American Airlines plans to offer lie-flat seats on U.S. flights

Lie-flat seats for first and business class are promised on some transcontinental U.S. flights when American Airlines receives its new narrow-body planes next year.

American expects delivery of 200 new jets from Airbus and Boeing starting in July 2013, according to an airline statement. The Airbus 321s, which will be configured with the new premium seats, are set to arrive in November 2013.

[For the record, 10:55 p.m. July 26, 2012: An earlier version of this post incorrectly said American Airlines would receive new 767-300ERs. The jets are 777-300ERs.]

A spokesman wrote via email that the airline has no further details of when the new service would be available to fliers.

First-class cabins on Airbus 321s would have 10 seats that adjust the seat back, head rest and leg rest. Each seat will have direct aisle access, a large tray table and individual storage. In business class, there will be 20 lie-flat seats in a 2-2 configuration. American earlier announced a redesign of other aircraft -- 777-200ERs and 777-300ERs -- that will include lie-flat seats in business class on international flights.

How comfortable are these seats? SeatGuru says lie-flat seats are not completely horizontal, such as flat-bed seats and suites. “Passengers often find these seats to be extremely comfortable for relaxing and working, but not conducive to sleep when in the fully reclined position because of the awkward angle.”