Some people love to fly; others share horror stories of long lines, late flights, bad food and cramped seats. Your personal experience will depend largely on the airline you choose and the length of your flight. But another key factor is the class of ticket you purchase. Ticket class (also called travel class) refers to where you will sit on the plane and the type of amenities you will be offered. When it comes to air travel, you definitely get what you pay for.
Coach or Economy Class
Coach or economy class is the most affordable way to travel by air. Coach seats occupy the main cabin of an aircraft. Amenities are basic: seats are smaller and closer together; depending on the length of the flight, you may be served a meal or simply a snack and beverage. And fees are on the rise for everything from checked bags to in-flight snacks.
Budget airlines such as Southwest and JetBlue offer only economy class seats to keep fares low and fill up flights. As of May 2009, low-cost carriers accounted for 40 percent of all domestic air passengers in the United States, and in January 2009 Southwest carried more domestic passengers than any other airline.
Coach Upgrades
For an extra fee, many airlines offer perks such as preferred seating or added legroom within the coach cabin. JetBlue Airlines, for example, has an "Even More Legroom" offer where for a small fee per flight, you can request seating in an exit row.
Business Class
Business class is a more upscale experience tailored for the needs of frequent business travelers. In many countries it is offered in place of first class on two-cabin aircraft geared for shorter flights. Longer U.S. domestic and international flights generally have economy, business and first class seating. Common offerings in business class include larger, reclining seats, power ports and on-demand entertainment systems. Travelers also receive a grooming kit with toiletries to help them freshen up before reaching their destination.
First Class
As the name implies, first-class travel is the most expensive and offers the most comforts and amenities, starting with a separate cabin that has its own restrooms. Large, plush seats with privacy screens are typical. Expect gourmet meals, free alcohol and unparalleled service. Certain international airlines, such as Emirates Air, Singapore Air and Cathay Pacific, specialize in providing a premium travel experience. Some even provide you with pajamas and slippers.
Fare Classes
Airlines use various letter codes to classify the type of ticket you book and determine pricing and restrictions. Some fares are cheaper if you book far in advance, meet minimum stay requirements or purchase a nonrefundable ticket. Last-minute bookings and refundable fares will cost you more.
Tags: airlines such, domestic passengers, economy class, first class