Some might consider the mid-20th century as the real ‘golden era’ of travel, when jet aircraft came to the fore. With the launch of the Boeing 747, highflying passengers could leave their seats to explore sizeable onboard bars and lounges. But despite the era's glitz and glamour, one reality remained true: flying first class across oceans still meant merely reclining in a seat – not lying down.
Over time, first class evolved from that comfortable chair into an actual bed. In the early stages, there was little focus on privacy. The very novelty of having a bed in the sky was a drawcard, with no need for sliding doors or showers.
Meanwhile, business class made its grand debut back in 1970, but it wasn't until 2000 that an airline dared put a bed anywhere other than the first class cabin. We can thank British Airways for setting that standard, which so many travellers now expect of a business class flight.
Airlines continue to push business class to new heights, but there's less room to innovate in first class
Business class has even come to surpass the first class of yesteryear. Seats became beds,
