EU doesn’t have first class, though they have EU business which is far worse than US First class. Internationally, for both the EU and US, it depends on the airline and airplanes.
In most cases, US domestic first class is miles ahead of European short-haul business class - aside from the fact that you rarely get lounge access. Also...United and AA do give lounge access if you're flying Canada-US. Not Delta though.
@@Traineddummy but as I've pointed out Delta doesn't do this - at least they don't anymore. At least NYC-YYZ in F tends to be a lot cheaper with them vs the competition. Quite reasonable actually. Also, even when it isn't, with the numerous schedule changes that happen with them on NYC-BUF, especially when booking a long way out, these are easily switched to YYZ at no extra cost if one happens.
I want to say how much I appreciate your reminder about the difference between "expectations" and "gratitude". I flew true business for the first time in my life recently on Swiss, and even though it wasn't perfect, I was beyond grateful to be in the front on a long flight. Like many people, I can only fly business or first if I can get a good points redemption, so it's good to remember that gratitude is important when flying up front, even if the experience doesn't fully meet expectations.
If you're spending your hard earned money, the company should also express their gratitude through fine service and accommodations that warrant the price. 🙂
You’re both absolutely right. One is a conceptual feeling of gratitude which is, obviously, important: For everyone of us who has the opportunity and ability to get to an airport and sit on our plane as it takes us to some distant destination, there are millions who will never have the means or opportunity to have anything more to do with a plane than seeing it streaks across the sky high above them. We should all have similar feelings of gratitude for our families, health, jobs or whatever else applies to us. It is likely that most of us who have the ability to watch a TH-cam video, have minimal challenges in our lives compared to some. However, at some point we have to gently move to one side our overall feelings of gratitude for our lives, and consider such first world problems as “why does my tesla not come with accessory x given what I paid for the car?” or “The view from my balcony on my cruise ship is not as it appeared in the brochure”. Essentially, our good fortunes in our lives do not and should not preclude us from having high expectations of those multinational companies who aggressively seek our business dollars in order to support their business against the competition, and further line the pockets and parking garages of their CEOs and shareholders. Let’s face it: we would all be fairly annoyed if, upon calling the customer service line at Delta Airlines, we were met with the response “well, you shouldn’t really be complaining about anything related to a flight: you have your Health don’t you?” :)
I remember during covid I was travelling and contributing to the company's cash needs and they said they'll extend everyone's elite status by 12 months. Problem was if you got enough flights to get to keep your status they wouldn't just move that to the next year and give you an extension as well, you'd be helping with money and not getting those perks! Business class wasn.t really business, once it was over they were still using the safety excuse and not opening lounges or giving away food (some were selling alcohol or preordered meals...). Yes, I appreciate every minute flying and especially in biz but as said before me.. at one point you expect to get something premium for that extra buck!
Love the videos Jeb. Agree on 1st class. For domestic US flights, it really isn't a life changer. However, international flights make all the difference in the world. I'd rather fly 1 1st class international than 10 domestic 1st class.
ORD to HNL on board a dreamliner in first class is/was a game changer. You get your lie-flat seat, 2 meals, snacks, drinks, and your own little cubby in Polaris. This is the exception to the rule, however.
That first one about not being allowed in the club bit me. I was really put off. I walked up, showed my tickets, and was talked down to by the guy at the door like I was traveling steerage. He went out of his way to make sure everyone within 30 feet knew that I wasn’t worthy. This was Delta, by the way.
I've been next to a couple people who had business or first class tickets and the confusion and shock on their face is concerning. The airlines must Not survey or meet with lounge staff to find out how many of them are being denied access. Some of them buy tickets for special occasion or first time. Think the airline would let them in to try to build loyalty. Regarding the Delta access, I was allowed in a Detriot lounge even though I didn't qualify because of flying partner airline.
Criticism doesn't mean being ungrateful for sure, however it does not mean the product is immune from criticism. The more you pay the higher the expectations and when those are let down, its entirely fair to point it out
I had American Airlines First Class, and was politely shown out of the lounge because I wasn't "first class" enough. Then on the pIane I was offered the only thing left on the menu in flight, since by the time they got to me all their other options were taken. Never flying AA again, never felt so much like a second class citizen until I tried to fly AA first class.
I've found that Delta's Comfort Plus is just as good as Domestic First, (free drinks, legroom, dedicated bin space) and most of the time about half the price on the routes I typically fly.
This video was very informative, Jeb. It confirms my opinion about domestic first class in the USA - that with only a few exceptions it's not enough of an upgrade over economy to be worth the extra money or miles.
@@NevG27 Even on a transcontinental flight domestic first class isn't worth an extra $200 unless it's on an international configuration widebody, JetBlue's Mint or a premium product on JFK-LAX/SFO. The only way I'd do it is if the upgrade is free.
@@janellek21 I would do $200 more for first class on a transcontinental flight in a heartbeat. Definitely worth it to me. The problem I have is when the difference is around $1,000. No way that's worth it or even reasonable, IMO
Before COVID, my wife was traveling extensively from the US to Germany and the UK for work. The company paid for her business class seats but she got to keep the miles. She racked up so many miles that when I would go to visit her I would fly business and sometimes first class on British Airways. We have just recently started traveling again and have taken 2 domestic trips in "first class". The flight attendants were great and of course the free drinks are nice but honestly the food was barely edible. We have another cross country trip planned in April and I am thinking of just saving the miles and/or money and just get two aisle seats at the bulkhead
You've done your homework well Jeb. Back in the days when I flew for TWA when I worked first class, we wined and dined our fc pax's. Those days we served chateau Briand and such, now a days, you're lucky if you get a ham and cheese sandwich on a bagel! First class aint what it used to be. What you shared is right now!! I don't fly much these days. I take AMTRAK and just get a bedroom. I really liked your blog. Ah me!! The Days of flying first class is not what it used to be. Back then we had great service. l Can't wait for your next adventure! :) 😁
I was lucky to have a father that was a senior UAL pilot in the 1960s so we often got to fly first class when it really was a premium product. Perhaps not as nice as some of the ultra-luxury international first class experiences today but far nicer than what passes as domestic first class in 2022. To wit the first time I ever tasted lobster (as a 9 year old) was on a UAL flight from Honolulu to San Franciso in 1967.
A hack that I’ve found on Delta is they will use aircraft with Premium Select seats on hub flights to the west coast occasionally, but they sell those seats as comfort plus, so you get a seat that’s basically like Domestic first for not much more than economy.
Jeb anyone who has watched some of your videos will know that you are never ungrateful...as opposed to some content creators in this genre, you always show appreciation and gratitude and keep things in their proper perspective, and that sets you apart and above the others
Years ago, on a family trip, we were upgraded to first class by the airline. The seats were nicer (two-two instead of three-three) but the only other "bonus" was a few extra bags of pretzels. The attendants were very nice, though.
That said, first class on CRJ-900, CRJ-700, and Embraer 175s is often a 1-2 layout, which means you have a shot at not caring whether it's aisle or window.
Funny thing about those lounges....think about this, if they offered domestic first class passengers lounge access....there wouldn't be a seat anywhere. Only reason Alaska Airlines can do it is they don't have the same amount of passengers (yet). I've purposely flown Alaska AIrlines in the past because I knew lounge access came with the ticket. Their LAX lounge is small, but it's bigger than the gate area...and there is decent food/drink/service. Plus cool seats facing the gates/taxi area to plane watch. Great job explaining things Jeb!!
I recently flew FC out of LAX on Alaska... being from Seattle and having three wonderful lounges to choose from (and a new one opening soon), I was very underwhelmed with LAX's. Also, they had to limit how many people could come in (unless you were a member) so I had to wander the terminal waiting for them to text me to come in. But it was nice to have somewhere to sit for a while away from the chaos at the gate.
I really don't think the US domestic carriers should call it first class. It's really just business class. Even up here in Canada that's what it's called (and you get lounge access). First class should mean just that - a top notch seat, good or great food, better wines, and amazing service. None of that applies in domestic first class in the US.
Very accurate video. That said, at least for United, I think you left out that at check-in, your bag is marked priority, so it tends to come out in the first batch when you reach your destination. I've always been of the mindset that the extra money you're paying for First Class isn't worth it. But I've been flying it lately mostly due to COVID concerns. And I have to admit, it's a much more pleasant experience than flying Coach. So you have to ask yourself, "How much is your comfort worth?"
