Competition in Premium Air Travel Intensifies with New Business Class Suites

Last updated May 23, 2025

The Increasing Competition in Premium Air Travel

As the world of premium flying escalates with United’s next-level business class suites and the launch of Frontier’s affordable first class, competition is heating up. Additionally, airlines and credit card companies invest more in enhancing and expanding their airport lounges and introducing more premium perks. This attempts to transform the often stressful and cramped flying experience into a relaxing retreat, provided you’re ready to pay the price.

Investment in Premium Travel Amidst Uncertain Travel Trends

Much investment in premium travel might seem unusual considering this year’s summer travel trends. With issues like air traffic control causing travel anxiety and tariff-related price hikes affecting budgets, only about half of Americans are planning a vacation this summer. Those planning a trip are generally prioritizing budget-friendly options and ways to cut travel costs.

However, with the forecasted dip in overall air travel demand this summer, many airlines are betting big on the business class. Major airlines hope to compensate for fewer economy seat bookings by attracting more premium bookings, often selling for more than triple the price of a coach seat.

How Airlines are Competing for Premium Travel Dollars

Let’s take a look at some of the new business class seating that has been announced so far this year.

United Airlines Polaris Studio

United Airlines is introducing a completely new aircraft, the Boeing 787-9s, furnished with an all-new interior that includes luxury business class suites called United Polaris Studios. These suites, located at the front of the aircraft, offer 25% more space than United’s existing pod-style suites. Apart from privacy doors, a reclining seat, an extra ottoman seat, and a 27-inch screen, these suites offer the expected luxurious amenities and service.

American Airlines Flagship Suite

American Airlines introduces “Suite Summer” as they unveil their all-new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. These new aircraft will feature 51 Flagship Suite seats at the front, nearly double the number of business class seats found on American’s current Dreamliner. The new suites offer more dedicated storage space, an additional chaise lounge seat, and wireless charging pads.

JetBlue’s Expanded Mint Class and Upgraded EvenMore Cabin

JetBlue is expanding its existing first-class seating, Mint, to new routes, indicating its plan to further invest in premium travel. Additionally, JetBlue is transforming its EvenMore seats, currently premium economy seats, into a distinct premium cabin. This creates a middle tier between its first-class Mint cabin and its economy cabin.

Frontier First Class

The budget airline, Frontier, will debut its first-ever first-class seats in late 2025. To start, the airline will retrofit its existing planes with two rows of first-class seating.