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The Main Differences Between Business Class vs. First Class — and Tips for Booking Each

Here's what to know about each premium cabin type — and how to book them.

Business Class

Domestic first class, international first class, how to book (or be upgraded to) business class, domestic first class, and international first class.

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If you're tired of flying in economy, it might be time for an upgrade. For a more enjoyable flight, booking a premium cabin — that is, business class, domestic first class, or international first class — provides vast improvements. But each of the cabins offers a fairly different experience, and it's important to know what to expect with each. Here's everything you need to know about the premium cabins available on planes today.

• Typically lie-flat or angled seats
• Multicourse plated meal service
• Priority check-in and boarding
• Extra baggage allowance
• Lounge access
• Amenity kits
• Business class seats, amenities, and services vary greatly per airline and aircraft
• Usually a very expensive option
• No complimentary upgrades

Business class is a premium cabin available on international long-haul flights . Seats are typically lie-flat or angled, not just recliners, offering far more space than in the economy or premium economy cabins . Service is elevated both in the air, from free alcohol to plated multicourse meals, and on the ground, from priority check-in and boarding to lounge access. But not all business-class cabins are created equal. Some more outdated products lack in seat comfort and privacy, while newer ones might include closed-door suite-style seats with extra space. Even within an airline, business-class cabins can vary greatly on different aircraft. Pricing is dramatically greater than economy, often thousands of dollars no matter the route.

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• More spacious and comfortable seats
• Often served plated meals
• Complimentary upgrades for elite status holders
• Not as expensive as business class or international first class
• Typically no lie-flat seats
• Lounge access is not guaranteed

Domestic first class is the top cabin on domestic flights and some short-haul international flights. On most airlines and aircraft, this means you'll sit in a recliner-style seat that offers more space and legroom than economy. Some transcontinental flights, however, may have business-class lie-flat seats, but this varies based on the airline and aircraft. On flights that are a few hours or longer, you'll be served plated hot meals, and on all flights, alcohol is complimentary. Before your flight, you'll receive priority check-in services (including extra baggage allowances), but you usually won't receive lounge access. You'll be one of the first groups to board your plane. The tickets cost more than economy, of course, but they're typically not as expensive as business-class fares — perhaps a few hundred up to a thousand dollars.

• The most privacy, with some seats being fully enclosed
• Fine dining
• First class-only lounges at some airports; general lounge access at others
• Only available on certain airlines and aircraft
• The most expensive option

International first class is the ultimate flying experience — it's the best cabin across the board on commercial aircraft, ranked above business class, and it has the price tag to match. Many airlines don't even offer an international first class; a few notable ones that do have the product include Singapore Airlines , Etihad, and Air France. What makes the cabin so exceptional is the space and privacy of each seat. On some airlines, first-class seats are private suites with closed doors. The dining experience is usually elevated beyond that of business class, with fine wines and over-the-top menu items. As with business class, you'll receive a number of perks on the ground, from priority check-in to exclusive lounge access — some airlines have special first-class lounges that are not accessible to frequent fliers or business-class travelers. And, of course, expect to board in one of the first groups. You'll find this type of first-class cabin on international long-haul flights only — and solely on certain routes on certain airlines.

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You likely already know you can select any of these classes instead of the economy cabin when booking a flight. And you're probably also aware you can use either cash or miles to purchase seats in business or first class.

But what you might not know is that on most airlines, there are other ways to score an upgrade — though it likely won't be free.

Paid Upgrades

It's often possible to pay for upgrades to business or first class in cash or miles later on, depending on availability — and they might be cheaper than the full price at booking. "A lot of airlines these days will tempt you with an option to upgrade during the check-in process that sometimes can be cheaper than buying a business ticket outright," Katy Nastro, travel expert at Going , tells Travel + Leisure . "If this is your game plan, don’t always count on the ticket being downright cheap. It will still be more expensive than your original ticket price, and it all depends on if there is any availability in a higher class."

Even after check-in, you can ask an agent at a transfer desk if you're on a layover or a gate agent if there are any paid upgrades available. "Sometimes, airlines have unsold premium seats that they're willing to upgrade passengers to at a lower cost," Kristin Winkaffe, founder of Winkaffe Global Travel , tells T+L. "It's a bit of a gamble, but it's always worth politely inquiring at the gate if any upgrade options are available. This method can be especially fruitful if you are traveling during off-peak times."

Meet the Expert

Katy Nastro is a travel expert at Going, a website that finds flight deals to more than 900 destinations around the world.

Kristin Winkaffe is the founder of Winkaffe Global Travel, a travel agency with a focus on sustainability and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Bidding on Upgrades

Additionally, some international airlines allow you to bid on upgrades to premium cabins before your flight. "It's like an auction; you make an offer, and if it's accepted, you get upgraded," says Winkaffe. "The key here is to make a reasonable bid, keeping in mind the flight duration and destination."

Free Upgrades

If you're a "regular" passenger, you probably won't get a free upgrade. "Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that dressing nicely will afford you an automatic upgrade. This is a travel myth that might have been true decades ago, but is just not the case today," says Nastro.

But if you're a frequent flier with elite status, complimentary upgrades are one of your perks — on domestic flights and limited short-haul international trips, that is. Elites can request to be added to the complimentary upgrade list on certain flights, with seats doled out based on availability. "A warning for these methods, though — you will need to fly quite a lot to really reap the rewards of elite status," says Winkaffe. "It's a long-term strategy, but definitely rewarding for those who travel often."

There is one rare case in which you may be able to score a free upgrade without status: accepting a voluntary bump on an oversold flight. "When a flight is oversold, you may see the airline ask for volunteers to switch, and likely will sweeten the deal with cash," says Nastro. "To sweeten the deal even more, inquire whether they would be able to upgrade you on the alternate flight if you give up your seat. No guarantees this will work, as sometimes policies prevent it, but it doesn't hurt to ask."

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The Main Differences Between First Class and Business Class

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Table of Contents

Many travelers don’t know the difference between first class and business class, what is “real” first class, the 7 differences between first class and business class, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

In the world of travel, travelers are often left wondering: What’s the difference between first and business class?

Believe it or not, this is a complex question that requires a lot of contextual background to answer definitively.

In this guide, we investigate the differences between first class and business class.

First class and business class are viewed differently by most travelers.

For example, if you’re accustomed to flying around the U.S. in first class, you’re most likely going to encounter a first class seat with a bit of extra padding, more legroom, and the ability to recline a bit further than an economy seat.

But if you’re traveling on a long-haul flight in first class, you’ll immediately notice a massive difference:

The amount of space you have on an international first class flight is multiple times greater — you’ll have a lie-flat seat with high-quality bedding, designer amenities, and so much more.

But, by and large, these 2 different products are still called “first class.” Similar examples exist in the realm of business class, too.

Here’s what a Lufthansa business class seat looks like on a short-haul flight within Europe:

And here’s what a Lufthansa business class seat looks like on a long-haul flight:

In general, the most luxurious first class and business class experiences are found on long-haul flights.

Unfortunately, there’s no easy way for average travelers to be able to tell what you’re getting without digging deeper into the aircraft type and other details. Additionally, many airlines choose to offer business class as their highest class, which can be miles ahead of what another airline might call “first class.”

For example, Qatar Airways has one of the world’s best business class products, known as Qsuite . Qsuite offers such an incredibly lavish experience, complete with lie-flat beds, 5-star dining, and fabulous service. Compared to what Delta offers on a domestic “first class” flight from Atlanta to Detroit, Qsuite wins without question.

Hot Tip: In general, U.S. airlines choose the term “first class” to refer to the highest cabin class available on domestic flights, while they use the term “business class” to refer to the highest cabin class available on international flights.

Delta One business class , which is only offered on long-haul flights and select premium transcontinental flights, is miles ahead of its first class product. Delta’s short-haul first class simply can’t compete with its long-haul business class offering.

Similarly, United’s Polaris business class , which is also only offered on select long-haul or transcontinental flights, will blow its domestic first class product out of the water, without question.

One notable exception is American Airlines, which is one of the only U.S. airlines that still offers a distinct cabin and product above business class. Indeed, American Airlines offers first class, business class , premium economy, and economy on a few of its flights.

We mentioned above that you can’t rely on the “first class” or “business class” label to conclusively determine what product you’re getting. Well, what is “real” first class? We touched on the answer with the example of American Airlines above — and it boils down to the number of cabins on a plane .

For example, on international, long-haul flights, if separate first class and business class tickets are being sold, you’ll almost always see that these first class tickets cost upwards of $10,000 apiece. On the other hand, business class might cost just $2,000 to $3,000. So, “real” first class can best be defined as the cabin above business class when business class tickets are sold separately, typically on long-haul flights.

Airlines may take different approaches to offering separate cabin classes. For example, in the U.S., first class (whether you’re flying on United, Alaska, Delta, or another carrier) usually refers to the small cabin at the front of the plane, which is typically equipped with slightly larger seats that recline a bit more than economy.

If a U.S. airline such as Delta operates a short-haul flight, say, from Atlanta (ATL) to Mexico City (MEX) using the same exact plane as a flight from Atlanta (ATL) to Detroit (DTW), the international flight’s front-most cabin is called “business class,” while the domestic flight’s front-most cabin is called “first class.”

In contrast, if Air New Zealand operates a short-haul, domestic flight from Auckland (AKL) to Christchurch (CHC), its forward-most cabin is called business. The same is true if Air New Zealand operates an ultra-long-haul, international flight from Auckland (AKL) to Los Angeles (LAX).

Another example is Air France. If Air France operates a short-haul flight from Paris (CDG) to Nice (NCE), its business class seats are simply economy seats with the middle seat blocked off. Similarly, if Air France operates a long-haul flight from Paris (CDG) to Denver (DEN), its lie-flat seat is also called business class. To make things more complicated, if Air France operates a long-haul flight between Paris (CDG) and Chicago (ORD), there may also be a separate product higher than business class: La Première first class .

So when people talk about “real” first class, it usually refers to the ridiculously expensive plane tickets where there’s a separate first class cabin (usually positioned in front of the business class cabin) on the same plane .

Airlines that offer “real” first class on at least 1 route include:

• All Nippon Airways (ANA)
• British Airways
• Cathay Pacific
• China Eastern
• Etihad Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• Singapore Airlines
• Swiss International Air Lines

All that being said, let’s examine all of the ways these airlines usually distinguish their first class products from business class!

In this guide, we walk you through the differences between first class and business class in each aspect of the travel experience.

We refer to different airlines and walk you through specifics of their first and business class experiences and what sets them apart.

Ground Experience and Lounge Access

When you book a first class flight on an airline such as Lufthansa, you’ll immediately feel the difference upon stepping foot into the airport.

If you’re departing from or connecting in Frankfurt (FRA) as a Lufthansa first class passenger, you’ll start your experience by visiting the Lufthansa First Class Terminal.

This building is reserved only for Lufthansa’s VIPs — enjoy an exclusive area to check-in for your flight, print your boarding passes, and access private security screening.

The First Class Terminal features state-of-the-art facilities , including a staffed cocktail bar boasting top-shelf alcohol, a huge business center, a cigar bar, a dining room with an extensive à la carte menu, nap rooms with beds, and, best of all, a Porsche or Mercedes chauffeur experience to directly board the plane .

In contrast, Lufthansa business class travelers will be allowed to access a business class lounge that has buffet-style dining options, a bar, newspapers, and shower cubicles.

Not that anyone’s complaining, but the first class ground experience, especially if you’re departing from the airline’s central hub airport, far outclasses the business class ground experience.

Hot Tip: Check out more of the Lufthansa First Class Terminal and Lounge in our review of Lufthansa first class from Frankfurt (FRA) to Singapore (SIN) .

When flying in business or first class, one can argue that what you’re paying for is the extra personal real estate — most people who pay to fly business and/or first class value the idea of not sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with a seatmate in a cramped steel tube.

In general, real first class seats have much more personal space than business class seats.

One of the best examples of this is Singapore Airlines, specifically on its A380 aircraft.

Aboard Singapore Airlines’ A380 first class suites, you’ll encounter this:

The first class seats on this aircraft have a plush armchair (used for takeoff and landing), a separate lie-flat bed, a workstation, and a total of 50 square feet of space . Plus, these suites have high walls that offer more privacy from the rest of the aisle.

Let’s compare this to the business class seat on the same plane:

Although this seat is a perfectly comfortable way to fly anywhere, you’ll immediately notice a big difference.

The business class seats still recline fully flat, but you don’t get a separate bed (your seat is your bed), you’ll have less privacy from other passengers, and there is less personal space allocated just for you.

Flying on an airplane is an inherently uncomfortable experience — one of the areas where the difference between first class and business class is clear, especially amongst seasoned luxury travelers, is in the amenities department.

One of the airlines that consistently excels in pampering first class and business class travelers with amenities is Emirates.

To start, Emirates’ first class passengers (on A380 aircraft) have access to an exclusive onboard shower spa .

Beyond that, Emirates amenities include a huge Bvlgari amenity kit stocked with lotion, aftershave, lip balm, perfume, and other skincare products. There’s even a second amenity kit with nighttime products from Byredo, including pillow mist and eye cream.

Level up your souvenir game with a leather-bound notebook from Emirates, a set of extremely comfortable (and hydrating!) pajamas, Bowers and Wilkins noise cancellation headphones, and so much more.

As you can tell, Emirates goes overboard in showering its first class travelers with amenities .

Although Emirates offers excellent amenities to its business class passengers, too, it doesn’t offer an inflight shower spa, pajamas, a notebook, and a few other items.