I may have missed this, but a few additional justifications: 1) first off the plane - very important when trying to make another flight or get to a meeting 2) reserved overhead bin space 3) priority re-booking when flights are canceled
To be honest, this comment just proves how much U.S. domestic travelers are nickeled and dimed. These should not be premium add-ons. These should be standard. Airlines should not schedule passengers' connections so tightly that it will be difficult for a passenger to actually make a connection. If they sell you a ticket that includes a carry-on, then you should actually get to take the carry-on. It shouldn't be "premium" to get to carry-on the bag that was included in the ticket. Finally, rebooking a canceled flight is just good business.
@@sircharlesmormont9300 No airline can avoid the issue of tight transfers. The majority of the time it is fine, but based on the airport, the terminal for the connecting flight could be far away, and planes don't always land and take off when they are suppose too. Most airlines now included reserved overhead space with your ticket, but there has always been less overhead space then seats on airplanes. That is no different anywhere else. I never heard of the priority re-booking. Whenever I've had a flight cancelled, regardless of my ticket class, they always put me first in line to get another flight.
Jet Blue Mint service is the best domestic first class. NY to LA in a lay flat seat. Cocktail and warm towel pre flight. Food is great. Huge IFE screen.
I think while I’ve never flow 1st class the only “better” option is JetBlue’s mint suites. Out of all of the reviews it seems that’s the only way to get a true premium experience in 1st class in the USA. While only on a limited few routes, this seems to be the best option for what you get for the price. And it’s consistent unlike the disadvantages of the other carriers. I think you inferred that flying business or first to other continents is better idea for the money.
The issue is people compare our domestic first class with international first/business class. Obviously they are gonna be the same. They are not gonna put lie flat seats in an A319
Great video Jeb. How about doing a more detailed experience of domestic First Class and International First Class on the same Airline? And foreign carriers as well. Maybe United, Delta, British Airways, and Lufthansa?
Delta offers by far the best first class product of the big airlines in the USA. I’ve never been disappointed by them while others I’ve flown didn’t even have a TV and I was left wondering just wait I paid for.
Very informative video Jeb! I think the best comparison is what type of service do overseas airlines offer for routes that are the same length (or time). Remember everyone the USA is pretty big and more traffic and revenue for our airlines come from our domestic routes. Do you think Emirates has suites from Dubai to Kuwait City? Or Singapore airlines from Changi to Bangkok? That being said I do take upgrades on occasion using points if it gets me onboard sooner, wider seat, and some free food or drinks. Also Delta sometimes runs their A350 from ATL to LAX, before it goes overseas, so I try to get that on TRANSCONS. Cheers, Jeb!
ummm yeah, Emirates have first class, Business class and Economy even on their shortest route Doha & Muscat,..and yes you get a full meal service too. Even on their regional carrier flydubai, you get a lie flat seat and full service in Business class. Thats why most Americans and Europeans are always amazed with middle East and Asian carriers, and once theyve flown them, they never want to go back!!
@@theflyer1 Correct - I’ve flown Emirates F on A380s many times DXB-JED. The food on that 2 1/2 flight is typically better than on the connecting LAX-DXB flights. Particularly if you like good Arabic Gulf cuisine. No alcohol, of course, beyond DXB but there are nice juices and juice cocktails. They will also prepare a shower on request.
Nah US airlines are just very basic. Qantas business will let you in the fancy lounge with free drinks and food, then give you more drinks and food on the flight for any flight long enough to turn the seatbelt signs off. Singapore business will also get you in the lounge with drinks and food.
Worth mentioning, Delta almost always let me into the lounge with my active duty military ID, even though the tickets were obviously coach (because the government hate us lol), though I did have one that insisted I had to actually be on orders, not just active duty. Either way, definitely recommend at least trying to show military or veteran's ID, whether an official policy or just depending on who's guarding the door, they seem to like veterans and will probably let you in (worst case they say no, and you're no worse off).
Yeah anytime I flew in uniform I was always upgraded to first class if seats were available and I was given free access to the lounge as well. Never thought about using my Veterans ID. I’ll try my next flight. Maybe use my VHIC card.
Thanks for another great video. This was very informative. And when booking flights, I definitely take the type of plane into consideration. I would much rather fly on a wide body even if it's only a three or four hour flight.
I'm 6'2" and 300 lbs, and my first and only first class flight was Alaska from Seattle to LAX. The legroom and spacious seats (2 instead of 3) was luxurious in itself before the hot food and drinks. Space is really an important factor for larger people that worry about feeling claustrophobic between other passengers, at a price
One quick tip for Delta fliers: If booking longer domestic flight, look for Delta One. We are heading to Hawaii later this month and got on to a 767 with a Delta One cabin. Used segment upgrades and will be sitting up front for the long haul segment.
not being granted access to the lounge was absolutely despicable. The AMEX card did, but to pay 1900 for two tickets from FL to NYC and still have to pay a guest fee for a companion even using an AMEX card was absolutely reprehensible. Having said that, I found Delta First Class service to be vastly improved over the last trip I took FC to Hawaii several years ago. Also, really impressed with Delta flight attendants on my most recent flight.
I was in the airline industry, starting before The Deregulation Act of 1978 & retiring in 2001 & times have definitely changed but the people were more interested in paying less and things had to change in order for the airlines to survive. We would serve a smaller hot meal (ex. soup, sandwich, cookie, etc.) on a flight IN COACH at 9 or 10 PM if it was 2 or more hours. People paid for the service with no added fees & service was great....F/C Caesar salad prepared at your seat, prime rib carved, etc. I've non-reved on a TW B707 F/C where a light meal was served on a 23 minute flight. When the airlines started the frequent flyer programs in the 1980s , it did provide airline loyalty but made a portion on F/C seats free too. I had to laugh at a news story from 2 days ago where they said airfares have "skyrocketed" to an average of $328.00 in the US (this includes F/C, coach, long hauls, etc.) In 1940, taking an AA DC-3 (single class & many stops) from NY to LA had a fare of $6,000.00 one way in today's dollars, Yes...... times have definitely changed with in flight service in all classes & I do miss it; but now many more people can afford to fly today.
For me flying delta a lot the first class experience is just nice when breakfast/lunch/dinner flights. I think the longer the flight it's nice to have bigger seat but other segments it's just not worth it.
Jetblue ---- 100% Free WiFi - Yes Best food of all domestic airlines - Yes Best 'business' / better than first class lie flat seats - Yes Cheaper than legacy carriers - Yes Lounges - No (but it's not included in legacy first class either)
The reality of 1st Class in the US, and the only reason you'd want to be upgraded or pay for the seat is space. Spending 5 plus hours is a narrow seat regardless of whether it is an aisle, window or middle is brutal. If you want to arrive at your destination with even the slightest good mood, then 1st/Business is the way to go.
Thank you for the info. I'm 6 foot six inches tall. So I'm forced to fly first class. You're 100% correct and other than a bit more room it's a rip off and subpar.
We get screwed in the US for domestic first class. The only slight deviation from this is long haul flights to Hawaii. At least those you may get "newer" seats that lie flat.
For me, the simple way of thinking about it is that domestic US First class is roughly equivalent to European business class on short haul narrow body aircraft. The only real difference is that European airlines tend to have 3+3 seats with the middle seat blocked for business class, rather than the US 2+2. Perhaps it would be easier if US airlines simply dropped the name "first" on domestic flights?
In the past, domestic first class seats were close to international business class seats. Nowadays, domestic first class seats are identical to international premium economy, which is smaller than past business class seats.
To be fair, a lot of "Domestic" flights I've taken in Europe have the same, basic oversized First Class seats that we have here for domestic flights. Not all of them, but certainly a substantial amount.
Delta has a dedicated check-in counters for 1st class passengers and your check-in bags come off the plane first, and you go through a dedicated TSA line, which can make an upgrade to first-class ticket worth it. Also you get 2 free check-in bags up to 70 lbs, not 1 at 50 lbs or none. Just have to watch for upgrade costs to drop in price.
One other thing I’ve noticed is that upgrade prices for domestic first class in the US vary wildly. I’ve seen $200 for a flight from LAX to Kona, HI and $700 for a flight from MSP to Madison, WI. Those are extremes, admittedly, but I still think there’s a fair bit of variation.
Good one Jeb, I always refer to these flights as fake first class! 😆 JetBlue is the exception and does not sell fake first class, even if you search on google flights you’ll find Mint is properly listed under business class. Sadly the US will be without a true first class seat on any airline once AA eliminates flagship first.
You get more than when you go in First Class on Thameslink from Blackfriars to City Thameslink. At least on that the rear first class compartment, and sometimes the front first class compartment, is declassified so it costs no more.
Without a doubt the best first class I've ever experienced (to be honest and the ONLY first class I've ever experienced) was on the a321neo from Hawaiian Airlines last month and it was amazing! Food service comfort from the Bay Area and it was everything and more! Totally worth it and I appreciate your review from last year. Mahalo!
