When you are planning to fly at the cheapest rates with American Airlines, you look forward to the basic economy tickets. However, these fares don’t give you flight modifications flexibility and earn mileage at high rates.

The airline introduced basic economy fares to provide a low-cost trip to budget travelers. With main cabin fares offering a slight upper hand on AA flights than the basic economy, let’s see how the both differ. 

What to Expect when Traveling in an AA Basic Economy Cabin?

When you have made an American Airlines Seat Selection and chosen one in basic economy, here’s what you can expect - 

• After booking, you can’t make any changes. Be it a flight change, rebooking, or refund, AA doesn’t allow you with any of these when you are traveling in basic economy. 
• You can have a carry-on bag onboard.
• Select a seat for a fee or get an automatically assigned one at check-in. 
• You can earn AAdvantage miles as well as Loyalty Points for your elite status. And that too at the same prices of main cabin fares.
• Being in the last boarding group of the flight. However, with AAdvantage elite status or an eligible AAdvantage credit card, they can board the plane earlier. 
• Get Same-day flight changes at $75 and complimentary standby on domestic flights. 

When Should I Book an AA Main Cabin?

Now, let’s go through American Airlines economy vs basic economy for a better idea -

Check when the fare lowers

Go for the reduced flight fares when you are purchasing  a main cabin ticket. With an advance booking of the main cabin, you can modify your travel plans. 

Choose seats at a fee

With basic economy, you must pay for a seat selection. Check the cost difference in the seat selection and get an upgrade to the main cabin fare. You might grab a complimentary seat.

When main cabin prices are cheap

Go for the main cabin when it doesn't cost you much more than economy. From getting free changes and avoiding the last boarding group to getting a complimentary seat, you can upgrade to the main cabin at just $10 more on your actual fare. 

For more details, get in touch with the customer service representatives of American Airlines. 

Read More Blog: American Airlines Reschedule Flight

Wrapping Up

In a nutshell, American’s main cabin and basic economy don’t have a lot to differ from each other. The only drawback with basic economy is that you can’t make booking modifications. 

However, in both the cabins, you can take along a full-size carry-on bag, make same-day flight change at fees, and earn mileage. Moreover, if you are an elite status or a credit card holder, you get perks with basic economy tickets.