While opting to fly first class is out of the realm of affordability for the average traveler, airlines are about to make first class even better. According to the Associated Press, "U.S. airlines are spending almost $2 billion to upgrade amenities for their highest paying customers." While many passengers are concerned with paying baggage fees and other assorted a la carte flight options, that kind of money is going to help life in the front of the cabin get considerably better than it already is.
Why are airlines spending that much money to upgrade first class?
Airlines are funding the improvements for the most basic business reason of all: money. First class and business class passengers spend more money on their tickets, which makes them more important in the eyes of the airlines. The New York Times reports that although first class and business class make up a small fraction of available seats on flights, around 20 percent on certain routes, those seats account for up to 40 percent or 50 percent of revenue. However, the competition for passengers willing to shell out tens of thousands of dollars for a round-trip ticket is a global target and not just a domestic battle.
What are the airlines spending the money on?
Long flights that represent some of the most profitable for the airlines will feature seats that turn into fully flat beds. Skyclub News reports US Airways is making efforts to improve available dining options, and Delta is improving airport clubs to help its high-paying customers escape the madness of a common airport waiting area.
Why not spend money on improving the conditions in coach or economy class?
While typical passengers are faced with cramped and crowded cabins, and some situations can make the conditions in the cabin extremely uncomfortable, economy and coach passengers are not as profitable as the front areas of the plane. Price conscious consumers receive bargain accommodations in just about every aspect of the travel industry, which means airlines are no different than many hotels.
Are coach or economy passengers going to receive any upgrades?
The perks of traveling in coach or economy are few and far in between. While Wi-Fi and picking seats are two nice improvements for the majority of air travelers, those options come with a fee just like other improvements and amenities airlines offer. The competition for economy passengers is based solely on airfare, which means any improvements will be offered as a pay-to-play deal.
Jason Gallagher is a former travel professional with a decade of experience in the industry. He remains an avid traveler and hotel fan with exposure to technology and trends in properties across the United States.
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