American Airlines vs Emirates | Which is Best for U.S. Travelers?
As a US traveler, is it hard for you to choose the best airline? Explore American Airlines vs Emirates for your next trip. Let’s uncover a detailed comparison of airlines.
Choosing an Airline in the US is a big task. The two largest Airlines, American and Emirates, provide the best services. But which one suits your domestic tour well? Which airline will give you a comfortable international flight experience?
In this article, you will see a detailed comparison of America and the Emirates. Thus, you will get to know about the services, pricing, and flights.
So, let’s get started.
Overview: American Airlines vs Emirates
American Airlines is very popular in the US airline industry. It started its journey in 1930, with headquarters in Texas. American Airlines is one of the largest four US airlines with a unique fleet of 1587 planes. So, people find it the most reliable airline in America. Thus, the American Airlines claims that,
“Due to daily flights, American Airlines has become the world’s largest Airline.”
In contrast, Emirates is the largest airline, and it is known for its luxury services. The Emirates Airline started its journey in 1985, with headquarters in Dubai, UAE. However, it flies to 85 countries. But it has the most number of airports and destinations in America. Emirates Airlines claims that,
“It provides excellent services to Americans in more than 50 US cities.”
In American Airlines vs Emirates, there is a large difference in services, pricing, and destinations. Once you learn everything about airlines, it will be easy for you to decide.
Domestic Flights: American Airlines vs Emirates
American Airlines has a large domestic flight network. American Airlines is the ideal choice for flights from New York to Los Angeles and from Dallas to Miami. Moreover, the partnership with Alaska Airlines has made it firm as a domestic Airline.
Emirates Airlines is not more popular among domestic flights. Mostly, they have the option of long-hour international flights. So, if someone is thinking of flying within the US, the Emirates doesn’t offer it. Hence, it depends upon the United Airlines partners for domestic flights.
International Flights: American Airlines vs Emirates
American Airlines
Both American and Emirates are famous for their large network of international flights. But, the services are for different regions. So, the main international routes for American Airlines are:
- North America, Canada, Mexico.
- Europe, including the UK, Spain, Germany, France, Italy, and Netherlands.
- South America, such as Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Colombia.
- Asia, which includes Japan, China, and India.
- Middle East or Africa, such as Israel and Morocco.
- Caribbean and Central America.
Besides, American Airlines has 6,800 daily flights in 48 countries. Thus, it is easy for US travelers to explore the globe with American Airlines.
Emirates Airlines
In American Airlines vs Emirates, the Emirates gives the luxury international experience.
Moreover, it connects US travelers with international routes with direct flights. So, you can take a direct flight from the following US cities to Dubai.
- New York
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Dallas/Fort Worth
- Houston
- Chicago
- Washington
- Boston
- Miami
- Orlando
- Seattle
Yet, some international flights have stopovers, such as,
- Newark to Dubai through Athens
- New York to Milan, then onward to Dubai
Moreover, Emirates connects US travelers from Dubai to other international destinations, like,
- Europe: London, Paris, Milan, Rome, Amsterdam, etc
- Asia: Delhi, Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Beijing.
- Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Lagos.
- Australia & New Zealand: Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland.
Services and Inflight Amenities: American Airlines vs Emirates
American Airlines
While traveling with American Airlines, passengers have three options of classes. In economy class, they provide free snacks and drinks. Also, there are power outlets attached to each cabin. However, passengers can pay extra charges for Wi-Fi.
The American business class has more premium services than that of the economy. So the passengers can enjoy quick boarding and check-ins during the flight. Also, there are spacious seats with extra legroom. Moreover, you can access American airport lounges, wifi, and premium meals.
The first class of American Airlines is no less than a dreamy flight. So, the passengers get the amenity kits. These kits contain premium products on long-hour flights. Luxury dining and lie-flat beds are also included in their five-star services.
Emirates
Do you want to have luxury services on flights?
The Emirates has three class options. Thus, there are free meals, Wi-Fi connections, and entertainment shows in economy class.
But if you take the Emirates Business class, then it is more classy. They offer flat-bed seats, multi-course special dining, and premium entertainment. Also, you can have a quieter flight using special headphones.
The most expensive Emirates first class costs up to $20000. The special first-class services include a private space during flight with sliding doors. Also, there is access to A380 lounges and a spa. The meals are prepared by top chefs in first class.
Price Comparison: American Airlines vs Emirates
Generally, American Airlines has lower and more affordable prices. The reason is the short-hour domestic flights within the US. But, the prices get higher with the increase in class. For example, the premium class has higher rates.
So, Emirates is an expensive airline compared to American Airlines. Thus, premium services during long-hour flights increase the rates.
So, here is the overview of the estimated price comparison.
| Airline | Economy Class (Round Trip) | Business Class (Round Trip) | First Class (Round Trip) |
| American Airlines | $600 – $1,200 | $2,500 – $5,000 | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Emirates | $800 – $1,500 | $3,500 – $7,000 | $15,000 – $20,000 |
Domestic Travel: American Airlines Wins
Have you traveled within the US ever? If yes, then you must know about the pros and cons of American Airlines.
Let’s have a look at it.
Pros of American Airlines:
- A vast number of domestic destinations within the US.
