If You Pay For A First Class Ticket On This US Airline, You're Wasting Money

For anyone who has ever flown, you know that there are plenty of sneaky ways that airlines try to trick you into spending more money – with one of these being the lure of upgrading to a first class ticket. However, one U.S. airline that no one should pay for first class with is Alaska Airlines. For starters, there is no option for business class on Alaska Airlines, so if you are looking to enhance your flight in any way, the only option is a first class ticket. 

While there are certainly perks to enjoy such as larger seats with more cushioning and 41 inches of legroom — which beats out any other airline in America. Customers also get two checked bags at no additional cost, priority boarding, and complimentary drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktail options. However, this is where the luxury add-ons stop, and flyers might start to feel like they paid for a basic economy seat with a few extra flourishes — especially when compared to other first-class flying experiences.

In 2021, Million Mile Secrets noted that it costs between $650 and $1,050, on average, to book a first class domestic flight on Alaska Airlines, while international first class tickets were likely to start around $1,500, but could end up being close to tens of thousands of dollars in total costs. The average net worth of people who fly first class tends to be those with annual salary between $150,000 and $500,000 a year, which enables them to easily afford the price of a first class ticket.

Per a Business Insider report, a $2,000 first-class flight on Alaska Airlines in January 2025 came with mediocre entertainment choices, boxed-lunch meals, and an added cos of $8 for in-flight Wi-Fi for each portion of the trip. These subpar amenities, and basic food options were certainly not worth the cost of the ticket.

Not everyone can afford to pay for first class on each and every flight they take, but you can save up and splurge occasionally for a special trip where you'll want the extra comfort and care that a premium ticket can afford. Forbes highlighted that airlines like Emirates offer the best of the best for those who can afford the international tickets, which can cost anywhere from $615 to $17,000 depending on the route, as well as the individual aircraft. However, Delta has one-way domestic first class tickets for between $500 to $1,500, and international tickets between $2,000 and $6,000, according to Terminal Assistance. United, too, has first class tickets between $550 and $1200, per Airline Updates, with variations in cost depending on where you are traveling.

Of course, if you are able to easily secure a first class ticket for free or a minimal expense, go for it. There are certain airplane tickets that actually increase your chances of a first-class upgrade when you buy, as well as specific days to book your airline ticket that could bump you up into first class, even when you were ready to buy economy. At that point, sit back and enjoy the ride, with all that a premium seat has to offer.