United and Delta Add Fees to First Class as American Holds Firm
United and Delta are launching stripped-down first-class fares with fewer benefits and new fees, while American Airlines maintains an inclusive approach with seat selection, bags, and flexibility included.
United Airlines and Delta Air Lines are introducing more restrictive first-class fares that reduce included benefits and add fees. American Airlines, by contrast, continues to offer seat selection, two checked bags, and change fee waivers in its domestic first class product, according to its published overview. This divergence creates a clear choice for premium travelers as major carriers redefine what a first-class ticket includes.
United Airlines is extending its stripped-down Base fares to domestic first class and eligible short-haul international business class this fall. Delta Air Lines already sells First Basic fares in some domestic and short-haul Latin markets. These new fare types retain the same seat and onboard service but strip away many traditional premium perks. JetBlue’s forthcoming BlueFirst cabin is also designed around a similarly restrictive base fare.
The core restrictions for these new first-class products are significant. United First Base provides only one checked bag, requires extra payment for seat selection, and does not permit voluntary itinerary changes. Cancellation incurs a fee. Mileage earning is also reduced: a general member without an eligible United credit card earns no redeemable miles on these fares, while an eligible cardholder without elite status earns just 3 miles per dollar.
Delta First Basic assigns seats after check-in, with advance selection available for a fee in some cases. It charges a $300 change or cancellation fee for trips originating in the U.S. or Canada and does not allow same-day confirmed changes or standby, even for elite members. Mileage earning drops to 2 miles per eligible dollar instead of 5, and only one checked bag is included before additional card or status benefits.
JetBlue’s BlueFirst Base assigns seats before departure but includes change and cancellation fees, charges for standby, and cuts points-earning by two-thirds.
American Airlines maintains inclusive first class
American Airlines currently includes seat selection, two checked bags, and changes without a change fee in its domestic first class product, subject to applicable fare rules and any fare difference. This positions American as a simpler, more flexible premium option while its rivals unbundle their offerings. The airline has an opportunity to distinguish itself by not adopting basic economy-style restrictions in first class.
American could promote first class as a more seamless experience that ends friction by including these ordinary benefits. When schedules and prices are comparable, this inclusive approach provides a straightforward reason for travelers to choose American. The airline’s broader premium push under CEO Robert Isom is connected to product investment, premium customers, and loyalty, with the goal of generating more revenue.
However, a convincing premium pitch cannot rely on fare rules alone. It requires functioning seats, consistent service, and a willingness to fix failures. Recent traveler experiences on American’s A321T aircraft have noted issues like broken footrests, inoperable power outlets, and non-functional entertainment systems.
Travelers weigh flexibility against cost
For some passengers, a low fare outweighs the need for flexibility. A traveler booking a last-minute flight alone with only a carry-on and no plans to change would not prioritize these benefits. For others, the ability to change plans and avoid extra fees and hassles is a core part of the premium cabin value. These travelers value reliability and ease.
The schedule itself remains a primary factor for many. A traveler who is a free agent stated that schedule matters greatly and would happily choose American over United between two points if fares were identical but the American ticket offered flexibility.
A simpler premium purchase
By maintaining ordinary benefits in first class, American Airlines can appeal to travelers seeking reliability when schedules and prices are comparable. The airline has an opportunity to stand out by keeping first class a simpler purchase where seat selection and flexibility remain part of the premium ticket.
