I'm flying American from Boston to Paris because I have a US Airways credit card that earns me frequent flyer miles. Can I take a small roll on suitcase and an overnight bag on board? Other than small seats, is AA really awful? I'd appreciate some reassurance. Thanks

American Airlines is fine. Don't worry. I hope you are not one of the ones that lugs all your belongings on board with you. That alone is what causes a lot of problems with flying today. All that carry on luggage by people that fly once a year and worry about losing something. I have been flying a lot in business and pleasure for over 30 years and have never lost anything. Help the poor airline employees out: Just carry one bag on board and check the rest. Please! You cannot imagine the junk people carry on board these days.

Fran, Never fear! American Airlines, which I've flown to Hawaii twice, has been great, as far as I'm concerned. Now I would like seats with more leg room but I usually manage to get a bulkhead so I've had no complaints. Even the food was good - I always ask for vegetarian meals, and have been pleased. <BR> <BR>I think you will be allowed EITHER the small roll-on bag OR the overnight bag (depending on sizes), plus a purse if it's only one person flying. That's what I've always carried, plus maybe a camera or small tote bag with magazines, water, etc. By the way, I've never had American lose any of my bags! <BR> <BR>Good luck! Have fun in Paris!

Fran, American seems to be more lenient re the "carry-on" policy on the overseas flights, but, unless waiting for your bag (no more than a half hour) really upsets you, check it, with some identifying mark so you can easily spot it on the carousel. For the flight, we always take ear plugs, eye mask and a neck pillow, absolute basics. Apropos to nothing, alcohol is no charge on overseas flights, so a glass of wine may help you sleep. American is changing it's arrival from Orly to CDG this fall, September or October I think. <BR>I'm 6'-1", 195 lbs and seats are not a problem, it's the leg room so get a seat assignment now for an aisle seat.

Interesting, I have flown several airlines both domestic and international and it always seems that the international flights are better than the domestic. Example, took Continental domestically and it was awful - late, dirty and generally uncomfortable - but from Paris (as part of the Air France alliance) clean, friendly and a little late taking off but arrived in Newark early!!! Maybe it's because the competition is so much greater when you throw the European airlines into the mix and there is a greater standard to uphold. Any thoughts Fodorites?