Premium travel has grown steadily in recent years. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recorded a 4.5% increase in business and first-class passengers in 2025, taking the global total to 109.7 million. These passengers accounted for 5.5% of international travelers, but premium travel had a larger share in the Middle East at 9.5%. Airlines have responded to the growth by investing more in their premium cabins.
