Taking A High Flier

Emirates and Qatar are pressing these advantages by making an expensive bid for the world's most affluent travelers. First-and business-class seats furnish a disproportionate share of airline revenue these days, especially on long-haul routes (which represent the majority of these carriers' profits), so the Gulf airlines are lavishing money on amenities for those passengers. With their deep pockets, they have ushered in an entirely new era of onboard luxury. There are suites with doors that close, beds where fliers can truly stretch out, high-speed Internet connections and meals that would delight Alain Ducasse—as well as all the trappings that make flying easy: short security lines, posh lounges and even chauffeured rides to and from your door.

So Emirates and friends will have brand-new fleets unloading into brand-new terminals while other carriers are flying rickety, fuel-inefficient ocean crossers. It stands to reason that, in the next two decades, the Gulf airlines will increase their share of those wealthy travelers—who will then arrive in the Gulf well fed, well rested and ready to spend money.

© 2008