Airlines are scrapping first class flights

In recent times many airlines have removed their first class cabins from flights.

The cost of offering this service as well as improvements in other classes have led to the demise of the ultimate luxury for many airlines.

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

LONG-HAUL FLIGHTS

For long-haul flights and high-yielding routes, first class cabins 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, a workstation and TV surrounded by privacy dividers, these features often define first class.

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REVAMPED 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 such as convertible lie-flat seats, previously offered in first class.

Qatar Airways, for example, offers QSuites which is a business class product quite comparable to that of any first class.

HIGHER AIRFARES IN FIRST CLASS FLIGHTS

The cost of air travel has risen significantly in post-Covid times.

Thus, more travellers are price-conscious and are no longer opting for ultimate luxury on a flight.

Many would rather pay to fly in business class if seeking some extra spoils.

The introduction of premium economy class has also meant that economy passengers who are willing to pay a little more for extra comfort are catered for. 

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FIRST CLASS FLIGHTS MEAN 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, considering the space each seat takes up.

“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.

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AIRLINES REMOVE FIRST CLASS

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

According to 2Oceansvibe, several US carriers operating scheduled flights have also done away with this class on their flights.

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