Best First Class Airline Comparison: Alaska, American, Delta, & United
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Date: 2023-08-28
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Comments and reviews: 30
Dougs
3 years down the road and it seems little has changed, except the flights weve been on have been mostly full and IT issues have caused major disruptions.
Ive noticed American now lists most of the domestic routes we fly as business class, nit first class. We fly from a midwestern regional airport and connect through the airlines hubs, so the majority of our flights are under3 hours. When all legs are closer to 2 hours, well fly economy, otherwise Im looking at the first-business class seats. When flying economy Ill typically look to SWAs, mainly for their boarding process and the ability to purchase my way to an A1-15 position. This nearly always ensures I can select seats within the first 10 rows, which is important to my slightly claustrophobic wife and makes it easier to make a tight connection.
Modern first class reminds me more of what flying economy used to be back in the late 60s or 70s. Maybe its just fond memories from my childhood, but there always seems to be more room and more attention to service, even in the cheap seats.
Meals have made their return on the longer flights, although I cant say Im overly impressed. We dont book the seats for the meals. In our case, we book them for the extra room, not having to deal with a rube who doesnt know the meaning of personal space and not having to deal with the gate lice, which li e up and crowd the boarding area three boarding groups ahead of their own.
In the old days, it occurs to me there were three classes of domestic service, first, business and economy. Business class was eliminated on domestic routes long ago and was reinvented as economy plus several years later. As things have evolved, its now first class thats been eliminated with business class evolving to take its place. I suspect this is partially due to the aging demographics of our population. We are now in our 60s with more disposable income and were more likely to pay for those larger seats and better service, including priority lines at the counter, true priority boarding, in some cases priority TSA lines and priority checked bags which come off the carousel first.
First class offers a level of service were not typically willing to pay for a shorter three or four hour flight. Business class however offers a better flying experience at an affordable price. That will fill those seats with paying passengers rather than upgraded passengers so the airline can sell a few more economy seats.
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3 years down the road and it seems little has changed, except the flights weve been on have been mostly full and IT issues have caused major disruptions.
Ive noticed American now lists most of the domestic routes we fly as business class, nit first class. We fly from a midwestern regional airport and connect through the airlines hubs, so the majority of our flights are under3 hours. When all legs are closer to 2 hours, well fly economy, otherwise Im looking at the first-business class seats. When flying economy Ill typically look to SWAs, mainly for their boarding process and the ability to purchase my way to an A1-15 position. This nearly always ensures I can select seats within the first 10 rows, which is important to my slightly claustrophobic wife and makes it easier to make a tight connection.
Modern first class reminds me more of what flying economy used to be back in the late 60s or 70s. Maybe its just fond memories from my childhood, but there always seems to be more room and more attention to service, even in the cheap seats.
Meals have made their return on the longer flights, although I cant say Im overly impressed. We dont book the seats for the meals. In our case, we book them for the extra room, not having to deal with a rube who doesnt know the meaning of personal space and not having to deal with the gate lice, which li e up and crowd the boarding area three boarding groups ahead of their own.
In the old days, it occurs to me there were three classes of domestic service, first, business and economy. Business class was eliminated on domestic routes long ago and was reinvented as economy plus several years later. As things have evolved, its now first class thats been eliminated with business class evolving to take its place. I suspect this is partially due to the aging demographics of our population. We are now in our 60s with more disposable income and were more likely to pay for those larger seats and better service, including priority lines at the counter, true priority boarding, in some cases priority TSA lines and priority checked bags which come off the carousel first.
First class offers a level of service were not typically willing to pay for a shorter three or four hour flight. Business class however offers a better flying experience at an affordable price. That will fill those seats with paying passengers rather than upgraded passengers so the airline can sell a few more economy seats.
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Jake
I've always thought calling the domestic premium product first class was silly. That should've went out decades ago, when international business and first class lie-flat seats were born. They are really only a premium economy seat now, these first class seats, especially with the standard thin-line seating in these forward cabins, nothing luxurious about them whatsoever. I am referring to all the non lie-flat seats only that are called first class.
If they want to call them domestic business class it is already a stretch, but I'd prefer that to first class. As for the domestic transcontinental coast to coast premium lie-flat seats, they are mostly just international business class seats, not really first class either, so just call them business class too, which is what they are.
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I've always thought calling the domestic premium product first class was silly. That should've went out decades ago, when international business and first class lie-flat seats were born. They are really only a premium economy seat now, these first class seats, especially with the standard thin-line seating in these forward cabins, nothing luxurious about them whatsoever. I am referring to all the non lie-flat seats only that are called first class.
