Ever wondered what goes on behind the curtains at the front of the ‘plane? Ever been tempted to ask for an upgrade? We’ve all travelled economy class on airlines and all suffered to some degree as a result. But what’s the difference in going first class, and are the perks really worth the price difference?

First class is always something to aspire to

Looking at some of the benefits offered by the various airlines in first or business class, it really does look like a different world: reclining seats with plenty of leg room, fewer fellow passenger per square inch, edible food, free drinks and a choice of entertainment. Oh, and you’ll get through check-in and security quicker and have a larger baggage allowance as well.

Better food, better luggage allowance?

But what exactly can you expect by forking out a bit extra for first class? Well for the majority of people it’s probably the comfort of the seat and the extra amount of legroom that is the most important factor. The style varies from airline to airline but expect a fully reclining seat, with enough space so that you don’t end up with your head in the lap of the person behind you. Some seats will be ergonomically designed with adjustable foot rests. Some airlines also have noise-cancelling headrests to drown out the sound of the engines.

Other typical ‘extras’ include a privacy divider, full-size pillows, eye shade, even pyjamas and a seat that turns into a bed on long-haul flights. Or you can lean back and enjoy an in-flight massage or manicure.
Food wise you should be absolutely spoilt, with five course meals and free drinks, including champagne. To keep you amused, expect a personal TV screen with DVD player and choice of films and video games.
It all sounds a bit like a five-star hotel, doesn’t it?

This is what every first class flying expects

And that’s the conclusion I’ve drawn. Looking at all of the added extras, it’s exactly like comparing a luxury hotel with a cheap-and-cheerful B&B. You pick a place to stay that gives you the best facilities within your budget and if you’re flying a long distance you’ve got to do the same.
Is it worth it? Yes, if it means you enjoy your journey more and arrive at your destination relaxed and refreshed. Can you afford it? That’s up to you to decide but everyone deserves to be pampered once in a while and a long-haul flight seems just the right opportunity.

And unless you are on a really short-haul flight and working to a tight budget, anything’s better than being jam-packed like cattle into narrow seats with no leg room, forced to eat plastic food and having to listen to the tinkling sound from someone else’s iPod.

In Economy class? this is your leg room, and reading material
But if you do have to travel with the great unwashed, then there are plenty of tips for finding the best seats in economy class. First of all, avoid the back because that’s where the kitchen and toilets usually are. Also, there’s more engine noise. Seek out a seat in the exit row. This often has more legroom even than first or business class. The same is true for the bulkhead seat in economy (just before the line separating first from economy) or the front section of economy. In any of these you’ll get a bit more room to stretch out.

But with the credit crunch hitting airlines badly as more business flyers are moving to economy class or using budget airlines, there are some good offers out there to entice you into the better seats. Shop around, and don’t be afraid to ask for an upgrade if you’re really uncomfortable on the ‘plane.

Go on, spoil yourself.