Article: Unbundled Business Class fares that exclude perks like lounge access

[AFF Editor]

Traditionally, Business Class tickets include a full suite of on-the-ground benefits that are designed to remove the hassle from flying. But several major airlines now sell basic Business Class tickets which exclude access to lounges, seat selection and other perks. Etihad is just the latest example.

We've put together a guide to the airlines that do this, and what you get with their "lite" Business fares:

These Business Class Fares Exclude Lounge Access & Other Perks

Airlines including Emirates, Etihad and Finnair have unbundled Business Class, removing staples like lounge access and seat selection as standard inclusions. Are the lower ticket prices worth it?

www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au

You can leave a comment or discuss this topic below.

 

[SYD]

The regular comment in threads here that you “Don’t need status if flying Business”, is becoming a big minefield.

The bigger problem will be when they all start removing perks from award seats (rare as they are).

 

[dmgale1960]

I want to enjoy the whole Business experience so saving a few dollars wouldn't make this attractive.

 

[dcd]

I have booked business class flights with Emirates using QANTAS points and paying around $1800 per seat. Will I still have lounge access?

 

[kelvedon]

Yes, business class award tickets get you lounge access but no chauffeur.

 

[Carmel Macmillan]

This is really interesting because I only fly business because of the flat bed. How do you access these fares?

 

[AIRwin]

How do you access these fares?

Directly through the airline website

 

[moa999]

Directly through the airline website

Or occasionally through consolidators/ OTAs who might not necessarily spell out the 'features' of these fares.

I actually suspect Jetstar with it's Basic / Max fares was one of the first to split off lounge access and points/ SC earn (albeit lounge access can be gained at Qantas branded lounges, not 3rd party with status) even if most wouldn't call it a Business product.

 

[SYD]

I actually suspect Jetstar with it's Basic / Max fares was one of the first to split off lounge access and points/ SC earn (albeit lounge access can be gained at Qantas branded lounges, not 3rd party with status) even if most wouldn't call it a Business product.

JQ was / is different because you’ve always paid extra for those extra perks eg Lounge access. Vs pay less for less…

Pretty sure JQ weren’t the first for the ++ model.