COVID-19: What It Means For First Class

《COVID-19: What It Means For First Class》

Image: Singapore Airlines

The coronavirus have caused a huge fall in passenger demand worldwide, causing many airlines to retire older aircraft at a much faster rate. With a lower demand for air travel, many airlines will not need huge aircraft such as the 747s and A380 suberjumbos. Instead, these aircraft will be replaced by smaller new generation aircraft such as the 787 and A350.

The A380 have been a game changer in the luxury premium market, providing larger and more spacious cabins. For example, Etihad have The Residence, featuring a living room, a separate bedroom and a personal toilet. Singapore Airlines have also launched one of the largest suites in the world. The double suites on Singapore Airlines A380 features 2 armchairs and a queen size double bed (shown in the image above).

The A380 have indeed redefined long haul premium air travel, similar to what luxury private jets has to offer, but at a cheaper rate than private jets.

With covid-19, many airlines have been retiring their A380s as its huge capacity is no longer needed. We can expect private jet demand to increase much faster than ever as the wealthy start to abandon flying first class on airlines. With less interaction and contact with people on private jets, it definitely decreases the risk of virus transmission.

After covid-19, as air travel recovers, we can see a surge in demand for private jet flights. As for first class onboard commercial flights, how do you think will the response be? Will the demand be affected?