- Low and affordable prices.
- Loyalty programs (AAdvantage) help travelers save money.
- Partnerships with Alaska Airlines increased its reach within North America.
Cons of American Airlines:
- Limited international flights.
- Limited services and comfort in economy-class.
International Travel: Emirates Takes the Lead
Whenever a US traveler thinks of an international trip, Emirates is the first choice. Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of the Emirates.
Pros of Emirates:
- Excellent luxury and services of economy class.
- Ideal Airline for the long-hour international routes.
- High-quality inflight experience
- Modern, high-tech planes like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 777.
- Multi-lingual cabin crew
Cons of Emirates:
- No domestic flights within the US.
- Higher rates in business and first class.
Customer Reviews and Experience
The frequent traveler, Daniel, has reviewed both airlines as an international traveler,
“The Emirates has the most luxury and comfortable services in America. However, American Airlines provides more convenient services within the US or to Europe.”
American Airlines has positive feedback about its excellent customer service and boarding experience. Let’s have a look at the American Airlines review ratings.
| Feature | Reviews Rating |
| Food and beverages | ★★★☆☆ |
| Seat comfort | ★★★☆☆ |
| In-flight entertainment(Wifi, TV, movies) | ★★★☆☆ |
| customer service | ★★★★☆ |
| Onboard experience | ★★★☆☆ |
| Value for money | ★★★☆☆ |
| Cleanliness | ★★★★☆ |
| Check-in and boarding | ★★★★☆ |
In American Airlines vs Emirates, Emirates is preferred for long-hour international flights. Let’s have a look at the customer review ratings.
| Feature | Reviews Rating |
| Food and beverages | ★★★★☆ |
| Seat comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| In-flight entertainment(Wifi, TV, movies) | ★★★★★ |
| customer service | ★★★★☆ |
| Onboard experience | ★★★★☆ |
| Value for money | ★★★★☆ |
| Cleanliness | ★★★★★ |
| Check-in and boarding | ★★★★★ |
Comparison with Other Airlines
American Airlines vs Air Canada
American Airlines is often compared with Air Canada. Air Canada provides premium services to 53 destinations in the United States.
Air Canada also has international routes like American Airlines. However, Air Canada is the best choice for Northern flyers in America.
Let’s look at the comparison.
| Feature | American Airlines | Air Canada |
| Fleet Size | 971 Planes | Approximately 400 planes |
| Destinations | Over 350 destinations globally | Over 220 destinations globally |
| Frequent Flyer Program | AAdvantage | Aeroplan focuses on points and flexibility |
| Cabin Classes | Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business Class | Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class |
| Regional Operations | Through American Eagle | Through Air Canada Express |
American Airlines vs WestJet
Westjet is the low-cost carrier and second largest airline in Canada. Thus, it also provides services in the United States. In the US, it has focused on nearby destinations, not international flights.
Let’s look at the airline comparison.
| Feature | American Airlines | WestJet |
| Fleet Size | 971 aircraft | Approximately 180 aircraft |
| Destinations | Over 350 destinations globally | Over 100 destinations in North America and the Caribbean |
| Frequent Flyer Program | AAdvantage program | WestJet Rewards, focusing on points and loyalty benefits |
| Cabin Classes | Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business Class | Economy, Premium Economy, Business |
| In-Flight Services | Wi-Fi availability, extensive entertainment options | Limited in-flight entertainment, with Wi-Fi on select flights |
Thus, American Airlines is far better for international traveling than WestJet in the US.
Emirates vs Air Canada
Traveling within Northern America is difficult. Thus, people often get confused about Emirates and Air Canada’s services.
The main difference is related to services; The Emirates have high-class services. In contrast, Air Canada doesn’t match its level. Air Canada has several destinations in Northern America.
Let’s have a look at the comparison table.
| Feature | Emirates | Air Canada |
| Fleet Size | Approximately 270 aircraft | Approximately 400 aircraft |
| Destinations | Over 150 destinations globally | More than 220 destinations globally |
| Frequent Flyer Program | Skywards | Aeroplan |
| Cabin Classes | Economy, Business, First Class | Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class |
| In-Flight Services | Entertainment, onboard lounge in Business/First | Limited Wi-Fi and entertainment |
Final Verdict: Which Airline should you choose?
US travelers often get confused about American Airlines vs Emirates. American Airlines is ideal for someone who is budget-friendly or a domestic traveler. At the same time, the luxury seeker travelers should choose the Emirates. So, travelers enjoy flights to the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe.
So, hurry up to pack your bag and start the memorable trip.
FAQS
Are Emirates and American Airlines partners?
No, Emirates and American Airlines are not partners. They both work independently. But, American Airlines is part of the Oneworld Alliance. So it has partners like British Airways and Qantas. Emirates has smooth domestic travel with a partnership with Alaska Airlines.
Why Emirates is Popular for Long-Haul Travel?
The Emirates is the world’s best airline for long-hour international flights. The main reason is their extremely good services. People experience luxury in-flight amenities here.
Is American Airlines good for International flights?
Yes, American Airlines is good for international flights. Thus, passengers can take good flights to many countries. For Example, the UK, Spain, Japan, Brazil, Australia, and more. Also, there are meals, in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and seat selection options.
