Starting on April 4, 2025, American Airlines(AA) will deploy its dual-class CRJ700 between Chicago and Dayton, marking the introduction of the airline’s first class product on the route.
The new aircraft choice will be a significant upgrade for passengers, providing enhanced air services and broader product offerings.
First class for the first time?
According to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company, the route has been primarily served by Air Wisconsin’s CRJ200s under the American Eagle brand. However, Air Wisconsin is set to end its long-standing partnership with AA.
Over the past year, the route has also seen a few flights on Piedmont Airlines’ ERJ145s. The CRJ200s have 50 seats in main cabin, while the ERJ145s have 50 seats in main cabin, including three in main cabin extra.
However, starting April 4, SkyWest Airlines will begin operating the route with the CRJ700, equipped with nine seats in first class and 56 seats in main cabin, including 12 in main cabin extra.
The CRJ700 flights will operate twice daily. Flights 6438 and 4967 depart Chicago O'Hare International Airport at 10:09 and 19:10 and arrive at Dayton International Airport at 12:27 and 21:31, respectively.
The introduction of dual-class on the route will enhance the passenger experience, as travelers can enjoy the comfort and convenience of upgraded aircraft with expanded seating options and superior in-flight amenities.
Dayton International Airport Director of Aviation Gil Turner said,
“We are thrilled to announce this new expanded flight service option to Chicago, which represents a significant step forward in our partnership with American Airlines. American Airlines has been a valuable partner to the Dayton Airport, and we are proud to continue our collaboration as we expand flight service options at DAY and enhance our offerings to meet the needs of our growing passenger base.”
American’s first class
Cirium shows that the last CRJ200 flight is scheduled for April 3, while regular ERJ145 flights also start on April 4.
The expanded service aims to improve connectivity and provide more options and flexibility for passengers traveling from Dayton to Chicago and beyond.
It also supports Dayton’s commitment to ensuring that passengers can choose from several destinations to fly to with the highest level of comfort.
First class is available on most American Airlines and American Eagle aircraft, with the exception of the CRJ200 and ERJ135/140/145 aircraft.
Domestic first is available on flights between the 50 US states, while flagship first is available on international flights between the US and Asia, Australia, Europe, and South America only on the Boeing 777-300ER.
American markets domestic first class as a premium domestic travel experience with its highest level of service within the US. It offers a wide range of premium services both on the ground and in the air, including:
- Priority privileges: Fast-track through check-in, security, and boarding, and receive your checked bags first after landing.
- Five-Star Service: Includes lounge access, priority boarding and re-accommodation status, car service coordination, and personalized service through the airport.
- More comfortable seats: Wider seats with more legroom.
- Premium dining: Choice of mixed nuts, charcuterie plates, and short rib, as well as grain bowls and heart-healthy entrée salads.
- Free entertainment: AA provides free inflight entertainment with seatback and wireless streaming on select aircraft.
- WiFi: Available for purchase on select aircraft.
Flying in domestic first class also provides loyalty benefits for AAdvantage and oneworld members with status, including mileage bonuses, extra baggage allowances, and lounge access.
Fare classes J, D, I, C, and U are eligible for domestic first on American’s two-cabin aircraft.
Air Wisconsin and American Airlines
Air Wisconsin, a regional air carrier and wholly-owned subsidiary of Harbor Diversified, Inc., recently announced a strategic shift to its business and long-standing partnership with American Airlines.
It will stop operating regional flights for AA and transition their relationship to a codeshare and interline agreement.
Air Wisconsin will move to focus on Essential Air Service Program (EAS) markets, expand its charter operations, and its codeshare and interline with AA.
As part of the change, Air Wisconsin's capacity purchase agreement with the American legacy carrier will conclude in April 2025.
