In the early days of flight, there was only one class of service and one type of airline seat--prince and pauper traveled together. Now business class seats, that offer more comfort and amenities than coach class, are standard on long-haul flights and flights to international destinations.
All business seats offer electronic seat controls and built-in massagers. But passengers should be aware that there is variation among the business class seats depending on the type of plane and the airline flown. Find out what your flight offers before you begin the journey.
Suites are true lie-flat beds in mini cabins that give the most privacy. On some airlines, suites are for first class passengers. Flat bed seats recline 180 degrees. They are parallel to the plane's floor and are true beds. Lie-flat seats also recline flat, but the seats are tilted at an angle. Recliners recline more than a coach class seat, but this is not a lie-flat.
The width is calculated from armrest to armrest. These seats are about 3 inches wider, so you can tuck that favorite read and blanket beside you. Pitch is the distance from one point on a seat to the exact same point on the seat following. It gives an approximation of available legroom--the more the better. Business seats have greater pitch. The greater the angle of recline the more comfortable it is for the passenger. Business class seating provides greater recline.
Audio Video on Demand is standard. Passengers can choose their programs and stop, rewind and replay at will. Newly retrofitted planes also have computer games. All seats have power points.
Choice of items varies by the airlines. At a minimum, eye masks, socks for in-cabin wear and essential toiletries are provided.
One of the highlights of business class air travel is dining. Menu choices, crisp linen and real crockery make business class flying a rewarding experience.
The experience begins on the ground. Business passengers have separate check-in lines, and lounges at most airports to relax and catch up on work in the business centers. Snacks are offered, also newspapers and magazines. The cost of flying business class is about three times more than an economy fare but discount business class flights are available.
