§ Travel

Business class

also called biz class · J class

A premium cabin above economy with lie-flat or reclining seats and enhanced service.

Premium economyBasic economyEconomy classBusiness class
Solid lines are terms people actually mix up with Business class. The rest sit in the same subject, airline cabin classes. Premium economy · Basic economy · Economy class

Right, in plain English

A premium cabin above economy, with lie-flat or deeply reclining seats and much better food and service, prized for long overnight flights. It is a favourite target for spending points, since paying cash for it is steep. It sits a clear step above premium economy, which has more room than economy but none of the flat beds; the two get mixed up when comparing upgrades.

Someone saves miles for a long-haul overnight and redeems them for a lie-flat business seat, arriving rested enough to work the next morning. Paying cash for the same seat would have cost several times what their economy ticket did, which is exactly why they hoarded the points for it.

Why it matters

It's the sweet spot for long-haul comfort and a favourite target for points redemptions.

Not to be confused with

The difference is the whole point, so here is each one in a line.

Airline cabin classes · 4 terms

These rank from cheapest to most expensive by space and service.
Basic economy is the most restricted fare, often without seat choice, changes or a carry-on; economy is the standard cabin; premium economy adds legroom and better service; business class has lie-flat or reclining seats; and first class sits above it with the most space and service of all.

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