Originally Posted by
PHLondoner
Yep and they’re crazy.
I fly to LAX probably 6-8 times a year - mostly up front. I live in Center City so it’s a true Franklin Test of positives v. Negavites. At EWR - on this route I’m guaranteed a lie flat seat, premium transcon amenities like bedding, generally upgraded service; plus, on the ground i get complimentary lounge access to the brand new UC clubs. This requires an hour train trip or an hour and 15 minute Uber ride.
On the flip side, at PHL, I’m guaranteed a terrible Oasis 321 product without lie flats, or IFEs, or charm, or bedding, or any premium experience additives. Plus, i don’t even get access to a terrible B/C or A East Admirals Club. To have this much worse experience for me is a 20 minute train ride or a 15 minute Uber ride.
The fact that I’m choosing EWR and UA more and more (and, again, I’m not alone) should be a real concern for them. I know PHL is a crazy high yield for AA due to lack of competition so maybe they just don’t GAF?
I find Amtrak less than reliable for my recent trips, so now I have to budget for delays on the train. I try to get there a full two hours before my flight. Amtrak only runs once an hour on the weekends, so depends on the flight, I have to leave almost 4 hours before my flight to get to EWR vs PHL is just 15 mins from CC and I don't need to get there more than an hour before an international flight.