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Barry Prentice

CBC Radio: Why some airline travellers are opting for a seat upgrade, despite the big price tag

November 2, 2025 — 

Premium tickets come at a premium price. According to Choi, a business class seat typically costs four to five times more than economy, while premium economy fares are often about double the price of a standard ticket, though those numbers can vary. 

In an effort to maximize revenue, airlines have been squeezing more seats on their planes and charging for perks such as more legroom and a cup of coffee, says Dr. Barry Prentice, Professor and Director of the University of Manitoba Transport Institute (UMTI).

To read and listen to the full interview, please visit CBC.

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