The Working World

Business-Comfortable in Coach

First, your private jet — or dreams of private jet — got downsized. Then, your company’s corporate travel budget was slashed and you’ve suddenly found yourself sitting in coach. Look on the bright side: you’re hardly alone. The International Air Transport Association is predicting that airlines will see a 20 percent drop in first- and business-class passengers through 2009, due in large part to corporate travelers whose companies are reacting to the recession by refusing to foot the bill for tickets costing upwards of $10,000 a flight.

Many business travelers are now being forced to fly in coach—or “premium economy” if you’re lucky—where the seats don’t recline into beds and the cocktails aren’t complimentary. In essence, these business travelers are learning to fly all over again.

Believe it or not, simple things like pillows and blankets don’t come standard in economy class, even on some international flights.

Of course, flying in economy doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tips and tricks, you can feel comfortable in coach and even bring a touch of first-class to your premium economy seat—just so long as you’re able to tune out the crying baby in the next aisle, that is.

Choose your seat strategically. Airlines tend to fill the seats on larger planes—like those traveling on transcontinental flights—from the front of the aircraft to the back, with seats in the center aisle going last. For the best chance of getting placed next to an empty seat, request to sit on the aisle in the center section of the plane, as close to the back as possible.

Look for power outlets. If you want to get any work done during your long haul flight, you’re going to need a power outlet. Unfortunately, not all economy seats come positioned next to one. Before stepping on board, do some research online at sites like Seatguru.com to determine which planes offer AC power ports, and which seat or row you’ll need to reserve in order to be near one.

Pack gourmet snacks. Forget the munchies and cocktails you were given in first class. The options available in economy are usually less than stellar, which is why it may be worth it to bring your own gourmet snacks on board if you’re hoping to grab a bite during the flight.

Bring your own supplies. Believe it or not, simple things like pillows and blankets don’t come standard in economy class, even on some international flights. Improve your chances of getting some rest by buying your own travel pillow and blanket and bringing it with you on the flight.

Get lounge access. Just because you’re not flying first class doesn’t mean you can’t have access to the airline’s lounge. Day passes to many club lounges can usually be purchased for $25 to $50, while other lounges allow access to airline rewards members who have accrued enough points. Check with your airline to find out the details on getting in.

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Tags: business, savings, travel