Is Business Class Worth the Extra Cost? A Frequent Flyer’s View

Richard Robinson measures time in a unique way, using boarding passes, seat numbers, and time zones instead of weeks or months. Last year, he was away from home more than he was there.

Since 2010, Robinson has taken 945 flights, covering 1,585,148 miles, which is about 64 times around the Earth. He has visited 130 airports and flown with 35 different airlines. Of these flights, he has been in business class 521 times, 11 times in international first class, and a few times in private jets.

At 41, he has United Airlines Premier 1K status, the airline’s highest level, which offers special benefits. United Airlines is part of the Star Alliance, which is a group of major airlines. Despite his many flights in business class, he is no longer impressed by luxuries like fine wines and amenity kits. Now, he focuses on comfort basics, like a good bed and enough space to move.

Business class fares are often three to four times the cost of economy class. If you are not using company funds, deciding on an upgrade can be tough. Robinson advises travellers to consider their needs before spending cash or air miles.

How much do you know?

What unique method does Richard Robinson use to measure time?

Weeks and months

Boarding passes and seat numbers

Clocks and calendars

Daily routines

How many flights has Richard Robinson taken since 2010?

945

521

130

35

What is Richard Robinson's United Airlines status?

Premier Gold

Premier 1K

Premier Platinum

Standard

Which alliance is United Airlines a part of?

Oneworld

SkyTeam

Star Alliance

Global Airlines

What is one of Richard Robinson's main focuses when flying?

Fine wines

Comfort basics

Luxury amenities

Entertainment options

How many times has Richard Robinson been in international first class?

11

521

130

945

Richard Robinson has visited 130 airports.

True False

Robinson takes weeks and months into account when measuring time.

True False

Business class fares are typically less expensive than economy class fares.

True False

Robinson has flown with 35 different airlines.

True False

Robinson prefers luxury amenities over comfort.

True False

Robinson has been away from home more than he has been there last year.

True False

Richard Robinson was away from home more than he was there last year, measuring time using .

Since 2010, Robinson has covered miles in flights.

He has been in business class times.

United Airlines is part of the Alliance.

Business class fares can cost to four times the price of economy class.

Robinson has taken a total of flights since 2010.

This question is required