Ever wished the comfort of airline-branded pajamas came with the price tag of a first-class ticket without actually upgrading your seat? A few carriers now sell first-class amenities to economy passengers, letting travelers buy select luxuries without the full premium fare.
Etihad Airways, for example, offers its economy passengers the same Christian Lacroix sleep suits used in first class for $35 a pair — a modest splurge that can make an ultra-long-haul flight noticeably more comfortable.
Beyond sleepwear, Etihad sells access to its business-class lounges and first-class lounges (spa treatments excluded) for a fee. Entry to the Abu Dhabi lounges is available at about $200 per person for a two-hour visit. Onboard, passengers can also buy upgraded amenity kits, Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut Champagne and handcrafted iced coffee.
Several other airlines provide a la carte premium options to economy travelers as well. Air France, Austrian Airlines and Swiss International Air Lines allow passengers in economy to purchase business-class meals during flights, giving more travelers a taste of premium dining without changing seats.
These new à la carte offerings serve multiple purposes. They create incremental revenue for airlines while appealing to business travelers who expense extras such as meals and lounge access. The approach also resonates with other groups: older leisure travelers seeking greater comfort and younger passengers—millennials—who are accustomed to paying for add-ons on low-cost carriers.
By unbundling premium services from ticket class, airlines can monetize premium products more flexibly and let passengers pick the upgrades that matter most to them. Whether it’s designer sleepwear, lounge time, upgraded dining or a bottle of champagne, the trend reflects a shift toward more personalized in-flight experiences and added convenience for travelers who want some first-class touches without the full upgrade.