Airlines Expand Premium Services to Boost Profits
Amid rising fuel costs, carriers are increasing the number of comfortable seats and offering passengers additional services—from spacious seats to improved meals, reports Euronews.
In the U.S., the number of premium seats on flights has grown by 33% since 2020. Meanwhile, American Airlines notes that such tickets account for about half of its ticket revenue, despite occupying only 30% of seats. In the third quarter of 2026, American Airlines' revenue from premium services increased by 22.9% compared to the same period last year.
United Airlines plans to offer economy-class passengers the Relax Row starting in 2027—a row of three seats that can be converted into a sofa. Delta is updating its menu and premium cabin amenities, while Singapore Airlines will invest €1.4 billion in modernizing the cabins of its long-haul aircraft.
Experts point out that expensive seats generate more profit for carriers, though expanding premium zones may reduce the number of standard economy-class seats.