If they want to call them domestic business class it is already a stretch, but I'd prefer that to first class. As for the domestic transcontinental coast to coast premium lie-flat seats, they are mostly just international business class seats, not really first class either, so just call them business class too, which is what they are.
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David
One thing about the American Airlines IFE is that its inconsistently offered even across the same aircraft type. For example there are some 737s and A321s that have an IFE and some that dont. You also cant really tell when you book the flight as its not listed as an amenity. From my understanding it has to do with planes that are former US Airways aircraft they were not fitted with IFE while American aircraft were. If having seat back IFE is important to you American may not be the best airline to book for that. In my experience the planes that dont have IFE are on flights to and from former US Airways hubs such as Phoenix while Ive had more consistent luck with IFE on flights to hubs that have always been American hubs such as Dallas.
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One thing about the American Airlines IFE is that its inconsistently offered even across the same aircraft type. For example there are some 737s and A321s that have an IFE and some that dont. You also cant really tell when you book the flight as its not listed as an amenity. From my understanding it has to do with planes that are former US Airways aircraft they were not fitted with IFE while American aircraft were. If having seat back IFE is important to you American may not be the best airline to book for that. In my experience the planes that dont have IFE are on flights to and from former US Airways hubs such as Phoenix while Ive had more consistent luck with IFE on flights to hubs that have always been American hubs such as Dallas.
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mikey
Great vlog as always; you are one of the most civil, objective and entertaining travel guys out there. That being said; the airlines themselves, particularly American Airlines have become far less than they once were. As a long-time business traveler I'm astonished by their mismanagement and outright willful ignorance. In particular, their customer service sucks; virtually nonexistent. Though it won't make a dent in their profit margins or market cap, I recently dumped all my stock in AAL which I have had since 1990. The money from that sale went directly into Apple and Coca-Cola stock.
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Great vlog as always; you are one of the most civil, objective and entertaining travel guys out there. That being said; the airlines themselves, particularly American Airlines have become far less than they once were. As a long-time business traveler I'm astonished by their mismanagement and outright willful ignorance. In particular, their customer service sucks; virtually nonexistent. Though it won't make a dent in their profit margins or market cap, I recently dumped all my stock in AAL which I have had since 1990. The money from that sale went directly into Apple and Coca-Cola stock.
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Alex
First class today feels like what coach was in the 90s and early 2000. It sucks with American pulling out IFE seat back monitors but they were usually very large and you lost about 25% of your foot space because of the computer. With many business travelers having their laptop and iPad with them I feel like it's not a huge stretch to be working while your movie plays on the other appliance. Meal service was also pretty much dwindling even before the pandemic. I would usually fill up in the Admirals Club and sneak a snack on because I anticipated it being a little more than a snack.
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First class today feels like what coach was in the 90s and early 2000. It sucks with American pulling out IFE seat back monitors but they were usually very large and you lost about 25% of your foot space because of the computer. With many business travelers having their laptop and iPad with them I feel like it's not a huge stretch to be working while your movie plays on the other appliance. Meal service was also pretty much dwindling even before the pandemic. I would usually fill up in the Admirals Club and sneak a snack on because I anticipated it being a little more than a snack.
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Arthur
Excellent video! I have always been biased towards United for a good reason as my mother was a flight attendant for them for almost 25 years so. But recently I had a chance to fly on Alaska PDX-SEA-PDX for training as as Ground Service Agent for Horizon Air at PDX. After I got back to PDX for ramp training I decided that the GSA job was not for me and resigned. However I was most impressed with Alaska Airlines in general and will definitely try them again as a revenue passenger next time.
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Excellent video! I have always been biased towards United for a good reason as my mother was a flight attendant for them for almost 25 years so. But recently I had a chance to fly on Alaska PDX-SEA-PDX for training as as Ground Service Agent for Horizon Air at PDX. After I got back to PDX for ramp training I decided that the GSA job was not for me and resigned. However I was most impressed with Alaska Airlines in general and will definitely try them again as a revenue passenger next time.
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Nezymob
First class flights on American, Delta, and United from San Diego to Virginia are all in the ballpark of $1, 800 - $2, 200 but Alaskan is $4, 600! Why is it more than twice as much money when this video made me feel like it's really no different than the others? Based on this video, I don't see where the additional markup goes. The cabins all look the same. Can anyone explain this?
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First class flights on American, Delta, and United from San Diego to Virginia are all in the ballpark of $1, 800 - $2, 200 but Alaskan is $4, 600! Why is it more than twice as much money when this video made me feel like it's really no different than the others? Based on this video, I don't see where the additional markup goes. The cabins all look the same. Can anyone explain this?
