If you don't want to pay $5 for a beer or wine in Economy, DON'T TOUCH American! The last couple of times I've flown transatlantic on American, the service has been poor at best. Probably understandable when you consider the way the crews have been screwed, but still............
I flew BA Economy last week to the US, and OK, could have managed with a bit more leg room, but it wasn't bad. Fortunately the middle seat was empty both ways - about the only one that was. Was that, I wonder because I have a Gold card? Bit disappointed that full as it was, there wasn't an upgrade. Did get, for once, a decent cup of tea, and a free bot. of champagne.
I know KLM now doesn't have free booze in Economy on European flights - have they applied that to transatlantic, does anyone know?