I just flew AA411 on March 17 DFW to SJC and it was arguably the worst condition aircraft I have ever flown, including my travels within India and China. The flight crew (who were truly amazing and made the flight bearable) said it was the worst aircraft they had flown on that they could recall in terms of condition. They said it was a America West plane with original seating and even some of the original livery markings showing underneath the peeling paint and decals. Two of the seats in F were blocked since they were broken. Mine was so uncomfortable I had to stand much of the flight. The padding was bunched up into a few spots and totally gone in others. Even the pilot said it was an embarrassment to fly but assured us it was safe. He said airframe was 2004 so not that old. It was just all original seats and carpet.

But I have to give credit to the fantastic flight attendant on this flight, Kris, who did her best to make up for the aircraft. Her humor and caring were terrific. This was my first AA flight in many years, so perhaps this is not news to the AA crowd regarding the poor aircraft condition. But I do admit the FAs were so good, it makes me want to give AA a few more flights even with the poor aircraft condition.