I would say that the first problem here is that the forward cabin product offered on US domestic flights called First Class no longer corresponds to what the rest of the world considers to be First Class. The second problem is the general decline in service standards on US domestic flights which means that service standards have now fallen below what the rest of the world would ever have found acceptable for a short haul First Class product in the days where such products were common. Even when a meal is offered, the food offerings I have seen do not attract me at all. I have no idea who chooses the menus and what tastes are being catered for. What is wrong with serving a nice steak dinner in First Class like they used to serve on US domestic flights? I often wonder why First Class passengers in the US accept such low standards of First Class service when they probably are individuals with some of the highest incomes? Is it because that post 9/11 the REAL First Class passengers have deserted the scheduled airlines in favour of private and corporate jets? Could the REAL First Class passengers be encouraged back to commercial US domestic air travel or is it too late? There is no longer an accepted worldwide standard for short haul First Class products. The products offered using long haul aircraft on short haul flights by airlines such as Emirates aboard A380's or by long haul carriers on short sectors of through long haul flights cannot really be regarded as short haul First Class products and are not really realistic expectations for a short haul journey. I am from the UK and am old enough to have travelled short haul First Class within Europe back in the 70's when business class did not exist and European carriers had the same 2 class FY configuration as is currently found on US domestic flights and in the 80's and early 90's when some European carriers such as LH and SR chose to retain a First Class cabin on intra-European flights (operating narrow body aircraft such as the 737-200 or MD80 series and even the F28 in a 3 class configuration with a very poor business class product sandwiched between F and Y, but that is another story!).which is the only real basis for determining a reasonable expectation for short haul First Class which was 1. Dedicated check-in. 2. Lounge access at major airports. 3. Dedicated fixed size cabin fully curtained off with a proper fixed cabin divider with proper 2 X 2 seating not converted Y class seats. 4. Champagne offered before take off. 5. All drinks served in real glasses. Absolutely no plastic glasses. 6. A good quality tray meal (NO caviar!) with main course served separately on longer intra-European sectors but always with table linen, china and glassware. Drink service with nuts before the meal (sector length permitting). Separate after meal coffee service. 6. Printed menus on longer sectors. 7. Often a small gift. Amenity kits, free cigarettes and hot towels were usually confined to long haul and were rare on intra-European flights. Best intra-European F class service I ever experienced was on an Olympic 707 on the LHR-ATH route when they offered a full long haul type meal service and broadsheet size printed menus. But one of the most important factors is always cabin crew attitude and service style. Even on a short sector with minimal catering it is all about service style. Your drink or coffee should be presented and served as you would expect it to be served in a top hotel not a fast food restaurant! Although there have been times in my life when I was taking 100+ flights a year (for work related travel) and rarely travelled in Y, I have very limited experience of US domestic travel and US carriers. I have never formed a favourable impression of any US carrier, even PanAm after having the misfortune to travel with them twice, once in F and once in Y, JFK-LHR. Y was ok but F was bad with an awful dinner and not even a coffee or juice in the morning before landing. Flew Braniff once in 1979 DCA-JFK in F on a flight that had originated in DFW. As expected, no meal service on that sector but was not expecting to be ignored for ages then served a coffee in a polystyrene cup which was taken away from me almost immediately before it had cooled sufficiently to drink any of it as we were about to land. So what should be done to improve US domestic F class? Leaving aside very long sectors such as NYC-HNL which really need to be treated as international flights as far as service and seating are concerned, I think that considering the average sector length the current 2 X 2 seating is probably adequate. You don't need a full flat seat on a short haul flight. I think the major problem lies with the poor quality of food and service (or lack thereof!) and cabin crew attitude. Concerning lounge access, I need to be reminded. Did US Domestic F class passengers used to get lounge access or were the lounges always members only clubs? Is it right to continue to call this US domestic product First Class? In the sense of maintaining a commonly accepted worldwide terminology, probably not and it should be re-named Business class.
I must agree that when I have flown US "first" it's really the *old* "business". Heck, I even experienced (back in the 00s) that on the same equipment they would call that cabin "business" on an international segment but "first" if both ends were within the USA. Pretty much unless you are on a coast-to-coast you wonder if realy the price difference is worth it. A lot of it, as I understand it, has to do with how US domestic "First" is more highly populated through high-points upgrades, so in essence a majority of the passengers are there at discount in the eyes of the company so why get much fancier.
Thank you once again, Jeb, for your informative and entertaining posts. I don’t know what it is, but every time I watch your vlogs, I immediately want to travel. I agree completely, without exception, to all of the info in this video. Domestic first class can be a letdown on occasion and you often wonder if it’s worth the difference in money. I still fly first class due to many disappointments in coach, but I do have a tendency to ask myself “you paid all that for this?” As always, I am so grateful for your time and work involved in making the great videos you consistently post. Take care and enjoy your travels!
Jeb….I have nothing but the utmost respect for the crews that I met in the last few months as I flew first class back and fro the across the USA twice. I was treated wonderfully. But I have to note that one of my cross country flights was a red eye with NO MEAL for first class. Red eye or not if you are flying first class you deserve a meal! Airline was cheap. If you pay first class fare in the US four first class you get leg room, personal service in terms of asking if you want tea or coffee or a drink before and during the flight and people are more comfortable in first class so they are nicer to each other. US first class is burdened by freeloaders trying to get upgrades and want to pay a little to hopefully get a lot. The upgrades/freeloaders weigh down US first class and make airlines disinterested in providing classy first class travel. If someone wants full blown first class travel they need to travel foreign airlines because you are not going to find it in the US.
Yes why do US carriers keep upgrading for free on domestic flights? It should be if you want to travel F you pay F (or redeem miles/points to a value equivalent to the difference in fare). Another problem is that by retaining the name 'First Class' for the current forward cabin offering, the US domestic carriers are out of step with the rest of the world. When people hear First Class they think of the long haul products offered by the likes of Emirates. There are now no (or very very few) other dedicated short haul First Class products remaining in the world, only very expensive long haul products which cannot realistically be compared.
*Thank you for posting this.* I work in tourism marketing and therefore fly both International and domestically often. My friends always question why their first class wasn't the "first class experience". Another commenter just stated that first class in Europe is better than first class in the US and yet economy in the US is better than in europe. That is almost always true. Most people you see In First Class get it because of a contract with the airline their company may hold or they have a miles card. I get upgraded due to the former. I've never once paid for first or even business class in the US because other than leg room economy is basically the same. _Now I can tell people to watch your video instead of me trying to explain it!_
First class in Europe is better than First Class in the US is it? Which European airline do you believe offers First Class on their intra-European flights?
Feel blessed to be able to fly US domestic FC. Appreciate the roomier cabin, seats, priority boarding and an occasional meal. That’s about all now a days.
Nice video, as someone who just started flying first class recently and mostly domestic, I'd picked up on this stuff over time, but it was a great summary. Only things I'd add are that the seat width and legroom maybe shouldn't have been quite as glossed over - as a 6', heavyset guy, that's one of the main reasons I appreciate it; economy seats are really awful in this regard. Not only do I fit comfortably in the seat width, but if the person in front of me leans back I still have room for my knees! Also, minor thing you didn't mention is priority checked baggage - first off the plane and onto the carousel, and often a dedicated dropoff area.
I have worked with many International Airlines Corporate and Customer Care, you are right about all the points. Checking Boeing model will work best but be aware of schedule changes (they may put you on a different model). Also, I wouldnt recommend to travel First class domestic in the US unless tickets are cheap. I will always recommend everyone to go Business class for domestic - most airlines first class domestic are same as business class. You'll get good price for a BS class. The best and cheap way is to book a Economy Coach/Main Cabin and extra for Premium Seats separately which you can do on airlines website under manage bookings by opening up the seat map.
I got to fly delta one on a 767 from Atlanta to Orlando back in July. While watching your video about the super short connection time in Atlanta, I realized I was in the same terminal as you at the same time! Just didn’t get to see you 😤
I think that what most of us find odd is that, if there’s no higher class than first class, you’d understandably expect the service to be beyond compare. Ie you’d expect a first class ticket to at least approximate the first class experience you get elsewhere. I mean, I understand that wifi and lounge access aren’t included but I really don’t understand WHY they’re not included.
