Fly American from Orlando to Austin

Oh, so you're considering flying from the magical kingdom of Orlando, Florida to the hipster capital of the world, Austin, Texas. And you're thinking of doing it on American, no less! Well, isn't that just delightful? I'm sure this journey will be as smooth as a perfectly poured craft beer at an East Austin brewery.

No, seriously, let's talk about flights. Direct flights, to be exact, you know the ones without the joys of layovers where you can watch the clock hands tick away slowly as you cradle an overpriced airport coffee wondering why, oh why, you didn't opt for the non-stop flight. American offers them abundantly between Orlando and Austin.

The flight duration, my ambitious traveler, is a breezy two to three hour - really enough time to catch up on that podcast episode you've been "meaning to get around to" for weeks. Now, if you're a frequent flyer with American, you'd have the chance to take advantage of their AAdvantage mileage program, but let's not be naive. We both know airlines concocted these programs just to make us feel special; they don't actually care about our loyalty, but hey, who doesn't love the illusion of getting something for nothing?

In case it didn't cross your mind, let me mention the Economy class. Where you get to experience the leg space of a yoga mat and get offered in-flight services such as a dainty bag of pretzels and your choice of complimentary soft drink - a gala essentially. But of course, you could consider upgrading to Business class, you brave soul. There, you get to board before the regular folk, sit in a seat wider than a single yoga mat, and have the choice of two snacks!

And let's not forget about the baggage allowance. What a fair and just system it is! For the privilege of stowing our undies in the belly of the plane, we only get to pay an additional fee that could be better spent on tacos and craft beers in Austin. But fear not, at least there's no mystery. American provides all the necessary data about its baggage policy - expected with its advanced website that's about as user-friendly as a porcupine in a balloon factory.

Oh, the best time to book, you ask? I'd say about three months ago. But since I doubt you own a time machine, do check out their flight deals. They're typically available when you scroll through their website at the unholy hours of the night, because who wants to sleep when they could be hunting for elusive flight bargains?

No exploration of American's flight experience would be complete without mentioning their flight cancellation policy. They’ll allow you to cancel... or maybe swap it for another – all for the low, low cost of your soul. No, you'll get charged, but it does give you a sense of freedom to decide your fate, doesn't it?

And finally, airline reviews. They're as diverse and fascinating as a smorgasbord of artisanal cheese. There are the one-star celebrities who act as though their flight delay has personally ruined their lives, and the five-star optimists shouting from the mountaintops about how an attendant smiled at them. Fun read for a rainy day, I promise.

All in all, my dear traveler, buckle up for an unforgettable journey from Orlando to Austin on the noble wings of American Airlines. May the force, and the tiny bag of pretzels, be with you.