<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by ExtrAAordinaire:
It is highly unlikely that SJC-CDG will return. The route was originally to be operated SJC-LGW -- AA assumed that SJC, as a co-terminal of SFO, would be allowed service to LGW under Bermuda II. This was not the case, however, and at the last minute the destination city was changed to CDG. You are incorrect in saying that AA can service LON from SJC -- they cannot, though they would like to very much. Finally, SJC-TPE and SJC-CDG were cancelled immediately following 9/11. It is sad that the routes were axed, but I don't feel that one can malign AA for circumstances beyond their control.</font>
Correct you are. SJC-TPE would never have materialized had AA been awarded rights to fly the route it really wanted: ORD-HKG. Maybe the rumored SJC-STN will someday happen. No restrictions on that route.
Some have bemoaned the fact that AA has no flights to the continent from the West Coast. Considering that AA has very few flights to Continental Europe at all (from any gateway), the lack of left coast nonstops is not surprising.
Besides, the foreign flag carriers already fly sufficient numbers of seats to much of Europe from LAX and SFO. AA would only start service if it believed that it would be profitable (and that profitability is suspect).
One last thought: AA is not, for most travelers, a nonstop airline. It is not (with some limited exceptions), a point to point airline. AA knows that its loyal customers already put up with connections. Just look at DFW and ORD.
I can get anywhere I want in Europe with a single connection at LHR. And I can get miles all the way and an upgrade (to LHR).
Remember that this forum is designed for discussions of the AAdvantage program. I'll do lots of outlandish things for miles. Connecting in LHR is one of the least outlandish on that list.
The same applies to Asia. Sure, it would be nice if AA's Asia route structure looked like UA's. But it doesn't. I can get to NRT fairly easily, and connect from there (once again, with miles all the way and an upgrade to NRT).
AA can't be all things to all people. Neither can UA, LH, AF or any of the others. If nonstop flights are your paramount concern, then have at it. Plenty of foriegn carriers will take you. If working the AAdvantage program to its maximum is your primary concern, then you'll fly AA and go thru the hoops required of you.