Because there are higher classes available If you own a notable amount of stocks, pay for membership and ask for first class.... You're not in the same first class as someone who just bought a first class ticket online
Having never been to the US, I guess the main surprise to ne is the lack of lounge access. We don't even have First Class domestic offerings in Australia any more, as far as I know. Flat beds and the like are a necessary option these days in higher classes on medium and long haul flights. Even in the US how often would you be in the air long enough to get to cruise altitude and get more than a couple of hours sleep before beginning descent?In and out of Alaska, east coast to Hawaii? Even between New York and California, presumably if the demand was there at a high enough price point airlines would do it more. I am a little surprised the food offerings aren't a little better, but would not have expected some of the Michelin star level food of longer international journeys. A three hour flight is different to a 14 hour one, with different needs at every class of flight. Even in economy the latter is generally better served (at least from the few airlines I have been on, none of which are North American based). All that said, the video is about correcting expectations of what "first class" means in different situations. And it should temper expectations on not just US domestic, but shorter (say 6 hours and under) haul flights everywhere.
The thing to remember is that the U.S. and Canada are several times larger than any country in Europe, so you can realistically fly for 6+ hours, 3000 miles/5000 km, and still be within the same country. The distance from New York City to Los Angeles is roughly the same as the distance from Reykjavik to Istanbul---there is no flight within continental Europe that long.
Frankly @jeb in my humble opinion your video identifies a business opportunity for any carrier to UP their game in F class!! Especially in this post-pandemic era of pent up demand & gastronomic consumption by consumers in air travel. Delta's CEO point this past week of their planes being over 90% full is a proof point that if one carrier bested their F class offering they likely would be killing it! Domestic F class really is Economy+ given the majority of what is on the market.
American is getting rid of its F cabin on its A321Ts and Intl because people dont want to pay for the added service. Airlines will provide what the market is willing to pay for. Right now, most people want to fly as cheaply as possible then complain about the experience.
What do you prefer- European Business Class with lounge access and economy seats with blocked middle seats or the US domestic first (no lounge, much better Seat)? Both have in common the fact, that some routes are really long (FRA-CAI or the Hawaii routes) for this basic premium level.
In the 60's I used to fly JFK to LAX every other week. AA, TWA, and United flew a 707 or DC8 every hour. 100K miles made me a frequent flyer. United sent a rep to my office to present me with my credentials. An upgrade to first class was $15. We would choose which airline to take based on the movie. Then there was deregulation. Now the excuse for the lousy service is the pandemic.
Not sure that each airline had a flight every hour on that route in the 60's and would also question your claim that the difference in fare between F and Y was only $15.
Hi Jeb and Suzanne! Thank you for uploading this video. This video was very informative! Great to know how the airlines work and the impressions about it! Keep up the great! Best Regards from Florida!
Domestic 777 flights are worth taking the upgrade to United's Polaris first class IMO since you get fully lie flat seats, a massive screen, much more private, decent food, etc.
That's it. I am cancelling my first class from Tampa to NYC and just book regular flight. Thank you for clearing this up for us. I will save my CC points for first when I fly to Europe.
To sum this up: US airlines leave much to be desired in terms of ground staff, airplanes, onboard service, on-time performance, lounge access or rather lack of it, luggage handling, compensation....let alone airports which are crumbling. Simply don´t expect a luxury experience when flying across the US and you should be fine. Jeb's review is truly accurate.
There isn't enough time in a domestic flight to enjoy the fancy suites you show. In May I flew Delta 1st class and got a crappy, unfulfilling lunch in both directions. One way there was champagne, coming back none. My son flew Delta 3 weeks ago and had delicious steak meals both ways! (jealous) So things are improving.
It is important that people know what they are getting. I have in the past selected an airline based upon what food would be served on the flight. It is a good idea to read all of the details and see what you are actually paying for. That being said, I still think domestic first class is worth it, but different people may have different opinions. Just read all the details before shelling out money.
This is JUST AWFUL. I love what you've done and the insight that it gives into first class flying. But I'm disturbed at how lousy first class flying actually is. 😡
I flew United "Business First class" from EWR to HNL and got 2 full meals (Breakfast and Lunch) with a 2 additional snacks. The chair could also lay completely flat and came with TV screen which was nice. Not all domestic routes are equal. This was an 11hr flight to Hawaii that cost $1700 one way. If you are only flying to Florida or Chicago don't expect as much.
Oh boy. My husband and I are flying from Chicago to New York on united first class in april. I've never been in first class but my husband swears by it. I hope it was worth the extra money.
the only advantage is a bigger seat - the service is not always great...food is so-so and 40% of the time they don't even have inflight entertainment...great content..
This makes me realize just how good Qatar airways is. Their economy is better than most European and American First class even for trips shorter than 2 hours you are given the best service. I don't think I'll be switching anytime soon unless it's Emirates of course 😂
Just curious who thinks domestic first class comes with a private suite. Have these people never been on a plane? You literally walked through first class on almost every domestic flight. The seat configuration should not be a shock.
My Friends Sister left her Versace Thong in her cabin after a long night of drinking drugging and unprotected sex with the stewardess. Delta made aware of the situation and Immediately over night shipped the garmets too her residence before she begins her 5 year bid in Federal prison. Thanks again Delta and FedEx!!!!!!
I've found Business/First class within continental Europe to be worse than the same class in the US. Essentially, Business/First in continental Europe is just an economy seat in a 3 and 3 layout with the middle seat left empty.
In most cases, it’s not worth flying first class domestically anyways. Most flights are relatively short and won’t exceed 4 hours. I would rather just save that money than fly in first class
I also flew Domestic First this year. I flew United from Chicago to San Francisco on a 777, which was equipped with the new Polaris Business Class seats. I was very disappointed that the service was not up to par with what United offers on long haul. There was only a warmed waffle with some fruits. The crew only came once on the flight, which was a little over 4 hours long, to ask for more beverages requests. The welcome drink was served in a plastic cup, there were no pillows available and the blankets were very thin. Except for the excellent seat, the extra charge was not worth it. Thanks to my Lufthansa Star Alliance Gold status, I was able to try all the United Club lounges in ORD (I think there were 5 different ones) and all of them were significantly worse than the Lufthansa Senator lounges I know from Germany. The idea of buying a business class ticket and then having to sit around at the gate sounds like a scam. I flew JetBlue for the first time this year and it was a much better experience than United. There is no lounge either, but the prices are much lower and the service on board is much better.
First class in the USA sucks. Jetblue is setting a trend with their mint product but their is an untapped market for people prepared to pay for a good seat.
As a frequent domestic flyer, this is the best explanation for "First" class. I have used your trick for finding a wide body flight for a couple flights to Miami
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“First Class” on these flights sounds more like “Premium Economy”. Good to manage expectations, thanks!
Premium economy was basically created by putting US first class seats onto international flights!
From my view United States economy is better than Europe economy but US first class is worse than Europe first class
EU doesn’t have first class, though they have EU business which is far worse than US First class. Internationally, for both the EU and US, it depends on the airline and airplanes.
In most cases, US domestic first class is miles ahead of European short-haul business class - aside from the fact that you rarely get lounge access.
Also...United and AA do give lounge access if you're flying Canada-US. Not Delta though.
@@LiamWalsheliamskitchen that's because it's an International flight......
@@Traineddummy but as I've pointed out Delta doesn't do this - at least they don't anymore.
At least NYC-YYZ in F tends to be a lot cheaper with them vs the competition. Quite reasonable actually. Also, even when it isn't, with the numerous schedule changes that happen with them on NYC-BUF, especially when booking a long way out, these are easily switched to YYZ at no extra cost if one happens.
@@LiamWalsheliamskitchen AA only started in April of 2021. And website stills states, 'For a limited time only'
I want to say how much I appreciate your reminder about the difference between "expectations" and "gratitude". I flew true business for the first time in my life recently on Swiss, and even though it wasn't perfect, I was beyond grateful to be in the front on a long flight. Like many people, I can only fly business or first if I can get a good points redemption, so it's good to remember that gratitude is important when flying up front, even if the experience doesn't fully meet expectations.
If you're spending your hard earned money, the company should also express their gratitude through fine service and accommodations that warrant the price. 🙂
You’re both absolutely right. One is a conceptual feeling of gratitude which is, obviously, important: For everyone of us who has the opportunity and ability to get to an airport and sit on our plane as it takes us to some distant destination, there are millions who will never have the means or opportunity to have anything more to do with a plane than seeing it streaks across the sky high above them. We should all have similar feelings of gratitude for our families, health, jobs or whatever else applies to us. It is likely that most of us who have the ability to watch a TH-cam video, have minimal challenges in our lives compared to some.
However, at some point we have to gently move to one side our overall feelings of gratitude for our lives, and consider such first world problems as “why does my tesla not come with accessory x given what I paid for the car?” or “The view from my balcony on my cruise ship is not as it appeared in the brochure”.
Essentially, our good fortunes in our lives do not and should not preclude us from having high expectations of those multinational companies who aggressively seek our business dollars in order to support their business against the competition, and further line the pockets and parking garages of their CEOs and shareholders.
