Why flying feels worse than ever if you can't afford first class

Why flying feels worse than ever if you can't afford first class reflects a widening split between premium and budget air travel as major U.S. airlines push higher-margin cabins. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, carriers have redirected strategy toward first class, business class, and premium economy, emphasizing comfort, convenience, and exclusivity. Delta CEO Ed Bastian said the industry must “provide the best,” and both American Airlines and United Airlines have reconfigured aircraft, designed new fleets with larger premium cabins, and invested billions in amenities. United CEO Scott Kirby argues the effort benefits all customers, pointing to seatback entertainment and mobile app improvements. The article notes Delta began shifting upgrades to monetize premium seating with pricing tools in the early 2010s, and that pandemic-era leisure demand reinforced the trend. It references Atmosphere Research Group and highlights premium demand in earnings calls.