I’m writing this post from 38,000 feet somewhere (see below) between Austin and Los Angeles. By the magic of time zones, I will arrive just over an hour from my departure time despite a three hour flight.

This is actually my first flight on American Airlines – most of my previous travels have been on Continental, Southwest, smaller airlines etc.  I have to say that so far I am impressed.

Not only is the leg room greater than I’ve had one most flights, it isn’t overcrowded which means I can stretch out across seats.

The check-in process was super easy (check-in has gotten easy on all airlines.). Boarding was without a hassle (ditto.)  I was most impressed by the interactive screens at the back of the seat in front of me.

Not only was I able to get up-to-date information about flight arrival time, it had an interactive 3D map showing exactly where the plane is.  From glancing out the window I had guessed we were over New Mexico, but the map shows we are still in Texas air space – the terrain in New Mexico and West Texas are quite similar (dry and brown.)

As we fly over some of the highest peaks in Texas, as well as the southern part of the Salt Basin, I am playing with all the different views available.

There are about a dozen different view options as well as information about points of interest along the way.  Call me a nerd, but I like stuff like this.  It helps the flight go by faster. (I can only listen to audiobooks and podcasts so much.)

Here are some of the shots from the flight:

ample leg room
cockpit view
Clear Blue 22
follow your flights progress

As we cross out of Texas into New Mexico, I have to give American Airlines a good grade.

By Chris Doelle