First class, which used to proudly showcase its presence on Korean Air's Incheon–LA route, is gradually disappearing.

Once a symbol of long-haul routes, that seat, known as a 'hotel in the sky' distinctly different from business class, is now hard to find anywhere in the flight schedule.

Moreover, the operation of large aircraft like the A380 and Boeing 747 is decreasing, and first class on the Boeing 777-300ER is being replaced by a more practical Business Premium format.

In the past, First Class was located above the Prestige Suite, and there was a separate private space in the lounge. Now, with the introduction of new aircraft and the reconfiguration of seating, Korean Air is opting for Prestige Suites or Prestige Suite Plus instead of first class, or moving towards a 'business premium' level.

The reason is that there are not many passengers willing to pay high fares for long-haul flights. Especially after COVID, the airline industry has focused on practicality and efficiency, making it much more reasonable in terms of revenue to increase premium business seats rather than giving wide space to a few.

In fact, Incheon–LA is a representative demand route among long-haul flights, and the cabin configuration has realistically changed accordingly. As the deployment of B747s or A380s with first class has decreased, first class seats have naturally diminished. Now, the trend is to enhance the privacy of business seats and upgrade lounge services and meals, creating a 'premium business model that effectively serves the role of first class.'

From the passenger's perspective, it's disappointing, but for airlines, it's a choice for survival. There are very few customers willing to pay nearly ten million won each time they fly, and to maintain that demand, they have to manage separate in-flight meals, wine lineups, and cabin crew service training.

Of course, it hasn't completely disappeared. There are still dates available for booking on certain aircraft, and when lucky enough to get an upgrade, it provides an experience so luxurious that one might say, 'This is why I fly first class.'

However, the era when "first class is a basic option for long-haul flights" is coming to an end.

Once Korean Air completes its merger with Asiana, the changes in cabin structure are likely to become even more pronounced. While premium services will be maintained, their position will shift from first class to the top tier of business class.

Will we see the return of the 'palace in the sky' someday? While it's not impossible, the trend has already shifted towards selling a higher-end business experience to a larger number of passengers rather than catering to a luxury elite.

Thus, the remaining first class on the Incheon–LA route is becoming rarer and more special.

The fact that it is no longer easily seen ironically increases its value.

If you've experienced first class even once, it will be a seat you want to sit in again.

Things that are fading away are always remembered more beautifully.