AUSTIN,
Texas, Aug. 14, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A new data
analysis from the travel experts at Upgraded Points gives
travelers an insightful look into the price variations in
first-class tickets across four major U.S. airlines and twelve of
the busiest domestic flight routes. The study analyzed data from
Google Flights, considering one-way ticket costs for economy and
first-class seats across Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta
Air Lines, and United Airlines.
"While some may view flying first-class as a financial stretch,
the undeniable benefits of extra legroom, preflight service, and
complimentary beverages make it a tempting choice," said
Alex Miller, founder of Upgraded
Points. "With an average premium of just $262.97 per one-way flight, this luxury may be
more affordable than travelers think."
Study Methodology
The study gathered ticket price data from Google Flights,
focusing on the 12 busiest domestic flight routes within the U.S.
For each of the 12 routes, the study collected data on the cheapest
available one-way ticket for both economy and first-class seating
across four U.S. airlines for seven days.
The data considered both peak and non-peak departure dates,
ensuring a full representation of pricing trends. The costs were
then averaged to get a one-way ticket price for both economy and
first-class seating. The study excluded U.S. airlines that do not
offer first-class or did not have sufficient data on the analyzed
routes.
Major Study Takeaways
- Delta Air Lines leads the pack with the highest
premiums, charging $284.55 more for a
one-way, first class ticket compared to economy.
- Alaska Airlines boasts high first-class ticket price
differences among those studied ($281.25) but makes up for it with unique
amenities like serving food for flights as short as 550 miles.
- United Airlines travelers can upgrade to first-class
without breaking the bank at a price difference of around
$250.23 between economy and
first-class.
- American Airlines stands out as the most affordable
deal, with a much smaller difference between first-class and
economy tickets ($235.85).
"According to our data, American Airlines is the most
cost-effective choice for travelers looking to upgrade their flight
experience. In addition to typical first-class benefits, American
Airlines travelers may get to experience a refreshed Admirals Club
lounge, as the airline started upgrading their lounges to feel more
modern and homey in select airports in 2022," said Alex Miller.
Below is a look into the price differences by specific
route:
- New York (JFK) to
Los Angeles (LAX): A one-way
economy ticket is $188.29, while the
first-class ticket averaged $846.00,
resulting in a difference of $657.71.
- Los Angeles (LAX) to
Maui (OGG): A one-way economy
ticket costs $194.29, while the
equivalent first-class ticket is $745.29 – a difference of $551.
- Los Angeles (LAX) to
San Francisco (SFO): A one-way
economy ticket costs $94.73 and a
first-class ticket at $187.45 – a
comparatively smaller difference of $92.71.
- Las Vegas (LAS) to
Los Angeles (LAX): A one-way
economy ticket is $74.48 compared to
a first-class ticket at $197.04, for
a narrow difference of $122.55.
For exact pricing breakdowns and helpful graphics, along with
explorations of other popular routes like Denver to Phoenix or LaGuardia to O'Hare, please visit
the study online.
About Upgraded Points LLC
Headquartered in Austin, Texas,
Upgraded Points is a travel company that helps to demystify the
complex world of travel and credit cards. Launched in 2016 by
Alex Miller, Upgraded Points uses
targeted research efforts and in-depth studies to help travelers
maximize their travel, points, and experiences. Learn more at:
www.UpgradedPoints.com.
Media Contact:
Alex Miller, Founder
1-214-646-8866
363195@email4pr.com
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SOURCE Upgraded Points