Is business class "first class" on American? No, these two distinct fare classes offer two different experiences for passengers. That said, because first class isn't always available for certain flights, business class stands in as its most premium offering. Throw in American's Flagship classes, and you can see how this all can get confusing really quick.

When comparing premium flight classes on American Airlines, the options ultimately depend on where you are flying.

Business class is the highest level of service on shorter international flights.

First class offers a premium domestic travel experience on flights between the 50 U.S. states.

Meanwhile, Flagship Business and Flagship First Class are available for long-distance flights, either transcontinentally or internationally. They are not included in this comparison.

Here's what the main differences are between American’s business and first fare classes, what to expect when you book each type of ticket, and how to get access to even more benefits when flying on the airline.

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The main differences

While both fare types are upgrades from standard economy flights, there are distinct differences between business class and first class on American Airlines. These are the biggest ones that you should know about before booking your next flight:

Destinations available. Business class flights on American are available on shorter international flights between the U.S. and Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, Puerto Rico and select South American cities. American Airlines first class can be booked on flights between all 50 states within the U.S.

Airport lounge access. On qualifying flights, business class travelers have complimentary access to premium lounges and Admirals Club lounges. Domestic first class passengers don't have access to these lounges unless they have a separate membership.

In-flight comfort. While both fare types offer wider seats and more legroom, only business class tickets include complimentary pillows and blankets.

Here's a closer look at each offering.

American Airlines business class

Fare flexibility/ticket changes

Business class tickets allow for same-day flight changes and standby for an earlier flight. If you need to change your flight, change fees are eliminated for all domestic and short-haul international flights for business class passengers when your flight originates in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Change fees are also eliminated for most business class long-haul international flights originating in North or South America.

Baggage and boarding

Business class international passengers board with Group 1 on flights with two classes and with Group 2 when there are three classes of service.

As a business class passenger, the first two checked bags are complimentary. American Airlines normally charges $30 for the first bag and $40 for the second on flights within the U.S. and to short-haul destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean. This benefit offers savings of up to $70 per person in each direction.

Seat selection

You'll enjoy wider seats and more legroom when flying business class. All American Airlines business class seats are 180-degree lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, except for the Boeing 757 and Airbus A321 aircraft. Actual seat dimensions and capabilities vary based on the aircraft that you are flying on.

Earnings rates

With American Airlines' simplified award program, you'll earn Loyalty Points based on your ticket price and elite status. All members earn 5 base points per dollar, with bonuses of 40% to 120% based on your status level. The type of fare class no longer factors into how many miles you'll receive for your flight.