What's the Difference Between First Class, Business Class?

Airlines have mixed first class and business class seats on domestic routes these days, leaving travelers confused and in some cases cheated. WSJ's Scott McCartney discusses. Photo: American Airlines

More from the Wall Street Journal:

[dchang]

I don't think first class is worth it on domestic flights. Just rough it for 3-6 hours. It's nothing. If its an international flight (7+ hours), then a first class seat is worth it.

[TheJs]

this report is more confusing than finding the right class of seat on a plane

[TheGamezoid]

I'm here among the people that could never afford first class.

[TravelwithPavel]

I can understand why some people can be confused, because business class on Emirates, Qatar, Etihad, Cathay and Singapore is really better product that what you get on US carriers as a first class.

[cynosure]

What is "BLEUUURRRR" the line?

[Zindoo]

first-class and business class are similar class. But I would change the name for both to one name: ''VIP class''

[parimal]

Asian airlines are much clearer about economy, premium economy, business & first class. Don't know why Americans always tries to con it's passengers ?

[elaikindler]

The first class one was a picture from American, the buisness class picture was United because first you see on the window seat the word UNITED. and Second of all, Hempispheres magazine which is shown there is part of United.

[spaceagequice]

first class is INSANE! I'm never sitting in first class, my wallet couldn't allow it!

[hothotheat]

Only difference is the cost. Business is so nice now that there’s no reason to spend more.

[Hopeful_Libertarian]

Given my neck issues, I'll have to spend the extra money for business class seats. I really don't see the need for first class. Business class is already awesome enough as it is.

[aircanada]

I had the pleasure to fly in business class on United 787-8 and United Global First class on 747-400 and 777-200ER

[Alsaddique]

ok, its really simple: If you don't know the difference, then you should be in economy!

[normalguy]

I booked 1st class from Santa Ana to Oklahoma round trip . The only difference is you get to board 1st and you have little extra leg and have a nice little lunch... Ohh your luggage 🧳 is priority that's it... No special treatment no nice recliner seats no better Windows I flew with united .. I heard Delta has better 1st class seats... I need to go to Oklahoma I guess I will find out...

[bocabec]

I like to sit with the people who have crates of chickens and little ones with sad brown eyes staring at me the whole flight. Makes me feel like a million bucks.

[Panthers]

I need to get into the air line business.

[TexasTravels]

By the way, the photo from American airlines is actually united airlines

[elevatorman]

The worst thing about premium, business and first class is that you have to stretch your hand to reach the HD touchscreen.

[celasegamay]

Im 6"6 i have no choice but to fly in the business class

[eggheadegghead]

Try fly a private, chartered jet, lol