Let’s face it: we would all be fairly annoyed if, upon calling the customer service line at Delta Airlines, we were met with the response “well, you shouldn’t really be complaining about anything related to a flight: you have your Health don’t you?” :)
@@maddoctor99 Well said, I totally agree!
I remember during covid I was travelling and contributing to the company's cash needs and they said they'll extend everyone's elite status by 12 months. Problem was if you got enough flights to get to keep your status they wouldn't just move that to the next year and give you an extension as well, you'd be helping with money and not getting those perks! Business class wasn.t really business, once it was over they were still using the safety excuse and not opening lounges or giving away food (some were selling alcohol or preordered meals...). Yes, I appreciate every minute flying and especially in biz but as said before me.. at one point you expect to get something premium for that extra buck!
@@maddoctor99 well said. We can be grateful for our good fortune and still expect fair value for our money.
Love the videos Jeb. Agree on 1st class. For domestic US flights, it really isn't a life changer. However, international flights make all the difference in the world. I'd rather fly 1 1st class international than 10 domestic 1st class.
I flew first class from the U.S. to the Caribbean. I could've done without it. 🤷♂️
ORD to HNL on board a dreamliner in first class is/was a game changer. You get your lie-flat seat, 2 meals, snacks, drinks, and your own little cubby in Polaris. This is the exception to the rule, however.
@@TomikaKelly by international he means long range (5 hours and more) on widebodies
That first one about not being allowed in the club bit me. I was really put off. I walked up, showed my tickets, and was talked down to by the guy at the door like I was traveling steerage. He went out of his way to make sure everyone within 30 feet knew that I wasn’t worthy.
This was Delta, by the way.
Delta usually costs the same as Alaska. You know which one to fly with next time.
You'd think staff would at least get training on how not to be COMPLETE douchbags about it!
@@robertberin4872 Alaska doesn't fly everywhere that Delta does.
@@mirzaahmed6589 While true, it shows the level of customer service and why Alaska typically ranks above Delta.
I've been next to a couple people who had business or first class tickets and the confusion and shock on their face is concerning. The airlines must Not survey or meet with lounge staff to find out how many of them are being denied access. Some of them buy tickets for special occasion or first time. Think the airline would let them in to try to build loyalty. Regarding the Delta access, I was allowed in a Detriot lounge even though I didn't qualify because of flying partner airline.
Criticism doesn't mean being ungrateful for sure, however it does not mean the product is immune from criticism. The more you pay the higher the expectations and when those are let down, its entirely fair to point it out
So real💯
I had American Airlines First Class, and was politely shown out of the lounge because I wasn't "first class" enough. Then on the pIane I was offered the only thing left on the menu in flight, since by the time they got to me all their other options were taken. Never flying AA again, never felt so much like a second class citizen until I tried to fly AA first class.
I've found that Delta's Comfort Plus is just as good as Domestic First, (free drinks, legroom, dedicated bin space) and most of the time about half the price on the routes I typically fly.
Definitely not, the seats are just as narrow unfortunately
I’ve come to appreciate Delta Comfort Plus
This video was very informative, Jeb. It confirms my opinion about domestic first class in the USA - that with only a few exceptions it's not enough of an upgrade over economy to be worth the extra money or miles.
Depends on the length and price imo. If you're on a 4+ hour flight for only $200 or so more I'd say it's worth it if it's chump change to you
@@NevG27 Even on a transcontinental flight domestic first class isn't worth an extra $200 unless it's on an international configuration widebody, JetBlue's Mint or a premium product on JFK-LAX/SFO. The only way I'd do it is if the upgrade is free.
I'm pretty tall so airplanes can be uncomfortable for me. The extra legroom alone can be worth it in some instances.
@@accountnumber90 In many instances on narrowbody aircraft the bulkhead or exit rows in economy have more legroom than first.
@@janellek21 I would do $200 more for first class on a transcontinental flight in a heartbeat. Definitely worth it to me. The problem I have is when the difference is around $1,000. No way that's worth it or even reasonable, IMO
Before COVID, my wife was traveling extensively from the US to Germany and the UK for work. The company paid for her business class seats but she got to keep the miles. She racked up so many miles that when I would go to visit her I would fly business and sometimes first class on British Airways. We have just recently started traveling again and have taken 2 domestic trips in "first class". The flight attendants were great and of course the free drinks are nice but honestly the food was barely edible. We have another cross country trip planned in April and I am thinking of just saving the miles and/or money and just get two aisle seats at the bulkhead
First class only is worth it if you’re leaving during meal time, a quick sandwich or whatever is usually cheaper,or going internationally.
You've done your homework well Jeb. Back in the days when I flew for TWA when I worked first class, we wined and dined our fc pax's. Those days we served chateau Briand and such, now a days, you're lucky if you get a ham and cheese sandwich on a bagel! First class aint what it used to be. What you shared is right now!! I don't fly much these days. I take AMTRAK and just get a bedroom. I really liked your blog. Ah me!! The Days of flying first class is not what it used to be. Back then we had great service. l Can't wait for your next adventure! :)
😁
Those were the days!!
@@GreenerGrass indeed they certainly were!
I was lucky to have a father that was a senior UAL pilot in the 1960s so we often got to fly first class when it really was a premium product. Perhaps not as nice as some of the ultra-luxury international first class experiences today but far nicer than what passes as domestic first class in 2022. To wit the first time I ever tasted lobster (as a 9 year old) was on a UAL flight from Honolulu to San Franciso in 1967.
I work for a major airline in the States and videos like these helps me assist my passengers better :) Keep up the good work!
@Phillip Banes Really?
You went there?
You need to get out more.
You must be a lot of fun at parties, if you get invited.
@Phillip Banes next thing you’re going to tell us there’s no such thing as a lift because you call it an elevator.
Must be difficult with international passengers, since they expect more.
A hack that I’ve found on Delta is they will use aircraft with Premium Select seats on hub flights to the west coast occasionally, but they sell those seats as comfort plus, so you get a seat that’s basically like Domestic first for not much more than economy.
Jeb anyone who has watched some of your videos will know that you are never ungrateful...as opposed to some content creators in this genre, you always show appreciation and gratitude and keep things in their proper perspective, and that sets you apart and above the others
Years ago, on a family trip, we were upgraded to first class by the airline. The seats were nicer (two-two instead of three-three) but the only other "bonus" was a few extra bags of pretzels. The attendants were very nice, though.
That said, first class on CRJ-900, CRJ-700, and Embraer 175s is often a 1-2 layout, which means you have a shot at not caring whether it's aisle or window.
Funny thing about those lounges....think about this, if they offered domestic first class passengers lounge access....there wouldn't be a seat anywhere. Only reason Alaska Airlines can do it is they don't have the same amount of passengers (yet). I've purposely flown Alaska AIrlines in the past because I knew lounge access came with the ticket. Their LAX lounge is small, but it's bigger than the gate area...and there is decent food/drink/service. Plus cool seats facing the gates/taxi area to plane watch. Great job explaining things Jeb!!
Hawaiian has them too, out of HNL.
I recently flew FC out of LAX on Alaska... being from Seattle and having three wonderful lounges to choose from (and a new one opening soon), I was very underwhelmed with LAX's. Also, they had to limit how many people could come in (unless you were a member) so I had to wander the terminal waiting for them to text me to come in. But it was nice to have somewhere to sit for a while away from the chaos at the gate.
I was lucky enough to fly Concorde class in the 90s. Now THAT was the pinnacle in Aviation.
I really don't think the US domestic carriers should call it first class. It's really just business class. Even up here in Canada that's what it's called (and you get lounge access). First class should mean just that - a top notch seat, good or great food, better wines, and amazing service. None of that applies in domestic first class in the US.
Very accurate video. That said, at least for United, I think you left out that at check-in, your bag is marked priority, so it tends to come out in the first batch when you reach your destination.
I've always been of the mindset that the extra money you're paying for First Class isn't worth it. But I've been flying it lately mostly due to COVID concerns. And I have to admit, it's a much more pleasant experience than flying Coach. So you have to ask yourself, "How much is your comfort worth?"
I may have missed this, but a few additional justifications:
1) first off the plane - very important when trying to make another flight or get to a meeting
2) reserved overhead bin space
3) priority re-booking when flights are canceled
and all the short lines, totally worth it
The second point of reserved bin space you can get without going first class. Most airlines will let you pay a fee for guaranteed bin space.
To be honest, this comment just proves how much U.S. domestic travelers are nickeled and dimed. These should not be premium add-ons. These should be standard. Airlines should not schedule passengers' connections so tightly that it will be difficult for a passenger to actually make a connection. If they sell you a ticket that includes a carry-on, then you should actually get to take the carry-on. It shouldn't be "premium" to get to carry-on the bag that was included in the ticket. Finally, rebooking a canceled flight is just good business.
