Navigating American Airlines: Tips for a Comfortable Flight from Philly to Lisbon and Lisboa to Philly

mcoelho813
4 days ago
5 min read

Booking Your Flight and Understanding Costs

The direct flight from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Lisbon takes about seven hours, with the return flight slightly longer at eight hours. The average round-trip ticket costs around $1,200, which includes seat selection and checked baggage fees. This price is reasonable for a transatlantic flight, especially when considering the convenience of a direct route. As of January 2026, AA has free wifi on most international flights.

One way to save money and enhance your travel experience is by joining the American Airlines AAdvantage program. Members earn points on flights that can be redeemed for seat upgrades, free checked bags, and other perks. Since American Airlines offers two free checked bags for AAdvantage members, this benefit alone can offset some travel costs.

Keep in mind that American Airlines will be closed for maintenance from January 29 to February 4, 2026. If you plan to travel around this time, book your flights accordingly to avoid disruptions.

Choosing the Best Seat for Comfort

On the Philly to Lisbon flight, seating options vary by class and location within the cabin. The flight offers different seating levels, including economy and business class, though business class tickets tend to be expensive.

The aircraft we are on today is a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. For economy travelers, row 7 is often the preferred choice. This row offers a comfortable section with proximity to the bathroom, making it convenient for long flights. Avoid row 6 if possible, as it lacks a footrest and space for small personal items, which can make the journey less comfortable. American Airlines (AA) seating is structured by class from front-to-back, starting with Flagship® First/Business, followed by Premium Economy, Main Cabin Extra, and standard Main Cabin/Basic Economy. First class usually occupies the first

five rows. Premium Econy is next, followed by Main Cabin Extra, Main Cabin, and then Basic Economy. Do not book Basic Economy. You cannot cancel seats or change flights. You will be assigned group 9 boarding unless you are an Advantage member.

Bringing your own food is a smart move since the onboard meals have remained unchanged for years and tend to be spicy. The meal options usually include chicken or pasta, and the first snack served is pretzels with water. If you prefer milder food or have dietary restrictions, packing your own snacks will keep you satisfied throughout the flight. Basic Economy seats are narrow, as small as 16 inches. As a woman with a round bottom, the seats are tight and uncomfortable. I prefer an aisle seat (B) so I can stand when I want to. My husband prefers a window seat (A) so he can look outside.

Do not book row 20. The seats in this row are not the same size as the other seats. The tray and monitor are kept inside the seat. When I sat down, my hips were so tight that my legs went numb. If you are large or have larger hips, do not book row 20.

Enjoying the Airport Lounges

American Airlines passengers flying from Philadelphia can access the Admirals Club lounge in Terminal A of the international section. This lounge offers a variety of food and drink options, though the food selection could be improved. Interestingly, the lounge features a secret menu accessible by scanning a barcode on the tables in the back area. This digital menu adds a fun element to the lounge experience, even if the food choices lean toward spicy items, which might not appeal to everyone before a flight. The new lounge is scattered and not set up for a smooth experience. We choose our seats and start gathering our desired selections. The drinks are all free. The food is endless.

In Lisbon, the ANA lounge is a highlight for travelers. It is well-stocked with drinks, snacks, sodas, sandwiches, yogurt, coffee, tea, fruit, lunch meats, and pastries. This variety makes it a comfortable place to relax before boarding your flight back to Philadelphia.

There are two levels of lounge access: full access for passengers with status and a secondary lounge offering snacks and items for purchase. Knowing which lounge you can access helps you plan your airport time better.

Why Choose American Airlines for Philly to Lisbon?

Many travelers prefer American Airlines for this route due to the combination of direct flights, loyalty program benefits, and friendly onboard staff. The airline’s service and amenities, such as free checked bags for AAdvantage members and comfortable seating options, contribute to a positive travel experience. We have enjoyed numerous friendly and proficient AA staff on board all of our flights.

AAdvantage program

https://www.aa.com/web/i18n/aadvantage-program/overview.html?anchorEvent=false&from=comp_nav

Frequent flyers appreciate the convenience of the direct flight and the ability to use lounges at both ends of the journey. The flight duration is manageable, and the airline’s staff are known for their helpfulness and professionalism.

Tips for a Smoother Flight Experience

Join the AAdvantage program to earn points and enjoy perks like free checked bags and seat upgrades.
Book seats in row 7, 8, 9, for comfort and easy access to the bathroom.
Bring your own food to avoid the limited and spicy meal options onboard.
Arrive early to enjoy the lounges at PHL and Lisbon airports, especially the well-stocked ANA lounge in Lisbon.
Plan travel dates around the maintenance closure in early 2026 to avoid cancellations or delays.

Lisbon Airport Help

SECURITY SCREENING

The clerk informed me that I was randomly selected to have additional screening as a new procedure for all flights going into the USA. My ticket was marked with SSSS. This made me nervous and afraid of being late getting onto the airplane. We went to the Carryon area line and went through. We went to the Passport area and went through. I was wondering when I would get the additional screening. We went to Gate 45 and waited to be called to enter the aircraft. We were Priority 3. I was told to go to additional screening in the corner area, which was blocked off by Policia and TSA security. I waited in line with other passengers for 30 minutes. I had to remove my sneakers, take out my electronics, and take all the covers off my cell phones, iPads, and laptops.

Lisbon Airport is unique. The arrivals and departures are in the same area. There are a few extra steps in the Lisbon airport than you might suspect. 1st you check in, then you go through the carry-on check, you walk through the tax-free shops, food court, lounge areas, and then the TSA passport check before your gate. Then, some flights have to take a bus to the aircraft to board. Give yourself extra time to get to your gate. Do not spend a great deal of time in the tax-free shopping area or the food court.

Flying from Philadelphia to Lisbon with American Airlines offers a reliable and comfortable way to connect two vibrant cities. Whether visiting family or exploring Portugal, these tips help make the journey more enjoyable and stress-free. We prefer to fly out of PHL rather than Newark Airport.

Pros