Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
In addition to the flight itself, consider your airport experience (dedicated first class check in area or special line, lounge access, etc.). FC on a flight that also has business class is likely to seem more special, other things equal. In terms of aircraft, look for international planes flying (your) domestic routes as they're likely to have flat beds and/or suites, but check this; do not assume.
just because the airline has an intl-configured jet on a domestic route does *NOT* mean that the service on that route is equivalent to that which they offer on longer-haul intl segments on the same equipment
also, remember that airlines are very likely to change schedules one or more times between booking and travel dates, and they’re not all equally willing to reaccommodate passengers based on equipment type or service/amenities … given OP stated friend is “normally a frugal traveler” it’s extremely doubtful they would be able to leverage status to get preferential consideration
for a California<->MCO trip, I tend to agree with
FlyFreakquently that
AA Flagship service LAX<->MIA is most likely to meet friend’s expectations with the least hassle in terms of routing
and with respect to my other comment, AA would likely rebook
purchased Flagship J/F on a flight with similar service/amenities in the event of a schedule change regardless of friend’s status in the AAdvantage program