American Airlines Auctions Boeing 787 Simulator Experience

Winning bidder will participate in a four-hour flight.

Simulator at American Airlines facility
American Airlines simulator [Courtesy: American Airlines]

American Airlines is offering members of its frequent flier program, AAdvantage, a rare opportunity to step into the cockpit of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner—virtually. In partnership with Mastercard, the airline has launched an exclusive auction allowing members to redeem miles for a unique flight simulator experience.

For the first time, AAdvantage members can bid on a package that includes a private, four-hour session in a Boeing 787 full-motion flight simulator, located at the carrier’s Skyview headquarters campus in Fort Worth, Texas. 

The session is guided by a professional pilot and includes a preflight briefing and simulated flights over scenic locations. 

Boeing 787 simulator
Boeing 787 simulator [Courtesy: American Airlines]

“Feel the rush as you embark on your virtual flight adventure, choosing your own route and taking on real-world challenges. Imagine soaring over the breathtaking snow-capped peaks of Mount Rainier after departing Seattle or cruising through a golden Miami sunset,” the airline stated on the auction listing. “You’ll make flight decisions, experience the thrill of takeoff and landing, and feel the pulse of real aviation. Plus, enjoy a one-on-one session with a pilot to learn what it’s like to live the dream of a professional aviator.”

The package—which is scheduled in July—also includes a two-night stay at the Thompson Dallas by Hyatt, complete with a $100 food and beverage credit, and transportation between the hotel and the simulator facility. The experience is designed for one member and a guest.

The auction is currently live on Mastercard’s Priceless.com platform and will close on May 18 at 11:59 p.m. CDT. Bidding is available exclusively to AAdvantage members using miles.

At the time of writing, the current bid is 600,000 miles. The package does not include air travel or transportation to and from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (KDFW). 

Ryan Ewing

Ryan is Sr. Director of Digital for Firecrown's Aviation Group. In 2013, he founded AirlineGeeks.com, a leading trade publication covering the airline industry. Since then, his work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the airline industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Previously, he worked for a Part 135 operator and later a major airline. Ryan is also an Adjunct Instructor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
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