Airlines expand premium seats as demand for business-class grows

US airlines have increased premium seats by 33% since 2020, offering luxury amenities and better legroom.

By SafarSamachar Desk10 Nov 2026, 9:36 pm IST

Illustration

Illustration: SafarSamachar Pix Desk, created with AI assistance. Not a photograph of the event.

Key facts at a glance

1Premium seats on US flights have increased by 33% since 2020.
2Airlines are offering gourmet meals and upgraded lounges to attract premium passengers.
3Delta, United, and JetBlue have introduced new premium services and seat options.
4Premium seats now make up 19% of total seats on major carriers.

Airlines are increasing the number of premium seats to meet growing demand for luxury travel experiences. US carriers have raised the number of premium seats by 33% since 2020, with some airlines planning to offer up to 70% premium seating on certain flights.

This includes services such as Delta’s DeltaOne, United’s Economy Plus, and JetBlue’s BlueFirst, which provide enhanced legroom, gourmet meals, and exclusive lounges. The shift is driven by higher fuel costs and the desire to boost revenue through premium offerings.

Premium seats are more profitable, with business-class seats priced five to six times higher than economy class, while occupying the same floor space as four economy seats. Airlines are also investing in new aircraft configurations and retrofitting existing planes to accommodate more premium seats.

Some carriers, like British Airways and Singapore Airlines, are expanding their premium offerings to include all-business class options on select routes, reflecting a broader industry trend toward luxury travel.

What this means for travellers

If you're booking flights, expect more premium options and higher prices. Airlines are expanding premium seating, so consider upgrading for extra comfort or checking for new premium economy options on your route.

Sources

This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above, following our accuracy rules; it has not yet been individually reviewed by an editor. Read our editorial policy.Rules and schedules change - confirm with the airline or embassy before you travel. Spotted an error? Tell us.