A “review-American-Airlines-new-787-8-economy-Los-Angeles-LAX-Miami-MIA” is a detailed, firsthand look into the passenger experience aboard American Airlines’ upgraded Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner on one of the most popular domestic transcontinental routes. It covers every essential detail—from booking and boarding at LAX to seat comfort, in-flight service, and arrival at MIA. This type of american airlines 787 8 economy review lax mia is a goldmine for travelers curious about what to expect when flying economy on a wide-body aircraft typically reserved for international journeys.
Flying cross-country on a Dreamliner might sound like a luxury reserved for the elite, but American Airlines is shaking things up. By deploying the 787-8 on this domestic hop, they’re offering economy travelers a rare opportunity to enjoy a long-haul jet’s comforts on a shorter flight. Think mood lighting, better air pressure, seatback entertainment, and more legroom—all while flying coast to coast. This isn’t your average domestic experience—it’s a serious upgrade.
In this comprehensive review-American-Airlines-new-787-8-economy-Los-Angeles-LAX-Miami-MIA, you’ll get a full walkthrough of what makes this route stand out. From the refurbished cabin and in-seat power to AAdvantage mile redemptions and onboard service, this guide highlights what you gain when choosing the 787-8 over a standard narrow-body. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a one-off trip, this review will help you decide if the Dreamliner is worth chasing down for your next domestic flight.
The Dreamliner Experience: Flying Coast-to-Coast
Ever wondered what it’s like to fly on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for a domestic journey? I recently experienced American Airlines’ LAX to MIA route in economy class, and I’m here to share every detail of this transcontinental adventure. From booking to landing, here’s my comprehensive american airlines 787 8 economy review lax mia of American Airlines Flight AA2129 and whether this domestic widebody flight is worth seeking out for your next cross-country trip.
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Stepping aboard American Airlines’ sleek Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for a domestic route feels like getting an international experience without leaving the country. The LAX to MIA route is one of the few domestic corridors where American regularly deploys their flagship aircraft, making it a special opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and comfort-seeking travelers alike.
Why does this particular route merit widebody treatment? The high passenger demand between these major hubs, connection opportunities to Latin America from Miami, and the aircraft rotation schedule all factor in. My journey took place on a Tuesday morning in March, with the flight about 85% full – suggesting this remains a popular choice among travelers.
The immediate difference between this and your standard domestic narrow-body experience is palpable from the moment you step onboard. The spacious entrance, distinctive Dreamliner windows, and modern cabin design signal that this isn’t your typical domestic hop.
“The moment I stepped aboard the 787, I knew this wouldn’t be the usual cramped domestic experience. Even in economy, there’s something special about flying on a Dreamliner.” – Fellow passenger in row 25
Booking Journey & Aircraft Details
My ticket was secured through a surprisingly good redemption: just 5,000 AAdvantage miles plus a $10 cash co-pay – an exceptional value for a transcontinental flight. This was part of an American Airlines mileage deal promoting certain routes, though standard award tickets on this route typically start around 12,500 miles.
When booking economy award tickets, I found that the American Airlines website offered better availability than going through partner airlines. I specifically searched for flights operated by the 787-8 to experience the Dreamliner, passing up several cheaper options on narrowbody aircraft.
For those curious about the aircraft specifics:
| Feature | Boeing 787-8 Details |
|---|---|
| Economy Configuration | 3-3-3 layout (9 across) |
| Total Economy Seats | 192 standard Economy seats |
| Main Cabin Extra | 48 seats with additional legroom |
| Seat Pitch | 31-32″ (standard), 35-37″ (MCE) |
| Seat Width | 17-17.2″ |
| IFE Screen Size | 10″ touchscreen |
The domestic configuration maintains most of the international amenities, with the primary difference being the service style rather than the hard product. Flight duration for this transcontinental journey averaged 5 hours and 10 minutes, with my particular flight arriving 15 minutes ahead of schedule.
Strategic Seat Selection: Navigating the 3-3-3 Layout
Selecting the right seat on the 787’s 3-3-3 economy layout can significantly impact your journey. I opted for seat 28A, a window seat in the refurbished 787-8 cabin. While not part of Main Cabin Extra, this particular seat offers good alignment with the aircraft window and isn’t too far back.
