The Airlines You Should Be Booking With If You Want To Save On First-Class Seats
It's hard not to envy flyers sitting in first class from a seat in economy, especially if you're on a long-haul flight. The longer you spend in your seat, the better it sounds to have extra legroom. You start to imagine lying flat, sleeping through the night, and awaking to a new paradise. Ah, what a treat.
Flying first class offers an abundance of coveted perks from an elevated experience to expedited check-ins, security clearances, and boarding processes. Additional amenities, such as access to exclusive airport lounges and personalized in-flight service, make a usually stressful experience, significantly more relaxing and enjoyable. Unfortunately, this experience is out of budget for the majority of folks.
Nonetheless, even if you're looking for cost-effective options, every once in a while, you can find a relatively reasonable first-class ticket. For travelers seeking value in first-class air travel, certain airlines stand out for offering premium experiences at more affordable prices. If you're savvy and selective with the airlines you purchase tickets from, first-class seats may be more in reach than you would expect.
Save on first-class seats with American Airlines
American Airlines is likely going to be the best choice for passengers looking to save on first-class seats. Offering an array of options tailored to budget-conscious luxury travelers, this should be your first stop online when checking out your options. In a 2023 study conducted across four major U.S. airlines by Upgraded Points, researchers found that American Airlines offered the cheapest flights in first-class between popular destinations like LA to Maui, NYC to LA, and more.
On average, travelers flying with American Airlines who opt for a first-class ticket over one in economy, pay $235.85 more. In comparison to Alaskan Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United, AA beats them out, offering the smallest difference between the two prices. Additionally, through its Flagship First service, the airline frequently rolls out special offers and features for its first-class cabins. If you are a member of American Airlines AAdvantage loyalty program, you can also accrue and redeem miles for first-class upgrades.
United is a great choice if you want to save on first-class seats
United Airlines is another strategic choice for travelers seeking value in first-class air travel. For domestic U.S. flights, United Airlines offers United First as their premier option. However, on routes to Latin America and the Caribbean, United Business is the top-tier offering. On international routes, United offers its most luxurious class, United Polaris. With Polaris, you can expect amenities such as complimentary slippers and bedding from Saks Fifth Avenue.
In the same analysis by Upgrade Points, United was a close second to American Airlines in affordability. On average, flyers will pay $250.23 more for an upgrade from economy to first class. Additionally, United's MileagePlus program is a pivotal factor for flyers, offering members opportunities to use their miles for first-class seats. Ranking as one of the best airline rewards programs in the U.S., MileagePlus is a great way to reduce the cost barrier typically associated with first-class travel.