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Kathie
Completely agree! I have been flying with Alaska for about 30 years and it's just unbeatable for your short to medium long flights. The attendants are wonderful, although some can be mask crazy. I am a loyal Alaska Airlines flyer. Their mileage plan awards program is unmatched, leg space is good (limited if you get the 280 pounder next to you, and the food is good!
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Completely agree! I have been flying with Alaska for about 30 years and it's just unbeatable for your short to medium long flights. The attendants are wonderful, although some can be mask crazy. I am a loyal Alaska Airlines flyer. Their mileage plan awards program is unmatched, leg space is good (limited if you get the 280 pounder next to you, and the food is good!
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suunto61
The airline that takes Floridas position regarding this virus will win. And which medical professionals? Those who are actively healing patients or those who are bureaucrats? They do not all agree. Given the air turnover in a modern aircraft, might be the safest enclosed space there is. Never heard of a major flue outbreak from an aircraft.
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The airline that takes Floridas position regarding this virus will win. And which medical professionals? Those who are actively healing patients or those who are bureaucrats? They do not all agree. Given the air turnover in a modern aircraft, might be the safest enclosed space there is. Never heard of a major flue outbreak from an aircraft.
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Chan
I knew it was going to be Alaska Airlines for the win. Everyone should experience them. There is a reason why they consistently win the JD Powers customer service award. I have never had a bad flight with them and yes I do love their lounges, especially the new one in Seattle. Btw I do not work for them, I just think they excel at what they do.
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I knew it was going to be Alaska Airlines for the win. Everyone should experience them. There is a reason why they consistently win the JD Powers customer service award. I have never had a bad flight with them and yes I do love their lounges, especially the new one in Seattle. Btw I do not work for them, I just think they excel at what they do.
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mmc
If they are taking extra steps to clean the planes I'm not sure exactly what it is they are cleaning. I flew AA PHX to JFK last week in First Class. My table tray was broken and had they taken a moment to fix it they would have also noticed the numerous coffee stains on the tray. I call BS on their claims of deep cleaning those planes.
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If they are taking extra steps to clean the planes I'm not sure exactly what it is they are cleaning. I flew AA PHX to JFK last week in First Class. My table tray was broken and had they taken a moment to fix it they would have also noticed the numerous coffee stains on the tray. I call BS on their claims of deep cleaning those planes.
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mendy
Crap that sucks. I will never fly Alaska because of what I saw of those Admirable pilots trying to fly the plane upside down, because they had no idea how bad the maintenance was; . I'm really looking for a full first class experience, and I think we may not be able to get that. I really appreciate your insight!
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Crap that sucks. I will never fly Alaska because of what I saw of those Admirable pilots trying to fly the plane upside down, because they had no idea how bad the maintenance was; . I'm really looking for a full first class experience, and I think we may not be able to get that. I really appreciate your insight!
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Asiansweet
Hopefully Alaska's maintenance department has improved since 2000. What is good food, comfortable seats and great service good for when you find yourself flying inverted towards the ocean just because the airline thinks that its ok to cut corners? I don't trust this airline.
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Hopefully Alaska's maintenance department has improved since 2000. What is good food, comfortable seats and great service good for when you find yourself flying inverted towards the ocean just because the airline thinks that its ok to cut corners? I don't trust this airline.
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Antonio
In 2023, I think domestic first class on Delta 321/neo or not, is really good, Id never pay for it again but I did it from BOS to MSP at 5: 50 am in early January and I did like it a lot, but Delta One is worth it even though it is a steep price
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In 2023, I think domestic first class on Delta 321/neo or not, is really good, Id never pay for it again but I did it from BOS to MSP at 5: 50 am in early January and I did like it a lot, but Delta One is worth it even though it is a steep price
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Susan
I rode on Alaska and United 1st class October 20 th, 24, 26, Nov 3 FIRST CLASS ALL FOUR FLIGTS THEY ALL SUCKED AND UNITED HAS NO SOCIAL DISTANCING SO WHY NO 1st class Amenities. I was Ripped off I wont travel till this bull shut is over!
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I rode on Alaska and United 1st class October 20 th, 24, 26, Nov 3 FIRST CLASS ALL FOUR FLIGTS THEY ALL SUCKED AND UNITED HAS NO SOCIAL DISTANCING SO WHY NO 1st class Amenities. I was Ripped off I wont travel till this bull shut is over!
