PRESIDENT'S LETTER

May - June, 2004

President's Letter and American Eagle Profile
Welcome aboard. It’s our pleasure to have you flying with us today.

American Airlines has made a number of changes to the AAdvantage program that I hope you’ll find attractive.

The AAdvantage members who travel most frequently, our AAdvantage Executive Platinum members, can now request unlimited complimentary upgrades on all purchased, published fares for travel within and between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Bermuda and Central America. This new policy gives our most frequent customers the opportunity to enjoy a higher class of service at no additional cost. Upgrade requests for any eligible segment may be made at the time the reservation is booked. If upgrade seating is available, the upgrade will be confirmed 100 hours prior to flight departure. And, we already provide all AAdvantage elite status members with complimentary upgrades on full-fare Economy Class tickets.

So as not to leave anyone out, we’re also making it more affordable for all AAdvantage members to upgrade by offering new lower prices for 500-mile electronic upgrades. For those purchasing upgrades through AA.com or our AAdvantage Dial-In System, the discounted price per upgrade is now $25, while the cost is $30 for those members purchasing upgrades at the airport or via American’s reservations center.

We’re making these changes because our customers have told us that the ability to upgrade into our first-class cabin affordably is an aspect of traveling with American that they value. We believe these changes are responsive to our customers’ wishes and hope that upgrades will be just one more reason to fly American and American Eagle. Visit AA.com/upgrade2004 for complete details about these program changes. If you’re not already a member of the AAdvantage program, we invite you to register today to begin enjoying the benefits of the first and largest travel awards program in the world.

On behalf of everyone at American Eagle, thank you for choosing us today.

Peter M. Bowler
President, American Eagle

American Eagle Profile - Richard Ortiz
Richard Ortiz has been with American Eagle for the past 13 years working as a Cabin Service/Catering Administrator in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a job that brings him plenty of satisfaction.

“I enjoy every aspect of my job, especially when working on special promotions, either during our flights or at the airport gate.”

Ortiz and his team enjoy enhancing passengers’ experience by giving them a sample of local beverages. “Our passengers enjoy it immensely. It’s nice when you’re offered a taste of Puerto Rico,” Ortiz explains.

He also likes to get involved in other aspects of his work, as well: He was recently chosen as co-chairman of American Eagle’s Safety Observations Committee in San Juan. The committee makes sure that safety is the company’s top priority, not only for passengers, but for employees, as well. “We’ve implemented several important campaigns designed to improve the already high level of safety in our operation,” he says.

When not working, Ortiz enjoys an active life by hiking in California or Puerto Rico’s El Yunque rainforest, or engaging in his favorite pastime: travel. His top choice is Spain. “I love the people in Spain; they are hospitable and very warm. They truly know the meaning of having fun. Italy’s Capri Island is another favorite spot for its gorgeous waters and natural beauty.”

The 34-year-old bachelor recently bought an apartment with an amazing view of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and El Yunque on the other.

“I’m truly blessed in every way. I believe in quality rather than quantity, and feel that God has blessed me with a wonderful family and friends.”

Questions and comments from readers are welcome:
Email: dan.heath@aa.com


Spanish Version