The business class offering is now equal to the old economy offering (alcohol, food and space to relax) and the economy offering is now some weird hunger games event where you are pushed to compete for who gets on first, who gets to put a carry on bag in the overhead with everything nickel and dimed to the nth. I literally hate traveling domestic US airlines.
People seem a little confused about this. So, things can be both cheaper and worse. Things being cheaper does not mean they are better.
So has flying become relatively cheaper - yes.
Has it become worse - yes it has.
Also, it's not clear that deregulation made flying cheaper. It's quite possible that flying would have become cheaper anyway as all of the large upfront costs of setting up a flying network had been paid.
Here is an article on the prices, seems like prices for domestic travel have fallen somewhat (about 25%) since the 60s. That is comparing economy. So if you compare business now to economy then I think the price has probably increased dramatically.
From everything I read, people don’t pay for business for the most part.
Meaning when a business class seat is purchased, it’s usually a reimbursable seat paid for by a company (unless you travel on behalf of the “frugal” FAANG - ask me how I know).
Other times, the seat is a free upgrade perk for people with status or the right card.
Honest question though, what is “business class” these days? Delta has basic, main, comfort+ and first.
I just started flying American so I haven’t paid any attention to it.
And how many people could actually afford to fly business? Economy class and price differentiating didn’t really start until after deregulation. For the occasional traveler, it’s much more attainable.
For the frequent traveler like me (see my other comment), I have the choice to get credit cards with airline I frequent that gives me airport lounge access, priority boarding, free checked bags, upgrades etc.
I get priority boarding class 4 out of 8 and free luggage with a $99 annual fee card with American.
While I do pay a $500 Annual Fee for a high end Amex Delta for lounge access, priority boarding, one free up to first class companion ticket, free bag check, etc.
But with lounge access to Delta lounges, Priority Pass lounges and Amex Centurion lounges with free alcohol, good with not drinking a few hours on the plane.
Huh? Prices are much less than the 1970s, despite all the inflation since. Sure you get less luxury for the dollar, but you can still fly first class if you have money.
The business class offering is now equal to the old economy offering (alcohol, food and space to relax) and the economy offering is now some weird hunger games event where you are pushed to compete for who gets on first, who gets to put a carry on bag in the overhead with everything nickel and dimed to the nth. I literally hate traveling domestic US airlines.