Airlines ditch First Class,”Expensive Real Estate”

Many airlines have removed first-class cabins from their planes. The cost of offering this service as well as improvements in other classes have led to the demise of first class for many airlines.

Not only does first class cost a lot of money to operate but it leads to an increased carbon footprint for airlines since the cabin is smaller and it carries fewer passengers.

FIRST CLASS

On a passenger plane, first class usually refers to a limited number of seats or cabins toward the front of the aircraft which have more space, comfort, service, and privacy.

In general, first class is the highest class offered on flights, although some airlines have branded their business class as the highest class.

EXPENSIVE REAL ESTATE

Last year Qatar Airways announced that it would be scrapping first class from certain flights.

This is because the product does not generate high revenue streams for the airline.

“We don’t want to put first class in the aeroplanes because it is very expensive real estate,” said Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker at a conference in 2023, per Explore.

Other airlines have followed suit, also removing first-class cabins from their scheduled flights.

REMOVING FIRST CLASS

Several US carriers operating scheduled flights have also done away with first class on their flights.

American Airlines announced its plans to progressively phase out international first-class seating, making it the final domestic carrier to take this step.

Air Canada, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have already ceased offering first-class services on non-domestic charters.

For long-haul flights and high-yielding routes, first-class seats may have facilities equivalent to a five-star hotel.

From large reclining seats with more legroom and width to suites with a fully reclining seat, workstation and TV surrounded by privacy dividers, these features often define first class.

IMPROVED BUSINESS CLASS

Since the 1990s, a trend developed in which many airlines eliminated first-class cabins in favour of an upgraded business class.

New business classes are increasingly adding features previously offered in first class, such as convertible lie-flat seats.

HIGHER AIRFARES

The cost of air travel has risen significantly in post-Covid times. Thus, more travellers are price-conscious and are not opting for first class.

Many would rather pay to fly in business if seeking some extra spoils. The introduction of premium economy class has also meant that passengers who are willing to pay a little more for extra comfort are catered for. 

ALSO READ: Spain set to ban flights on short domestic routes