Is Business Class Heading for an Upgrade?
Skift Take
We know first class is on the way out on routes between the biggest business cities. But do travelers want a better-than-business option at a reasonable price?
Do you remember the simplicity of airline economy class? Two decades ago, most airlines had a single cabin, and all seats had the same service, pitch, and width.
No longer. Sophisticated airlines have several sections, such as premium economy, economy with extra legroom, and regular seats. Some even set aside rows with reduced legroom for their most cost-conscious customers.
In business class, though, everyone receives the same service, food, and other goodies. Some airlines charge extra for more desirable seats, but otherwise, the product is standard.
What if there was another way?
As I wrote Tuesday, two Asian airlines are experimenting with a business class-plus experience, offering better seats and service to customers who pay more. Malaysia Airlines calls its product the business suite, while China Eastern uses the name premium business. In each case, the product essentially replaces first class.
This could just be a blip. Or it could be the start of a new era of business class segmentation, said Samuel Engel, a head of the aviation practice at IC
