Coach vs. Business Class Airplane Facilities

White plane on air under cloudy sky — Photo by Myburgh Roux on Pexels

When booking a flight, you may ask yourself if the additional cost of a business-class ticket is worth it. The differences in bathroom amenities may not be your primary concern among the multiple factors. However, these distinctions do contribute to the overall flight experience.

Accessibility

Passage on a passenger plane next to the toilet in economy class. — Photo by aapsky on Adobe Stock

For coach class passengers, locating the bathroom is straightforward, as it is typically situated at the tail end of the airplane. Some larger planes, like the Boeing 747 or Airbus A380, may feature additional lavatories in the middle section. However, the ratio of passengers to bathrooms is higher in coach class, often leading to long queues, especially after in-flight meals or just before the plane begins its descent.

In contrast, business class bathrooms tend to be strategically located at the front or middle sections of the plane, away from the hustle and bustle. With a lower passenger-to-bathroom ratio in business class, wait times are significantly reduced. This factor can be especially beneficial on long-haul flights or for passengers with specific health needs, offering a convenience that can significantly enhance the flying experience.

Size and Layout

Bathroom of a passenger aircraft Boeing 737. Toilet bowl, sink, knob to drain water, seatcovers, handrails — Photo by Yurii Zushchyk on Adobe Stock

Coach class bathrooms are notably compact, designed with efficiency in mind to accommodate more passenger seating. These lavatories house a fold-down changing table, a toilet, a small sink, and a mirror in a space-efficient manner. Due to space constraints, larger or taller passengers might find it challenging to move around comfortably.

In business class, passengers can expect more spacious lavatories, often with increased headroom and legroom, enhancing comfort and maneuverability. Some airlines even install full-length mirrors, a boon for passengers wanting to freshen up or change outfits during long flights. Some premium airlines, such as Emirates and Etihad, take it a notch higher with their first-class cabins, offering exceptionally spacious bathrooms equipped with a shower cubicle, a feature far beyond the expectations of a typical airplane lavatory.

Amenities

Two rolls of toilet paper — Photo by Frank Ouyang on Pexels

Regarding amenities, coach-class bathrooms provide the bare necessities, including toilet paper, hand soap, and paper towels. Some airlines include an extra touch of hospitality with a simple hand lotion or a small bottle of air freshener.

Toiletries, soap, towel on blurred white bathroom spa background. with copy space. digital art — Photo by Viks_jin on Adobe Stock

Business-class lavatories, however, resemble a mini spa with a selection of high-quality, often branded amenities. Luxury hand soaps, lotions, perfumes, and colognes are standard. Airlines stock business-class bathrooms with additional items like dental kits, shaving kits, combs, and facial mists to help passengers stay fresh and revitalized, especially on long-haul flights.

Cleanliness

High-spirited air hostess in leather gloves shutting an overhead locker — Photo by Viacheslav Yakobchuk on Adobe Stock

While airline staff strives to maintain hygiene standards across all airplane bathrooms, coach-class lavatories see a higher footfall, which can pose a challenge. Despite regular clean-ups, these bathrooms might need fresh after a long flight. In comparison, business class bathrooms, used by fewer passengers, are generally cleaner throughout the journey. Many airlines’ cabin crews perform frequent checks and carry out light cleaning after each use, ensuring a consistently clean and pleasant environment.