Every time you board a plane, there they are: the flight’s first-class passengers. While you were at the gate waiting for your group number to be called (and likely stressing about nabbing space in the overhead compartment), they were getting settled into their extra-large seats with dedicated carry-on space. And as you sulk past them towards your narrow seat in the back of the plane, they snuggle in under a complimentary blanket and sip champagne. By
That, you tell yourself, is what flying should be like.
But is the extra space and next-level service worth the pricey ticket? To explore that very question, we’ve pulled together what it looks like to fly first class on various airlines, how flying first class is different from business class and economy, and how the benefits change (in some cases, dramatically) when you book first class on a long-haul international flight.
Benefits of Flying First Class
First-class fliers enjoy several benefits before they even board the plane. They don’t have to wait in the long economy check-in line, they get free checked bags, and they have an easier time getting through security; that first-class ticket may mean getting in a different TSA line.
From there, they get to board the plane first, so they have time to stow their bags and settle in without a line of passengers crowding around. And, of course, on board, they get extra legroom, a wider seat with a more exaggerated recline, a blanket and pillow, a beverage service that includes alcohol, and better food (and more of it).
Flying First Class on Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines has six onboard experiences: Delta One, Premium Select, First Class, Comfort+, Main Cabin, and Basic Economy, but some offerings and cabins are only available on certain routes. For example, the ultra-luxe Delta One cabin (which has lie-flat seats, Le Labo products, and sleep amenities) is only available on long-haul international flights and select long-haul domestic flights.
Pre-flight Service: Those flying first class with Delta get Sky Priority service from the moment they enter the airport. That translates to accelerated check-in, security, and baggage handling, and early boarding.
Baggage: Up to two free checked bags.
Seating: Up to eight inches of extra legroom and up to 5.4 inches of seat recline.
In-flight Service: A dedicated first-class cabin flight attendant, a complimentary pre-flight drink and snack, and a blanket and pillow. Those flying 900 to 1,399 miles can expect a meal, and flights over 1,500 miles include full meal service with several entrees to choose from.
Flying First Class on United Airlines
On flights around the US, United Airlines’ highest level of service is United First, but on flights from the US to Latin America or the Caribbean (and some US transcontinental flights) United Business is the first-class equivalent.
Meanwhile, United Polaris provides the airline’s ultimate flight experience (think lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and slippers).
Pre-flight Service: With United, first-class passengers can use the quicker, shorter Premier Access lines through check-in, security, and boarding.
Baggage: Up to two free checked bags with priority baggage handling, meaning your suitcases get special attention and will be among the first to arrive at baggage claim.
Seating: In United’s first-class cabin, expect the most legroom possible, and with United Polaris, get ready for fully reclining seats that convert to a flat six-foot, six-inch bed.
In-flight Service: Beer, wine, and spirits (including a rotating craft beer selection) and access to DirecTV.
Flying First Class on American Airlines
Like United, on American Airlines, the first-class designation marks the highest level on flights around the US, while business class is the highest level on shorter, international routes (including Bermuda and Canada).
On some long-distance flights (both domestic and international), passengers have the option to book Flagship First or Flagship Business classes, which is the brand’s most luxurious product (think lie-flat seats, access to the Flagship Lounge, and a sleep amenity set from Casper).
Pre-flight Service: Those booking a first-class ticket with American will be granted priority access through the airport’s most congested areas, from check-in to security to the gate.
Baggage: Up to three free checked bags, depending on the flight.
Seating: In American’s first-class cabins, seats are wider and recline further, although the exact increase varies by flight and plane layout.
In-flight Service: In the first class, passengers will enjoy a menu curated by chef and Dallas restaurateur Julian Barsotti, along with extra snacks and a beverage service that includes alcohol.
Flying First Class Vs. Business Class
On some airlines, like United and American, first-class fares offer the highest level of service on flights across the US, while business class provides the highest level of service on shorter-distance international routes (such as those heading to the Caribbean). If a plane has both cabin types, flying business class is typically a step down from flying first class.
Keep in mind that some airlines have a premium economy category (think Delta’s Delta Comfort), which tends to fall between economy and business or first class. A premium economy booking may have extra legroom, better meal service, and an increased bag allowance, but the perks can vary.
Flying First Class on Long-haul International Flights
Want the ultimate first-class experience? Save up and book a first-class ticket on a long-haul international flight. It’s on these long routes that you’ll find that dreamy elevated flight experience.
While almost all have lie-flat seats and thoughtful sleep amenities, some airlines take the experience to the next level. First-class on Emirates A380 and Boeing 777 planes, for example, means flying in a fully enclosed suite with a full bed, an onboard shower, and a first-class bar and lounge. Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Air France are all known for their first-class service and amenities.
Related: Long Haul Luxury Travel: The World’s Best First Class Airlines
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