After extensive research on SeatGuru and similar sites, I compiled this guide to the best and worst seats:
Best Standard Economy Seats:
- Rows 27-29: Forward economy cabin has less traffic
- Seats A & K (windows): The curved fuselage provides slightly more shoulder space
- Seat 23C: Exit row aisle with no seat in front
Best Main Cabin Extra Seats:
- Row 16: Extra legroom without bulkhead restrictions
- Seats 16A & 16L: Window MCE seats with no obstructions
Seats to Avoid:
- Row 40: Limited recline due to galley wall behind
- Seats 30D-30F: Proximity to lavatories
- Seats 23D-23F: Misaligned windows
The Main Cabin Extra seats were priced at an additional $73-$89 for this route. After experiencing the standard economy seat, I believe the upgrade would be worthwhile for passengers over 6 feet tall or those particularly concerned about legroom on a 5+ hour flight.
My seat 28A provided approximately 31.5 inches of pitch (measured personally), with recline of about 4 inches. The seat cushion was well-padded compared to American’s narrow-body fleet, though after 3+ hours, some discomfort was noticeable.
LAX Ground Experience
My journey began at LAX Terminal 4, where American Airlines currently operates most of their flights. Arriving three hours before departure for my 7:45am flight, I found the TSA security screening lines manageable but steadily growing.
The check-in area offers several options:
- Self-service kiosks (6 were operational)
- Dedicated counters for premium passengers
- Regular check-in counters (4 open during my visit)
- Bag drop stations for those who checked in online
I had already completed mobile check-in via the American Airlines app, which worked flawlessly and allowed me to proceed directly to security. For economy passengers, lounge access isn’t included, but the terminal does offer several decent dining options including Dunkin’ Donuts and LA Life, both open for my early morning departure.
The priority boarding process was strictly enforced, with clear separation between groups. My Group 6 boarding pass meant I was among the later passengers to board, but overhead bin space remained available even in the rear of the aircraft. The entire jetbridge boarding process took approximately 25 minutes from first announcement to door closure.
Cabin Interior: The Economy Experience
Stepping into the refurbished 787-8 cabin, the first impression is positive. The American Airlines color scheme of navy and gray looks sleek and professional, while the Dreamliner’s spacious feel is immediately apparent.
The standard economy seats feature:
- Dark blue leather-like upholstery
- Adjustable headrests with bendable wings
- Slim but adequately padded seat cushions
- Seatback entertainment system with 10″ screen
- USB and AC charging ports under seat
- Standard-sized tray table and safety card pocket
My measurements confirmed the seat specifications:
- Width: 17.2 inches (slightly wider than AA’s 737 seats)
- Pitch: 31.5 inches in my row
- Recline: Approximately 4 inches
The seats themselves are reasonably comfortable for a domestic flight, though the cushioning isn’t as generous as some international carriers. The headrest proved quite effective, adjusting high enough for my 6’1″ frame and with wings that actually stayed in position when bent.
Under-seat storage was adequate for a standard backpack, measuring approximately 18″ wide × 11″ deep × 8″ high. The overhead bin space was noticeably more generous than narrow-body aircraft, easily accommodating standard carry-on suitcases placed sideways.
Dreamliner Differentiators
What makes flying the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner special, even in economy? Several technological advances create a genuinely superior experience:
Larger Windows and Electronic Dimming
Perhaps the most immediately noticeable feature is the significantly larger windows – approximately 65% bigger than standard aircraft windows. Instead of plastic shades, these feature window shade dimming through electrochromic technology that changes opacity at the touch of a button.
I found this system delightful, allowing me to maintain a view outside while reducing glare. The windows never go completely opaque, however, which might bother some trying to sleep during daytime flights.
Cabin Pressure and Humidity Advantages
The Dreamliner maintains cabin pressure equivalent to 6,000 feet altitude (compared to 8,000 feet on older aircraft). This seemingly small difference had a noticeable impact – I experienced less of the typical fatigue and dryness associated with flying.
Additionally, the composite fuselage allows for higher humidity levels (around 15% versus 5-10% on conventional aircraft). The practical effect? I didn’t experience the usual dry throat and skin that typically accompany longer flights.
