- Travel expert Gilbert Ott shares tips for your first flight in a premium cabin.
- To blend in with experienced first class passengers, don't ask if everything is free.
- Avoid hovering over passengers, especially those in seats with doors.
Who wouldn't want to ride in a premium cabin with a welcome gift, multi-course meal, and private seating for relaxing?
Business class and first class tickets are not cheap. But credit cards and airline rewards programs have made luxury cabins available to those who accumulate points and miles.
If you're upgrading your flight for the first time and want to blend in with first class passengers and avoid the hassle of experienced premium passengers, Gilbert Ott has some tips.
From airport lounge etiquette to TSA PreCheck etiquette, an air travel expert who flies an estimated 200,000 miles a year shares tips for helping fellow passengers have a better experience.
Don't expect too much from business class.
While first class passengers often get a personalized experience, such as being greeted by name, business class passengers shouldn't expect the same level of consideration.
“Business class is all about efficiency. You can sleep or work in comfortable seats,” Ott said.
However, he added that first class cabins typically seat fewer than 10 people, while staff serve dozens of passengers in business class.
“A lot of work goes into food and drink,” Ott says. “So if you're looking for the best experience, go first class because you can count on the staff to make your flight great. And that's what you're paying for.”