When it comes to inflight service, it’s hard to explain the difference between first class and business class unless you’ve experienced it yourself, first-hand.

The easiest way to begin this discussion is to mention that any particular business class cabin might have 50 seats, while a first class cabin usually maxes out at just over 10 seats.

The simple math says that your service will be much more personalized in first class simply because there’s a flight attendant assigned to every couple of passengers. In business class, expect 1 flight attendant for every 10 or so passengers.

One of the best examples showcasing this service concentration is in comparing Air France La Première first class with Air France business class .

In Air France business class, service is designed to be efficient, with carts rolled up and down the aisles to serve passengers. Usually, multiple items are brought out on the same tray, and there are set dining times.

In La Première, there are just 4 seats in the whole cabin, so the service is truly exclusive. You can eat whenever you want, have refills of caviar, and even request custom dishes to be made.

In general, the cabin crew in first class are also more polished and can perfectly toe the line between being fun and professional.

One of the most important elements of the inflight experience is the food. After all, if you’re paying thousands of dollars for a plane ticket, you’d rather not be hungry by the time you land.

For example, when you fly in ANA first class, you’ll enjoy expertly-crafted, celebrity chef-masterminded meals with many courses, plenty of flavor complexity, and, honestly, so much food that you’ll be stuffed by the time your meal is halfway done.

In contrast, ANA business class ‘ food, while delicious, is generally served on 1 or 2 trays.

Plus, you’ll usually enjoy caviar in first class, too!

One of the most unforgettable elements of a top-quality first class experience is the alcohol selection. In general, the alcohol selection on first class flights is incredible .

For example, Japan Airlines routinely offers its first class passengers some of the best drinks in the sky, including Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne, Salon Blanc de Blancs Champagne, Hibiki 17 or 21 whiskies, and Juyondai Yukimegami Junmai Daiginjo sake (which retails for $1,000 per bottle).

There’s massive variation here — some business class airlines offer more superior Champagne than other lesser-known first class airlines (such as China Eastern and Air China).

And this isn’t even limited to alcoholic beverages — many first class airlines offer fresh espresso drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes, while most business class airlines only offer blended coffee or basic espresso.

The very last distinction between first class and business class is the price tag.

Airlines may make attractive business class fares available from time to time, allowing travelers to fly across the pond to Europe for less than $3,000 round-trip or to Asia for less than $4,000 round-trip.

In general, round-trip business class tickets to Europe or Asia usually hover around $5,000 to $6,000 in price.

In contrast, long-haul first class tickets are routinely past the 5-figure mark . In fact, it’s extremely rare to find a round-trip first class fare departing the U.S. to Asia or Europe for less than $10,000.

Indeed, ultra-premium first class airlines, including Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Japan Airlines, ANA, Qantas, and Air France, can sell first class tickets for more than $20,000.

This makes using points and miles even more attractive!

The difference between first class and business class is often misleading. Unfortunately, many airlines contribute to this confusion with their marketing communication.

As we’ve shared in this guide, most U.S. airlines refer to their forward-most cabin on domestic flights as “first class,” while their forward-most cabin on international flights is “business class.”

The distinctions go much deeper than that, though, once you start talking about long-haul travel. Real first class always refers to those extremely expensive plane tickets on exclusive nonstop routes offered as a step above business class on the same plane aboard airlines such as Air France, Emirates, Etihad, Lufthansa, ANA, and Qantas.

These first class experiences are truly a notch above business class in 7 major ways:

• Ground experience and lounge access

Not all first class or business class experiences are created equal — remember this as you take your luxury travel to the next level with points!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between first class and business class.

In general, there’s virtually no difference when you fly on a short-haul or domestic flight (with a few specific exceptions).

However, if you’re traveling on a long-haul flight, the difference between first and business class can be huge, including a much larger seat, more lavish amenities, endless 5-star food, phenomenal bedding, stellar service, and expensive alcohol.

Is business class nicer than first class?

On U.S. airlines, business class is usually nicer than first class. For example, Delta One’s business class to Europe or Asia is much, much better than Delta’s first class within the U.S.

What's more expensive, business or first class?

On international flights, first class is more expensive. On domestic flights, business class might not actually be a bookable fare class. For example, if you fly from Los Angeles to San Francisco, you’ll probably be looking for first class since business class doesn’t exist for such a short flight.

Does business class have beds?

On most airlines nowadays, business class has beds. Your seat is probably able to recline completely to a lie-flat bed so you can enjoy some sleep while you’re on the plane.

Is business class first class on American?

Yes and no — it depends. If you’re flying on a simple flight from Phoenix to Dallas, you can’t book business class, only first class.

But if you’re flying from Dallas to Seoul, Flagship Business class is the best, most luxurious product you can book.

Also, if you’re flying from Los Angeles to London, you can actually book first class  or business class on the same plane, and first class is the highest.

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12 Best Business Class Airlines in the World

The allure of Business Class travel has never been stronger. In the modern, fast-paced world of executive and luxury travel, selecting the right airline can be the difference between a productive, relaxing flight and a nightmare at 35,000 feet.

As airlines compete and evolve to deliver even greater luxuries, refined service and pioneering amenities, this article will explore some of the best airlines offering a Business Class product to make your flight an unforgettable experience – for all the right reasons.

Many airlines are cutting back on their First Class offerings and ramping up their Business Class cabins to feed an ever-growing demand. More and more families are flying in Business Class and airlines are catering for them too!

We here at BusinessClass.com will only review an airline if we have actually flown it. We experience everything from the chauffeur service to the airport, to check-in, the lounges , the flight and everything in the middle - cuisine, Champagne , service, amenity kits , and most importantly the seat and comfort ! We do the work so you can make a more informed choice of which airline to fly with! 

Search & Book your next Business Class flight with BusinessClass.com today !

The BusinessClass.com guide to the 12 Best Business Class airlines in the world: 

Qatar Airways

BusinessClass.com overall score: 10/10

Arguably, the best Business Class experience in the skies – known for its Qsuites, lavish lounges and impressive inflight service and dining.

Business Class passengers enjoy expedited check-in and security lines at Doha and the stunning Al Mourjan Business Lounge, offering shower and nap facilities and numerous dining options, including buffet and à la carte restaurants.

Most Qatar Airways long-haul aircraft boast flatbed seats. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350 have 1-2-1 seat configurations, while the Airbus A330 and some older Boeing 777s still have 2-2-2 setups. Many aircraft offer the famed Qsuite, while the latest Dreamliners boast the newest Business Class Suite.

Dine-on-demand gourmet cuisine is accompanied by a solid wine list and a long list of cocktails and mocktails. Passengers on the A380 also take advantage of the upper deck Bar.

Qatar Airways flight attendants are among the most service-oriented in the skies. Other perks include collectable amenity kits, pyjamas, a pair of comfortable slippers and great in-flight entertainment.

What We Love:

• A superb dining and inflight experience
• The fabulous Al Mourjan lounge in Doha
• Qsuite - Business Class suites with doors that close

Champagne: 

• Laurent-Perrier Brut, and Charles Heidsieck Réserve

Virgin Atlantic

BusinessClass.com overall score: 9/10 

Virgin Atlantic appeals to a younger, funkier demographic, with a warm, friendly cabin crew keen to interact with passengers.

Virgin flies to 35 locations across five continents. The exclusive Upper Class (Business Class) Wing at London Heathrow offers personal porters, dedicated check-in, priority lifts and fast-track security. Uber stylish Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouses are more like a members' club – offering table service, a fantastic range of food and drink, relaxation and wellness facilities.

Virgin Atlantic Upper Class seats transform into fully flat beds with direct aisle access. The airline's exclusive Retreat Suites on the latest Airbus A330-900neos offer two connecting suites large enough for four passengers to socialise and dine in the intimacy of their own booth.

Passengers choose from a four-course menu for a restaurant-style experience with an excellent wine list.

Night-flight passengers receive pyjamas and quality bedding, including a duvet, a large pillow, and an amenity kit. Upper Class cabins also feature a dedicated social space to meet colleagues, drink with friends, or eat dinner.

• The uber-cool Clubhouses
• The slick and stylish look and feel of Virgin
• The onboard social space
• Ayala Champagne
• If Ayala unavailable - Canard-Duchêne and Champagne Chanoine Frères Réserve Privée Brut NV.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Business Class is among the best Middle Eastern carriers, with impressive service from an international crew that speaks multiple languages.

Business Class lounges in Abu Dhabi offer Middle Eastern and Asian-inspired menus, fine wines, cocktails and mocktails. There are shower suites, quiet relaxing places, and dedicated business facilities.

Business Class seats vary depending on the aircraft. However, all have lie-flat seats with direct aisle access. The Airbus A380s offer 70 of the latest, more private Business Studios with higher partitions and access to 'The Lobby' lounge bar area.

Etihad offers a dine-on-demand service with a bespoke dinner service labelled 'Beyond Business.' An excellent beverage menu includes Champagne, two whites, two reds and a dessert wine, plus a long list of spirits and soft drinks.

Amenity kits by Acqua di Parma contain signature fragrances, eye masks, ear plugs and luxurious socks. The mosaic-tiled lavatories also feature luxury comfort products.

• A dine-on-demand menu
• The excellent Abu Dhabi lounges
• Top-notch service from an international crew
• Piper Heidsieck Cuvée Brut

Vietnam Airlines

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8.5/10

The flag carrier since 1993, Vietnam Airlines goes from strength to strength. It operates 96 routes, including 27 international destinations spanning Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Indochina, Australia, and North America. It has one of the world's fastest-growing domestic markets, with hubs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and a secondary hub in Da Nang.

Vietnam Airlines operates one of the youngest and most modern fleets in Asia, consisting of Boeing 787-9, 787-10 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s for long-haul flights, with older Airbus A321ceos and state-of-the-art A321neos used on shorter routes.

All Business Class seats have direct aisle access and offer fully converting lie-flat beds of around 75 inches (190.5 centimetres) in length, a pitch of 42 inches (106.7 centimetres), and a spacious seat width of 21.5 inches (54.6 centimetres) in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration.

Vietnamese cuisine reflects the country's vibrant culture and traditions with a delicate balance of flavours, textures, and colours alongside sweet, salty, sour ,and spicy elements. Gourmands will savour the meal service. 

Vietnam Airlines offers passengers a good standard of service, and though it may not be as personalised as with some leading airlines, passengers will still feel welcomed and relaxed by the attentive crew. Flight attendants are professional, friendly, and courteous, and with a generous ratio of up to four cabin crew for the Business Class cabin

• A modern and young fleet of aircraft
• Spacious and comfortable Business Class seats
• Fresh, delicious, and well-presented food in the lounges and onboard
• Heidsieck & Co's Monopole Blue Top Brut

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8.5/10 

Qantas is an iconic Australian brand and one of the oldest airlines still in operation, with a Business Class cabin on all international long-haul flights to a global network.

The home hub in Sydney offers a Qantas International Business Lounge with facilities including a range of dining spaces plus premium wines and spirits. Business Class passengers receive priority check-in, dedicated boarding lanes and speedy disembarkation.

The airline's international Airbus A380s, A330-300s, and Boeing 787s provide comfortable Business Suites with a fully lie-flat bed. The A380s also offer a stylish upper deck lounge for socialising.

Passengers enjoy a fabulous range of dining options, from formal restaurant-style dining to lighter meals. Wine experts' Sommeliers in the Sky' recommend a range of award-winning Champagnes and Australian wines. A wide selection of non-alcoholic beverages is also available.

Service is polished, professional, and heartfelt. Wi-Fi is unavailable on most international routes, but some 2,500 hours of entertainment are available on the seatback HD IFE screens.

Amenities include a mattress pad, a cotton duvet and pillow, designer pyjamas and an eye-catching amenity kit containing fight essentials.

• A practical, luxurious, and comfortable product
• Sommeliers in the Sky - a touch of class
• The stylish upper deck lounge on the Airbus A380
• Rotates between Duval-Leroy Brut, Jacquart Mosaïque Brut, Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve and Taittinger Cuvée Prestige Brut.

BusinessClass.com overall score: 9.5/10 

The national flag carrier of Oman delivers a high-quality Business Class product. Headquartered at Muscat International Airport, the airline operates a mix of Airbus A330s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners with direct flights to Europe, the Gulf, the Far East, and the Indian subcontinent.

A stunning new terminal offers Business Class Lounges with marble floors and an appealing Arabic design. Passengers will find excellent dining options, a spa, nap pods, sleeping rooms, and refreshing shower suites.

Cabins are light, sleek, and elegant and provide passengers with one of the best Business Class seats in the skies with direct aisle access.

Superb 'dine-on-demand' East-West fusion cuisine is plated on board for inflight dining, closely resembling First Class on other airlines. All wine is served in long-stemmed glasses – a wide alcohol selection includes Laurent-Perrier Brut Champagne. For an Arabic experience, try the Karak Tea.

The Omani cabin crew provide genuine Arabic hospitality with excellent spoken English. Passengers receive well-stocked amenity kits, and long-haul passengers get quilted duvets, fluffy pillows, slippers, and a cotton sleeper suit.

• Best-in-class window seats
• Excellent and varied à la carte meal options
• Warm hospitality with Omani style
• Laurent-Perrier Brut

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8.5/10  

Air Canada's Signature Class (Business Class) offers an end-to-end premium experience with a distinctly Canadian flavour with hubs in Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver Airports.

Signature Class travellers access priority check-in, security lanes, boarding and the airline's Maple Leaf lounges in 16 airports across Canada, the United States and Europe. Toronto Airport also boasts the impressive Air Canada Signature Suite. An airside chauffeur service is available to eligible Toronto and Vancouver Airport customers.

