American Airlines 787 Business Class Review: SCL to MIA

A flight review of American Airlines 787-8 Flagship Business Class from SCL to MIA offers an in-depth look at the premium travel experience onboard one of the airline’s most sophisticated aircraft. This specific route connects Santiago, Chile (SCL) with Miami, Florida (MIA), covering over 4,000 miles across continents. Passengers flying Flagship Business Class on the Boeing 787-8 can expect a curated experience that blends comfort, service, and technology—hallmarks of American Airlines’ long-haul business offering. From lounge access and priority boarding to lie-flat seats and fine dining, this american-airlines-787-business-class-review captures the full journey from check-in to touchdown.

Think plush leather seats that recline into fully flat beds, gourmet meals at 35,000 feet, and seamless priority services that turn international travel into a breeze. Whether you’re a business traveler chasing productivity or a leisure flier seeking comfort, this flight promises an elevated standard of luxury in the skies. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about savoring every mile in style.

This flight review of American Airlines 787-8 Flagship Business Class from SCL to MIA breaks down every detail—from pre-flight perks like the Primeclass Pacifico Lounge in Santiago to the inflight amenities and exclusive touches that define Flagship Business. Expect real-world insights into seat functionality, onboard service, cabin atmosphere, and more. If you’re planning a trip on this transcontinental route or simply curious about how Flagship Business measures up, this american-airlines-787-business-class-review reveals everything you need to know to decide if it’s worth the splurge.

American Airlines 787-8 Flagship Business Class

Flying between South America and the United States offers several premium cabin options, but how does American Airlines Flagship Business Class on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner stack up? I recently experienced this international flight experience on the 9-hour journey from Santiago, Chile (SCL) to Miami, Florida (MIA) and documented every aspect to help you decide if it’s worth your miles or money.

“The true value of business class isn’t just the flat bed, but the complete journey from check-in to arrival.” – Frequent flyer truth that guided my review approach

This comprehensive american-airlines-787-business-class-review covers everything from booking strategies to arrival procedures, with special attention to the soft and hard products that define the overall flight satisfaction. As an Executive Platinum member, I’ll also share how status enhances the journey and whether this particular route deserves your attention.

See Also: Review: Delta B717-200 First Class (AVL-ATL)

The Santiago to Miami route spans approximately 4,127 miles and typically takes between 8-9 hours, making it a significant international flight experience that benefits greatly from a premium cabin. This route serves as a crucial gateway between South America and the US, with Flight AA 912 operating daily and providing important connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.

American Airlines holds a strong position in the South American market, competing primarily with LATAM on this particular route. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner deployment showcases AA’s commitment to modernizing their fleet on these longer international segments.

Key Route Facts:

• Flight number: Flight AA 912
• Distance: 4,127 miles
• Scheduled duration: Flight duration: 8 hours 25 minutes
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
• Departure time: 10:50 PM (SCL)
• Arrival time: 6:15 AM (MIA)

Booking Experience

Multiple Booking Options

I secured my Flagship Business Class seat using 57,500 AAdvantage miles plus $66.50 in taxes and fees. This redemption represents solid value considering cash fares on this route typically range from $2,200 to $3,500 one-way in business class.

Booking Options for This Route:

Booking Method	Cost	Value Rating
AAdvantage Miles	57,500 miles + $66.50	Excellent
Cash Fare	$2,200-$3,500	Fair
Upgrade from Premium Economy	25,000 miles + $350	Good
Systemwide Upgrade (for status holders)	Certificate only	Outstanding

Expert Tip: Award availability tends to open up 7-10 days before departure on this route. Setting ExpertFlyer alerts significantly increased my chances of snagging a seat when someone canceled.

Comparative Pricing

When measuring against competitors, American Airlines typically prices similarly to LATAM but offers more attractive mileage redemption rates for OneWorld priority members. Delta’s connection via Atlanta usually commands a 15-20% premium over the direct options.

Pre-Flight Experience

Check-In Process

The check-in process at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport was remarkably efficient ground experience. As a Flagship Business Class passenger, I had access to the dedicated premium check-in area, clearly marked and staffed with three agents despite my late evening arrival.

I had already completed online check-in using the American Airlines app and had my mobile boarding pass, but stopped by the counter to verify my OneWorld priority bag tag was properly attached to my checked luggage.

