New Years in Buenos Aires and Mendoza via American Airlines 772 Flagship First Class
Dec 29, 2013, 7:38 am
#16
Join Date: May 2012
Programs: SPG, Hyatt, CC, AA, UA, WN
Posts: 256
With the delay and no "lunch" on our DEN-DFW, we or rather I decided to have something at the AC and took a chance on the Cuban Pork Panini. Either I was really hungry or this was one very tasty panini. Mrs. SFO took one bite, exclaimed "wow" and proceeded to share my panini.
Dec 29, 2013, 9:28 am
#18
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: NAP
Programs: LH, BA, TK
Posts: 2,409
IST lounge for another insane 6 hours TK layover, and here is when SFO777 comes to rescue me. I'm seriously thinking to skip yours, SHF and Seat 2A TRs at home, keeping them jealously for lounge and IFE purpose.
Waiting the follow up, wish you and Princess a great 2014 to be ridden at this TR pace.
Waiting the follow up, wish you and Princess a great 2014 to be ridden at this TR pace.
Dec 29, 2013, 10:13 am
#20
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: BAH/OBBI
Programs: AA Lifetime Gold, Hilton Diamond, Gulf Air Falconflyer Gold
Posts: 233
Up Next: Pleasantly surprised by AA's International Flagship Service. They are really trying, but it's tough to teach refined Asian/Gulf service subtleties to a NA cabin crew. But all in all, even with old First, food, service and crew were worlds better than BA First.
You are killing me.. Two weeks until BA A380 F and I'm still second guessing my decision. But I am going to be optimistic.
Eric
You are killing me.. Two weeks until BA A380 F and I'm still second guessing my decision. But I am going to be optimistic.
Eric
Dec 29, 2013, 11:39 am
#21
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: SJC
Programs: BAEC Bronze, AS MVP Gold 75K, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 488
I am still gutted that BA did not deliver to a standard (I am talking about the CC comment rather than a tech 380 which can happen with any carrier) that we know they are capable of and you expected on your little sojourn before Christmas.
It is funny because I would not personally touch a NA carrier long haul at all in a premium cabin (as you hinted at also) and would class BA in a better league than DL, AA et al.
I do fear that in the future for a truly proper F or J experience ME3 carriers will be the only option.
As always SFO777 a fantastic read and one that makes me very jealous of your adventures.
It is funny because I would not personally touch a NA carrier long haul at all in a premium cabin (as you hinted at also) and would class BA in a better league than DL, AA et al.
I do fear that in the future for a truly proper F or J experience ME3 carriers will be the only option.
As always SFO777 a fantastic read and one that makes me very jealous of your adventures.
Last edited by PoincianaKings; Dec 29, 2013 at 11:56 am
Dec 29, 2013, 1:59 pm
#24
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Chicago, IL
Programs: AA, SPG
Posts: 202
I am still gutted that BA did not deliver to a standard (I am talking about the CC comment rather than a tech 380 which can happen with any carrier) that we know they are capable of and you expected on your little sojourn before Christmas.
It is funny because I would not personally touch a NA carrier long haul at all in a premium cabin (as you hinted at also) and would class BA in a better league than DL, AA et al.
I do fear that in the future for a truly proper F or J experience ME3 carriers will be the only option.
As always SFO777 a fantastic read and one that makes me very jealous of your adventures.
It is funny because I would not personally touch a NA carrier long haul at all in a premium cabin (as you hinted at also) and would class BA in a better league than DL, AA et al.
I do fear that in the future for a truly proper F or J experience ME3 carriers will be the only option.
As always SFO777 a fantastic read and one that makes me very jealous of your adventures.
To be honest.....AA has been extremely positive for me flying in domestic F....I think they're trying they're hardest with International F......it really comes down to the crew....if you have a crew just having a bad day....then even emirates or Qatar F will be crappy
Isn't DFW - EZE on the 772 for senior FA's?
Last edited by Tony3021990; Dec 30, 2013 at 4:21 am
Dec 29, 2013, 3:37 pm
#25
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: SFO/NYC
Programs: AA EXP
Posts: 136
SFO777, I am a long-time fan of your trip reports. Funny coincidence, I, along with not-quite-mrs AAJones, arrive in Mendoza on 12/31 for NYE, and then a couple of days later head to Santiago before pointing south to Patagonia/Tierra del Fuego. We too will be at the Park Hyatt for some of the time (and are also taking DFW-EZE in AA F).
Dec 29, 2013, 9:12 pm
#27
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Denver • DEN-APA
Programs: AF Platinum, EK Gold, AA EXP, UA 1K, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 21,588
At around T-50, we decided to head out for the long walk from the Centurion Lounge at D18 to D33. Although most gate area seats were taken and we had been sitting for a while we decided to be gate lice tonight. Spacious concourse produced few other gate lice as we walked up the front of the Priority AAccess line for a brief wait.
