THE POINTS GUY

July 15, 2026

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Premium tickets got more complicated

by Sean Cudahy, Senior Aviation Reporter

Picture this: You splurge on a premium economy ticket to Europe — or even a fancy business-class seat. Sure, it’s a lot of money, but you know it’ll be a memorable experience.

Then, you start seeing the restrictions on your ticket.

“Wait, I spent $1,500 and can’t pick my seat?!”

No lounge access? No ticket changes if something goes wrong? Why am I earning so few miles?!

Folks, welcome to the confusing new world of choosing which airplane ticket to buy:

Business class, or basic business class?
Premium economy, or basic premium economy?
First class, or basic first class?

It’s just like those stripped-down basic economy fares we’ve seen for years — but for the front of the plane.

And the trade-offs are no joke.

Check out the restrictions you’ll face if you book basic business on Delta Air Lines, which just started selling these fares last week. (This one will sting the most.)

Or the alluring perks you’ll miss out on if you book basic business on United Airlines.

By the way, basic economy isn’t getting any more lenient, either. Airlines are starting to hit frequent flyers where it hurts most.

This is all pretty confusing. Allow us to unpack the recent changes for you before your next trip:

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Photo Credit: SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUY.

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