On Singapore Airlines, you can stretch out on a flat bed in pyjamas designed by Givenchy, the French fashion house. Rival Air France thinks its museum-like interactive art display of national treasures will act as a different kind of lure.
Over at Emirates you can have your own personal bar – and take an in-flight shower. Meanwhile, on Airbus’s A380, the world’s largest passenger jet, it is possible to board directly to the top of its two decks, avoiding even a glimpse of hoi polloi below.
These are just a few examples of the “extras” that airlines and aeroplane manufacturers are offering in their quest to tempt back elusive first-class and business passengers.