The decline of international first class among US airlines has caught the attention of many travelers. Once the pinnacle of luxury air travel, first class has now all but disappeared from major US carriers, with the exception of American Airlines. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this trend and how it reflects the changing landscape of air travel.
The Short Answer
Most US airlines have either eliminated or never offered international first class, as business class has evolved to provide a nearly identical luxury experience at a significantly lower cost and higher efficiency. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have both phased out their first class products in favor of premium business class cabins, which include lie-flat seats, private suites, and top-tier amenities. This shift reflects a broader trend in the airline industry, particularly in North America, where the economics and market demand no longer support traditional first class.
Factors Driving This Decision
When airlines decide to remove first class, they consider various factors such as cost, demand, market behavior, and prestige. For many US carriers, the math doesn’t favor keeping first class in the skies. First class seats are expensive to install, take up more cabin space, and are usually not filled at 100%, resulting in lower returns. While some international airlines maintain first class cabins for branding and prestige, US carriers tend to prioritize profitability over image.
US consumer behavior also plays a role. Most premium travelers in North America are corporate clients who prioritize comfortable seats, privacy, value, and the ability to work on board. Business class now offers all of these amenities, making it a more attractive option for these travelers. Additionally, loyalty programs and corporate travel policies often fund business class over first class.
Alternatives to First Class
What’s replacing first class is a new breed of business class that offers a similar experience at a lower cost. With sliding privacy doors, direct aisle access, lie-flat beds, upgraded food, and dedicated lounges, these modern business class cabins are often indistinguishable from first class. International carriers like Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Air France continue to offer first class, but their markets and demographics differ from those of US carriers.
Exceptions to the Rule
American Airlines remains the only US carrier to offer international first class, but even that may not last forever. The airline’s “Flagship First International” service is currently available only on its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. However, American has announced plans to eventually retire this product and replace it with its new “Flagship Suite” Business Class on its Airbus A321XLR and Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
The Bottom Line
International first class is on its way out for US airlines, with business class taking its place. American Airlines stands as the last holdout with its Flagship First offering, but even that is set to be replaced with next-gen business class in the coming years. For travelers, the good news is that business class has never been better, offering a similar level of luxury at a lower cost.