Fewer Choose to Pay for Front-of-the-Plane

[snopes]

Before the recession hit, airlines fell over themselves to offer amenities to their highest-paying passengers. First- and business-class cabins featured gourmet food and wine, seats that turned into beds and even designer sleepwear.

But as the economy cuts into air travel, the carriers have had to rethink their approach to the front of the cabin. Some, like United and Qantas, are embracing or considering expanding a concept called premium economy, which offers more legroom and comforts and falls between coach and business in price.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/22/bu...22flights.html

[Halfmad]

I just don't understand why it is so, SO much more expensive to sit in first class. It is literally $1500 more on some of the flights we book -- just to have more legroom and two drinks?

ETA: Okay, when the article lists a flight where first class is 16 thousand dollars more, I guess I shouldn't complain!