The latest lie-flat Signature Class seats, named "Executive Pods", are arranged in a 1–2–1 reverse herringbone configuration on Boeing 787 and B777 aircraft. Some Airbus A330s feature the older "Classic Pods" in a 1-1-1 design.

Long-haul passengers enjoy a gourmet "dine on demand" service created by a panel of esteemed Canadian chefs, a decent wine list, and Laurent-Perrier Champagne Brut.

The charming and professional cabin crew are fluent in English and French, and a solid IFE system entertains passengers. All widebody long-haul aircraft have Wi-Fi connectivity, and passengers receive a sanitised pillow, duvet, mattress pad, a CleanCare+ kit, and a branded amenity kit containing travel essentials.

What We Love

• The Air Canada Signature Class - Executive Pod
• Air Canada Chauffeur service
• Gourmet "dine on demand" service

Japanese precision and service are hallmarks in All Nippon Airways (ANA's) highly regarded Business Class. ANA operates dual hubs at the incredibly efficient Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita airports, offering premium check-in and fast-track security access.

ANA-branded lounges in Tokyo host the airline's famous noodle bar, self-service alcohol and automatic beer machines. Lounges feature showers, napping areas, free Wi-Fi and private work cubicles. Other ANA lounges are in Honolulu (Hawaii) and Osaka, Kansai. Elsewhere, ANA's Star Alliance partners provide lounge facilities.

ANA operates long-haul Boeing 787, B777 and Airbus A380s with flatbed seats designed in a 1-2-1 configuration in Business Class. Look for smaller "mini cabins" for a more intimate feel. The newest, widest and most private Business Class seat, 'The Room', is on the B777-300.

ANA's inflight service is incredibly friendly yet reserved. Excellent Western cuisine and Japanese set menus have restaurant-style presentations. There is a good wine list, plus sake, spirits, teas and speciality coffee.

Large IFE screens contain international programming with headphones, plus paid wireless internet. Amenity kits include Japanese designer toiletries, and seats come with comfortable bedding, two pillows, plus a shoe bag. Long-haul aircraft also have bidet toilets.

• Japanese cuisine and an impressive alcohol list
• Chic lounges
• The new Business Class seat - The Room
• Champagne Castelnau - Cuvée Brut Réserve

Cathay Pacific

The admired flag carrier of Hong Kong connects continents with an impressive route map and enviable inflight service.

Hong Kong's Chep Lap Kok airport offers priority check-in and dedicated security lines. Cathay Pacific is renowned for its lounges, with The Pier Business Class Lounge regarded among the best in the world. Other Cathay Pacific lounges are found in gateway cities.

Most aircraft have one large Business Class section and a smaller cabin, and all offer 1-2-1 flatbed seating on the long-haul Boeing 777s and Airbus A350s.

Inflight dining is like a restaurant service in the air with as many as six main course options, including signature dishes from Hong Kong. The airline's celebrated wine panellists select bottles from around the world, plus Champagne, exclusive beers, and spirits.

Service is warm and hospitable, with passenger names used throughout the flight. The A350s feature wireless internet, which will soon be available throughout the widebody fleet. Large IFE screens hold an impressive amount of entertainment content.

Amenity kits feature Bamford toiletry products, and passengers receive plush pillows and luxurious bedlinen by Bamford, along with slippers.  

• Luxurious lounges with impressive food and beverage options
• Restaurant-style onboard catering
• Business Class cabins are cocoons for comfort

Singapore Airlines

BusinessClass.com overall score: 10/10 

Singapore Airlines is renowned for incredible hospitality, style, and inflight service, which is second to none.

The airline's hub at Changi Airport features premium check-in areas and seven airline lounges. The SilverKris Business Class lounges are recommended due to their superior offerings – and also found in ten other international cities.

All long-haul Business Class seats are exceptionally comfortable and are among the widest fully flat beds in the sky. The centre seats of the A380 also feature a central partition that, when fully lowered, forms a double bed.

The 'Book the Cook' onboard catering is exceptional, featuring a multi-course restaurant-style dinner service. The airline also boasts a vast wine and beverage list.

The cabin crew are among the most genuine and attentive in the skies. Passengers receive excellent noise-cancelling headphones and a wide selection of entertainment content. Limited complimentary Wi-Fi is available on most aircraft.

Passengers get a luxury amenity kit from Penhaligon's, while a sealed pillow and blanket, socks, eye masks and slippers wait at each seat before boarding.

• The inflight service is unrivalled
• Some of the most spacious and comfortable seats in class
• The “Book the Cook” service
• Billecart-Salmon Brut or Deutz Brut Classic

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines (JAL) is the country's flag carrier with impressive international and domestic route maps. JAL operates major hubs at both Tokyo Haneda and Tokyo Narita airports.

The Sakura Lounges in both Tokyo airports feature beautiful runway views, a selection of hot & cold Japanese or international food, an open bar and, in many locations, shower facilities. Sakura Lounges are also available overseas.

The long-haul fleet consists exclusively of Boeing widebody jets with varied seat configurations ranging from 1-2-1 to 2-2-2 and 2-3-2 layouts. All long-haul flights offer the comfortable JAL SKY SUITE with fully flat beds and direct aisle access.

JAL offers exceptional multi-course cuisine, serving traditional Japanese fare and international dishes. The bar menu is wide and varied and includes a rotation of excellent Champagnes. JAL crews are eager to please and make passengers feel welcome when called upon.

Wi-Fi is available on many flights for a fee, and multi-language entertainment on the IFE, along with noise-reducing headphones. Amenity kits contain high-quality beauty products and travel essentials. Cardigan sweaters are available on request in addition to the slippers, pillow and blanket provided at each seat.

• Japanese hospitality
• High-end food and beverage
• The JAL SKY SUITE
• Duval-Leroy Brut Réserve and Drappier Carte D'or

SriLankan Airlines

BusinessClass.com overall score: 8/10 

The national carrier of Sri Lanka is based at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, offering a global network, including its codeshare partners. The airline flies Airbus aircraft with the A330-300 as its flagship.

Business Class passengers enter a dedicated check-in area before being escorted through security to the Serendib Lounge, which offers relaxing space, an international gourmet buffet, a business centre and shower facilities.

SriLankan Airlines operates a small fleet of eleven long-haul Airbus A330s with 18 or 28 Business Class seats. The newest A330-300s have 28 flatbed leather seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, with direct aisle access, while the A330-200s have flatbed seats in a 2-2-2 layout.

Passengers select between four delicious meal options, and Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut is freely available during flights, along with wines, beers, cocktails and spirits. Look out for freshly blended fruit juice and impressive tea options.

A decent array of international entertainment comes with noise-cancelling headphones. Wi-Fi is available on all A330s for a fee, and amenity kits and slippers are provided on night flights. The cabin crew service is attentive and considerate.

• A fabulous tea service
• Swift and professional check-in
• Overall excellent service
• Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut

Read more: 

• Tips on Finding cheap Business Class flights
• Business Class Travel Tips

BusinessClass.com  searches hundreds of travel sites simultaneously to help you find the best premium flights and offers.  BusinessClass.com also compares all the major hotel suppliers to give you the very best prices in the finest hotels. 

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Are these airlines really the best and worst for business class travel?

From the ergonomics of tray tables to the types of cheese one can devour in an airport lounge, the small details matter when flying business class.

And why not? You want to make sure those carefully saved points go as far as possible.

Want more TPG news and travel tips? Subscribe to our free daily newsletter.

Luggage storage company Bounce recently decided to separate the best and worst experiences in the sky, ranking airlines across seven business class criteria including cabin and seat, cuisine, amenities and facilities.

These aggregated scores come courtesy of user reviews on online travel agent Business Class, with Singapore Airlines emerging as the overall champ with a total score of 9.57 across all categories, finishing just above Qatar, which managed an impressive 9.29. Egyptair is at the bottom of the list with a score of 5.71.

Which airlines performed well, which ones disappointed, and should you take these scores with a pinch of in-flight salt? Here at TPG, we've flown business (and more) with all of these airlines. Scroll down to see how each one measured up when we flew with them.

Note: amenities and seats can differ from plane to plane, and if some of the reviews appear to be two or three years old, there's a COVID-19 reason for that and we'll be sure to update with the latest reviews once they're in.

Now read on to see our thoughts on the best and worst business class services.

10 best-rated business class airlines

1. singapore airlines.

Average rating: 9.57

What tpg says:.

"After experiencing 18 hours of Singapore's legendary service, it was clear how this carrier continually wins awards for the best service of an airline though the biggest issue with the flight was the seat itself: though the seat is oversized compared to competitors, it's not comfortable for relaxing or sleeping, especially if you prefer a soft mattress or have trouble sleeping at an angle. Do whatever you can to select a bulkhead seat on this flight. If you can't, rest assured knowing that there's enough IFE content to keep you entertained for multiple trips from New York to Singapore."

Read our full business class review of Singapore Airlines A350-900ULR from Newark to Singapore (Originally published Jan 2020)

2. Qatar Airways

Average rating: 9.29

"Qatar Airways' business class on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner offered a top-notch onboard experience, even though it wasn't the airline's signature Qsuite product. No matter where you sit, the seats feel comfortable and stylish.

"With a comfortable seat and ample privacy thanks to the sliding door, I didn't want the six-and-a-half-hour flight to end. Add in the plethora of amenities I was given and a delectable culinary experience, and I had an excellent experience in this new product."

Read our full business class review of Qatar Airways 787-9 Dreamliner from Doha to Ma drid (Originally published Dec 2021)

3. Cathay Pacific

Average rating: 9.00

"A stellar ground experience, fantastic seat, top-notch IFE and a near-unbeatable points redemption overshadowed the hit-or-miss food and inconsistent service that lags behind some East Asian and Middle East competitors.

The bed itself didn't disappoint, especially with the amenities Cathay provided. The mattress pad, while not out of this world, was appreciated. Meanwhile, the duvet and pillow were both quite comfortable (though it was no Saks Fifth Avenue bedding that you'd find on United)."

"On this flight, cabin crew members were courteous and generally pleasant, but they were generally not proactive or assumed everyone wanted to sleep the whole flight, often lacking the personal touches that make other carriers' business products really shine."

Read our full business class review of Cathay Pacific A350-900 from Hong Kong to Newark (Originally published Dec 2019)

4. Turkish Airlines

Average rating: 8.86

"Turkish operates two versions of the 777-300ER. Unfortunately, on my New York-JFK to Istanbul (IST) leg, I was on the older version, with a lower-resolution video screen and more dated finishes.

"While privacy is sorely lacking on Turkish's 777, these forward-facing, lie-flat seats do have one plus: a significant amount of legroom. With an open layout, there is no concern about the tight footwells you might find in such seats as Delta One suites or even Singapore's A350-900.

"I was a bit underwhelmed by the meal itself, from the single-tray service to the limited menu entries. I had just been expecting a bit more, pandemic or not."

Read our full business class review of Turkish Airlines Boeing 777 from New York-JFK to Istanbul (Originally published Oct 2021)

Average rating: 8.71

"Overall, the seat was very comfortable and I could have stayed far longer than this almost 7-hour flight. I also tested it out in its fully flat position. It was soft and wide enough around the shoulders for any type of sleeper, although the footwell felt a little small, and if you like to wriggle your legs in your sleep, you might find your range of motion hindered.

Related: Should you be worried about turbulence? Here's what the experts say

"Etihad's new business-class seat does indeed feel very similar to the British Airways Club Suite but I would consider this to be an upgrade due to the fabric upholstery, the cabin colors and the high-end finishes such as the marble effect on the seat's flat surfaces.

"Etihad's A350 is a beauty and, in particular, the new business-class product has a lot to make a passenger comfortable and happy."

Read our full business class review of Etihad Airways A350 Paris to Abu Dhabi (Originally published May 2022)

Average rating: 8.57

"Asiana's A350 is a comfortable way to get between Asia and the US. Pros: new A350 aircraft, solid hard product and attentive service. Cons: distinct misses in the food department and so-so choices for entertainment.

"While there are some things that Asiana could do to improve its product, like upping its catering to something more consistently good, I would absolutely fly this product again."

Read our full business class review of Asiana A350 from Seoul to San Francisco (Originally published Dec 2018)

7. Japan Airlines (JAL)

"Overall, I was impressed, but not blown away by this product. Sure, the quasi-suite was private and afforded me a good rest, but the lack of storage space was definitely noticeable. JAL continued to impress with its food-and-beverage program. All of it was delicious and much of it unique.

"Its business class remains a great points-friendly option for crossing the Pacific and connecting onward in Asia. Bring your own entertainment and know that you aren't stepping foot into a cutting-edge hard product, and you'll be set for a great flight."

Read our full business class review of Japan Airlines 777-300ER from Bangkok to Tokyo (Originally published Aug 2019)

8. All Nippon Airways (ANA)

"With the introduction of The Room, ANA has set a new gold standard for international business class. The cabin is stunning and the seat is simply the best in the skies, offering copious amount of personal space and tons of privacy. Everything about the seat is well designed, including the fancy new lighting and adjustable tray table.

"ANA didn't just hit a home run with the seat. The new product was packed with some top-notch amenities too. The most noticeable is the highest-quality monitor I've ever seen on a plane. The 24-inch 4K screen is so crisp that it made working on my MacBook Pro with Retina display feel like I'd gone back to the 2000s.

"As it stands, The Room is a phenomenal business-class product. If ANA were to improve the ground experience and modify the service flow, it would even compete with some international first-class offerings."