Improved Cabin Experience
The cabin lighting and ambience is enhanced by LED lighting that changes throughout the flight. During boarding, bright welcoming lights gradually shifted to a softer blue cruising scheme, and finally to a warm tone before landing.
Noise levels were remarkably lower than on narrow-body aircraft. Using a smartphone decibel meter app:
- Takeoff: 82dB (compared to ~87dB on an A321)
- Cruise: 75dB (compared to ~80dB on an A321)
- Landing: 79dB (compared to ~84dB on an A321)
The ride quality also impressed, with the Dreamliner’s advanced dampening systems making turbulence noticeably gentler. During a brief patch of moderate turbulence over Texas, the aircraft seemed to “float” through it rather than experiencing the sharp jolts common on older aircraft.
Tech & Entertainment
The seatback screen is a highlight of the in-flight entertainment (IFE) system. The 10-inch touchscreen offers:
- Responsive touch interface with minimal lag
- High resolution (1280×800) display
- Good viewing angles, even when the seat ahead is reclined
Content selection included:
- 152 movies (including 23 new releases)
- 162 TV episodes across 48 shows
- 12 audio channels and 350+ music albums
- Interactive moving map with multiple view options
- Games and special content for children
The IFE system performed flawlessly throughout the flight, with no freezes or reboots. The provided earbuds were basic but functional; however, the standard 3.5mm headphone jack allowed me to use my own higher-quality headphones.
Power outlets are available at every seat:
- 1 AC power outlet (shared between two seats)
- 1 USB-A charging port per seat
I tested both power options:
- The AC outlet successfully charged my laptop from 45% to 89% during the flight
- The USB port provided enough power to maintain my phone’s battery while streaming music
Connectivity in the Sky
Gogo inflight Wi-Fi was available throughout the flight, with pricing as follows:
| Package | Price | Speed (Tested) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-hour pass | $12 | 3.2-4.7 Mbps down / 0.4-0.6 Mbps up |
| Full flight | $22 | 3.2-4.7 Mbps down / 0.4-0.6 Mbps up |
| Monthly pass | $49.95/month | Not applicable |
I purchased the full flight option for research purposes and ran speed tests at different phases of the journey:
- Initial cruise (over California): 4.7 Mbps down / 0.6 Mbps up
- Mid-flight (over Texas): 3.5 Mbps down / 0.5 Mbps up
- Pre-descent (over Florida): 3.2 Mbps down / 0.4 Mbps up
These speeds allowed for basic web browsing, email, and even standard definition streaming on services like YouTube, though with occasional buffering. Video calls were possible but with significant quality compromises.
The American Airlines app offered some free content even without purchasing Wi-Fi, including a flight tracker and limited entertainment options.
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Food & Beverage Service
For this 5+ hour transcontinental journey, American Airlines offers a hybrid service model:
Complimentary Items:
- Choice of non-alcoholic beverages (served twice)
- Small bag of pretzels
- Biscoff cookies on second service
Purchase Options:
- Alcoholic beverages ($9-$11)
- Snack boxes ($9-$10)
- Fresh food items (not available on my morning flight)
The first beverage service began approximately 45 minutes after takeoff, with flight attendants using carts to serve the cabin efficiently. My Diet Coke arrived cold with ice and a full can upon request.
For purchase options, American accepts credit/debit cards only – no cash. The most popular snack box on my flight was the “Select” box ($10) containing:
- Hummus
- Pita rounds
- Almonds
- Dried fruit
- Dark chocolate square
While not particularly impressive, the free snacks were fresh and the paid options reasonable quality for airline food. For a morning flight, I would have appreciated a simple breakfast option for purchase.
Cabin Crew Performance
The crew on my American Airlines Flight AA2129 consisted of 8 flight attendants working the economy cabin – a good ratio for the passenger load. Overall, the crew service quality was professional and efficient, if not particularly warm.
Service timing was well-organized:
- Initial welcome: Friendly but brief
- First beverage service: 45 minutes after takeoff
- Trash collection: 30 minutes after service completed
- Second beverage service: 3.5 hours into flight
- Final cabin check: 30 minutes before landing
Call button response time averaged 2-3 minutes – reasonable for a nearly full flight. Flight attendants maintained a consistent presence in the aisles throughout the journey, making themselves available for additional requests.
