Experience First Class: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Here’s what to expect if you’re flying in first class on Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

Every time you board a plane, there they are: the flight’s first-class passengers. While you were at the gate waiting for your group number to be called (and likely stressing about nabbing space in the overhead compartment), they were getting settled into their extra-large seats with dedicated carry-on space. And as you sulk past them toward your narrow seat in the back of the plane, they snuggle in under a complimentary blanket and sip Champagne.

That, you tell yourself, is what flying should be like.

But is the extra space and next-level service worth the pricey ticket? To explore that very question, we’ve pulled together what it looks like to fly in first class on various U.S. airlines, how flying in first class compares to business class and economy, and how the benefits change — in some cases, dramatically — when you travel first class on a long-haul international flight versus a domestic one.

Benefits of Flying in First Class

First-class passengers enjoy several benefits before they even board the plane. For starters, they don’t have to wait in the long economy check-in line, they get free checked bags, and they have an easier time going through security, as that first-class ticket may mean access to a different TSA line.

Moreover, they get to board the plane first, allowing ample time to stow their bags and settle in without a line of passengers crowding around. On board, they often receive extra legroom, a wider seat with a more exaggerated recline, a blanket and a pillow, a plush amenity kit, beverage service that includes alcohol, and superior food (and more of it).

Flying First Class on Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines provides six onboard experiences: Delta One, Premium Select, First Class, Comfort+, Main Cabin, and Basic Economy, although some offerings and cabins are limited to specific routes. The ultra-luxe Delta One cabin, featuring lie-flat seats, Grown Alchemist lip balm and hand cream, and sleep amenities, is exclusively available on long-haul international flights and select long-haul domestic flights.

Pre-flight Service: Travelers in first class with Delta benefit from Sky Priority service, translating to expedited check-in, security, and baggage handling, plus early boarding.

Baggage: Passengers are permitted up to two free checked bags.

Seating: Expect up to eight inches of extra legroom with up to 5.4 inches of seat recline.

In-flight Service: Enjoy a dedicated first-class cabin flight attendant, complimentary drinks, and snacks. Flights over 900 miles offer additional meal boxes; those traveling between 900 and 2,399 miles receive chef-curated meals, while flights exceeding 2,300 miles include a comprehensive meal service with snack options and several entrées.

Flying First Class on United Airlines

On flights within the U.S., United Airlines offers United First as its premier service, while for routes to Latin America or the Caribbean, as well as some U.S. transcontinental flights, United Business acts as the first-class equivalent. Meanwhile, United Polaris promises an ultimate flight experience featuring lie-flat seats and luxurious bedding.

Pre-flight Service: First-class passengers can utilize quicker, shorter Premier Access lines for expedited check-in and boarding.

Baggage: Enjoy up to two free checked bags with priority baggage handling, ensuring your suitcases receive special attention at baggage claim.

Seating: Expect the most legroom possible, with United Polaris featuring fully reclining seats that convert to a flat six-foot, six-inch bed.

In-flight Service: Delight in a selection of beer, wine, and spirits (including a rotating craft beer option), with access to DirecTV and United Private Screening for the latest movies and TV series.

Flying First Class on American Airlines

On American Airlines, the first-class designation signifies the highest level of service on domestic flights, while business class represents the highest tier on shorter international routes, including Bermuda and Canada. On select long-distance flights (both domestic and international), passengers may opt for Flagship First or Flagship Business classes, featuring lie-flat seats, access to the Flagship Lounge, and amenities from Casper.

Pre-flight Service: First-class ticket holders enjoy priority access through the airport’s most congested areas, from check-in to security and boarding.

Baggage: Up to three free checked bags, contingent on the flight.

Seating: American’s first-class cabins feature wider seats that recline further, and the specifics may vary by flight and aircraft layout.

In-flight Service: First class menus are curated by premier chefs, including registered dietitian nutritionist Ellie Krieger, who focuses on healthy dishes, and Sam Choy, known for Pacific Rim cuisine, thanks to partnerships with the James Beard Foundation. Passengers can also enjoy extra snacks and a comprehensive beverage service that includes alcohol.

Flying First Class Versus Business Class

On airlines such as United and American, first-class fares denote the highest level of service on flights across the U.S., while business class typically offers the top service on shorter-distance international routes (like those to the Caribbean). Where both cabin types exist, business class usually presents a step down from first class.

Additionally, certain airlines feature a premium economy category (for instance, Delta’s Delta Comfort+), which phases between economy and business or first class. A premium economy ticket may provide extra legroom, enhanced meal service, and a larger bag allowance, although the benefits may differ across airlines.

Flying First Class on Long-haul International Flights

Seeking the ultimate first-class experience? Consider investing in a first-class ticket on a long-haul international flight (or in some cases, a U.S. transcontinental flight). It is on these extended routes that you will discover an elevated flight experience that stands out.

While nearly all airlines provide lie-flat seats and considerate sleep amenities, some carriers truly excel in creating an extraordinary travel experience. First class on Emirates’ A380 and Boeing 777 planes, for example, offers a fully enclosed suite with a full bed, onsite showers, and a first-class bar and lounge. Similarly, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Air France are recognized for their outstanding first-class service and amenities.