Read our full Business Class review of All Nippon Airways 777-300ER from Tokyo to New York (Originally published Jan 2020)

9. Air New Zealand

Average rating: 8.43

"I found the Air New Zealand business-class experience on this route to be perfectly comfortable, though definitely not at the top of the pack. I loved the bedding and the fact that I had a lie-flat seat, but the configuration is less than ideal, the seats themselves feel cramped and face away from the windows.

"Food and amenities were generally on par with a standard business-class offering while not offering any single thing that helped set the carrier apart from its competition. Where Air New Zealand's business-class offering really excels, though, is with its service. And because of that alone, I would consider flying with the carrier again on this fifth-freedom route."

Read our full business class review of Air New Zealand 777-300ER Heathrow and Los Angeles (Originally published Nov 2019)

10. Thai Airways

"I definitely think the airline deserves more credit than it gets. The passenger experience on the A350 is tough to beat: quieter engines, higher cabin-air quality and an overall smoother ride. What left the biggest impression, though, was Thai's phenomenal soft product. From the luxurious massage treatments on the ground to the delicious food and world-class hospitality in the air, the entire experience was nothing short of unforgettable.

"The main difference I noticed with Thai was the warm, family-like atmosphere that their incredible flight attendants bring on board. It felt as if I were being welcomed into someone's home rather than aboard an aeroplane — once again, a nod to their 'guest' rather than 'passenger' service mentality

Read our full business class review of Thai Airways A350 from Bangkok to Frankfurt (Originally published Aug 2019)

AND HERE ARE THE 10 WORST rated Business Class airlines

1. egyptair.

Average rating: 5.71

"EgyptAir has made a phenomenal choice in aircraft. This Dreamliner represents a huge leap forward, and there's no question that the carrier's hard product — the cabin and seat — is top-notch.

"But the awful Cairo lounge, the lackluster catering (though I understand the lack of booze), weird lavatory blocking and inconsistent service severely hurt the overall experience. That said, given the price, $1,216 for a lie-flat seat all the way from Egypt to New York plus the connecting flight from the Middle East, I'd almost certainly book EgyptAir's Dreamliner again."

Read our full Business Class review of EgyptAir 787-9 from Cairo to New York (Originally published Aug 2019)

2. Copa Airlines

Average rating: 6.71

"There's only so much you can do on a vanilla 737 with standard recliner seats, and Copa did the job well, with no obvious failings. Friendly crews made getting from New York to Guatemala the long way easy.

"However, a less impersonal lounge at Copa's Panama City hub — with warm food — and more options for the inflight entertainment would have made for a much better experience. That said, Copa proved it can win my business again for flights to Latin America. If nothing else, the introduction of lie-flat seats on its 737s should put it on your radar too."

Read our full business class review of Copa Airlines 737 from New York to Guatemala City via Panama (Originally published Nov 2018)

3. AIR China

Average rating: 7.14

"The food wasn't exceptional, there wasn't any Wi-Fi, and the dated seats could certainly benefit from an overhaul, but I walked away with a very positive impression of Air China and the 747-8.

"Of course, I can't discount the fact that I didn't have someone sitting next to me — with limited privacy, having a stranger so close by would have certainly impacted the experience quite a bit. If you do fly Air China's 747-8, I recommend a seat on the upper deck, and perhaps closer to the back. It seems that's your best shot at having a more enjoyable flight."

Read our full business class review of Air China 747-8 from Beijing to New York (Originally published 5 Nov 2018)

4. Royal Air Maroc

Average rating: 7.29

"The lounge, IFE and meal service won't leave you feeling disappointed, but you likely won't come away thinking it was the best flying experience you've had. If the airline invested a little more in the soft product and installed Wi-Fi on its aircraft, I think it could be a real contender for one of the better ways to hop across the Pond."

"For now, though, perhaps its best selling point is the fact that it's the only way to fly nonstop between the U.S. and Morocco, and it offers a slew of connections to many other destinations in Africa. And for that, it's a more than suitable option to get the job done."

Read our full business class review of Royal Air Maroc 787-9 from New York to Casablanca (Originally published in Mar 2019)

5. Ethiopian Airlines

Average rating: 7.43

"The weakest aspect of Ethiopian's product is surely the 2-2-2 business-class configuration, placing it a bit behind the standard for premium cabins today. That said, the seats are comfortable, and the duvet and pillow will serve you well.

"The lounge in Addis wasn't gorgeous and the Cloud Nine seats aren't what you'll get on some airlines like Qatar, but overall it was a good flight with excellent cabin crew and IFE, good amenities and decent food. Plus, considering the value, I really can't complain."

Read our full business class review of Ethiopian Airlines A350-900 from Addis Ababa to London (Originally published Jun 2019)

"Overall, this was a good flight with a comfortable seat, and I would definitely fly Iberia again. Relatively small enhancements to the ground experience (better directions and signage and allowing Iberia passengers to use the premium preflight dining service in a lounge maintained by the same parent company) as well as a warmer service, however, would make this flight more memorable than a typical business-class flight."

Read our full Business Class review of Iberia A350 from New York to Madrid (Originally published Dec 2019)

7. Kenya Airways

"Kenya Airways' flagship service should be on your radar, especially if you are a Delta/SkyTeam flyer. My experience on it was not flawless, but KQ got me to Nairobi in a flat-bed seat smoothly without any real issues, and demonstrated a willingness to compete for real — take the excellent customer service I got before departure. I would fly the carrier again without hesitation.

"What did bug me, though, was the bed length, not quite enough for my 6-feet, 2-inch frame. I would have loved an extra inch. The fleece blanket was lightweight, very warm and long enough."

Read our full business class review of Kenya Airways 787-8 from New York to Nairobi (Originally published Nov 2018)

8. American Airlines

Average rating: 7.57

"American Airlines has come leaps and bounds since the days of strangely angled rotating lie-flat seats in a 2-4-2 configuration and cheese cubes in the Admirals Club being considered appropriate premium food for international business class.

"I am a big fan of their new lounges and the food offering available, particularly outside of breakfast hours. The hard product, seat, bedding and cabin layout are now up to the international standard. On board, the inflight entertainment system is very good, as is the Wi-Fi. Food and service is decent.

"Still, it doesn't overly 'wow,' and maybe that's exactly what one would want from a business-class product. I am certainly not a fan of bling or gimmicks. The best word to describe it might be 'solid,' and I suspect a bit more personalized and attentive service could push this easily into 'very good'."

Read our full business class review of American Airlines B777-200 from New York to London (Originally published July 2020)

 9. Polish Airlines

"These particular seats offer little in the way of privacy, as I also experienced on Turkish's A330 and Air India's 787 . There isn't a slide-out divider, and they're exposed to the rest of the cabin. Seats 4A and 4F seem to offer the most privacy, since they're right up against the window with a bulkhead wall behind. I didn't find the galley noise to be disturbing either, even though that had been flagged on SeatGuru.

"Aside from the lack of privacy, I was also disappointed in the amount of storage space. Did I have the time of my life? No, not at all, but the friendly crew and interesting food and beverage selection did make up for my lousy boarding experience in Warsaw."

Read our full Business Class review of Polish Airlines 787-9 from Warsaw to New York (Originally published Jul 2018)

10. Royal Jordanian

Average rating: (7.57)

"This Royal Jordanian Crown Business flight experience wasn't anything special — I'm not sure how it could have been considering it was only a 45-minute flight, but nothing about it remotely justified the ridiculous cost. In fact, now that economy award availability has opened up, I don't see a good reason to book business class. Royal Jordanian has a monopoly on this route and prices it as such.

"The Pros: A spacious, open air lounge with fresh, delicious croissants. The Cons: High carrier-imposed charges on award tickets, limited economy award availability and no in-flight service of any kind."

Read our full business class review of Royal Jordanian A320 from New York to Amman (Originally published Sep 2017)

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The 8 Best Business-Class Seats in the World—and How to Book Them With Points and Miles

Airlines are always updating their services, especially in the renewed competition to have the best business-class seats and amenities. While many airlines are cutting first class cabins in favor of business class, the good news is that fliers are seeing more premium perks than ever before. From  suite-style seats with closing doors and designer bedding, to menus created by celebrity chefs and chic amenity kits stuffed with beauty products, flying in business class is a delight.

Of course, all that luxury comes at a cost. Many international business-class tickets price upwards of $5,000 round-trip from the U.S., and top $10,000 in some cases. But if you have  airline miles , or credit card points that  transfer to frequent-flier programs , you can experience all this high-altitude extravagance without paying sky-high fares.

Here are eight of the best business-class seats currently available, and how you can use points and miles to fly them for (nearly) free. We picked these not only for the seating options and amenities, but also based on award availability and the number of routes on which they are in service.

1. Qatar Airways Qsuites

Since the introduction of its  much-lauded Qsuite , Qatar Airways has endeavored to put them on many of its long-haul routes, including flights from  Doha to the U.S., Europe, and Asia. As for the Qsuites themselves, each one has its own closing door for privacy in flight. Qatar Airways also designed certain center seats to be combinable into two- and four-person blocs (and double beds in some cases), so that families or colleagues traveling together can enjoy spaces for socializing and co-working.

Where to find it: Currently, you can find Qsuites aboard the airline’s  Airbus A350-1000s , and some of its Boeing 777-300ERs, 777-200LRs, and Airbus A350-900s. Its Airbus A380s and Boeing 787 planes do not have Qsuites, however. The good news is Qatar Airways is flying Qsuites from Doha to most U.S. destinations including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Los Angeles, New York (JFK), San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., among other cities. You’ll also find them on routes beyond the U.S. including Bangkok, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Frankfurt, London, and Paris, among others.

How to book it with points and miles: Because Qatar Airways is in the  Oneworld airline alliance , fliers can redeem American Airlines AAdvantage or Alaska Mileage Plan miles for award tickets. You can now search and book Qatar Airways awards directly on each airline’s website, which makes the process quick and simple. Just enter the city you're departing from, your destination, and your dates, and the search will bring up both economy and business-class award options. For example, using American miles for a one-way ticket will cost you 70,000 miles between Doha and the U.S., 42,500 miles between Doha and Europe, or 40,000 miles between Doha and Asia.

Qatar Airways has switched to the Avios program, which is also used by airlines like British Airways and Iberia. This means you can redeem Avios points to fly in Qatar’s Qsuites. Short on Avios points or don’t have an account at all? You can transfer American Express Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Avios. Avios uses a distance-based award chart making it a good deal on shorter flights, but quite pricey on longer ones. A flight from Doha to the U.S. could cost as much as 103,000 points each way, but a flight between Doha and many cities in Europe would only cost 38,750 points each way.

2. Delta One Suites

Delta was actually the first U.S. airline to  unveil designs for an all-suites business-class cabin, and those suites are now flying on many routes. The most innovative feature of Delta One Suites is the closing doors. Although they just reach the top of the seat, the doors still provide a tangible sense of seclusion during the flight, shielding passengers from activity in the aisle. Like Delta’s older business-class seats, Delta One Suites are laid out in a staggered, front-facing 1–2–1 pattern so that every passenger has direct aisle access. The seats have memory-foam cushions for a comfortable ride, are 21 inches wide, and up to 81 inches long in lie-flat mode. They also feature fun touches like customizable lighting and Do Not Disturb indicators.

Where to find it: Delta is in the midst of a fleet renewal that will add Delta One Suites on more of its aircraft every month. You should find them aboard most of its Airbus A350s and A330-900neos. Planes with Delta One Suites are now flying from several of the airline’s hubs, including Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, and Seattle, to various gateways in Europe, Africa and Asia, including Amsterdam, Honolulu, Johannesburg, Paris, Seoul, Sydney, and Tokyo, among other destinations. Some of these routes are also flown by aircraft with older business-class seats, so be sure to double check your specific flight before booking.

How to book it with points and miles: Of course, you could use Delta SkyMiles to book award tickets on Delta flights (and the program is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards). However, the airline’s dynamic award pricing means that mileage requirements for expensive tickets have shot up astronomically—to over 500,000 miles one-way in some cases. Prepare to fork over a lot of miles for a Delta redemption.

Instead, consider using Virgin Atlantic Flying Club miles. Don’t have those? Not to worry. The program is a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Rewards. So if you have a  credit card that earns any of those types of points, you can transfer them to your Virgin Atlantic account. You can search for tickets by day, week, or five-week period directly on  Virgin’s site , which has access to award space on Delta and prices itineraries from the U.S. to Europe for as few as 47,500 miles each way. Other redemptions are based on distance, however, and can cost much more. For example, a flight from the U.S. to Johannesburg would cost 165,000 miles each way.

3. Singapore Airlines

Although Singapore Airlines’  first-class suites are the stuff of legend, the  experience in business class is nothing to turn your nose up at. Laid out in a 1–2–1 arrangement, Singapore’s business-class seats feel ultra-wide, at up to 30 inches across. They recline to lie-flat beds measuring 78 inches, which the  Balmain-clad flight attendants will make up for you with two pillows and a duvet. On the airline’s newer A380s, the center seats can even be turned into a double bed of sorts so you can cuddle with a travel companion. But if you’re traveling solo, don’t worry, there are privacy partitions. Don’t go to sleep too quickly, either, or you’ll miss out on meals created by the airline’s “International Culinary Panel” of chefs, including  kaiseki master Yoshihiro Murata and a new  partnership with Golden Door Spa for nutrition and wellness-focused menus.