@@sircharlesmormont9300 No airline can avoid the issue of tight transfers. The majority of the time it is fine, but based on the airport, the terminal for the connecting flight could be far away, and planes don't always land and take off when they are suppose too. Most airlines now included reserved overhead space with your ticket, but there has always been less overhead space then seats on airplanes. That is no different anywhere else. I never heard of the priority re-booking. Whenever I've had a flight cancelled, regardless of my ticket class, they always put me first in line to get another flight.
Jet Blue Mint service is the best domestic first class. NY to LA in a lay flat seat. Cocktail and warm towel pre flight. Food is great. Huge IFE screen.
I think while I’ve never flow 1st class the only “better” option is JetBlue’s mint suites. Out of all of the reviews it seems that’s the only way to get a true premium experience in 1st class in the USA. While only on a limited few routes, this seems to be the best option for what you get for the price. And it’s consistent unlike the disadvantages of the other carriers.
I think you inferred that flying business or first to other continents is better idea for the money.
Or hawaiian.
The issue is people compare our domestic first class with international first/business class. Obviously they are gonna be the same. They are not gonna put lie flat seats in an A319
Great video Jeb. How about doing a more detailed experience of domestic First Class and International First Class on the same Airline? And foreign carriers as well. Maybe United, Delta, British Airways, and Lufthansa?
Do a Delta hub-Hopping video. The United one was amazing!!
Also I want him to do American hub hopping
US First is what the rest of the world calls Business Class on a narrow body aircraft. Always have to be different in the US.
Delta offers by far the best first class product of the big airlines in the USA. I’ve never been disappointed by them while others I’ve flown didn’t even have a TV and I was left wondering just wait I paid for.
Very informative video Jeb! I think the best comparison is what type of service do overseas airlines offer for routes that are the same length (or time). Remember everyone the USA is pretty big and more traffic and revenue for our airlines come from our domestic routes. Do you think Emirates has suites from Dubai to Kuwait City? Or Singapore airlines from Changi to Bangkok? That being said I do take upgrades on occasion using points if it gets me onboard sooner, wider seat, and some free food or drinks. Also Delta sometimes runs their A350 from ATL to LAX, before it goes overseas, so I try to get that on TRANSCONS. Cheers, Jeb!
ummm yeah, Emirates have first class, Business class and Economy even on their shortest route Doha & Muscat,..and yes you get a full meal service too. Even on their regional carrier flydubai, you get a lie flat seat and full service in Business class. Thats why most Americans and Europeans are always amazed with middle East and Asian carriers, and once theyve flown them, they never want to go back!!
@@theflyer1 Correct - I’ve flown Emirates F on A380s many times DXB-JED. The food on that 2 1/2 flight is typically better than on the connecting LAX-DXB flights. Particularly if you like good Arabic Gulf cuisine. No alcohol, of course, beyond DXB but there are nice juices and juice cocktails. They will also prepare a shower on request.
@@pacmanc8103 facts!! 😎👌🏾 yeah, no alcohol in all flights into Saudi, but on other flights...enjoy in the lounge, and take a shower later. ✈😁👍🏽
Nah US airlines are just very basic.
Qantas business will let you in the fancy lounge with free drinks and food, then give you more drinks and food on the flight for any flight long enough to turn the seatbelt signs off. Singapore business will also get you in the lounge with drinks and food.
Worth mentioning, Delta almost always let me into the lounge with my active duty military ID, even though the tickets were obviously coach (because the government hate us lol), though I did have one that insisted I had to actually be on orders, not just active duty. Either way, definitely recommend at least trying to show military or veteran's ID, whether an official policy or just depending on who's guarding the door, they seem to like veterans and will probably let you in (worst case they say no, and you're no worse off).
Yeah anytime I flew in uniform I was always upgraded to first class if seats were available and I was given free access to the lounge as well. Never thought about using my Veterans ID. I’ll try my next flight. Maybe use my VHIC card.
Thanks for another great video. This was very informative.
And when booking flights, I definitely take the type of plane into consideration. I would much rather fly on a wide body even if it's only a three or four hour flight.
I'm 6'2" and 300 lbs, and my first and only first class flight was Alaska from Seattle to LAX. The legroom and spacious seats (2 instead of 3) was luxurious in itself before the hot food and drinks. Space is really an important factor for larger people that worry about feeling claustrophobic between other passengers, at a price
I completely agree! I am also big and fllying economy is very tough as a result.
Great video mate...great explainer that is very much needed.
Thanks, Dennis! First Class, International First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy Class…it can all be so confusing!
One quick tip for Delta fliers: If booking longer domestic flight, look for Delta One. We are heading to Hawaii later this month and got on to a 767 with a Delta One cabin. Used segment upgrades and will be sitting up front for the long haul segment.
not being granted access to the lounge was absolutely despicable. The AMEX card did, but to pay 1900 for two tickets from FL to NYC and still have to pay a guest fee for a companion even using an AMEX card was absolutely reprehensible. Having said that, I found Delta First Class service to be vastly improved over the last trip I took FC to Hawaii several years ago. Also, really impressed with Delta flight attendants on my most recent flight.
I was in the airline industry, starting before The Deregulation Act of 1978 & retiring in 2001 & times have definitely changed but the people were more interested in paying less and things had to change in order for the airlines to survive. We would serve a smaller hot meal (ex. soup, sandwich, cookie, etc.) on a flight IN COACH at 9 or 10 PM if it was 2 or more hours. People paid for the service with no added fees & service was great....F/C Caesar salad prepared at your seat, prime rib carved, etc. I've non-reved on a TW B707 F/C where a light meal was served on a 23 minute flight. When the airlines started the frequent flyer programs in the 1980s , it did provide airline loyalty but made a portion on F/C seats free too. I had to laugh at a news story from 2 days ago where they said airfares have "skyrocketed" to an average of $328.00 in the US (this includes F/C, coach, long hauls, etc.) In 1940, taking an AA DC-3 (single class & many stops) from NY to LA had a fare of $6,000.00 one way in today's dollars, Yes...... times have definitely changed with in flight service in all classes & I do miss it; but now many more people can afford to fly today.
For me flying delta a lot the first class experience is just nice when breakfast/lunch/dinner flights. I think the longer the flight it's nice to have bigger seat but other segments it's just not worth it.
Jetblue ----
100% Free WiFi - Yes
Best food of all domestic airlines - Yes
Best 'business' / better than first class lie flat seats - Yes
Cheaper than legacy carriers - Yes
Lounges - No (but it's not included in legacy first class either)
The reality of 1st Class in the US, and the only reason you'd want to be upgraded or pay for the seat is space. Spending 5 plus hours is a narrow seat regardless of whether it is an aisle, window or middle is brutal. If you want to arrive at your destination with even the slightest good mood, then 1st/Business is the way to go.
What you call “First class” in the US is in reality a business class seat. End of the story 😊
Jeb, you’re videos are always amazing. I look forward to Saturdays for your videos. I love aviation and you just make it so much better!!!
Jeb, this is why I love your videos and not Nonstop Dan's. Very respectful and acknowledged your privilege, which is a huge start.
Jeb puts out such a great channel. Love watching all his vids.
Thank you for the info. I'm 6 foot six inches tall. So I'm forced to fly first class. You're 100% correct and other than a bit more room it's a rip off and subpar.
We get screwed in the US for domestic first class. The only slight deviation from this is long haul flights to Hawaii. At least those you may get "newer" seats that lie flat.
Newbie here. Is it me or does his voice tone and energy give you joy. 😁
For me, the simple way of thinking about it is that domestic US First class is roughly equivalent to European business class on short haul narrow body aircraft. The only real difference is that European airlines tend to have 3+3 seats with the middle seat blocked for business class, rather than the US 2+2. Perhaps it would be easier if US airlines simply dropped the name "first" on domestic flights?
Excellent point!
That's pretty much why United calls it "BusinessFirst"
In the past, domestic first class seats were close to international business class seats. Nowadays, domestic first class seats are identical to international premium economy, which is smaller than past business class seats.
There is no first class in the domestic USA it barely ranks as a business class.
To be fair, a lot of "Domestic" flights I've taken in Europe have the same, basic oversized First Class seats that we have here for domestic flights. Not all of them, but certainly a substantial amount.
Delta has a dedicated check-in counters for 1st class passengers and your check-in bags come off the plane first, and you go through a dedicated TSA line, which can make an upgrade to first-class ticket worth it. Also you get 2 free check-in bags up to 70 lbs, not 1 at 50 lbs or none. Just have to watch for upgrade costs to drop in price.
