VIPs Only: Inside American's Flagship Check-In at LAX
By: Darren Booth
Most travelers trudge through crowded main terminals to check-in for airline flights. But at American Airlines, select VIP fliers have access to a private oasis separate from the bustling terminal dubbed Flagship Check-In.
On Monday, I toured Flagship Check-In at Los Angeles International Airport with Jeff Plant, American's managing director at LAX. American's super-elite frequent fliers, certain first-class passengers and celebrities are the primary users of this check-in area.
The exclusive pre-boarding area features a separate curbside entrance complete with a greeter in a top hat, dedicated agents, comfortable seating and an elevator leading to front-of-line access to airport security.
(Read more: Unique, Luxurious and Exclusive Airport Lounges)
It's a very serene environment akin to a hotel lobby. And I didn't even feel like I was at an airport once I entered through the double doors.
Beyond the two kiosks, displaying the American Airlines logo on each screen, there's no additional branding inside the upscale area. The Flagship Check-In option is in addition to separate lounges that offer snacks, beverages, work stations and other services.
American staffs the area with its best agents, who personally assist with check-in, baggage, seat assignments, itinerary changes and other individual travel requirements.
Access to Flagship Check-In is free for the following passengers:
- Concierge Key frequent fliers (an invitation-only program for American's most valuable customers).
- Passengers traveling in first class on American's three-class transcontinental aircraft between Los Angeles and Miami or New York's JFK Airport.
- International first class passengers on American or any oneworld alliance member airline.
