Originally Posted by
pinworm
Is it just a marketing thing? Who would want to be reminded that are getting the third and lowest tier service. Calling it "Economy" works much the way it does for cars..to imply a clever frugality. And this applies I think to the retention of "First Class" in the top tier of service, where people who use it DO want to be reminded that they are getting the highest available service.
Pretty much. Remember that until the late 70's, (1979?) business class didn't exist. It was just first class and coach class. And coach was pretty good too, with 2-4-3 seating in B747s and great service. (That's what I read anyway - I'm as old as business class has been in existence
) I take it airlines didn't want to call business class "second class" and still don't.
In my ideal world, premium economy would renamed as main cabin. And economy would be renamed as cattle class, at least for international flights with business class.