One standout moment came when a passenger had a minor medical issue (feeling faint), and the crew responded quickly and professionally, providing extra water and checking in periodically afterward.
Sleep Comfort Assessment
Though a morning flight isn’t ideal for testing sleep quality, I did attempt a 90-minute nap to evaluate the experience:
Sleep Factors:
- Seat recline: Adequate but not exceptional (approximately 4 inches)
- Headrest: Very good, with adjustable wings that stay in position
- Legroom: Sufficient not to feel cramped (I’m 6’1″)
- Cabin temperature: Comfortable 72°F (22°C) throughout flight
- Noise level: Impressively quiet for economy class
American provides only minimal sleep amenities in economy – no pillows or blankets are distributed. I’d recommend bringing:
- A neck pillow (essential for any real sleep)
- A light jacket or travel blanket
- Eye mask (especially important given the windows never go completely dark)
Despite the lack of amenities, the 787’s quieter cabin and better pressure/humidity made sleeping noticeably easier than on older aircraft. I woke feeling more refreshed than typical for a domestic flight.
Arrival Experience at MIA
Our arrival at Miami International Airport came 15 minutes ahead of schedule, touching down at 4:10pm local time. The deplaning process from the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner was more efficient than I expected:
- Door opening to first passenger exit: 3 minutes
- Time to clear from my row 28: 12 minutes
- Last passenger deplaning: Approximately 18 minutes
We arrived at Gate D25 in MIA’s North Terminal, a considerable walking distance from immigration and baggage claim but convenient for those connecting flights via Miami to Latin America. This positioning makes sense given American’s hub strategy.
For those with checked luggage, the first bags appeared on the carousel approximately 22 minutes after arrival at the gate – slightly better than average for MIA in my experience. As this journey was the first leg of my trip to Nicaragua and Honduras, I proceeded directly to my connection.
The Miami International Airport terminal offered significantly more dining and shopping options than LAX Terminal 4, making it a more pleasant place for a layover as I continued my traveling with a friend through Central America.
Value Analysis: Is the 787-8 Worth Seeking Out?
After experiencing the full journey, here’s my assessment of whether it’s worth specifically choosing the 787-8 for this domestic route:
Comfort Differential:
| Category | 787-8 Experience | Typical Domestic Aircraft | Worth the Premium? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat Comfort | 7/10 | 6/10 | Marginal |
| Cabin Noise | 9/10 | 6/10 | Significant |
| Air Quality | 8/10 | 5/10 | Significant |
| Entertainment | 9/10 | 7/10 | Moderate |
| Overall | 8/10 | 6/10 | Yes, for most travelers |
For the average economy class travel experience, I found the Dreamliner provided approximately a 25-30% improvement in overall comfort. This translated to arriving notably less fatigued after the 5+ hour journey.
In terms of pricing, I observed the following averages when researching this route:
- 787-8 flights: Typically $15-40 more than narrow-body options
- Award tickets: Similar mileage requirements but better availability
Is this premium worth paying? For travelers in these categories, I’d say yes:
- Those with sensitivities to cabin pressure/dryness
- Passengers planning to sleep during the flight
- Taller individuals who appreciate the slightly better seating
- Aviation enthusiasts who enjoy the Dreamliner experience
- Anyone booking a red-eye transcontinental flight
For budget-focused travelers or those on very short hops, the premium may not justify the marginal improvements.
Direct Comparisons
Case Study: 787-8 vs. A321 on LAX-MIA
To provide context, I flew the return MIA-LAX segment on an American Airlines A321, allowing for direct comparison:
| Feature | 787-8 Experience | A321 Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Width | 17.2″ | 16.5″ |
| Seat Pitch | 31.5″ | 31″ |
| Noise Level | Noticeably quieter | Average noise |
| Air Quality | Less dryness | Typical dryness |
| Entertainment | 10″ screen with good content | 8.9″ screen with identical content |
| Wi-Fi | 3.2-4.7 Mbps | 2.8-3.5 Mbps |
| Fatigue Upon Arrival | Minimal | Moderate |
The difference was most noticeable in overall cabin ambiance and physical comfort after 5+ hours. While the A321 provided a perfectly acceptable experience, the 787-8 delivered a tangibly superior journey.
