AA Creates "No Frills" Fares in Competitive Cities..

Following the lead of United and Delta, American Airlines unveiled its new “basic economy” fares Wednesday, a no-frills option that the nation’s three largest carriers have adopted to compete with increasingly popular low-cost airlines.“American Airlines now has something to offer every customer, from those who want simple, low-price travel to those who want an ultra-premium experience via First Class,” American Airlines President Robert Isom said in a statement.


Like the no-frills tickets offered by its competitors, American Airlines’ basic economy fares won’t allow changes, cancellations or upgrades. Basic economy fare passengers are assigned seats in the main cabin, with access to free entertainment, snacks and drinks. If passengers want to choose their seats, they will be charged extra.
The basic economy fare won’t be offered on every route but will be limited to those routes where American Airlines competes with a low-fare carrier.

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Originally Posted by ddagencylv

Like the no-frills tickets offered by its competitors, American Airlines’ basic economy fares won’t allow changes, cancellations or upgrades. Basic economy fare passengers are assigned seats in the main cabin, with access to free entertainment, snacks and drinks. If passengers want to choose their seats, they will be charged extra.
The basic economy fare won’t be offered on every route but will be limited to those routes where American Airlines competes with a low-fare carrier.

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That new basic economy fare has another stipulation, - pax can’t stow anything in the overheads, the one permitted carry-on item must fit under the seat. Pax who bring a larger carry-on to the gate must pay a $25 gate fee, plus the regular $25 checked baggage fee.
So now gate agents are supposed to collect gate fees when they’re in a rush to get the door closed- I don’t know how that’s going to work.

Agreed. Spirit and Frontier are starting to cut into "Legacy" carriers margins. Last Minute ATL - MIA $150. Can't miss the cruise.