If you are going to a small airport for example, Syracuse NY, first class is the pits on Delta, but it beats the regular seats I guess.
Honestly, being a frequent flyer, I appreciate the group 1 boarding so much, that alone makes it worth it to me
One other thing I’ve noticed is that upgrade prices for domestic first class in the US vary wildly. I’ve seen $200 for a flight from LAX to Kona, HI and $700 for a flight from MSP to Madison, WI. Those are extremes, admittedly, but I still think there’s a fair bit of variation.
Good one Jeb, I always refer to these flights as fake first class! 😆 JetBlue is the exception and does not sell fake first class, even if you search on google flights you’ll find Mint is properly listed under business class. Sadly the US will be without a true first class seat on any airline once AA eliminates flagship first.
You get more than when you go in First Class on Thameslink from Blackfriars to City Thameslink. At least on that the rear first class compartment, and sometimes the front first class compartment, is declassified so it costs no more.
Without a doubt the best first class I've ever experienced (to be honest and the ONLY first class I've ever experienced) was on the a321neo from Hawaiian Airlines last month and it was amazing! Food service comfort from the Bay Area and it was everything and more! Totally worth it and I appreciate your review from last year. Mahalo!
I would say that the first problem here is that the forward cabin product offered on US domestic flights called First Class no longer corresponds to what the rest of the world considers to be First Class.
The second problem is the general decline in service standards on US domestic flights which means that service standards have now fallen below what the rest of the world would ever have found acceptable for a short haul First Class product in the days where such products were common. Even when a meal is offered, the food offerings I have seen do not attract me at all. I have no idea who chooses the menus and what tastes are being catered for. What is wrong with serving a nice steak dinner in First Class like they used to serve on US domestic flights?
I often wonder why First Class passengers in the US accept such low standards of First Class service when they probably are individuals with some of the highest incomes? Is it because that post 9/11 the REAL First Class passengers have deserted the scheduled airlines in favour of private and corporate jets? Could the REAL First Class passengers be encouraged back to commercial US domestic air travel or is it too late?
There is no longer an accepted worldwide standard for short haul First Class products. The products offered using long haul aircraft on short haul flights by airlines such as Emirates aboard A380's or by long haul carriers on short sectors of through long haul flights cannot really be regarded as short haul First Class products and are not really realistic expectations for a short haul journey.
I am from the UK and am old enough to have travelled short haul First Class within Europe back in the 70's when business class did not exist and European carriers had the same 2 class FY configuration as is currently found on US domestic flights and in the 80's and early 90's when some European carriers such as LH and SR chose to retain a First Class cabin on intra-European flights (operating narrow body aircraft such as the 737-200 or MD80 series and even the F28 in a 3 class configuration with a very poor business class product sandwiched between F and Y, but that is another story!).which is the only real basis for determining a reasonable expectation for short haul First Class which was 1. Dedicated check-in. 2. Lounge access at major airports. 3. Dedicated fixed size cabin fully curtained off with a proper fixed cabin divider with proper 2 X 2 seating not converted Y class seats. 4. Champagne offered before take off. 5. All drinks served in real glasses. Absolutely no plastic glasses. 6. A good quality tray meal (NO caviar!) with main course served separately on longer intra-European sectors but always with table linen, china and glassware. Drink service with nuts before the meal (sector length permitting). Separate after meal coffee service. 6. Printed menus on longer sectors. 7. Often a small gift. Amenity kits, free cigarettes and hot towels were usually confined to long haul and were rare on intra-European flights. Best intra-European F class service I ever experienced was on an Olympic 707 on the LHR-ATH route when they offered a full long haul type meal service and broadsheet size printed menus.
But one of the most important factors is always cabin crew attitude and service style. Even on a short sector with minimal catering it is all about service style. Your drink or coffee should be presented and served as you would expect it to be served in a top hotel not a fast food restaurant!
Although there have been times in my life when I was taking 100+ flights a year (for work related travel) and rarely travelled in Y, I have very limited experience of US domestic travel and US carriers. I have never formed a favourable impression of any US carrier, even PanAm after having the misfortune to travel with them twice, once in F and once in Y, JFK-LHR. Y was ok but F was bad with an awful dinner and not even a coffee or juice in the morning before landing. Flew Braniff once in 1979 DCA-JFK in F on a flight that had originated in DFW. As expected, no meal service on that sector but was not expecting to be ignored for ages then served a coffee in a polystyrene cup which was taken away from me almost immediately before it had cooled sufficiently to drink any of it as we were about to land.
So what should be done to improve US domestic F class? Leaving aside very long sectors such as NYC-HNL which really need to be treated as international flights as far as service and seating are concerned, I think that considering the average sector length the current 2 X 2 seating is probably adequate. You don't need a full flat seat on a short haul flight. I think the major problem lies with the poor quality of food and service (or lack thereof!) and cabin crew attitude. Concerning lounge access, I need to be reminded. Did US Domestic F class passengers used to get lounge access or were the lounges always members only clubs?
Is it right to continue to call this US domestic product First Class? In the sense of maintaining a commonly accepted worldwide terminology, probably not and it should be re-named Business class.
I must agree that when I have flown US "first" it's really the *old* "business". Heck, I even experienced (back in the 00s) that on the same equipment they would call that cabin "business" on an international segment but "first" if both ends were within the USA. Pretty much unless you are on a coast-to-coast you wonder if realy the price difference is worth it. A lot of it, as I understand it, has to do with how US domestic "First" is more highly populated through high-points upgrades, so in essence a majority of the passengers are there at discount in the eyes of the company so why get much fancier.
Thank you once again, Jeb, for your informative and entertaining posts. I don’t know what it is, but every time I watch your vlogs, I immediately want to travel. I agree completely, without exception, to all of the info in this video. Domestic first class can be a letdown on occasion and you often wonder if it’s worth the difference in money. I still fly first class due to many disappointments in coach, but I do have a tendency to ask myself “you paid all that for this?” As always, I am so grateful for your time and work involved in making the great videos you consistently post. Take care and enjoy your travels!
Same here!!!!
Jeb….I have nothing but the utmost respect for the crews that I met in the last few months as I flew first class back and fro the across the USA twice. I was treated wonderfully. But I have to note that one of my cross country flights was a red eye with NO MEAL for first class. Red eye or not if you are flying first class you deserve a meal! Airline was cheap. If you pay first class fare in the US four first class you get leg room, personal service in terms of asking if you want tea or coffee or a drink before and during the flight and people are more comfortable in first class so they are nicer to each other. US first class is burdened by freeloaders trying to get upgrades and want to pay a little to hopefully get a lot. The upgrades/freeloaders weigh down US first class and make airlines disinterested in providing classy first class travel. If someone wants full blown first class travel they need to travel foreign airlines because you are not going to find it in the US.
Yes why do US carriers keep upgrading for free on domestic flights? It should be if you want to travel F you pay F (or redeem miles/points to a value equivalent to the difference in fare).
Another problem is that by retaining the name 'First Class' for the current forward cabin offering, the US domestic carriers are out of step with the rest of the world. When people hear First Class they think of the long haul products offered by the likes of Emirates. There are now no (or very very few) other dedicated short haul First Class products remaining in the world, only very expensive long haul products which cannot realistically be compared.
*Thank you for posting this.*
I work in tourism marketing and therefore fly both International and domestically often. My friends always question why their first class wasn't the "first class experience".
Another commenter just stated that first class in Europe is better than first class in the US and yet economy in the US is better than in europe. That is almost always true.
Most people you see In First Class get it because of a contract with the airline their company may hold or they have a miles card. I get upgraded due to the former.
I've never once paid for first or even business class in the US because other than leg room economy is basically the same.
_Now I can tell people to watch your video instead of me trying to explain it!_
First class in Europe is better than First Class in the US is it? Which European airline do you believe offers First Class on their intra-European flights?
Feel blessed to be able to fly US domestic FC. Appreciate the roomier cabin, seats, priority boarding and an occasional meal. That’s about all now a days.
Nice video, as someone who just started flying first class recently and mostly domestic, I'd picked up on this stuff over time, but it was a great summary. Only things I'd add are that the seat width and legroom maybe shouldn't have been quite as glossed over - as a 6', heavyset guy, that's one of the main reasons I appreciate it; economy seats are really awful in this regard. Not only do I fit comfortably in the seat width, but if the person in front of me leans back I still have room for my knees! Also, minor thing you didn't mention is priority checked baggage - first off the plane and onto the carousel, and often a dedicated dropoff area.
