Flying Business vs. Economy: A Journalist’s Perspective on Long-Haul Flight Comfort and Service”.

In the summer of 2022, I had the pleasure of flying business class on an Air New Zealand flight from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand. The experience was luxurious and comfortable, setting high expectations for future flights. Nine months later, I found myself on a 12-hour flight from Denver to Tokyo in United’s economy cabin, a stark contrast from my previous flight. Despite the similar durations of both flights, the class of cabin made a significant difference in the flight experience.

As a journalist who often travels for work, I have had the opportunity to fly on many different airlines and in various cabin classes. However, the stark contrast between my recent flights from Los Angeles to Auckland and Denver to Tokyo highlighted the disparities in comfort, service, and overall experience on a long-haul flight.

Within a year of those two flights, I embarked on two lengthy journeys that offered completely different experiences. In the spring of 2023, I found myself seated in the economy class of a United Airlines flight to Tokyo. While this flight was still comfortable and enjoyable overall, it was not nearly as luxurious or comfortable as my previous business class flight with Air New Zealand.

The decision to upgrade to a premium cabin class or save money for expenses at the destination can be challenging for travelers who are looking for a balance between comfort and affordability. As prices continue to rise for airfare and other travel-related expenses, it is important for travelers to carefully consider their options before making any decisions about how they will spend their money on their next trip.