Photo by Yuttana Jayowattana ( Shutterstock)Although true airfares for the airline have increased due to post-pandemic demand and a pilot shortage, premium seats that are usually filled by business travelers are still available. This is mostly due to lower corporate travel. This means that you will be able to find deep discounts for first and business class tickets for non-touristy destinations, sometimes as high as 70%. This is what you should know about planning your trip.AdvertisementThe current air travel demand is k-shapedBased on the type and destination of traveller, there are two main markets.The first group of passengers is not being served by airlines, so economy fare prices are rising, especially to tourist-friendly places like Miami and Las Vegas. However, airlines have had difficulty filling premium seats on most business travel routes, particularly international flights. This has led to prices that are often deep discounted by as much as 20 70%. The Wall Street Journal lists some examples:American Airlines offers business-class tickets for as low as $2389, which is less than half the price of the same trip between Chicago and London.The price of the same trip in 2019 A first class flight on Delta Airlines between Chicago and Atlanta can be purchased for only $407, which is a 40% savings over the price of 2019.The same fare was offered as in 2019. La Compagnie, a French airline, has been offering business-class flights between New York City and Paris for $1,662 68% less than the 2019 price.The 2019 price is lower than the 2019. Austrian Airlines' September flight between New York City and Vienna was $1,861 (or 70%) less than the 2019 price.These prices are still quite expensive compared to economy rates. However, premium seats may suddenly seem more affordable if you can afford to spend more for extra comfort. For example, the difference in economy and first class for a flight from Chicago-Atlanta is $250. It used to be $413.Before you book your air travelThe ongoing pandemic fears are a major reason for the slowdown in international business travel and business travel. Although the EU plans to open all its borders by September, it is possible that fast-moving COVID variants could alter those plans. You should make sure that your first-class tickets are refundable or you will at least receive a voucher in the event of cancellation.AdvertisementIt is also not always easy to distinguish between tourist and business destinations (e.g. New York and Paris are both), so it will be easier for you to find discounts when you fly to less popular tourist destinations, such as Atlanta-Denver and New York-San Francisco. You can find discounts for different places on Google Flights.You should also consider that you might not be able to enjoy the full first-class experience as many airlines have yet to restore full meal service because of COVID-related cuts.AdvertisementBottom lineEconomy flights sell out quickly so a premium seat may offer the best flexibility in booking your flight on the date that you want. Even though this is a cheaper option, it will still cost you more. However, the extra comfort may be worth it if you are able to travel long distances overseas.
