Summary First class cabins are declining due to cost efficiency & changing preferences. Airlines are investing in 'business class plus' to cater to a broader audience. The future of premium air travel is shifting towards democratizing luxury.
In recent years, a significant shift has been observed in the airline industry, particularly in the premium cabin segment of long-haul flights. The once-glamorous first class cabin, synonymous with luxury and exclusivity, is slowly being phased out by many airlines in favor of an upgraded business class product, often called "business class plus." This emerging trend redefines the air travel landscape by blending luxury with practicality, appealing to a broader range of customers.
The decline of first class The decline of first class can be attributed to several key factors, the most significant being cost efficiency and changing customer preferences. Airlines like Oman Air have replaced their first-class cabins with "Business Studios" in their latest long-haul aircraft configurations. These new business class seats offer many amenities traditionally reserved for first class, including lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and gourmet dining options, but at a lower price point for the airline and the passenger.
Another compelling reason for the shift is the underutilization of first-class seats. According to an analysis by Flightworx, the occupancy rates for first class cabins are often lower than for other cabin classes, leading to recons.