Skift Take
Since first class takes up more space is often occupied by frequent flyers upgraded from business class, there's little economic reason to continue setting aside these premium seats.
U.S. airlines are curtailing first class on overseas routes because the ultra-premium service—long an institution of air travel—has one crucial flaw: Few passengers actually pay for it.
Today, with corporate travel budgets tight, the economy fragile and the price of first-class tickets sometimes topping $15,000 for a round trip, the typical first-class passenger got there with frequent-flier miles.
Ask Skift Is the AI Chatbot for the Travel Industry
Go deeper into the business of travel with Skift’s new AI chatbot.
Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch
Tags: american airlines, united airlines
Up Next
Loading next stories