Airlines should be prohibited from using the seats they get away with.
This short sector between Miami and JFK was undertaken purely for business purposes, with efficiency as the primary objective rather than a full inflight experience. Overall, the journey met its intended purpose; however, the ground experience at Miami stood out significantly. During check-in, I was unable to link my frequent flyer details from Qatar Airways (oneworld alliance) through either the self-service kiosk or web check-in. The situation was handled exceptionally well by the check-in agent, who demonstrated remarkable ownership. She coordinated across multiple counters, ensured my frequent flyer number was correctly reflected, reissued the boarding pass, and confirmed that mileage accrual would be recognized. Additionally, she ensured the boarding pass reflected priority status, enabling a seamless priority check-in experience without delays. This level of proactive service was both commendable and impactful. Boarding and the inflight experience, operated by American Airlines under a codeshare arrangement, were efficient but largely transactional. While operational delivery was smooth, there was no visible recognition of oneworld frequent flyer status onboard. In comparison to the consistently personalized engagement typically experienced with Qatar Airways, this absence was noticeable—though understandably a potential limitation of codeshare alignment rather than a direct service shortfall. In summary, while the flight itself fulfilled its operational intent, the exceptional professionalism and commitment demonstrated at the Miami check-in counter was the defining highlight of this journey. Greater consistency in elite recognition across partner airlines would further enhance the overall experience.
The "on the ground" A/C was not working. It was so hot while waiting to get in the air, a passenger from the rear of the plan declared "I just can't!" and waited in the gangway until time to close the doors. It was miserable. But the crew were champs and had an amazing attitude. I know they were as miserable as we were but didn't let that affect their performance.
The new planes (American Eagle) are beautiful and especially comfortable. The flight attendants are consistently professional and courteous. And, while it may seem inconsequential, the new liquid tube of coffee creamer—in contrast to the powdered coffee creamer—makes all the difference in a cup of coffee.
Bag drop was very disorganized in Miami. All main cabin passengers were shunted to just a few lanes and they had an equal number of lanes for first class passengers but there was nobody on those lines. They did nothing to bring the main cab and passengers over to the open lines and they just had employees standing there and doing nothing
Crew at the gate was very crabby and not at all polite. The plane was very hot the entire flight. And the seat cushion was very worn out.
The staff are very, very professional. It's what flying should feel like.
The flight attendant in business class was excellent! Professional, friendly and attentive.
A first class seat should fit a fat person, and this doesn't. The trays in the armrest are less functional than an ordinary tray in the back of the seat.
After changing the departure gate 5 times making us mo e from one side of the airport to the other and then back the flight was delayed nearly 2 hours. The male flight attendant had a bad attitude with the guest being condescending, disrespectful with people who were already on edge.