Where to find it: While the actual seats themselves can vary by aircraft type, the latest versions can be found aboard the airline’s Airbus A350s and newer A380s. Older A380s and Boeing 777s have previous versions that are still very similar to the new seats in terms of space and size. That means your Singapore Airlines business-class experience should be fairly standard (and a high standard at that) no matter which long-haul route you fly.

How to book it with points and miles: Singapore Airlines restricts the premium award space it makes available to partners, so you’ll probably need the airline’s own KrisFlyer miles to reserve your ticket. The good news is, KrisFlyer is a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Rewards, so you have plenty of ways to top up your account if and when you find an award you want to book. You can book awards directly on  Singapore Airlines’ site by logging into your KrisFlyer account and searching your desired route and dates.

Flying from the West Coast of the U.S., including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, will cost 128,500 miles each way. Want to take  the longest flight in the world from Newark to Singapore? That will cost you 143,500 miles in each direction.

4. American Airlines

All of American’s widebody jets feature seats in a popular reverse-herringbone 1-2-1 layout. Each seat is 26-27 inches wide with the armrest down, and reclines to form a flat bed that reaches between 78-79 inches.

Where to find it: Here’s where American Airlines really excels—you’ll find some version of its current reverse-herringbone seats on the vast majority of its  long-haul jets. The exceptions are some Boeing 777s and 787s that also have a variation where some rows face the rear, but the seat footprint is still comparable. In short, you’re going to have a similar experience pretty much no matter where you fly.

How to book it with points and miles: American’s own AAdvantage miles will typically be the best option for fliers. The airline charges based on the regions you’re traveling between and the type of award. Long-haul business-class awards start at 57,500 miles each way between the U.S. and Europe, 60,000-70,000 miles to Asia, and 30,000-57,500 miles to South America. You can also redeem Alaska Mileage Plan miles for American business-class flights now that Alaska has joined the Oneworld alliance.

United's Polaris product is one of the best business-class seats in the world.

5. United Polaris

Although United had been slow to roll out its hyped-up Polaris business-class concept since it was first revealed in June 2016, the airline is almost finished. Polaris seats are plotted out 1-2-1. Seats in the center section are alternately closer together or farther apart from one another, so pay attention to your placement if you have a preference there. Each Polaris seat is up to 23 inches wide and 78 inches long in bed mode, and features luxe amenities like fluffy Saks Fifth Avenue bedding and cooling gel pillows.

Where to find it: United has installed Polaris seats on all widebody aircraft with the exception of a handful of Boeing 767-300ERs and 767-400s. Its narrowbody Boeing 757-200s used on some flights to Europe will not get the new Polaris seats, however. Bottom line, triple check your aircraft type, but chances are your long-haul United flight on a widebody plane will have the new seats as the retrofits near completion.

How to book it with points and miles: If you have United miles, your easiest option will just be to hop on  United.com to book your awards directly. The cost will vary by destination and date. For some reference points, though, you will need around 70,000 miles each way from the U.S. to Europe, or 90,000 to Asia, depending on where you are flying. If you don’t have a stock of United MileagePlus miles, the program is a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Since United is in the  Star Alliance , you could also use Air Canada Aeroplan miles, which uses a distance-based chart that sometimes offers better value. That program is a transfer partner of AmEx Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards and Capital One Rewards. Flights from the U.S. East Coast to Europe require around 70,000 miles each way, while many Asian routes will only require 75,000 miles.

6. Qantas Business Suite

Although they don’t have closing doors, Qantas’s seats do maintain a modicum of privacy thanks to a staggered 1–2–1 layout where seats are separated from one another and from the aisle by sizable screens. The  large footprint also helps—each seat is up to 24 inches wide and 80 inches long in bed mode with a 16-inch TV screen. Recent updates to Qantas aircraft are bringing its new business class to more planes, and on the Airbus A380, business-class passengers gain access to a shared lounge space to relax or work.

Where to find it: Qantas’s latest seats can be found on its Airbus A330s and its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which are taking on more transpacific flights to the U.S. as well as the airline’s longest haul, the route from  Perth to London . Qantas is currently refitting its fleet of Airbus A380 double-deckers, which also fly to the U.S., with the new seats as well. On the Airbus A380, opt for a bulkhead seat (those in the first row of each cabin) as they benefit from a few extra inches of legroom.

How to book it with points and miles: Qantas is a Oneworld member, so you can use your American Airlines AAdvantage miles to book awards directly on AA.com. American is one of the few major U.S. carriers to still offer an award chart making it easier to know how many miles you need for a redemption. Before you get your hopes up, business-class award space is scarce, but if you do find a ticket, it will cost you 80,000 miles each way between the U.S. and Australia. Even more attractive, Oneworld partner Alaska Airlines, and its Mileage Plan program only charges 55,000 miles each way. You can search and book awards directly on  the Alaska site .

7. Japan Airlines Sky Suites

JAL currently operates flights from  Tokyo to 10 U.S. airports as well as Guam, not to mention dozens of other international destinations. It's also one of a handful of carriers that opted for a style of business-class seat dubbed the Apex Suite. Although they are configured in a 2–2–2 or 2–3–2 pattern, the seats still feel extremely private because they are staggered so that passengers are not sitting right next to one another. There are also thick personal dividers between seats. With those up, you might not even see your neighbor for the whole flight.

Where to find it: Although Japan Airlines does not have the most extensive route network, it does serve several major U.S. airports, including Boston Logan, Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles International, New York JFK, San Francisco International, and Seattle-Tacoma International, among others. Most of the Boeing 777-300ERs and 787s it flies internationally have Apex Suites on board. However, some 777-200s and 787-9s have reverse-herringbone seats instead.

How to book it with points and miles: One of the best things about Japan Airlines is the amount of award space in premium cabins it releases to its partners, including American Airlines and Alaska Airlines. You can usually find a few dates each month with business-class seats available on the airline’s various routes to the U.S., and if you are flexible, you might find quite a lot of seats open up as the date of travel approaches. Between Japan and the U.S., American AAdvantage will charge you 60,000 miles each way, while Alaska will charge you points rates starting at 50,000.

Cathay Pacific business class on its A350 plane.

8. Cathay Pacific

While not the most exotic of business-class products, Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific offers one of the most dependable options. It is laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration offering privacy as well as the traditional amenities of a toiletry-stocked amenity kit, large swiveling entertainment screen, and multi-course dining. The fully flat beds are a favorite of frequent fliers. 

Where to find it: All Cathay Pacific long-haul flights offer this flat-bed business-class product. You’ll find Cathay Pacific aircraft in busy airports like Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles, New York JFK, and San Francisco. 

How to book it with points and miles: Since Cathay Pacific is part of the Oneworld alliance, travelers can use their miles much like they would with Japan Airlines. This means using American miles on flights between Hong Kong and the U.S. would cost at least 60,000 miles each way using American miles, while Alaska will charge you mileage rates starting at 50,000 miles.

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Best business class to europe: 5 top airlines.

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• The best business class airlines provide fully flat beds, exquisite dining experiences, lounge access, and numerous travel options.
• Delta Air Lines prioritizes passenger comfort with oversized duvets, chef-curated cuisine, and complimentary lounge access in business class.
• Emirates' Airbus A380 has one of the best business class products, featuring an onboard lounge.

Many airlines invest considerable time and money to continuously enhance their business class product and ensure premium customers receive the most exclusive service. With extra legroom, lie-flat beds, and lounge access, many passengers will opt for business class, especially when traveling on long transatlantic flights.

This year, there are over 30 airlines offering business class seats between the United States and Europe. This includes European, American, and even Asian carriers, each offering a unique product regarding onboard catering, seat configurations, extra amenities, and lounge services. Based on the 2023 Skytrax World Airline Awards , we will look at the top five airlines for business class flights between the US and Europe. Let's get into it.

5 Air France

7th best business class airline.

Flying from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Air France currently serves about 14 destinations in the US. Air France's business class is available on long-haul flights operated by its Airbus A330s, A350s, Boeing 777s, and 787s. Overall, it was voted the 7th best business class in 2023.

The new business class seats, currently deployed across its network, offer fully flat beds, direct aisle access, and an entirely private and comfortable space. The cabin also has personal storage space, a 20-inch anti-glare full HD 4K touch screen, universal powerpoints, noise-reducing headphones, an adjustable reading light, and a sliding door for enhanced privacy.

The airline also offers an exquisite gourmet experience for business customers . On daytime flights, passengers are offered a French-style 5-course gourmet meal, while on overnight flights, services are combined on a single tray to optimize sleep time. Air France premium customers also have access to top-class lounges with free WiFi, relaxation areas, and a selection of hot and cold meals. With SkyPriority, business customers also receive priority from check-in to boarding.

Flight Review: Air France Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner Economy Class From Atlanta To Paris

Simple Flying was flying on the Boeing 787-9 of Air France when a medical emergency occurred.

4 Virgin Atlantic

6th best business class airline.

Virgin Atlantic has scheduled passenger flights from 11 US airports this month. In 2023, it was voted the 6th best business class airline, ahead of its fellow SkyTeam member, Air France. The airline's Upper Class is available throughout its fleet, but specific details differ depending on the aircraft.

All aircraft are equipped with fully flat beds. On its A350-1000s, which are deployed on multiple routes from the US, the beds are up to 6 ft 7 in (2 m) long and 20 in (51 cm) wide. The space is also equipped with two USB powerpoints, an AC US/UK plug, and an 18.5-inch touchscreen. However, Virgin's 787-9s and A330-300s offer wider beds, measuring 33 inches.

Upon arriving at the airport, premium customers can relax in the carrier's Clubhouse lounges , which are available at various airports, including Washington (IAD), New York (JFK), and San Francisco (SFO). In areas without a Clubhouse, passengers will have access to shared lounges. Getting through the airport is also easier with special check-in counters, priority baggage delivery, and boarding.

Virgin Atlantic offers a range of dishes over four delicious courses, with the main meal served soon after takeoff. Upper Class passengers are welcomed onboard with a complimentary glass of champagne or orange juice. These premium passengers also have access to onboard social spaces available on the following aircraft types:

• The Booth : Airbus A350
• The Bar : Airbus A330; Boeing 787
• The Loft : Airbus A330neo; A350

Virgin Atlantic Boeing 787 Business Class Review Las Vegas to London and Johannesburg

Flying Upper Class on the 787 isn't quite the A350 suite, but it's pretty good.

3 Delta Air Lines

5th best business class airline.

Delta Air Lines had the best business class in North America in 2023. It flies from 12 US airports to over 25 European destinations, offering the most travel options . The Delta One experience is available on long-haul international flights and select long-haul domestic flights, but the layouts also depend on the aircraft type.

Delta One offers 20.46-inch wide seats that recline into fully flat beds . The cabin is in a 1-2-1 configuration, offering each passenger aisle access. The seat comes with an oversized duvet, a large sleeping pillow, and a lumbar pillow that doubles as a mattress pad. On most A350s and A330-900s, the suite features full-height doors and dividers to offer more privacy.

Premium customers also enjoy complimentary lounge access and SkyPriority benefits like accelerated check-in and priority boarding. Delta's Sky Club lounge offers a seasonally-inspired menu with a wide range of dishes, cocktails, wines, beers, and Starbucks coffee. In addition to free WiFi, passengers can access Sky Club showers at select locations.

Delta serves chef-curated meals, including appetizers, warm nuts, and a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits. Through Delta Studio, in-flight entertainment is available on a personal device or seatback screen with a pair of noise-canceling headphones.

Want answers to more key questions in aviation? Check out the rest of our guides here .

3rd best business class airline

Emirates is the first and only Middle Eastern carrier on the list. It offers non-stop flights between the US and Europe on two routes , so it might not be the best airline in terms of travel options. However, its business class product remains one of the best in the skies, being voted third in 2023. This month, the airline will deploy the B777 on the Newark-Athens route and the A380 on the JFK-Milan route.

Emirates' Airbus A380 offers a more exclusive business class product compared to the Triple Seven . The A380 has different layouts, but the business cabin is typically in a 1-2-1 configuration. However, before boarding the aircraft, your journey begins with a complimentary chauffeur-driven transfer to the airport and priority services.

Upon arrival at the airport, business passengers have access to lounges with a wide selection of meals, snacks, and beverages. They can also enjoy a massage and refreshing experience at the Timeless Spa in the business class lounge. Onboard the aircraft, Emirates offers over 6,500 in-flight entertainment channels.

Flight Review: Emirates A380 Business Class Dubai To Mauritius

For passengers wishing to experience the A380, Emirates flies it to 47 destinations worldwide.

It also offers an elevated dining experience with sweet and savory snacks, gourmet meals, and complimentary champagne. A wide range of meal options is available, including special cutlery made for Emirates by Robert Welch. However, one of the best A380 business features is the onboard bar and lounge, where premium passengers can socialize while enjoying drinks and cocktails.

1 Singapore Airlines

2nd best business class airline.

Singapore Airlines was voted the second-best business class airline behind Qatar Airways. It currently flies from Houston to Manchester with the A350 and from New York to Frankfurt with the B777. Like Emirates, travel options are limited.

On both aircraft types , the cabin is typically in a 1-2-1 configuration, with the new seats offering two seating positions. The first is the Lazy Z, a cradling position that ensures weight balance when sitting. The second is the Sundeck, a lounging position that extends the base and foot of the seat, allowing you to stretch and rest your legs on the ottoman. All seats extend into fully flat beds .

Above the armrest is a side console that fits a laptop, allowing easy reach in both seat and bed mode. All seats are fitted with USB ports and powerpoints to charge devices. All aircraft are equipped with WiFi and offer over 1,800 entertainment options on an 18-inch HD screen. At the airport, business class passengers will have access to Singapore Airlines' lounges or partner lounges, depending on the airport. In Houston, premium customers can access United's Polaris lounge, and in New York, they can visit Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouse.