From curb to clearing the check-in area took approximately 7 minutes, with the agent efficiently handling:

• Passport verification
• Visa check for US entry
• Baggage weight confirmation (business class allowance is 2 bags at 70 lbs each)
• Lounge access information
• Boarding time reminder

Priority services for business class passengers really shined here, with dedicated lines that moved quickly even during the busy evening international departure bank.

Santiago Airport Navigation

After check-in, I proceeded to the security screening area. The security screening process was well-organized but not particularly expedited for premium passengers. Here’s what to expect:

• Walking time from check-in to security: 5 minutes
• Security wait time: 15 minutes (no dedicated premium lane)
• Passport control wait: 10 minutes (with fast-track access for business class)

SCL Airport has undergone significant renovations in recent years, making it much more pleasant than in the past. The international departure area features a decent selection of duty-free shopping, local Chilean products, and several dining options. I recommend allowing at least 90 minutes between arrival at the airport and boarding time.

Lounge Experience

American Airlines does not operate its own lounge at Santiago Airport. Instead, business class passengers are directed to the Primeclass Pacifico Lounge located near Gate 20A in the international terminal.

The modern lounge facilities were reasonably impressive, especially considering it’s a contract lounge rather than an American Airlines Admirals Club or Flagship Lounge.

Lounge Highlights:

• Size: Approximately 10,000 square feet
• Seating capacity: Around 150 guests
• Seating options: Individual chairs, dining tables, relaxation areas
• Fast Wi-Fi: 85 Mbps download / 35 Mbps upload
• Food offerings: Hot buffet with Chilean and international options
• Beverage selection: Self-serve bar with decent wine selection, local beers
• Special features: Shower suites (2 available), work stations, views of the tarmac

The food quality was above average for a contract lounge, featuring:

• Traditional Chilean empanadas
• Several hot entrée options (the grilled chicken with local seasonings was exceptional)
• Fresh salad bar
• Dessert selection including local dulce de leche treats

The lounge became increasingly crowded as the evening progressed, with multiple international departures using this facility. By 9:00 PM, seating was at a premium, though the attentive staff continuously cleared tables and refreshed the buffet.

“The Primeclass Pacifico Lounge offers a solid pre-flight experience that, while not exceptional, provides everything needed before a long-haul journey.”

Aircraft and Cabin

The 787-8 Dreamliner

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner represents the smaller variant in Boeing’s revolutionary Dreamliner family. American Airlines operates 23 of these aircraft, primarily on medium to long-haul international routes.

Key Aircraft Specifications:

• Length: 186 feet
• Wingspan: 197 feet
• Range: 7,355 nautical miles
• Cruising speed: Mach 0.85 (approximately 567 mph)

The Dreamliner’s composite construction delivers several passenger benefits I definitely noticed during the flight:

• Higher cabin humidity (around 15% versus 4% in older aircraft)
• Lower cabin altitude pressurization (6,000 feet versus 8,000 feet)
• Larger windows with electrochromic dimming instead of physical shades
• Better fuel efficiency means fewer stops on ultra-long routes

These environmental improvements genuinely reduce jet lag and improve comfort, especially on longer flights like this Santiago to Miami flight.

Business Class Cabin Layout

American Airlines configures their 787-8 business class in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. The cabin features 20 seats spread across 5 rows.

The reverse herringbone configuration angles window seats toward the windows and center seats slightly toward each other, creating a good balance of privacy and space.

Cabin Observations:

• Color scheme: Subtle navy blue and gray tones
• Lighting: Adjustable LED mood lighting
• Noise level: Notably quieter than older aircraft
• Air quality: Noticeably fresher due to advanced filtration

Best Seats:

• Solo travelers: Any window seat (A or L)
• Couples: Center seats in rows 3-5 (D/H pairs)
• Best overall: 5A (rear window – maximum privacy, away from galley and lavatory traffic)
• Seats to avoid: Row 1 (galley noise) and row 5 D/H (proximity to lavatories)

The Business Class Seat

I selected Seat 5A for this journey, a window seat in the last row of the business class cabin.

Seat Specifications:

• Width: 21 inches
• Bed length: 77 inches
• Seat pitch: 60 inches
• Bed angle: Fully flat (180 degrees)

The seat features Safran Concept D reverse herringbone design, offering excellent comfortable seating that converts to a fully-flat bed. The seat controls were intuitive, with preset positions for takeoff/landing, lounging, dining, and sleeping.

