The ultimate guide to economy class: a business travel staple

First, let’s set the scene. In North America, there are numerous airline competitors, but today, we’ll compare United Airlines and Delta Airlines and their various economy classes. Each airline labels its economy class tiers differently, but if you’re looking at United, you’ll probably see Basic Economy, Economy, Economy (refundable), Premium Economy or Economy Plus. With Delta, it’s called Basic Economy, Main, Main (refundable), Comfort+, or Comfort+ (refundable).

If you’re traveling in economy class, aren’t you getting the same seats? Sure. The seat might be the same among the various rate categories, but you’re paying for convenience, freedom, and flexibility. Each tier has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Basic: the budget option

If you’re looking for savings above all, then a basic economy fare is for you. Be warned, you usually get just the seat, and flexibility is low. Refunds, changes, baggage allowance and even earning miles will likely be off the table, although some can be bought for a higher fee than normal. 

Still interested? When you’re comparing Basic Economy, the details for United and Delta look very much the same.

Honestly? Only book a basic fare if there’s no other choice. If you’re looking for ways to optimize your travel budget, we’re happy to help with a variety of ways to save on corporate flights.

Standard is a good start

Things look a little brighter on the Standard Economy side. You might be eligible for credits, higher change fees, and some loyalty point eligibility, but you’ll still be missing out on flexibility and included perks. Let’s compare Standard Economy for United and Delta:

But you might be wondering, isn’t there something a bit nicer?

The difference between Standard Economy vs. Flexible Economy

United’s Standard Economy class is their second most restrictive fare. Standard Economy is non-refundable but eligible for a credit, has no change fee, and you’ll pay extra for baggage. With the more flexible Economy you’ll have a class of service that includes seat selection, one free checked bag, and lower change fees. You can also opt-in for a refundable fare.

That sounds better, doesn’t it?

Flexibility front and center

If Basic Economy is all about cost savings, then flex fares are all about comfort and getting maximum value. With seat selection included in your fare, you can forget the dreaded middle seat, which isn’t great for working on a flight anyway. 

Changes often have a reduced fee, and standby is usually free. You’ll still have to pay for checked bags but most seasoned business travelers only use carry-ons. Flexible economy fares are ideal for business trips that might have last-minute changes, like client meetings.

You’ll also score big with 100% frequent flyer miles. If you’re looking to hit that next tier through business travel, economy flex fare is worth the money.

Let’s compare flexible Economy fares for United vs Delta:

Pumped up perks with Premium

Most economy classes have a top-tier offering for business travelers who are okay to pay. Premium Economy is the hassle-free fare that delivers all the amenities and little extras that make corporate travel a breeze. From the airport experience to walking off the airplane, you’ll feel that VIP spring in your step.

Premium Economy isn’t quite that Business Class experience, but it gives you a little more comfort and more convenience than your standard economy fares.

With Delta’s Comfort+ fares, you can expect two rate levels, Comfort+ and Comfort+ Refundable. Both fares include:

• A larger seat with extra legroom
• Priority services for an expedited airport process
• Complimentary beer, wine & snacks
• Dedicated overhead bin space
• Seat selection
• Full SkyMiles Earn

What are the differences between Comfort+ and Comfort+ Refundable?

With standard Comfort+, the fare is non-refundable, but it’s eligible for credit, and changes are subject to a difference in fare. With Comfort+ Refundable, you’ll enjoy full refundability and free standby for any available same-day flight.

What does United’s Premium Economy experience include?

United’s Premium Economy fare has one rate level.

The fare includes:

• A premium seat
• Snacks and beverages (incl. wine, beer) * conditions apply
• 2 free checked bags
• Priority for screening, boarding & baggage
• Mileage Plus earn

What are the differences between United’s Premium Economy and Economy Plus?

United’s Economy Plus fare is non-refundable, but eligible for credit, while changes are subject to a fare difference. Premium Economy is totally refundable, and you’ll enjoy the benefits noted above.

Take it from the experts of economy-class airfare

Sandy Pineau, a Travel Consultant for Corporate Traveler based in Vancouver, Canada, offered some sage advice on booking economy:

"I avoid Basic fares at all costs...in fact, I never put my clients on a Basic fare because they're just too restrictive. Most travelers are booked in Standard, but I also have a lot of clients who I book in Flex or above. Certain travelers have a higher need for last-minute changes, so Flex fares make more sense. Plus, Flex fares also help to keep a passenger's airline status which is crucial. The sooner they get to a higher level of airline status, the more comfortable they'll be on their future flights."