Singapore Airlines also offers exquisite cuisine onboard its flights. When preparing meals, chefs pay attention to every detail, including how cabin pressure changes affect taste. Like all other airlines on the list, meals can be pre-booked at least two weeks before departure. Passengers can also view the menu onboard by connecting to the WiFi. According to the airline, access to the in-flight menu is free and will not deplete a traveler's WiFi plan.

What do you think of this story? Perhaps you have flown in one of these business class cabins. Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!

• Passenger Experience

Travel Classes , Travel Planning , Travel Tips

October 25, 2023

Business Class Vs. Economy: What’S The Difference?

This blog post will explore the differences between business and economy-class air travel. We’ll answer common questions such as “What is a business-class airline ticket?” and “Is it worth the price?” You’ll also learn about some of the perks of flying in Business Class. Finally, we’ll compare both on international flights.

What is a Business class?

Business Class is a type of air travel that offers more amenities and comfort than Economy Class. Tickets are usually more expensive, but the extra cost can be worth it for the added perks. Here are some benefits. 

More legroom

More legroom is probably the most noticeable difference between Business and Economy classes. There is significantly more legroom to stretch out and relax on your flight.

Better food and drink

 Another perk is that you can access better food and drink options. The meals are usually higher quality, and a more extensive selection of alcoholic beverages is available.

More comfortable seats

Business Class seats are usually more comfortable than those in economy class. They often have more recline and are more expansive, so you can sink into your seat and enjoy the flight.

Better service

The service is generally better than in economy class. The flight attendants are more attentive and go out of their way to ensure you have a comfortable flight.

What is an economy class?

Economy class makes the majority of seating available on a plane. Being the simplest class, it offers few amenities, thus more affordable. Sometimes it is referred to as coach class. They sacrificed amenities like space, legroom, quality meal-free check-on, and other comforts for a lower price. Apart from service in the air, sometimes ground service is different from the other categories of tickets.

Comparing business and economy class on international flights

Now let’s compare both classes on international flights. Business Class is typically the same on international flights as on domestic flights. However, Economy Class can vary depending on the airline. For example, some airlines have a separate section for international Economy passengers, which offers more legroom and better food options than domestic flights. However, other airlines don’t have a different area, so all flights’ amenities are the same.

Some airlines offer special ground services for their business class passengers, such as a separate airport clearance and lounge, where you can shower, sleep and have a five-star meal and drink. However, the difference between economy and business class service on long-haul flights is like night and day.

Business class passengers pay from two to three times more than economy class.

Do passengers get to see other sections of the cabin

Seats are arranged in a way that blocks the view of the economy class section. However, passengers in business class do have access to better food and drink options, more legroom, and more comfortable seats. So the extra cost of a Business Class ticket can be worth the added perks.

Is business class worth the cost?

That depends on your preferences. If you value comfort and luxury, then Business Class is probably worth the extra cost. However, Economy Class might be a better option if you’re looking for a basic flying experience.

Can you book a business-class airline ticket at the last minute?

Yes, you can book a Business Class flight at the last minute. However, it will likely be more expensive than if you had booked in advance. These tickets are usually more expensive than Economy Class tickets, so booking last minute will likely increase the cost even further. If you’re looking to save money on your ticket, booking in advance is best.

Is the economy section at the front or back of the plane?

The economy section is typically at the back of the plane so that Business Class passengers can have a more comfortable experience by being closer to the front. However, this rule has some exceptions depending on the airline you fly. So it’s always best to check with your airline before your flight.

Do passengers get food and drink in economy class?

Yes, most airlines will provide food and drink options for passengers in all sections. However, the quality and selection will be less than what is available in Business Class. So if you’re looking for a better food and drink experience, it’s worth upgrading to Business Class.

Do all passengers get the same food?

No, Business Class passengers usually have a better food selection than Economy Class passengers. However, the meals are typically of higher quality as well. So if you’re looking for a better food experience, it’s worth flying Business Class.

Is business class the same on international flights?

Yes, it is typically the same on international and domestic flights. However, variations may vary depending on the airline you’re flying wi. So it’s always best to check with your airline before your flight. For long-distance flights, they provide everything needed for a comfortable flight and special treatment when boarding.

Is economy class the same on international flights?

No, it varies depending on the airline you’re flying w. For example, some airlines have a separate section for international Economy passengers, which offers more legroom and better food options than domestic economy flights. Other airlines don’t have a different area, so the amenities are the same as domestic economy flights. So if you’re looking for a better Economy experience, it’s best to check with your specific airline before booking your flight.

Hopefully, this has helped you decide which type of flying is right for you.

Thanks for reading! I hope this has helped you understand the difference between the two types of airline tickets.

If you are interested in getting discounted flights, click here .

Please check out the following posts:

When to book cheap airline ticket

The best guide for vacation packing

Tips for first-time flyers

Related posts:

• The Ultimate Guide To Packing For Your Vacation
• Book International Flights: The Ultimate Guide On How To Get The Best Price
• Are Travel Agents Worth It?
• The Best Time To Book Cheap Flights

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What Is Business Travel? Importance and Types

Business travel has always been an integral part of the corporate world. It provides opportunities to meet clients face-to-face, attend conferences and networking events, and explore new markets. 

However, as much as business travel can be exciting, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From flight delays and cancellations to tracking approvals and keeping spending in check, numerous obstacles can make business travel stressful and overwhelming. 

In this blog, we will explore the challenges and solutions of business travel and provide insights on how businesses can optimize their policies and practices to make them more efficient, cost-effective, and enjoyable for everyone involved. 

What is Business Travel?

Millions of professionals worldwide engage in business travel each year. Business travel is when you hit the road or take to the skies for work-related purposes. So, if you've ever traveled across state lines for a meeting or hopped on a plane for a conference, you've been on a business trip. 

According to  the Bureau of Transportation Statistics , Americans take over 400 million long-distance business trips yearly, accounting for roughly 16% of all long-distance travel.

What is the Importance of Business Travel?

It's clear that business travel is a significant part of many companies' operations, but what motivates them to send their employees on these journeys? There are several reasons why companies invest in business travel. Here are some of them: 

1. Closing Deals

Business deals often involve significant negotiation, and in-person meetings can be critical to reaching an agreement. When people meet in person, they can build trust and establish personal connections that are difficult to achieve through virtual communication. As such, closing deals in person is a common reason for business travel. 

2. Exploring New Markets

Companies looking to expand into new markets often send representatives to explore the conditions on the ground and conduct research. Visiting a new market can provide valuable insights into consumer behavior, local regulations, and cultural norms that can help companies tailor their products and services to a new audience. 

3. Building Relationships

One of the primary advantages of business travel is its opportunity to build stronger relationships with clients, partners, and colleagues. While email, phone, and video conferencing are convenient, nothing beats face-to-face interactions regarding establishing trust and rapport.

You can pick up on nonverbal cues during in-person meetings and establish a more personal connection. It can lead to a deeper understanding of the other person's needs and goals, which can ultimately help you provide better service or products. Additionally, in-person meetings can help address any concerns or issues more quickly and efficiently, preventing them from becoming more significant problems down the line. 

4. Networking

Attending industry events, trade shows, and conferences can provide networking opportunities, learning about new trends, and meeting potential clients and partners.

Networking can be invaluable for building relationships, finding new clients or partners, and staying up-to-date with industry best practices. For example, attending a trade show can provide opportunities to showcase your products or services, meet potential clients, and learn about the latest market trends. 

5. Competitive Advantage

Companies prioritizing business travel and investing in face-to-face meetings with clients and partners can gain a competitive advantage over those relying solely on digital communication. By meeting with clients and partners in person, companies can establish more personal connections and build trust, leading to more business opportunities and revenue. 

Here's a  business travel checklist  to make business travel for your employees less stressful. 

Different Types of Business Travel

Business travel can take many forms, depending on the purpose of the trip and the activities involved. Here are some of the most common types of business travel: 

• Event and Conference Travel:  Companies often send employees to corporate events and conferences where attendees can learn and network with peers, potential clients, and service providers. 
• Training and Education: Companies may send employees to conferences and workshops to learn about trends and best practices in their functional areas. These events can provide valuable opportunities for professional development and networking, helping employees stay up-to-date on the latest industry developments and build relationships with others in their field. 
• Internal Meetings and Visiting Offices:  National and multinational companies may need to send employees and leadership to other offices to discuss specific projects and business strategies or to build a more integrated organizational culture. 
• Company Retreats:  Some companies hold retreats annually or multiple times yearly to help teams grow stronger and build company culture through shared activities.
• Client Meetings:  Maintaining solid relationships with existing clients is crucial for many businesses. Account managers and others may regularly visit their most prominent clients to check in on them, take them out for a meal or drink, and generally show gratitude for their business. These visits can strengthen relationships and potentially lead to additional business. 
• Trade Fairs:  Many organizations attend trade shows and expos to display their products and services and connect with potential clients. Attending these events can effectively generate leads and build relationships with potential customers, especially in industries where face-to-face interactions are critical. 
• Transfers and Offshore Work:  Long-term transfers involve relocating employees to a different city or country for a certain period, usually to work on a specific project or set up a new function or business process. 
• Transient Travel:   Business transient  travelers typically refer to individuals who frequently travel for short periods, often for a business meeting or work-related. These travelers usually stay in hotels or temporary accommodations and frequently move between locations for work or other activities. 
• Bleisure Travel:  This hybrid travel style combines business and leisure travel, allowing employees to extend their business trips to leave time for sightseeing and relaxation. Bleisure travel can benefit employers and employees, encouraging employees to volunteer for business trips more often and providing a relaxing break. 

Top Challenges To Manage Business Travel 

As many businesses need help managing company travel, several issues affect day-to-day operations. These include: 

1. Managing Large Numbers of Requests

When managing large numbers of travel requests, keeping track of all the information and ensuring that requests are processed efficiently can be challenging. It can result in delays and frustration for employees waiting for travel approvals or information. 

For example, imagine a small company with just one finance person responsible for managing all travel requests. They receive requests from various team members in different formats—email, Slack messages, and in-person visits. It can lead to confusion and delays in processing the requests and distract the finance person from other essential tasks. 

2. Tracking Approvals

It's a massive headache if your company's travel approvals are manually emailed. Tracking travel approvals can be time-consuming and prone to errors. It can result in missed approvals, delayed travel, and frustration for employees waiting for approval. 

Imagine a team member submits a travel request, and the finance person then sends an email to the manager for approval. If the manager is busy or forgets to respond, the request may be delayed or even missed altogether, causing frustration for the employee who is scheduled to travel. 

3. Keeping Spending in Check

Managing travel costs can be difficult, especially when employees book trips independently or through different channels. It can result in overspending and frustration for finance teams who aim to keep costs under control. 

For example, imagine a company where employees book travel through different channels. Some employees book expensive hotels and flights, while others find cheaper options on discount travel websites. It can lead to inconsistency in travel costs and make it difficult for the finance team to manage and budget travel expenses. 

4. Being Flexible

Flexible travel policies can result in consistency, especially when balancing cost control with employee satisfaction. It can result in frustration for both employees and finance teams. 

For example, a business with restrictive travel policies can limit employees to specific airlines, hotels, and routes. It may help control costs, restrict employee options, and make travel less enjoyable. On the other hand, if policies are flexible, employees may book expensive options outside the budget. 

5. Reducing Errors

Reducing errors in travel management can be challenging, but it is essential to ensure accurate tracking of expenses and approvals. This can help prevent delays and frustration for employees and finance teams. 

How Companies Can Manage Business Travel  

Companies must make the process straightforward to ensure that team members comply with travel policies. If the process is simple, team members will find ways to circumvent the rules, and compliance will improve. The following are some common pitfalls to avoid: 

• Too many rules:  Too many, incredibly confusing or contradictory, can be overwhelming and frustrating for team members. It can lead to non-compliance or errors. 
• A high number of touches:  Too many touchpoints, like requiring additional emails to managers for approval, can slow down the process and make it difficult. 
• Lots of manual steps:  Requiring team members to file printed documents and receipts can be time-consuming and create opportunities for errors. 
• Unclear processes:  If team members are unsure of the steps or rules they must follow, they may become frustrated and disengage from the process. 

To ensure compliance and simplify the process, use  a corporate travel management system  that walks employees through each step. By automating the process and making it easy and intuitive, team members are more likely to follow the rules and comply with company policies. 

What is a Business Travel Solution? 

A travel management system is a software platform that helps companies manage their employees' travel-related activities and expenses. These systems can be purpose-built tools from third parties or developed in-house by large companies. However, building a travel management system from scratch doesn't make sense with the availability of corporate travel management tools out of the box for a relatively low cost. 

These systems aim to oversee, regulate, and coordinate a company's employees' travel activities and expenses. Previously, a company's office administrators or a dedicated travel manager would handle these tasks. However, with a travel management system, these manual tasks can be streamlined or automated, freeing up staff for more valuable work than monitoring others' travel plans. 

A  business travel solution  typically offers features such as online booking, expense tracking, policy compliance, travel budgeting, and reporting. They make booking, managing, and tracking business travel much simpler and more efficient for companies and their employees.  

As a business, it's essential to recognize the value of investing in business travel. There are numerous reasons why companies send their employees on these trips, including closing deals, exploring new markets, holding internal meetings, prospecting, educating, and visiting existing clients. These opportunities provide valuable experiences and insights to enhance your company's operations and bottom line. 