I have worked with many International Airlines Corporate and Customer Care, you are right about all the points. Checking Boeing model will work best but be aware of schedule changes (they may put you on a different model). Also, I wouldnt recommend to travel First class domestic in the US unless tickets are cheap. I will always recommend everyone to go Business class for domestic - most airlines first class domestic are same as business class. You'll get good price for a BS class. The best and cheap way is to book a Economy Coach/Main Cabin and extra for Premium Seats separately which you can do on airlines website under manage bookings by opening up the seat map.
I got to fly delta one on a 767 from Atlanta to Orlando back in July. While watching your video about the super short connection time in Atlanta, I realized I was in the same terminal as you at the same time! Just didn’t get to see you 😤
Well explained Jeb! We are loyal to Delta and love their Comfort+ everything we need without the first class price. Great video.
I think that what most of us find odd is that, if there’s no higher class than first class, you’d understandably expect the service to be beyond compare. Ie you’d expect a first class ticket to at least approximate the first class experience you get elsewhere.
I mean, I understand that wifi and lounge access aren’t included but I really don’t understand WHY they’re not included.
Because there are higher classes available
If you own a notable amount of stocks, pay for membership and ask for first class.... You're not in the same first class as someone who just bought a first class ticket online
Educational video, Jeb. When all is said and done US domestic first class is just an upgrade tool.
Having never been to the US, I guess the main surprise to ne is the lack of lounge access. We don't even have First Class domestic offerings in Australia any more, as far as I know.
Flat beds and the like are a necessary option these days in higher classes on medium and long haul flights. Even in the US how often would you be in the air long enough to get to cruise altitude and get more than a couple of hours sleep before beginning descent?In and out of Alaska, east coast to Hawaii? Even between New York and California, presumably if the demand was there at a high enough price point airlines would do it more. I am a little surprised the food offerings aren't a little better, but would not have expected some of the Michelin star level food of longer international journeys.
A three hour flight is different to a 14 hour one, with different needs at every class of flight. Even in economy the latter is generally better served (at least from the few airlines I have been on, none of which are North American based).
All that said, the video is about correcting expectations of what "first class" means in different situations. And it should temper expectations on not just US domestic, but shorter (say 6 hours and under) haul flights everywhere.
The thing to remember is that the U.S. and Canada are several times larger than any country in Europe, so you can realistically fly for 6+ hours, 3000 miles/5000 km, and still be within the same country. The distance from New York City to Los Angeles is roughly the same as the distance from Reykjavik to Istanbul---there is no flight within continental Europe that long.
Great advice Jeb. I always pay attention to the options when booking any class.
Frankly @jeb in my humble opinion your video identifies a business opportunity for any carrier to UP their game in F class!! Especially in this post-pandemic era of pent up demand & gastronomic consumption by consumers in air travel. Delta's CEO point this past week of their planes being over 90% full is a proof point that if one carrier bested their F class offering they likely would be killing it! Domestic F class really is Economy+ given the majority of what is on the market.
Most domestic first class flyers aren't paying for their ticket. They're getting status upgrades.
American is getting rid of its F cabin on its A321Ts and Intl because people dont want to pay for the added service. Airlines will provide what the market is willing to pay for. Right now, most people want to fly as cheaply as possible then complain about the experience.
What do you prefer- European Business Class with lounge access and economy seats with blocked middle seats or the US domestic first (no lounge, much better Seat)? Both have in common the fact, that some routes are really long (FRA-CAI or the Hawaii routes) for this basic premium level.
In the 60's I used to fly JFK to LAX every other week. AA, TWA, and United flew a 707 or DC8 every hour. 100K miles made me a frequent flyer. United sent a rep to my office to present me with my credentials. An upgrade to first class was $15. We would choose which airline to take based on the movie. Then there was deregulation. Now the excuse for the lousy service is the pandemic.
Your comment is usually referred to as "the good old days".
Not sure that each airline had a flight every hour on that route in the 60's and would also question your claim that the difference in fare between F and Y was only $15.
Hi Jeb and Suzanne! Thank you for uploading this video. This video was very informative! Great to know how the airlines work and the impressions about it! Keep up the great!
Best Regards from Florida!
Domestic 777 flights are worth taking the upgrade to United's Polaris first class IMO since you get fully lie flat seats, a massive screen, much more private, decent food, etc.
That's it. I am cancelling my first class from Tampa to NYC and just book regular flight. Thank you for clearing this up for us. I will save my CC points for first when I fly to Europe.
To sum this up: US airlines leave much to be desired in terms of ground staff, airplanes, onboard service, on-time performance, lounge access or rather lack of it, luggage handling, compensation....let alone airports which are crumbling. Simply don´t expect a luxury experience when flying across the US and you should be fine. Jeb's review is truly accurate.
There isn't enough time in a domestic flight to enjoy the fancy suites you show. In May I flew Delta 1st class and got a crappy, unfulfilling lunch in both directions. One way there was champagne, coming back none. My son flew Delta 3 weeks ago and had delicious steak meals both ways! (jealous) So things are improving.
It is important that people know what they are getting.
I have in the past selected an airline based upon what food would be served on the flight.
It is a good idea to read all of the details and see what you are actually paying for.
That being said, I still think domestic first class is worth it, but different people may have different opinions.
Just read all the details before shelling out money.
This is JUST AWFUL. I love what you've done and the insight that it gives into first class flying. But I'm disturbed at how lousy first class flying actually is. 😡
Since COVID down-sizing and staff cuts generally speaking airlines have pruned out many creature comforts and conveniences.
I flew United "Business First class" from EWR to HNL and got 2 full meals (Breakfast and Lunch) with a 2 additional snacks. The chair could also lay completely flat and came with TV screen which was nice. Not all domestic routes are equal. This was an 11hr flight to Hawaii that cost $1700 one way. If you are only flying to Florida or Chicago don't expect as much.
Oh boy. My husband and I are flying from Chicago to New York on united first class in april. I've never been in first class but my husband swears by it. I hope it was worth the extra money.
the only advantage is a bigger seat - the service is not always great...food is so-so and 40% of the time they don't even have inflight entertainment...great content..
This makes me realize just how good Qatar airways is. Their economy is better than most European and American First class even for trips shorter than 2 hours you are given the best service. I don't think I'll be switching anytime soon unless it's Emirates of course 😂
Just curious who thinks domestic first class comes with a private suite. Have these people never been on a plane? You literally walked through first class on almost every domestic flight. The seat configuration should not be a shock.
My Friends Sister left her Versace Thong in her cabin after a long night of drinking drugging and unprotected sex with the stewardess. Delta made aware of the situation and Immediately over night shipped the garmets too her residence before she begins her 5 year bid in Federal prison. Thanks again Delta and FedEx!!!!!!
I’m riding the Flagship First with AA next month before they discontinue it. Any advice. JFK-SFO
My last Delta flight (last week, ATL-MKE) we had free WiFi. Delta is making WiFi free for all their flights in 2023
Other countries: buy first class to experience luxury.
US: buy first class to avoid torture.
I've found Business/First class within continental Europe to be worse than the same class in the US. Essentially, Business/First in continental Europe is just an economy seat in a 3 and 3 layout with the middle seat left empty.
In most cases, it’s not worth flying first class domestically anyways. Most flights are relatively short and won’t exceed 4 hours. I would rather just save that money than fly in first class
I also flew Domestic First this year. I flew United from Chicago to San Francisco on a 777, which was equipped with the new Polaris Business Class seats. I was very disappointed that the service was not up to par with what United offers on long haul. There was only a warmed waffle with some fruits. The crew only came once on the flight, which was a little over 4 hours long, to ask for more beverages requests. The welcome drink was served in a plastic cup, there were no pillows available and the blankets were very thin. Except for the excellent seat, the extra charge was not worth it.
Thanks to my Lufthansa Star Alliance Gold status, I was able to try all the United Club lounges in ORD (I think there were 5 different ones) and all of them were significantly worse than the Lufthansa Senator lounges I know from Germany. The idea of buying a business class ticket and then having to sit around at the gate sounds like a scam.
I flew JetBlue for the first time this year and it was a much better experience than United. There is no lounge either, but the prices are much lower and the service on board is much better.
So this guy just became the poster boy for all the daddy-fetish of guys and gals alike. How handsome in middle age!
First class in the USA sucks. Jetblue is setting a trend with their mint product but their is an untapped market for people prepared to pay for a good seat.
So much for USA service being superior...
...maybe you need to tip to get all those extras...🤣
As a frequent domestic flyer, this is the best explanation for "First" class. I have used your trick for finding a wide body flight for a couple flights to Miami
You should see first class within Europe, a different color coach seat with the middle seat blocked 😄
Awesome as always Jeb. Informative and fun. ❤❤