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Steve
I wish Delta had foot stools like Alaska. Although the lounges don't have much (well lots of booze, it's still so much better then waiting with the general public. The temperature in the lounge is not so stifling like most airports.
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I wish Delta had foot stools like Alaska. Although the lounges don't have much (well lots of booze, it's still so much better then waiting with the general public. The temperature in the lounge is not so stifling like most airports.
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OMA
Alaska by a FREAKING LANDSLIDE! Lets go. Ive always thought Alaska was secretly always the best airline. When people think of North American Airlines, they think of Delta, United, and American. Alaska should be apart of that
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Alaska by a FREAKING LANDSLIDE! Lets go. Ive always thought Alaska was secretly always the best airline. When people think of North American Airlines, they think of Delta, United, and American. Alaska should be apart of that
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treason1200
I've flown Alaska's economy class and they are just as good if not better than any other U. S airlines econimy class. Alaska if also listed as the safest airline in the U. S and 9th safest airline in the world.
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I've flown Alaska's economy class and they are just as good if not better than any other U. S airlines econimy class. Alaska if also listed as the safest airline in the U. S and 9th safest airline in the world.
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LA
Agree full time! Alaska is my favorite airline! I am a big fan of this airline! I've flown on them since childhood, and my first plane ride was with Alaska! I'll definitely fly with them as much as I can!
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Agree full time! Alaska is my favorite airline! I am a big fan of this airline! I've flown on them since childhood, and my first plane ride was with Alaska! I'll definitely fly with them as much as I can!
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FroggysRRStuff
I love flying southwest though. Even though its economy and no first class or business class. I know there aint IFE screens but i love looking out the window and watching movies or napping.
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I love flying southwest though. Even though its economy and no first class or business class. I know there aint IFE screens but i love looking out the window and watching movies or napping.
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Randol
American Airlines is a garbage, poor attention to the customers, junky airplanes, horrible service. Never again I will fly on that American Airlines. I had better service on DELTA.
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American Airlines is a garbage, poor attention to the customers, junky airplanes, horrible service. Never again I will fly on that American Airlines. I had better service on DELTA.
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Mark
Alaska flights from Seattle toNew York don't provide complimentary food for first class passengers, you have to pay for them. But they are way cheaper than Delta, however.
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Alaska flights from Seattle toNew York don't provide complimentary food for first class passengers, you have to pay for them. But they are way cheaper than Delta, however.
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Tom
I think Alaska is the best of the economy type airlines. I like the way they fit out their cabins. Both their 737 NG and A321s are clean and reasonably roomy
Cheers
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I think Alaska is the best of the economy type airlines. I like the way they fit out their cabins. Both their 737 NG and A321s are clean and reasonably roomy
Cheers
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Paul
Noooo, 9/11 and 2008 economy(nail in coffin) killed First Class in the U. S. What we've been experiencing, since then, is just a watered down version of what was.
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Noooo, 9/11 and 2008 economy(nail in coffin) killed First Class in the U. S. What we've been experiencing, since then, is just a watered down version of what was.
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Andy
They suck! Bad customer service, crappy leg room. Remember if you happen to fall asleep, and your face diaper happens to fall off, they will ban you. Sucks!
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They suck! Bad customer service, crappy leg room. Remember if you happen to fall asleep, and your face diaper happens to fall off, they will ban you. Sucks!
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Edith
Alaska is replacing most of their fleet with the infamous Boeing Max. They just ordered 120 Boeing Max last month (December 2020. Thats a big NOPE from me.
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Alaska is replacing most of their fleet with the infamous Boeing Max. They just ordered 120 Boeing Max last month (December 2020. Thats a big NOPE from me.
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hawaiianfilter
flying first class during pandemic and likely post pandemic is so disappointing. like your scoring system: lounge, seat, IFE, food and service.
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flying first class during pandemic and likely post pandemic is so disappointing. like your scoring system: lounge, seat, IFE, food and service.
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travel
Silly Jeb, there is no such thing as first class experience in US domestic first class products lol. Flying within USA is simply guaranteed terrible.
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Silly Jeb, there is no such thing as first class experience in US domestic first class products lol. Flying within USA is simply guaranteed terrible.
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Vugaable
I would rather take the Amtrack then fly these days. With how rude they have become with the mask mandate they can keep their overpriced flights.
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I would rather take the Amtrack then fly these days. With how rude they have become with the mask mandate they can keep their overpriced flights.
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ajs11201
I find it hard to believe United would get even a mention for service--unless it's poor service. They're known for their hostilities.
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I find it hard to believe United would get even a mention for service--unless it's poor service. They're known for their hostilities.
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