American Airlines AA 997
Dallas/Ft. Worth DFW to Buenos Aires EZE
777-200
7:30P-8:50A (sked)
7:30P-8:45A (actual)
December 28, 2013
Departed 14/15
Seats 4DG
Less than 5 minutes after we arrived, boarding commenced with First Class. None of the "passengers with small children or those that need a little extra time" nonsense on so many other airlines. For an old cabin, it was still in excellent shape. Plenty of space in the overheads for carry-ons. The seats were comfortable and there was a massive amount of counter space in the area between our seats and two table. No cubbie storage compartment, although 4DG did have an extra open space immediately behind the seats.
Very cool feature is the ability to swivel the D and G seats to angle towards each other and then face each other or use as a desk, if you are so inclined.
So far so good, although the PDB was the first reminder that it is still AA. Yes, the ever classy plastic champagne glasses. Although the champagne and mimosas were properly chilled.
Yay, I can actually put my feet up on the buddy seat without reclining the seat.
Each seat was stocked with blanket and pillow kits.
One of our two F FAs handed out PJs.
With Mrs. SFO giving her blessing to the comfy AA version and deciding to change before we departed.
AA's basic amenity kit, but one which doubles as an ipad case after the flight.
Menus were also at our seats when we arrived.
Not sure why other but a separate dessert menu.
American Airlines AA 997
Dallas/Ft. Worth DFW to Buenos Aires EZE
777-200
7:30P-8:50A (sked)
7:30P-8:45A (actual)
December 28, 2013
Departed 14/15
Seats 4DG
Less than 5 minutes after we arrived, boarding commenced with First Class. None of the "passengers with small children or those that need a little extra time" nonsense on so many other airlines. For an old cabin, it was still in excellent shape. Plenty of space in the overheads for carry-ons. The seats were comfortable and there was a massive amount of counter space in the area between our seats and two table. No cubbie storage compartment, although 4DG did have an extra open space immediately behind the seats.
Very cool feature is the ability to swivel the D and G seats to angle towards each other and then face each other or use as a desk, if you are so inclined.
So far so good, although the PDB was the first reminder that it is still AA. Yes, the ever classy plastic champagne glasses. Although the champagne and mimosas were properly chilled.
Yay, I can actually put my feet up on the buddy seat without reclining the seat.
Each seat was stocked with blanket and pillow kits.
One of our two F FAs handed out PJs.
With Mrs. SFO giving her blessing to the comfy AA version and deciding to change before we departed.
AA's basic amenity kit, but one which doubles as an ipad case after the flight.
Menus were also at our seats when we arrived.
Not sure why other but a separate dessert menu.
Dec 29, 2013, 9:14 pm
#28
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Denver • DEN-APA
Programs: AF Platinum, EK Gold, AA EXP, UA 1K, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 21,588
Wines? OK, there is no confusing AA wines with EK, MH or even BA for the matter. A wine list and wine tasting list. Not sure what the point it since they are the same wines.
And a breakfast menu to fill in like hotel room service. Seems a little tacky but I guess it helps determine who wants breakfast and who doesn't.
More pics around the cabin as we get ready to depart.
On time departure and we are on our way to EZE, only 9 hours and 45 minutes away. IFE? Yikes, not so good. Reminiscent of LH Old First and BA old or new First. At least they didn't cheapen out like EY and MH and went Bose and at we don't have to watch on an overhead.
Our FAs jumped into action shortly after take=off. Hot towel? Kind of puny.
On the other hand, just like BA.
Beverage service starting with warm mixed nuts and water in a cool glass.
And my usual G&T to start.
Mrs. SFO went with the Trimbach Pinot Gris, but OMG what's with the generous pour?
And showtime with a nice tablecloth and place mat on the huge table.
And a breakfast menu to fill in like hotel room service. Seems a little tacky but I guess it helps determine who wants breakfast and who doesn't.
More pics around the cabin as we get ready to depart.
On time departure and we are on our way to EZE, only 9 hours and 45 minutes away. IFE? Yikes, not so good. Reminiscent of LH Old First and BA old or new First. At least they didn't cheapen out like EY and MH and went Bose and at we don't have to watch on an overhead.
Our FAs jumped into action shortly after take=off. Hot towel? Kind of puny.
On the other hand, just like BA.
Beverage service starting with warm mixed nuts and water in a cool glass.
And my usual G&T to start.
Mrs. SFO went with the Trimbach Pinot Gris, but OMG what's with the generous pour?
And showtime with a nice tablecloth and place mat on the huge table.
Dec 29, 2013, 9:18 pm
#29
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Denver • DEN-APA
Programs: AF Platinum, EK Gold, AA EXP, UA 1K, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 21,588
Tonight's Amuse Bouche, a very nice Corn and Grits cake with Cajun shrimp.
For the starter, I went with Thai Chicken with grilled five spice pineapple, watermelon and Asian style mint dressing... wonderful.
Next up, the Poblano Asiago. OMG, one of the most delicious soups I have ever tasted, anywhere.
Mrs. SFO agreed although the angle of her table was a little more severe and worn than mine. Yikes.
Excellent salad although dressing tossed would have been nice, instead of drizzled on top.
