American Airlines brings new Dreamliner for summer Auckland-Texas route

American Airlines has landed a new 787-9 in Auckland for trips to Texas. Photo / Supplied

American Airlines has brought a new aircraft to Auckland for flights to Texas.

The world’s biggest airline by passenger numbers landed the new Boeing 787-9 in Auckland yesterday for services to Dallas Fort Worth (DFW).

The Dreamliner will operate the route until March 28.

American Airlines said the aircraft would offer a better travel experience, including for customers in its Flagship Suite section.

Those seats had what the airline called a “one-of-a-kind chaise lounge seating option” with adjustable headrest pillow.

The airline last year announced expansion of the Flagship Suite to four cities - Auckland, Brisbane, Buenos Aires and London.

The suite seats were first rolled out in 2023 on Dreamliners and Airbus A321XLR twinjets.

The airline says 51 Flagship Suite seats will have more personal storage space. Photo / Supplied

American Airlines’ Jose A. Freig said the Auckland-DFW service began in 2022 and experienced strong demand.

Freig, the airline’s vice-president for international and in-flight dining operations, said the new 787-9 was brought in to meet demand for flights to DFW, the airline’s biggest hub.

The aircraft’s economy seats had new headrest wings for added privacy and new calf and foot rests.

It had 32 premium economy seats with new trim and finish, wireless charging, water bottle storage and USB-C and AC power.

“American’s new aircraft is not just about luxury for few — it is about comfort and care for all," the airline said.

Premium economy seats in the cabin. Photo / Supplied

The 787-9 had the same wingspan as its 787-8 predecessor but was longer and stronger, with higher maximum take-off weight.

Auckland Airport chief customer officer Scott Tasker said the new 787-9P’s arrival showed the strength of the route.

“The upgraded aircraft improves the long-haul experience for travellers, with strong onward connections through Dallas Fort Worth supporting tourism and business travel through the peak travel period.”

Flights from Auckland to DFW leave at 1.20pm.

Flights take about 13.5 hours.

The airline today was selling February round-trip economy flights on the service from NZ$2024.

American is a member of the oneworld alliance, a rival to Air New Zealand’s Star Alliance.

Across the Pacific, American competes with Air New Zealand on Auckland-Los Angeles flights.

For Texas, Air New Zealand does not fly directly to DFW but operates an Auckland-Houston service.

John Weekes is a business journalist covering aviation. He has previously covered consumer affairs, crime, politics and courts.

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