A significant change occurred with the introduction of business class in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Qantas is recognized as one of the pioneers in launching a dedicated business class product in 1979, followed by British Airways (then known as BOAC) in 1981. The development of business class provided travelers seeking extra comfort an alternative to expensive first class tickets.
Airlines have since invested heavily in upgrading their business class offerings. Modern products now feature private suites and amenities once exclusive to first class passengers.
At the Skytrax 2025 World Airline Awards, Qatar Airways received recognition for Best Business Class due to its Qsuite product. "Qatar Airways' Qsuite cabin features a unique, customizable layout with sliding privacy doors, transforming each seat into a private suite," according to information from Qatar Airways. The design allows direct aisle access for all passengers and offers flexible seating arrangements suitable for couples or groups traveling together. Amenities include fully lie-flat beds, premium bedding by The White Company, large entertainment screens, à la carte dining on demand, and attentive service.
The decline of first class is attributed largely to advancements in business class products. Airlines find that improved business cabins offer similar levels of comfort at lower costs compared to operating spacious but less profitable first class sections. As corporate travel budgets shrink and demand for ultra-luxury travel decreases globally, only select routes—such as London Heathrow (LHR) to New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)—continue to sustain regular first class service.
Thai Airways is among the latest carriers phasing out its first class cabins amid restructuring efforts aimed at maximizing revenue efficiency. Presently available only on three Boeing 777-300ER aircraft serving routes between Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK), London Heathrow (LHR), and Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT), Thai’s first class will be discontinued by 2028 as part of its fleet modernization plan.
Some airlines continue offering first class despite broader industry trends toward elimination. Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and British Airways maintain their premium products without plans for removal at this time.
Emirates’ first class has been highlighted for its high level of privacy and amenities: "At the heart of Emirates' first-class experience is its private suite... Passengers enjoy lie-flat beds with plush bedding... ambient lighting... virtual windows... leather upholstery... vanity mirrors... exclusive Bulgari amenity kits." Other services include chauffeur-driven transfers, priority check-in access to exclusive lounges before boarding begins; onboard features such as à la carte gourmet dining throughout flights; an onboard shower spa available on Airbus A380s; heated floors; luxury toiletries; plus social spaces including a lounge/bar area accessible mid-flight by both first- and business-class travelers.
Despite Emirates’ continued investment in luxury experiences at this level—and public commitments from some carriers—the commercial aviation industry overall is moving towards enhanced business-class products rather than maintaining traditional ultra-premium cabins.
Alerts Sign-up