Storage options include:

• Side compartment for small electronics and personal items
• Literature pocket large enough for tablets or small laptops
• Small water bottle holder
• Shoe storage under the ottoman
• Overhead bin space (generous on the 787)

The privacy factor is very good but not complete – there are no doors as found on newer business class products. However, the shell design creates a cocoon-like environment that feels secluded enough for sleeping comfortably.

Power options include:

• 1 universal AC power outlet
• 2 USB-A ports
• 1 USB-C port (notably newer than on some other AA aircraft)

The sleep position was genuinely comfortable, with no awkward pressure points or narrow spots that plague some business class seats. The seat cushioning struck a good balance between supportive and plush.

Amenities

The Amenity Kit

American Airlines currently partners with Shinola and D.S. & Durga for their business class amenity kits. The leather case itself is quite attractive and reusable.

Amenity Kit Contents:

• Shinola leather case (dark navy blue)
• D.S. & Durga lip balm
• D.S. & Durga hand cream
• Standard amenities (toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash)
• Foam earplugs
• Eye mask
• Socks
• Pen (surprisingly useful for immigration forms)

The quality of the skincare products was notably good, especially the hand cream which proved invaluable in the dry cabin environment. The case itself is sturdy enough for future use as a tech organizer or toiletry kit.

Bedding

American Airlines partners with Casper for their business class bedding, providing:

• Mattress pad
• Duvet
• Full-size pillow
• Lumbar pillow

The quality of these items significantly enhanced sleeping comfort. The mattress pad, while thin, effectively softened the seat’s firmer surfaces. The duvet offered the right balance of weight and warmth, while the pillow provided adequate support.

I managed nearly 5 hours of continuous sleep, which I consider excellent for an overnight flight. The cabin temperature remained comfortable throughout, requiring no adjustments of the individual air nozzles.

Entertainment & Connectivity

In-Flight Entertainment System

The IFE system featured a 18-inch HD touchscreen with responsive controls and an intuitive interface.

Content Selection:

• Movies: 250+ (including 25 new releases)
• TV shows: 150+ (full seasons of many popular series)
• Music: 500+ albums
• Games: 15+ interactive options
• Moving map: 3D interactive flight tracking

The screen quality was excellent with vibrant colors and good viewing angles. Touch responsiveness was consistently good, though I primarily used the handheld remote controller for convenience when in reclined positions.

American Airlines provides Bang & Olufsen noise-canceling headphones in business class. While not quite matching the quality of top consumer models like Bose or Sony, they performed admirably and were comfortable for extended wear.

Wi-Fi

The fast Wi-Fi was provided by Panasonic and functioned throughout the entire flight with no major outages:

Wi-Fi Options:

• Full flight: $29
• 2 hours: $19
• 1 hour: $12

I conducted multiple speed tests during different flight phases:

Flight Phase	Download Speed	Upload Speed	Latency
Initial Cruise	15 Mbps	1.8 Mbps	750ms
Mid-flight	12 Mbps	1.5 Mbps	820ms
Pre-arrival	18 Mbps	2.1 Mbps	680ms

The connection was strong enough for email, web browsing, messaging, and even standard definition video streaming. Voice calls worked adequately via WhatsApp, though with noticeable delay.

Dining Experience

Pre-Departure

The customer service responsiveness began immediately upon boarding with a choice of pre-departure beverages:

• Champagne (Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Reserve)
• Orange juice
• Water

Hot towels were distributed promptly, and the flight attendant introduced herself by name, addressing me as an Executive Platinum member and thanking me for my loyalty to American Airlines.

Menu Options

The full menu was presented shortly after boarding, with main meal orders taken before takeoff. American Airlines has notably improved their catering on international routes, with evidence of real chef collaboration in the menu design.

Wine Selection:

• Champagne: Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Reserve
• White wines: Château Ste. Michelle Chardonnay (Washington), Albariño Lagar de Cervera (Spain)
• Red wines: Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon (California), Don Miguel Gascon Malbec (Argentina)

Main Meal Service

Dinner service began approximately 45 minutes after takeoff:

First Course:

• Mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinaigrette
• Selection of artisan breads with olive oil

Main Course Options:

1. Grilled Chilean sea bass with lemon butter sauce, roasted fingerling potatoes, and asparagus
2. Beef tenderloin with red wine reduction, truffle mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables
3. Pumpkin ravioli with sage brown butter and toasted pine nuts
4. Cold plate of smoked salmon, prosciutto, and antipasto selections

I selected the sea bass, which was remarkably well-prepared for airplane food – moist, flavorful, and not overcooked. The portion size was generous without being excessive.