However, managing business travel can present challenges, such as managing large requests, tracking approvals, and dealing with changes in travel plans. To address these challenges, it's crucial to have a straightforward and streamlined travel policy outlining the process for requesting, approving, and booking travel and any expense and reimbursement policies. 

Another essential aspect of managing business travel is providing support and resources to employees while on the road. It includes ensuring they have the necessary technology and tools to stay connected and productive, providing guidance on safety and security, and offering access to travel support services in emergencies.

By recognizing the importance of business travel and implementing strategies to manage it effectively, your company can reap the benefits of enhanced collaboration, improved relationships with clients and partners, and increased opportunities for growth and success. 

So let your employees stay connected, build relationships and enjoy their next business trip!

John Hunter

John is the Senior Manager of Event Cloud Content Marketing at Cvent. He has 11 years of experience writing about the meetings and events industry. John also has extensive copywriting experience across diverse industries, including broadcast television, retail advertising, associations, higher education, and corporate PR.

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Air travel is getting worse. That’s what passengers are telling the US government

Holiday travelers wait for their luggage after arriving at Salt Lake City International Airport Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Air travel got more miserable last year, if the number of consumer complaints filed with the U.S. government is any measure.

The Transportation Department said Friday that it received nearly 97,000 complaints in 2023, up from about 86,000 the year before. The department said there were so many complaints that it took until July to sort through the filings and compile the figures.

That’s the highest number of consumer complaints about airlines since 2020, when airlines were slow to give customers refunds after the coronavirus pandemic shut down air travel.

The increase in complaints came even as airlines canceled far fewer U.S. flights — 116,700, or 1.2% of the total, last year, compared with about 210,500, or 2.3%, in 2022 , according to FlightAware data. However, delays remained stubbornly high last year, at around 21% of all flights.

So far this year, cancellations remain relatively low — about 1.3% of all flights — but delays are still running around 21%.

More than two-thirds of all complaints last year dealt with U.S. airlines , but a quarter covered foreign airlines. Most of the rest were about travel agents and tour operators.

Complaints about treating passengers with disabilities rose by more than one-fourth compared with 2022. Complaints of discrimination, while small in number, also rose sharply. Most were about race or national origin.

The Transportation Department said the increase in complaints was partly the result of more consumers knowing about their rights and the ability to file a complaint. The department said it helped Southwest Airlines customers get more than $600 million in refunds and reimbursements after the carrier canceled nearly 17,000 flights during December 2022. Southwest also paid a $35 million fine .

Airlines receive many more complaints from travelers who don’t know how or don’t bother to complain to the government, but the carriers don’t release those numbers.

The Transportation Department is modernizing its complaint-taking system, which the agency says will help it do a better job overseeing the airline industry. However, the department now releases complaint numbers many months late. It did not issue figures for the second half of 2023 until Friday.

The Transportation Department’s online complaint form is at https://secure.dot.gov/air-travel-complaint

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Business Class vs. First Class on International Flights: What’s the Difference?

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International first and business class are both premium cabins, but there are key differences between the two including on-ground experience, dining and alcohol options on-board, and the seat itself.

Below we compare business class versus first class on international flights.

The basics of first class and business class on international airlines

International airlines will sometimes offer up to four different cabins.

First class.

Business class.

Premium economy.

Economy class.

Air France’s Boeing 777-300, for example, features a four-class cabin: row one is first class, rows three through 20 are business class, rows 23 through 26 are premium economy and rows 28 through 52 are economy class.

An easy way to think about the difference between international first class and business class is by using the ranking of flight cabins above, from the fanciest cabin (first class) to the most basic cabin (economy class).

Even if an airline does offer an international first class product, they don’t typically offer it on every route. For instance, you can fly Qatar Airways first class from Doha, Qatar, to Cairo, Egypt, but the airline doesn’t currently offer a first class ticket between Los Angeles and Doha.

» Learn more: A beginner’s guide to flying in business or first class

Key differences

While what sets international first class and business class apart will vary based on airline, plane and route; however, there are some basic differences between the two.

More elevated food and alcohol options

A major benefit to flying first class is that you’ll have more sophisticated food and alcohol options on your flight. Emirates, for example, offers first-class passengers caviar, dining that’s on-demand (instead of a set meal service time) and Dom Pérignon — none of which are available in business class.

Smaller cabin

The first class cabin is smaller and more intimate than the business class cabin. First class cabins are often significantly smaller than business class cabins — in the Air France Boeing 777-300 example above, there are only four first class seats compared to 58 business-class seats.

Having a small cabin means you get more attention and quicker service from flight attendants, and also a more relaxing experience since you’ll have fewer disturbances from other passengers.

More space and privacy

While the exact differences in first class versus business class seats will depend on the airline and aircraft, in general, international first class seats are more spacious and offer more privacy than their business class counterparts.

The first class seat on Japan Airlines’ A350-1000 is more than twice as wide as the business-class seat on the same plane.

Better on-the-ground perks

First class passengers may get extra pre-flight benefits: First-class-only lounges, streamlined check-in and priority boarding are just some of the ways a first class ticket sweetens the deal.

For instance, if you fly Emirates first class through Dubai, you even get a complimentary massage in their first class lounge.

Since the exact benefits of first class versus business class will depend on the airline and route, we’d recommend researching the first class and business class offerings on an international flight before booking either cabin.

» Learn more: Best first class award flights to book

Airlines with first class international flights

Most airlines that fly internationally offer a business class product, it’s not nearly as common to find an international first class option.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of airlines that offer first class international flights on at least some of their routes:

Air France .

All Nippon Airways .

American Airlines.

British Airways.

Cathay Pacific .

Japan Airlines.

Singapore Airlines.  

Swiss International Air Lines.

Thai Airways.

How to find a first class seat on an international flight

The easiest way to find a flight with international first class is to use Google Flights and click the “First” cabin option, highlighted in blue below:

» Learn more: Is first class worth it?

Is booking first class instead of business class worth it?

International first class can cost significantly more than business class — for instance, a one-way ticket from New York City and Munich, Germany, on Lufthansa costs over $15,000 for a first class ticket compared to $5,600 for business class.

When there’s a dramatic price difference, we generally wouldn’t recommend booking international first class over business class. But here are some times when it may be worth springing for international first class:

If you’re able to book or upgrade to first class with a reasonable amount of points . For instance, if you’re using Alaska Airlines miles , booking Cathay Pacific first class to Asia costs only 20,000 more miles than booking business class. This is because the two airlines are partners in the Oneworld alliance . 

When the airline offers a reasonable cash upgrade offer . Airlines will sometimes offer passengers the opportunity to upgrade to first class for less than you’d pay if you booked first class directly. We recommend checking your reservation online for upgrade options and asking the agent at check-in what the cost is for a first-class upgrade.

A special occasion, like your honeymoon or milestone birthday . If your budget allows, it may be worth splurging for a first class ticket for a special occasion.

» Learn more: Business class vs. first class on American Airlines

The bottom line

An international first class experience can offer a number of benefits over flying business class abroad, including more spacious seats, fancier dining and alcohol options, and special on-ground experiences and lounges.

The exact benefits offered for international first and business class passengers will depend on the airline, aircraft and route, so you should be sure to do your research before booking your ticket.

International first class tickets can be significantly more expensive than business class tickets, so unless your budget is unlimited, flying first class may not be worth it.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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What is business travel? Definition and examples

If you fly somewhere on behalf of your company, you are one of the millions of people involved in Business Travel each year worldwide. The term business travel refers to traveling for work purposes. We call each journey a business trip . If you drive across town to visit a client, that is not business travel. Business travel is longer.

If I say: “John is on a business trip,” we imagine he will be away for more than one day.

Wikipedia.org has the following definition of the term :

“Business travel is travel undertaken for work or business purposes, as opposed to other types of travel, such as for leisure purposes or regularly commuting between one’s home and workplace.”

Why go on a business trip?

There are literally dozens of reasons for business travel. Even if your employer is not a commercial entity, your trips may still be classed as business ones.

What about military personnel who specialize in purchasing defense equipment, missiles, vehicles, and airplanes who are flying to a military air show? Is this an example of business travel? Yes, it is.

So, rather than saying that business travel relates to journeys that are business related, we should say that they are work related.

Below is a list of types of trips people can make for work purposes:

• Attending a conference, convention, or trade show.
• Considering, examining, inspecting, or assessing new markets.
• Evaluating a project site.
• Going for a job interview far away (especially if your are an executive or specialized professional).
• Installing equipment for a customer.
• Meeting with colleagues (from the same company) at a faraway location.
• Motivating your staff to boost employee loyalty.
• Negotiating with suppliers.
• Networking.
• Promoting a product or service.
• Seeing a demonstration of something you may buy.
• Visiting customers.
• Meeting prospects (contacts who could turn into a customers).
• Apologizing to somebody.

Business travel and COVID-19

The market for business travel globally is huge. The World Health Organization says that approximately thirty percent of international trips are business-related. Until the coronavirus (COVID) pandemic hit at the beginning of 2020, the market had been forecast to expand rapidly over the next decade.

However, COVID-19 changed all that. The year 2020 saw a dramatic decline in all types of travel, including by air, ship, and land. Business traveler numbers are no exception. As businesses embrace modern telecommunication tools to communicate with employees, clients, suppliers, and other stakeholders, a new trend has evolved – the trend of replacing business travel with online meetings and events.

In August 2020, in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, Alexander Joe wrote the following in an article we published :

“Business travel has been hit hard during the pandemic. Before you make travel arrangements, make sure that you are permitted to enter your country of destination by checking the latest government guidelines. If possible, it is wise to avoid travel, and if possible, to conduct meetings with colleagues and clients digitally for the time being.”

A permanent trend?

Many conference organizers and airline executives wonder whether this new online trend will prevail after the pandemic is over. Companies have not only found that modern technology is suitable for their needs, but also that communicating online with faraway people is considerably cheaper than face-to-face.

Anything that saves money and helps boost the bottom line is an attractive prospect for CEOs and board members. Bottom line , in this context , means net profit, net earnings, net income, or net EPS (earnings per share).

In a BBC article, Natasha Frost wrote :

“Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, business travel has ground to a halt. We’ve moved critical client meetings to Zoom, allowed our frequent-flier cards to gather dust and learned how to communicate with colleagues around the world without jumping on a plane.”

“But is this the start of a new normal for business travel?”

Pros and cons of business travel

Traveling is great for broadening the mind and learning new things. However, if somebody has a family, there is definitely a price to pay. Missing family events may contribute to relationship difficulties.

It is also difficult if you don’t have any children but have a partner at home that you like to be with as much as possible.

Many people who travel frequently on business say that they feel lonely while away. Healthcare professionals, for example, have commented that several of their patients who regularly go on business trips show signs of declining mental health, and in some cases, depression.

Jet lag or jet lag disorder is common for people who travel across time zones. Jet lag is primarily a temporary sleep disorder which can make you feel unwell and cause daytime fatigue. Sufferers often find it hard to stay alert and may also have gastrointestinal problems.

If you suffer from jet lag, you have a greater risk of being involved in a road accident. Try to get somebody else to drive if you feel drowsy when you get back from your trip.

If your business travel is successful, i.e., good for your employer, your opportunities for promotion may improve. If you visit branches of your company, you will make new face-to-face contacts. In fact, one of them may offer you an interesting position in the future. Without your trips, this opportunity may never arise.

On a personal note, if you like learning about different cultures and how people abroad go about their lives, business travel is great. Not only do you learn a lot, but you also do it on the company’s expense.

If you accumulate lots of airmiles or reward points, you can use them for big discounts when you take your family on vacation. You may get special concessions from airlines, airports (VIP lounges), hotel chains, restaurants, currency exchange agencies, and car rental companies.

With the advancement of smart technology, business travel is becoming more efficient as travelers can check in, navigate airports, and manage itineraries using their smartphones.

Terms related to business travel

There are many words and expressions in the English language that are related to business travel. Let’s look at six compound phrases that contain the words “business travel,” understand their meanings, and see how they are used in a sentence:

Business travel expenses

The costs incurred while traveling for work purposes. Example: “The finance department requires all receipts to accurately reimburse business travel expenses.”

Business travel policy

A set of guidelines a company establishes for employees to follow when traveling on business. Example: “Before booking your flight, please review the business travel policy for approved airlines and accommodation.”

Business travel insurance

Insurance coverage designed to protect travelers from risks associated with traveling for work. Example: “Given the unpredictability of international trips, our company always recommends purchasing business travel insurance.”

Business travel management

The process or practice of managing and organizing corporate travel. Example: “Our agency specializes in business travel management, ensuring clients have a seamless experience.”

Business travel consultant

A professional who advises on and arranges all aspects of travel for businesses and their employees. Example: “To optimize our travel budget, we hired a business travel consultant.”

Business travel planner

A tool or service used to organize the details of travel for work. Example: “The business travel planner app was instrumental in coordinating the complex itinerary for our sales team’s roadshow.”

Video – What is Business Travel?

This video, from our YouTube partner channel – Marketing Business Network – explains what ‘Business Travel’ is using simple and easy-to-understand language and examples.

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How Airlines Make Money

Corporate comforts, increasing business travel focus.

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How Much Airline Revenue Comes From Business Travelers?

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Business travelers account for 12% of airline passengers, but they are about twice as profitable as other passengers because they tend to spend more for better accommodations or last-minute travel plans.

Aside from the cost of tickets, airlines also collect additional fees from passengers that help to add to their profit margins.

