Business Class vs First Class: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

Overview

The gap between business class and first class has narrowed considerably over the past decade. As business class products have improved—with closing doors, lie-flat beds, and premium dining becoming standard—the incremental benefit of first class is smaller than it once was. This guide breaks down what each cabin offers and when, if ever, the upgrade to first class is justified.

What Business Class Offers

Modern long-haul business class on top-tier airlines provides a lie-flat seat (often 78–80 inches), direct aisle access, and an enclosed or semi-enclosed suite. Dining is typically multi-course with restaurant-quality presentation, and many carriers offer à la carte menus. Amenity kits, noise-canceling headphones, and premium bedding are standard. Lounge access is included, though often to a shared business class lounge rather than a dedicated first class facility.

On airlines like Qatar Airways, ANA, and Singapore Airlines, business class already delivers a near-first-class experience in terms of seat hardware and service.

What First Class Offers

First class takes each element further. Seats are larger—often converting to beds 80–85 inches long and 25–30 inches wide. Some products, like Singapore Airlines Suites and Emirates First, offer fully enclosed rooms with closing doors, separate seating and sleeping areas, and onboard showers (on the Emirates A380). Dining is more personalized, with dine-on-demand service, higher-end ingredients, and sommelier-curated wine lists. Dedicated first class lounges, often with sit-down restaurants and spa treatments, add to the experience on the ground.

Price Difference

First class fares are typically 2–4× the cost of business class on the same route. A business class ticket from New York to London might cost $3,000–$5,000, while first class on the same route ranges from $8,000–$15,000. In points, the gap is similarly large: 70,000 miles for business class versus 110,000–140,000 miles for first class on many programs.

When Business Class Is the Better Value

For most travelers on most routes, business class represents the better value. If the primary goal is to arrive rested—with a lie-flat bed, quality food, and lounge access—modern business class fully delivers. The marginal improvement in sleep quality from a slightly wider bed or more enclosed space rarely justifies a 2–4× price increase. Business class award availability is also significantly better than first class on most airlines.

When First Class Is Worth It

First class is worth considering on ultra-long-haul flights (14+ hours), where the additional space and privacy meaningfully improve the experience. It is also justified on special occasions, when using points at a favorable redemption rate, or when the price gap is unusually narrow due to sales or error fares. Specific products—like Singapore Suites, Emirates First on the A380, or Etihad’s former Residence—offer experiences that are qualitatively different from any business class product, not just incrementally better.

FAQ

Is first class disappearing?

Many airlines have removed first class from newer aircraft. Lufthansa, Air France, and British Airways still offer it, but the trend is toward a single premium cabin (business class) with an improved product. Airlines like Qatar Airways and Delta have chosen to invest in an exceptional business class rather than maintain a separate first class.

Can I upgrade from business to first class at the gate?

Some airlines offer paid upgrades at check-in or the gate, though availability is unpredictable. Frequent flyer elite status significantly increases the likelihood of complimentary upgrades on airlines that still operate first class. Bidding programs, offered by carriers like Lufthansa and Virgin Atlantic, allow passengers to name a price for an upgrade.

How do I decide which cabin to book?

Consider the flight length, the specific airline product, the price difference, and your priorities. For flights under 10 hours where sleep quality is your main concern, business class on a top-tier airline will meet your needs. For ultra-long flights or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, first class may be worth the premium.