American vs. Competitors
Among U.S. carriers operating widebody aircraft on domestic routes:
- American’s 787-8 offers comparable comfort to United’s 787-8/9 service
- Delta’s A330 provides slightly wider seats but similar overall experience
- JetBlue’s A321LR Mint configuration offers superior premium economy but doesn’t operate on this specific route
Traveler’s Toolkit: Essential Tips
For those booking the LAX to MIA route on American’s 787-8, here are my top recommendations:
Best Booking Strategies:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically offer lower fares
- Morning flights have better on-time performance than afternoon/evening
- Consider booking economy award tickets using Avios (British Airways) points for potentially better value
Upgrade Tactics:
- Monitor the app for day-of-departure upgrade opportunities
- 500-mile upgrades offer good value on this transcontinental route
- Main Cabin Extra is worth the splurge for overnight flights
Must-Pack Items:
- Noise-canceling headphones (despite quieter cabin)
- Power bank (despite seat power, always good backup)
- Reusable water bottle (fill after security)
- Travel blanket or large scarf
- Eye mask (essential due to the never-fully-dark windows)
Insider Tips:
- Rows 27-29 often have slightly more legroom due to the curvature of the aircraft
- Window seats A and K have slightly more shoulder space than middle and aisle
- If using your own headphones, bring an airplane adapter as the entertainment system uses standard 3.5mm jacks
- The forward economy lavatories (behind premium economy) are typically less busy
The American Airlines 787-8 Dreamliner experience from LAX to MIA represents one of the better ways to cross the country in economy class. While not revolutionizing the economy class travel experience, the numerous small improvements add up to a noticeably better journey than standard narrow-body aircraft.
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For the average traveler, especially those sensitive to the typical discomforts of flying, seeking out this aircraft is worth the modest premium. The combination of better air quality, quieter cabin, superior entertainment, and generally more spacious feel makes a meaningful difference on a 5+ hour flight.
Would I specifically choose this aircraft again? Absolutely – especially for morning departures when I need to be productive upon arrival or for red-eye flights when sleep quality becomes even more important.
The American Airlines 787-8 economy experience earns a solid 8/10 – not revolutionary, but a meaningful step up from standard domestic flying that most travelers would appreciate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Is the 787-8 always used on the LAX-MIA route?
American typically schedules 1-2 daily flights with the 787-8 on this route, but equipment changes can occur. Always check your specific flight details when booking.
2.How does seat width compare to narrow-body aircraft?
The 787-8 economy seats are approximately 0.5-0.7 inches wider than those found on American’s A321 and 737 fleet.
3.Can you upgrade with miles after booking?
Yes, AAdvantage members can request mileage upgrades after booking, subject to availability. The upgrade cost from economy to premium economy is typically 15,000 miles plus a $75 copay on this route.
4.Are meals complimentary in economy?
No, only beverages and light snacks are complimentary. Food items are available for purchase.
5.Is there a difference between morning and evening flights?
Morning flights typically have better on-time performance and slightly different service patterns. Evening flights offer better conditions for sleeping but may have more turbulence over the continental United States.
Conclusion
After going through the review-American-Airlines-new-787-8-economy-Los-Angeles-LAX-Miami-MIA, it’s clear that this flight offers more than a regular domestic trip. The 787-8 Dreamliner brings comfort, space, and modern features that are hard to find on typical narrow-body planes. From better air quality to personal screens and USB ports, the experience feels closer to an international flight—even in economy.
If you’re flying from Los Angeles to Miami, this route is worth your attention. The review-American-Airlines-new-787-8-economy-Los-Angeles-LAX-Miami-MIA shows how a wide-body aircraft can truly improve your journey. It’s a great choice for travelers who want comfort without spending extra on premium cabins. Whether you’re heading home or starting a vacation, this flight makes the trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Asia Jenni is a passionate travel writer and expert author on CounterEase.com. With a deep love for exploration, she shares insightful travel guides, tips, and destination recommendations, helping travelers discover new places with ease. Her expertise in curating memorable trips and her engaging writing style make her a valuable resource for anyone looking to plan their next adventure.
