From private suites to $20,000 seats: Luxury travelers have more ways to splurge while many passengers can’t afford economy

airlines are pouring money into flashy premium-class upgrades to keep attracting big spenders. the focus is on private suites and seats that can cost $20,000, creating more ways for luxury travelers to splurge. this push comes as many passengers struggle to afford even economy fares, widening the gap in the flying experience. carriers are betting that courting a smaller number of high-paying customers will be more profitable than competing on price for the masses.