New research conducted by Holidu, a provider of holiday rentals in Europe, has found that some European airlines offer the most affordable business class flights compared to economy tickets. On average, business class fares are 250 per cent more expensive than economy flights, but some airlines have markups as low as 88 per cent. Four out of the top 10 airlines with the smallest price discrepancies between economy and business class flights are based in Europe. This makes upgrading to business class a more accessible option for travelers looking for a premium experience at a reasonable cost.
Among the airlines with the smallest price differences between economy and business class flights, four are European carriers. Austrian Airlines, based in Vienna, ranks seventh on the list with the lowest price difference on the continent. Although the overall price difference is still relatively high, at 194.82 per cent, specific routes like the one from Vienna to Larnaca in Cyprus have a smaller markup of just 69.66 per cent for business class. This route includes additional perks such as extra luggage allowance, lounge access, and extra air miles, making it a more attractive option for travelers seeking a more luxurious flying experience.
European airlines, while offering good value for business class flights compared to economy, were found to be relatively expensive when compared to Asian carriers. The top three airlines with the smallest price discrepancies between economy and business class flights are all Asia-based, with Japan’s All Nippon Airways leading the pack with a markup of 82.22 per cent. Lufthansa, Germany’s flag carrier, ranks eighth on the list with an average price difference of 198.49 per cent. However, for mid-haul flights, this number drops to 79.26 per cent, making it one of the most affordable options for business class travel among all airlines analyzed.
Switzerland’s flag carrier, Swiss Air, ranks ninth on the list with an average price difference of 202.12 per cent between economy and business class flights. Short-haul flights with Swiss Air see a change of 111.66 per cent between classes, making it a slightly more expensive option for travelers looking to upgrade. Aer Lingus, Ireland’s flag carrier, ranks tenth on the list with an average price difference of 204.15 per cent between economy and business classes. For travelers flying with Aer Lingus, opting for mid-haul trips may be a more affordable option, as business tickets cost 100.08 per cent more than basic economy tickets on these routes.
Overall, the research conducted by Holidu sheds light on the affordability of business class flights offered by different airlines around the world. While European carriers offer relatively good value for business class compared to economy, Asian airlines were found to have even lower price differentials between classes. Travelers looking to upgrade to business class for a more luxurious flying experience may consider exploring the options provided by both European and Asian carriers to find the best value for their money. It is also recommended to check the exact price differences for specific routes before booking to ensure the most cost-effective option for a premium travel experience.
