787-8 which carries 20 business class seats in a 1-2-1 configuration featuring a 60-61 inch pitch with a 21-inch width.
These seats are comfortable and deliver plenty of legroom. You’ll find a considerable entertainment monitor, and convenient storage, including one for storing a water bottle or large shoes. On the side are seat controls and a handheld remote for the IFE. There are also a bunch of sockets for plugging in electronic devices or headphones.
A large pillow and blanket are waiting for you on the seat including an amenity pouch. Another notable addition to the seat is an individual air nozzle – a fantastic perk, especially for those who tend to sleep warm. Large trays also transform into fold-out tables for dining or working.
Amenities
Speaking of amenity kits, American Airlines supplies Shinola-branded kits for business-class passengers. While these kits aren’t as luxurious as those you’d find in First, it is still a nice touch. Inside the handmade soft pouch are a dental kit, pen, socks, earplugs, hand lotion, and eye mask. There’s also a branded D.S. & Durga lip balm inside.
On certain transatlantic flights, like those flying to Korea and Japan, guests receive slippers. Meanwhile, flights going out to Sydney or Hong Kong will see guests receive Casper pajama sets, slippers as well a duvet mattress for the longer flight time.
Food and Beverage
Flagship Business guests can order their meals up to 30 days in advance or up to 24 hours before departure. This is available for most premium cabins, transatlantic flights, and certain local flights. To reserve your meals, log into their site or app, find your flight, and click “Reserve a Meal.” If you need to make changes to your flight, you’ll need to pick a meal again.
As soon as guests settle in, menus are handed out and orders are taken. Shortly after, the meals are rolled out in carts and trays. It starts with appetizers, followed by a warm bread basket. The mains follow next, usually consisting of ample portions of poultry, seafood, or meat. Those with a preference for Kosher or vegetarian dishes can pre-order ahead of time. However, the quality can differ depending on the local caterer.
Cheese platter, cake, sundae, or other sweet pastries often finish off the meal as dessert. It’s then followed by tea or coffee if you fancy. There is no dine-on-demand on these flights but on occasion, the crew can be accommodating and have your meals served later upon request and if time permits.
Entertainment
American Airlines Transcontinental Flagship Business Class In-Flight Entertainment. Image Credit:
One thing American Airlines consistently gets praised for is its robust in-flight entertainment system. AA’s Flagship business class is no exception as it’s fitted with 18-inch touchscreen monitors all across their transatlantic flights. This is pre-filled with hundreds of Hollywood movies, TV shows, and even music as well as podcasts.
It’s worth noting, however, that American Airlines has recently announced its move towards discarding regular in-flight monitors in favor of streaming options for their domestic flights. They’re trying to ramp up their Wi-Fi so guests can essentially stream through the AA app on their own devices.
This move includes partnering with services like Apple TV, Skillshare, and Rosetta Stone. Guests are also provided with Bang & Olufsen headphones for the duration of the flight. These are collected at least an hour before landing and if you’re still watching something, you can ask for the economy earbuds instead.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi access for American Airlines Flagship business class passengers starts for as low as $10. However, if you need something more robust, you can opt for a full-flight pass for $35 without any data cap. Business travelers who fly each month can also go for the monthly subscription plan which starts at $49.95 per month for a single device and $59.95 for two devices when traveling domestically.
Lavatories
The number of lavatories can differ depending on the type of aircraft. For instance, there are 2 lavatories in the Boeing 777-300ER while the 777-200 has 3 lavatories dedicated for use by business class passengers.
It’s worth mentioning these lavatories aren’t anything special. Some will have branded toiletries but the majority remain basic lavatories as you would find in other cabins.
Bed
AA Flagship Business Class. Image Credit: American Airlines
AA Flagship business beds promise restful journeys since they’re fully reclinable. A soft pillow and blanket are provided as well. The seat width is more or less similar while the length of the bed varies between 76 to 81 inches when fully flat.
Staff and Guest Services
One criticism of American Airlines’ service, in general, is it depends on the crew you’re getting on the flight. Veteran attendants easily provide a seamless and memorable experience for guests but on occasion, the service can be lackluster.
Who Is It For?
From the ground to the plane, American Airlines Flagship business class guests are catered to every step of the way. The seamless priority check-in and boarding starts off the flight. There’s an emphasis on providing comfort, thanks to the reclinable seats, ample storage, and additional amenity kits. Another thing to look forward to is the gourmet meal service, which is a great experience although the presentation can be lacking at times.
So if you’re flying transatlantic on business or leisure travel, AA’s Flagship Business cabin is a fantastic option. If possible, try to catch a flight aboard the Boeing 777-300ER. This will give you a great chance of experiencing the product’s best facets.
American Airlines Flagship Business Class Gallery
American Airlines Flagship Business Class. Image Credit: American Airlines
American Airlines 787-9 Flagship Business Class. Image Credit: AuPACS
American Airlines Flagship Business Class A321t
Best For: Which Airline Class Should You Book?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Food | Delta One Business Class | Delta Air Lines puts a little more attention and detail into their meal service as opposed to AA, making you feel you’re in a truly premium cabin. |
| Best for Seats | Delta One Business Class | Delta Air wins this one thanks to their special Delta Suites where you can cocoon yourself in privacy if you want. |
| Best for Ground Experience | American Airlines Flagship Business Class | Delta has fantastic lounges too but AA’s Sky Lounges are a standard and considered among the best in the United States. |
| Best For Comfort | Tie | Guests on both airlines can expect comfortable seats. Variations might vary but both airlines have curated their products to offer the most comfort over long-distance travel. |
| Best for Families | Tie | Families can enjoy both AA and Delta’s offerings thanks to their convenient seats and layout. |
| Best for Couples | American Airlines Flagship Business Class | Couples can opt to get middle seats so they can easily communicate with each other. |
| Best for Service | Delta One Business Class | Delta One Business Class edges out AA’s service because they’re simply more consistent. |
| Most Exclusive | Delta One Business Class | If you happen to get the 777, A359, or A330 aircraft, then riding the Delta One Business Class will be a real delight because they have full-height doors that transform the regular seats into a mini private suite. |
Wrapping Up
Experiencing the business class cabin aboard these two airlines is a special experience.
Delta Air Lines has worked for years perfecting their cabins. With Delta One Business Class, guests get to experience a high-quality hard product that’s set up for privacy aboard certain aircraft. The seats are restful and offer ample storage and entertainment. Their soft product is also worth raving about, from impeccable gourmet meals to attentive staff, it’s a curated experience designed to bring satisfaction.
On the other hand, American Airlines Flagship Business class offers Flagship Lounge access to get things started. Onboard, the seats provide absolute ease as it fully reclines. There are pillows, suitable storage, and a robust IFE. While the food presentation can use improvement and the service a bit more consistency, it’s still a pleasant experience for the most part.
Regardless of which you choose, likely, you’ll still have a great time in either of these business class offerings.
Safe travels!