For my main, I decided to go with the Grilled Fillet of Beef hoping that it wouldn't be well done. Nice presentation.
Although it was medium and little dry, it was still very good.
Mrs. SFO went with the Manchego chicken which she enjoyed.
And for dessert, the classic AA Ben and Jerry's ice cream sundae.
All in all, a surprisingly, indeed shockingly excellent meal. Not impressed with any of the wines although the one I did try, the Antu Ninquen Syrah was passable. But while the food was excellent, the service was not well paced and seemingly rushed. The old battle ax on AD aisle seemed to think that she needed to deliver each course within 30 seconds of removing the previous course. Jeez, is it that difficult to have someone with restaurant experience spend an hour with your FAs.
For the starter, I went with Thai Chicken with grilled five spice pineapple, watermelon and Asian style mint dressing... wonderful.
Next up, the Poblano Asiago. OMG, one of the most delicious soups I have ever tasted, anywhere.
Mrs. SFO agreed although the angle of her table was a little more severe and worn than mine. Yikes.
Excellent salad although dressing tossed would have been nice, instead of drizzled on top.
For my main, I decided to go with the Grilled Fillet of Beef hoping that it wouldn't be well done. Nice presentation.
Although it was medium and little dry, it was still very good.
Mrs. SFO went with the Manchego chicken which she enjoyed.
And for dessert, the classic AA Ben and Jerry's ice cream sundae.
All in all, a surprisingly, indeed shockingly excellent meal. Not impressed with any of the wines although the one I did try, the Antu Ninquen Syrah was passable. But while the food was excellent, the service was not well paced and seemingly rushed. The old battle ax on AD aisle seemed to think that she needed to deliver each course within 30 seconds of removing the previous course. Jeez, is it that difficult to have someone with restaurant experience spend an hour with your FAs.
Last edited by SFO777; Dec 29, 2013 at 9:23 pm
Dec 29, 2013, 9:19 pm
#30
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Denver • DEN-APA
Programs: AF Platinum, EK Gold, AA EXP, UA 1K, Hyatt Globalist
Posts: 21,588
After dinner, I watched a bit of The Internship, the best of a bad lot of limited rerun movies most, including this one, of which I'd already seen.
One of the better scenes...
Since I'd already seen the movie, I decided to get some sleep and went to change into my very comfy PJs in the comically small and depressing loo, while one of our FAs made my bed... including mattress pad.
While LH, SQ or MH beds are more comfortable, the bed was quite nice and amazingly I slept well four hours before getting up and working on pics
At about T-90, breakfast was served. This was delicious and, except for last month's Etihad steak and eggs, one of the best breakfasts in a long time. Presentation could have been better and more paced, as everything was packed onto a tray and delivered all at once.
Almost there...
And an on time arrival at EZE. In summary, I was pleasantly surprised with my AA flight. Other than the crappy IFE and tiny lavs, I enjoyed the hard product. The seat was comfortable and there was more than enough space. The DG middle seats are very pleasant for a couple. Food was excellent and the service generally attentive, although far from polished. And no way will AA FAs be confused with Asian FAs. AA's biggest handicap in the service game is union seniority rules that let battle axes cherry pick routes instead of assignment by merit. Nevertheless, even with unpolished FAs, this was far more enjoyable than any recent BA flight... better hard product, better food and even unpolished, better service. And no one threatened to have security meet me at EZE.
Indeed, even the battle ax was amused by my taking food pics wanting to make sure I'd got all the close ups I needed.
More than before, I'm looking forward to our AA 77W flight next May... just hoping for a more polished, less jaded crew.
One of the better scenes...
Since I'd already seen the movie, I decided to get some sleep and went to change into my very comfy PJs in the comically small and depressing loo, while one of our FAs made my bed... including mattress pad.
While LH, SQ or MH beds are more comfortable, the bed was quite nice and amazingly I slept well four hours before getting up and working on pics
At about T-90, breakfast was served. This was delicious and, except for last month's Etihad steak and eggs, one of the best breakfasts in a long time. Presentation could have been better and more paced, as everything was packed onto a tray and delivered all at once.
Almost there...
And an on time arrival at EZE. In summary, I was pleasantly surprised with my AA flight. Other than the crappy IFE and tiny lavs, I enjoyed the hard product. The seat was comfortable and there was more than enough space. The DG middle seats are very pleasant for a couple. Food was excellent and the service generally attentive, although far from polished. And no way will AA FAs be confused with Asian FAs. AA's biggest handicap in the service game is union seniority rules that let battle axes cherry pick routes instead of assignment by merit. Nevertheless, even with unpolished FAs, this was far more enjoyable than any recent BA flight... better hard product, better food and even unpolished, better service. And no one threatened to have security meet me at EZE.
Indeed, even the battle ax was amused by my taking food pics wanting to make sure I'd got all the close ups I needed. More than before, I'm looking forward to our AA 77W flight next May... just hoping for a more polished, less jaded crew.
Last edited by SFO777; Dec 29, 2013 at 9:29 pm
