Airlines offer different travel classes. While each airline specification is different here is a brief overview of the general difference between the main travel classes offered by airlines.
Economy / Standard
- Economy or standard seats will make up the majority of seats on an aircraft and are the lowest-cost seats.
- Airlines may have different fare types which have differing flexibility, luggage allowance and seating options
- Low-cost airlines such as EasyJet and Ryanair have very strict restrictions on cabin baggage and you may need to pay more to take a larger bag or suitcase into the aircraft cabin. A small bag such as a handbag or rucksack (which will fit under the seat in front) is allowed without extra cost.
- Luggage allowance may not be included but is available for purchase.
- Select seating is not always included but can normally be purchased fee. Seats with extra legroom, at an exit or bulkhead, may cost more than a standard row.
- Food and drinks can cost extra but are normally included on long-haul flights.
- Most long-haul airlines will have in-seat inflight entertainment, blankets and pillows.
Premium / Enhanced Economy
- Not offered by all airlines/flights and normally only available on long-haul flights
- Larger/wider seat with more legroom and space than a standard economy seat
- Most airlines include a generous luggage allowance.
- Enhanced food or drinks are normally included and most airlines will provide a welcome drink on boarding.
Business (or First) Class on Shorthaul Flights
- Normally offered by full-service airlines (BA, Delta, Qantas etc). Not available on low-cost airlines (EasyJet, Ryanair etc)
- Either a larger seat or a seat with more space. Many airlines have flexible cabins and may utilise standard seats but give business class passengers more space by leaving the middle seats free.
- Generous luggage allowance.
- Complimentary food and drinks will normally be served on the flight.
- Dedicated check-in and fast-track security are normally provided
- Passengers can normally utilise an airline lounge with complimentary food and drinks provided.
Business Class (Long Haul)
- Most airlines provide a lay flat seat with comfortable bedding and amenities/ washkit.
- Generous luggage allowance.
- A la carte style service with a three-course meal is normally served
- Dedicated check-in and fast-track security.
- Passengers can normally utilise an airline lounge with complimentary food and drinks provided.
- Larger/ enhanced in-flight entertainment screen.
First Class (Long Haul)
- A limited number of seats normally around 12-16 per aircraft.
- Dedicated, attentive staff offering personal service.
- Lay flatbed/ seat with the most space on the aircraft.
- First-class menu and enhanced drinks offering delivered in a silver service style.
- Luxury amenities, larger/ enhanced in-flight entertainment screen and in-seat facilities
- Some airlines have first-class suites offering additional privacy.
- Passengers can normally utilise an airline lounge with complimentary food and drinks provided. Some airlines have a dedicated first-class lounge.
- Generous luggage allowance.
