Airlines want you to ditch the private jet and fly first class with them. Here’s how they’ll pamper you
High-fliers are picky. Bone china in business class travel is so last decade. And large carriers are working very hard to woo the first and business class traveller into ever newer, even more exclusive experiences. Millions of dollars are being spent in the effort to lure the big spenders away from the siren songs of corporate jets.
This does not require a doctorate in travel to understand: Quite simply, profits from the premium cabins are often four to five times those earned from the economy class.
Unsurprisingly, new cabins being rolled out around the world have much more than seats that turn into comfortable beds.
British Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Qantas and Qatar Airlines lead the pack, combining great service with technology to craft truly luxurious experiences that take the stress out of travel.
In conversations with Forbes India, the airlines, their CEOs and senior managers spoke of personalising service, right from the time a guest arrives at the airport. Here’s a flavour of what you can expect this year.
While you wait
Complimentary food and showers are now standard at many premium lounges. From waiting areas, they have evolved into stress-easing sanctuaries where travellers can relax and connect. Some airlines stand out for the oases they have laid out.
● Virgin Atlantic’s chic and swanky Clubhouse lounges aim to live up to the branding: They feel like a private club. The ones at Heathrow and Gatwick have their own spa. Others have massage, brasserie dining areas and pool tables. If you are on a transatlantic flight and want to hit the ground running on arrival, you can dine and, when boarding’s called, shuffle to bed in your pajamas (the airline helpfully provides sleepwear and suit-carriers).
Table manner
(This story appears in the 22 March, 2013 issue of Forbes India. To visit our Archives, click here.)