The rare good news in airline travel is that the carriers are adding new regional jets with first-class seats, roomier cabins and even hot food.
“The carriers are hoping business travelers tired of a cramped 50-seat jet will pay extra for a flight experience closer to what they get on a mainline jet,” says the AP.
The addition could help airlines turn a profit on flights that have generally been a loss-leader feeding traffic into long-haul flights, although rising fuel prices could complicate the plan.
Airlines that recently went through bankruptcy — Northwest, Delta, and United — have the most latitude to add new jets because of relaxed restrictions in their pilot contracts.
Delta spokeswoman Betsy Talton said business customers have been asking for the regional first-class seats for years. The aim with the new jets is “to make it all more seamless and more like the mainline jet experience,” she said.
First-class seats on Northwest’s new jets will include the same level of meal service as on regular flights.
With regional jets covering longer distances, passengers are spending two hours or more on board those planes — making a first-class seat more desirable, according to the AP.
Report by David Wilkening