Key Takeaways

• Airlines make the majority of their revenues from travelers, though they can also profit from affiliations with travel partners and credit card companies.
• Business travelers make up 12% of airline passengers, but they pay higher rates than other customers and are typically twice as lucrative, accounting for as much as 75% of profits.
• Businesses are generally willing to pay more to book last-minute and non-stop flight options but rarely allow premium-section seats for rank and file employees.
• Businesses usually allow employees to leverage business travel to earn and keep frequent flyer miles and points, which are increasingly valuable to airlines as a source of revenue and data.

Airlines receive nearly 60% of their revenue from passengers directly (the other 40% comes from selling frequent flyer miles to credit card companies and other travel partners like hotels and car rental agencies). That revenue includes the cost of airfare, fees, and other travel expenses the airlines charge.

But of that 60% of passenger consumer revenue , the big money comes from business travelers—as opposed to those flying for leisure or personal reasons—in percentages that far outweigh the number of travelers. Business travelers account for 12% of all airline passengers, but they tend to buy more expensive seats, buy last-minute tickets, and are typically twice as profitable as other passengers. In fact, on some flights, business passengers represent 75% of an airline's revenues.

When booking air travel, be sure to research updated airport health and safety requirements both in the terminal and aboard the plane.

Corporate travel policies used to emphasize saving money. However, (pre-pandemic, anyway), given the hassle-prone nature of air travel, managers often showed concern about employee comfort, convenience, and productivity—as it was counterproductive if an employee arrived too tired or stressed-out to do their job. So, businesses were often willing to pay more to book last-minute flights or non-stops options, though typically not seats in an elite section of the aircraft.

For senior executives or employees that are subject to special corporate travel policy consideration, first-class and business-class tickets cost considerably more than coach tickets. This premium pricing typically brings passengers better service and higher-quality amenities than economy ticket offerings. Business and premium consumer spending on these goods and services encourage competition among airlines for the most lucrative passengers. Many airlines, in order to lure new passengers, introduce innovative services or refit aircraft for more first-class legroom.

Business travelers and high-end travelers also bring substantial revenue to airlines by purchasing additional services and using frequent flyer and other incentive programs.

When booking first-class or business fares, be sure to compare the cost of the flight and the amenities provided to see which one offers the most value for your money.

As a result of being able to bank larger revenues from business travelers, many airlines are now focusing attention on corporate trade. For example, Southwest Airlines—once known for its low frills and low fares—has begun to target business travel with a growing in-house department. The airline has also undertaken other efforts, including working with companies' travel managers to offer discounted fares or match a passenger’s status with other frequent flyer programs. In 2021, Southwest announced additional plans to target business travelers and expand that segment of its revenue.

Frequent Flyer Programs and Airline Revenues

Frequent flyer mileage programs are increasingly valuable to airlines, as business travelers and other first-class passengers link their credit cards to the programs and allow their consumption and spending behaviors to be tracked. High-income consumers have significant levels of disposable income to spend on a broad range of goods and services. Many businesses gather or purchase consumer spending data for use in developing a marketing strategy and product research and development .

The data airlines gather on high-end consumers using frequent flyer miles programs is extensive and tremendously profitable. Some frequent flyer programs are now considered worth many times the value of the airlines that own them, in fact. For most airlines, these incentive programs are an essential source of revenue and profitability that allow them to offer better pricing on tickets and more routes.

Many companies benefit from this data and are willing to pay for programs that are inexpensive for the airline to operate. Not all miles or travel points earned by consumers are actually used due to lack of travel redemption or expiration (which is termed "breakage"), further lowering program costs and profit contribution.

If you're enrolled in a frequent flyer program, consider opening an airline miles credit card to earn additional miles each time you fly.

What Are the Best Ways to Earn Airline Miles?

Flying frequently allows business travelers to accumulate points or miles that can be used for discounts on future travel. The best ways to take advantage of these programs involve familiarizing yourself with the programs or credit cards available and choosing which one best serves your needs. For example, if your employer typically flies with one particular airline, it might make sense to sign up for a program specific to that airline.

Is Business Travel Profitable for Airlines?

It can be. Business travelers often are more willing to pay extra for better seats or direct routes, among other amenities. Because airlines can charge more for this, they are able to make more money on business travel.

Is Business Travel Required to Purchase Business-Class Tickets?

No, anyone can buy business-class seats, but they generally are marketed to businesses that travel a lot. If the amenities that come with a business-class ticket are appealing, you absolutely can purchase one for any kind of travel.

Airlines earn their revenues in a variety of ways but the lion's share comes from business travelers, at least according to the latest industry data. Whether you fly business class, first-class, or economy, it's important to ensure that you're getting the best deal possible on flights. Researching fares and costs across airlines and using a travel rewards credit card to earn miles or points back on those purchases can help with managing your travel budget.

Trondent Corporation.  “ Business Travel by the Numbers .”

LTIMindtree. “ Co-Branded Credit Cards ,” Page 4.

Southwest Airlines. " Southwest Status Match ."

Southwest Airlines. " Southwest Airlines Brings More Enhancements to Business Travelers and Travel Managers ."

Southwest Airlines. " Southwest Airlines Makes Business Travel More Rewarding With New Rapid Rewards Business Program ."

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If You Test Positive for Covid, Can You Still Travel?

With coronavirus cases on the rise, summer travelers are once again facing difficult questions. Here’s the latest travel guidance from health experts.

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By Shannon Sims

As new coronavirus variants gain traction across the United States, summer travelers are facing a familiar and tiresome question: How will the ever-mutating virus affect travel plans?

In light of updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , the answers may be slightly different from those in previous years.

Here’s what to know about traveling this summer if you’re worried about — or think you might have — Covid-19.

What’s going on with Covid?

Recent C.D.C. data show that Covid infections are rising or most likely rising in more than 40 states. Hospitalization rates and deaths, while low compared with the peaks seen in previous years, are also on the rise.

The uptick is tied to a handful of variants — named KP.2, KP.3 and LB.1 — that now account for a majority of new cases .

At the same time, record numbers of people are traveling by car and plane.

I’d planned to travel, but I’m sick with Covid. What should I do?

In short: You should probably delay or cancel your trip.

If you tested positive or are experiencing Covid symptoms, which include fever, chills, fatigue, a cough, a runny nose, body aches and a headache, the C.D.C. recommends that you stay home and keep away from others.

According to its latest guidelines, the agency advises waiting until at least 24 hours after you are fever-free and your overall symptoms are improving before going back to normal activities, including travel.

What are the isolation rules?

New C.D.C. guidelines issued in March made significant changes to the recommended isolation period for people with Covid.

The agency now says that you can resume daily activities if you meet two requirements : You have been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and your symptoms are improving overall. Previously, the agency recommended isolating for at least five days, plus a period of post-isolation precautions.

Even after your isolation period, you may still be able to spread the virus to others, which is why the C.D.C. encourages you to continue to take precautions for the next five days: Use masks, wash your hands frequently, practice physical distancing, clean your air by opening windows or purifying it, and continue testing yourself before gathering around others.

Are there any lingering testing or vaccine requirements?

Travelers no longer need to show proof of being vaccinated against Covid or take a Covid test to enter the U.S. (This applies to both U.S. citizens and noncitizens.)

The same is true in Europe and most other countries.

How can I prepare before traveling?

First, make sure you stay up-to-date with Covid vaccines .

Next, plan to bring any items that would be helpful should you become sick while traveling.

“Make sure to take a good first aid or medication kit with you,” said Vicki Sowards, the director of nursing resources for Passport Health , which provides travel medical services. Ms. Sowards recommended that your kit include medications that you usually take when you are ill, as well as Covid tests.

You may want to consider packing medications that can help alleviate the symptoms of Covid, like painkillers, cold and flu medicines, and fever reducers. Bringing along some electrolyte tablets (or powdered Gatorade) can also help if you get sick.

Ms. Sowards also suggested speaking with your physician before traveling, particularly if you’re in a vulnerable or high-risk group. Some doctors might prescribe the antiviral Paxlovid as a precautionary measure, she said, to be taken in the event of a Covid infection.

How can I stay safe while traveling?

Wearing a mask on a plane or in crowded areas is still a good idea, said Ms. Sowards. Covid is spread through airborne particles and droplets, “so protecting yourself is paramount, especially if you are immunocompromised or have chronic health conditions.”

If you do get sick, start wearing a mask and using over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fever or joint aches, Ms. Sowards advised.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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Airlines got too confident, and now they are paying the price despite record-breaking travel

• Despite booming travel, airlines are struggling to turn a profit.
• Southwest expects seat-mile revenue will decline up to 4.5%, while American predicts up to 6%.
• Experts blame fewer last-minute business travelers, overcapacity, Boeing delays, and inflated costs.

Making money in the airline industry has never been easy.

It's a capital-heavy business with the constant need to expand and innovate while simultaneously managing ever-changing demand and costs.

Expensive fuel, maintenance, and labor don't help, nor do unpredictable setbacks outside the airline's control, like pandemic travel bans and production slowdowns at planemaker Boeing.

Despite the challenging environment, 2024 is still set to see record-breaking passenger numbers, according to the International Air Transport Association, or IATA ,

With so many people traveling, US airlines were poised for success. Some, like Delta, have found it. But across the industry, many airlines are struggling to turn profits thanks to issues like overcapacity, unrelenting competition, and unexpectedly high costs, according to experts.

Take Southwest, for example, which in June cut its forecasts and now expects revenue per seat mile — a key financial metric for airlines — to fall by up to 4.5% where it had previously expected 1.5% to 3.5%.

Before that, American in May warned it expected the same metric to fall by 5% to 6% compared to last year. Its earlier prediction was 1% to 3%.

Across the board, airlines have trailed the benchmark S&P 500 index with more debt than the average publicly traded company and thinner margins.

Airlines got overambitious with their expansion plans

Travel analyst Henry Harteveldt told Business Insider that thinning margins are, in part, because airlines added too much to the market too fast amid confidence in the soaring demand and now can't sell all of those seats.

Reuters reported American hurt its pricing power after aggressive growth in its domestic market. The airline also missed out on revenue from corporate customers due to a flawed ticket sale strategy it has since admitted was a mistake to adopt.

"We're seeing softness in customer bookings relative to our expectations that we believe is in part due to the changes that we have made to our sales and distribution strategy," American CEO Robert Isom said during a May conference.

Southwest also cited its struggle to predict demand as part of its revenue problem. And, unlike ultra-low-cost carriers , Southwest doesn't charge extra for ancillaries like bags or seats — another missed revenue opportunity.

In fact, activist firm Elliott Investment Management recently pumped nearly $2 billion into Southwest, questioning strategies like its lack of add-on fees and calling for a board shake-up and the firing of Southwest CEO Bob Jordan.

Business travelers are booking fewer last-minute premium-priced tickets

Part of the industry's overcapacity problem is because lucrative business travel still hasn't completely rebounded since the pandemic, Harry Kraemer, former CFO and CEO of healthcare firm Baxter International, told BI.

Corporations aren't spending as much on last-minute business travel since the pandemic made Zoom and Google Meet more convenient.

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"Half of the market is gone, and it's their highest margin," Kraemer said. "You've got all this excess capacity, and you've bought these planes, so what are you going to do with them."

Further, Harteveldt said companies have become more price-sensitive and are looking for cheaper options, noting ULCCs Frontier and Spirit are even getting business customers.

Over the past 12 months, shares of Spirit and Frontier have declined roughly 79% and 50%, respectively, far underperforming competitors and the market.

In an effort to boost revenue, they've changed their strategies to capitalize on the demand for more premium perks, such as dropping change and cancel fees and creating "business" class-like seats.

Boeing delivery delays have eaten into profits

Harteveldt said Boeing's ongoing delivery delays have cost airlines like American, Southwest, and United millions of dollars. This has forced them to adjust their planned flying, impacting revenue opportunities and flight availability.

He also said the lack of new planes means airlines are flying older ones for a longer time. The costs of maintenance and lesser efficiency can add up, and customers can't get access to the nicer amenities and reliability of newer jets.

Airlines need to expand with new routes and planes, he said — it's the nature of the highly competitive industry.

However, Harteveldt noted these forced network shake-ups, like Southwest's exit from four airports , could be beneficial for better leveraging airline pricing power, as capacity can be brought back in line with demand.

"The airlines should find and serve routes that are the most profitable, and that means they may need to increase capacity in some markets and completely exit others," he said.

Low-cost competitor JetBlue Airways overhauled its network to stay above water after its failed merger with Spirit.

Harteveldt noted that Airbus is also facing production setbacks that are impacting deliveries and worrying investors, though not as dire as Boeing.

Airlines are plagued by high costs in an extremely competitive industry

Nearly everything is more expensive than it was before the pandemic, and airlines are no exception.

"It's the worst possible combination of high fixed costs and inflation on the variable costs," Kraemer said, pointing to costs like planes, labor, and fuel. "There are so many permanent changes like virtual meetings that airlines will need several years to adjust for."

Fuel costs in April were 33% higher than they were during the same time in 2019, according to the most recent report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Meanwhile, US airline pilots have gotten huge pay raises in recent years to help fend off a labor shortage.

For low-cost carriers like Frontier and Spirit, these high costs make it challenging to make money, Kraemer said. Still, they force competitor fares down — creating another profit obstacle for mainline carriers. IATA reported in June that industry ticket prices, including ancillary, are 15% below 2019 levels despite high growth.

Harteveldt said beefing up revenue in any way possible is the best way to counteract the ever-growing costs.

"These days, it's less about having the lowest costs and more about generating the most revenue," he said, suggesting strategies such as charging for more ancillaries, reducing the number of discount tickets sold, or creating more enticing bundle packages.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

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