See Also: Lounge Review: Delta Sky Club Boston Logan Terminal A

Dessert Options:

• Traditional ice cream sundae with toppings
• Cheese plate with dried fruits and crackers
• Fresh fruit plate

The entire meal service was completed within 90 minutes, efficiently executed without feeling rushed. Plates were promptly cleared, and water glasses kept filled throughout.

Mid-Flight Snacks

A self-service snack station was set up in the galley featuring:

• Packaged snacks (chips, cookies, nuts)
• Fresh fruit
• Sandwiches
• Bottled water and soft drinks

Flight attendants also offered occasional passed snacks and remained responsive to requests throughout the flight.

Pre-Arrival Meal

Breakfast was served approximately 90 minutes before landing:

Breakfast Options:

1. Traditional American breakfast (scrambled eggs, bacon, roasted potatoes, and a croissant)
2. Continental option (yogurt, granola, fresh fruit)

The American breakfast I selected was decent if unremarkable. The eggs were somewhat overcooked (a common airline food issue), but the accompanying items were fresh and flavorful. The coffee was surprisingly good for airline brew.

Service Elements

The cabin crew service was a highlight of this flight, demonstrating why customer service responsiveness remains crucial to the premium experience. The crew consistently struck the right balance between attentiveness and respecting passengers’ privacy.

Service Highlights:

• Greeting by name throughout the flight
• Proactive beverage refills
• Quick response to call buttons (under 30 seconds in all instances)
• Friendly but professional demeanor
• Multilingual capabilities (English and Spanish fluently spoken)

During a period of moderate turbulence, the crew handled safety procedures calmly while ensuring passenger comfort. Their professionalism showed in small touches like:

• Remembering drink preferences from earlier in the flight
• Offering additional pillows without being asked
• Providing detailed arrival information including connection gates

Compared to other international carriers I’ve experienced recently, American Airlines delivered service that exceeded my expectations and rivaled some Asian carriers known for exceptional attention to detail.

Arrival Experience

We touched down at Miami International Airport at 6:05 AM, slightly ahead of schedule. The arrival process demonstrated the continued value of premium cabin travel:

• Deplaning: Business class passengers exited first, with no delay
• Immigration: Global Entry kiosks were fully operational (2-minute process)
• Regular immigration lines: Approximately 25-30 minutes based on observation
• Priority baggage: My checked bag with OneWorld priority bag tag appeared on the carousel within 15 minutes of reaching the baggage claim area
• Customs: Minimal wait with Global Entry

For connecting passengers, American Airlines operates an efficient transfer system at MIA, though the airport’s layout can require significant walking between concourses. Minimum connection time recommendations:

• Domestic to domestic: 45 minutes
• International to domestic: 90 minutes
• Domestic to international: 60 minutes
• International to international: 90 minutes

Pro Tip: Arriving Flagship Business Class passengers can access the Admirals Club in Miami even when arriving from an international flight. This provides a welcome place to freshen up or have a coffee before continuing your journey.

Value Assessment

When evaluating the overall experience against the cost, American Airlines Flagship Business Class on the SCL-MIA route delivers solid value with a few standout elements.

Value Analysis:

Aspect	Rating (1-10)	Notes
Hard Product (Seat)	7.5	Good but not cutting-edge
Soft Product (Service)	8.5	Exceeded expectations
Food & Beverage	7.0	Above average but inconsistent
Amenities	8.0	Quality partnerships enhance experience
Ground Experience	7.0	Efficient but not exceptional
Overall Value	8.0	Strong offering for the route

Compared to competitors, American Airlines provides:

• Better seat than LATAM’s older product on some aircraft
• More direct routing than Delta (which connects via Atlanta)
• More generous upgrade options for elite members
• Weaker ground experience than both major competitors

Final Review

American Airlines Flagship Business Class on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner between Santiago and Miami delivers a solid premium experience that, while not revolutionary, provides excellent value for miles redemption and a comfortable way to travel between South America and the United States.

