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What is the difference between first class and business class airfare?
Question: What is the difference between first class and business class airfare?
What advantages/disadvantages are there to choose one over the other?
(business class airfare)
Best answer:
Answer by sarge927
First class is where you get the really big seats, the legroom, and the better meal and drink service. Business class just gives you a seat that’s a little bigger than coach and more legroom. Business class is not that much more expensive than coach, so to me it’s worth it to have the legroom since I’m so tall (6’4″). First class is A LOT more expensive, and you have to wonder whether it’s worth all that extra money for more room and better food — first class tickets usually cost about twice as much as coach.
The answer dpends on which airline you are talking about, and where you are flying to/from.
Most airlines use “Two Class” (coach and first) aircraft for domestic US flights. So…since you asked about the difference between Business and First I will answer based on my experiences of international “Three Class” aircraft.
Again, it varies greatly from one airline to the next, but on United Airlines for example there is a VAST difference between Coach and Business and a lesser difference between Business and First.
United’s Business class seats give you a considerable increase in seat width and comfort above coach. They also have more adjustability including lumbar support, leg rests and head rests not to mention a greater angle of recline.
The food service in Business class is also a HUGE step up from coach. Meals are served with 2-3 courses, the food is much better (you typically have 2-3 choices for your main entree) and alcohol is free.
Stepping up to First calss on United gets you a small “suite” which converts into a fully flat bed. The seats again have some added features, but the main one is the ability to lie-flat for sleeping. The food is a step up from business, but not by much. The main thing you are paying for in First class is space and special treatment. The seats are much farther apart and most 777′s only have about 8-12 First seats total if I recall correctly. You will be the first person on and off of the plane and in many cases there will be someone waiting to greet you in the terminal to take you to your baggage or connecting flight.
You also will many times have access to special “First Class Only” lounges in the airport terminals some of which can be quite plush (and include showers).
IMO, I think First class would be a waste of money. The differences between Business class and First on most international flights is not enough to warrant the (at times) double price. Most business seats can be had for $ 2,500 up to $ 7,000 while First class seats usually start around $ 6,000 and top out around $ 15,000. Pretty ridiculous if you ask me!
I do think that most Business class offerings have the most bang for the buck, especilly if you have the ability to upgrade using aquired miles or coupons from Frequent Flyer programs. United hs also started offering “Up-Sells” to a higher cabin class upon check-in at the airport. These typically cost $ 600 per passenger and they are only good for one-way, but if you are traveling on a super budget Economy fare (say $ 500) and can upgrade to Business for another $ 600 that is a tremendous deal.