Strongest Aspects:

• Comfortable fully-flat seat with direct aisle access
• Actually restful sleep environment
• Attentive, personalized service
• Reliable Wi-Fi connectivity
• On-time performance

Areas for Improvement:

• Food quality, while good, lags behind leading international carriers
• Ground experience in Santiago could be enhanced with a dedicated lounge
• Entertainment content, while extensive, featured fewer international options than expected

This product is best suited for:

• OneWorld loyal customers maximizing elite benefits
• Point redemption travelers (excellent value for miles)
• Business travelers prioritizing sleep and productivity
• Leisure travelers wanting comfort on a relatively long overnight flight

Would I book this flight again? Absolutely. The combination of convenient scheduling, solid hard product, and surprisingly good service makes American’s Flagship Business Class on this route a reliable choice that I’d happily recommend and fly again.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Seat Selection Strategy:

• Solo travelers: Choose odd-numbered window seats (1A, 3A, 5A, etc.) for maximum privacy
• Couples: Center seats in rows 3 or 4 offer the best compromise between privacy and proximity
• Light sleepers: Avoid row 1 (galley noise) and row 5 (lavatory proximity)

Maximizing Your Experience:

• Pre-order meals through the AA website/app (available 30-24 hours before departure)
• Bring your own premium headphones for superior sound quality
• Download the American Airlines app for real-time flight information and entertainment previews
• Consider Global Entry membership to expedite the arrival process in Miami

Lounge Alternatives: If the contract lounge is crowded, Santiago Airport offers several pay-per-use options worth considering:

• LATAM’s separate first class lounge (accessible with Priority Pass during certain hours)
• Avianca’s Star Alliance lounge (quieter but more limited food options)

Connection Strategy at MIA:

• Allow at least 2 hours for immigration, customs, and re-checking bags during peak times
• The Admirals Club in Concourse D offers shower facilities for refreshing during longer layovers
• Miami’s D and E concourses have significantly better dining options than other areas

Case Study: Executive Platinum Benefits

As an Executive Platinum member, several aspects of my journey were enhanced:

1. Complimentary auto-requested upgrade (though it didn’t clear)
2. Extra-attentive service from check-in to arrival
3. Priority baggage handling that actually worked as promised
4. Ability to same-day change to an earlier connection at MIA without fees

The tangible benefits of status were most evident in the personalized service touches and flexibility options that wouldn’t be available to regular business class passengers.

See Also: Review: The Club MSY New Orleans (MSY)

FAQs

1. What seating configuration is available in American Airlines’ 787-8 Flagship Business Class?

The Boeing 787-8 features 20 Safran Concept D seats arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, ensuring direct aisle access and fully lie-flat beds for all passengers.

2. What amenities are provided in the Flagship Business Class on this route?

Passengers receive a Raven + Lily-branded amenity kit, Bang & Olufsen noise-canceling headphones, a multi-course meal, and access to the Prime class Pacifico Lounge in Santiago.

3. Are there any planned upgrades for the 787-8 Business Class cabins?

Yes, American Airlines plans to retrofit its 787-8 fleet with new Flagship Business Class suites featuring privacy doors and enhanced amenities over the next few years.

4. How does the 787-8 Business Class compare to the newer 787-9 Flagship Suites?

While the 787-8 offers a comfortable experience, the 787-9 introduces Flagship Suites with privacy doors, wireless charging, and a unique chaise lounge, providing a more luxurious experience.

5. Is the Flagship Business Class worth it for the SCL to MIA route?

For travelers seeking comfort on long-haul flights, the Flagship Business Class offers premium amenities and services that enhance the overall travel experience.

Conclusion

This flight-review-american-airlines-787-8-flagship-business-class-from-scl-to-mia shows how American Airlines delivers a smooth and premium experience. From fast check-in to a relaxing lounge and a quiet, comfortable cabin, every part of the trip feels well-designed. The lie-flat seat, quality meals, and polite service make long-distance travel more enjoyable. Small details like power outlets and amenity kits add even more value to the journey.

Overall, this flight-review-american-airlines-787-8-flagship-business-class-from-scl-to-mia proves that American Airlines gets many things right. It’s a solid option for anyone flying between South America and the U.S. in comfort. If you value space, service, and a stress-free trip, this business class experience is worth it. Whether for work or vacation, this flight offers a calm, classy way to cross continents.

Have you flown American Airlines Flagship Business Class between South America and the US? Share your experience in the comments below!