Bryan Saltzburg an industry analyst at Trip Advisor has stated that several major airlines are acting to reduce or eliminate first-class seating due to lack of demand.
"There's been a clear trend for long-haul international flights to reduce or eliminate first-class cabins on all but the most lucrative and competitive routes," he said.
Qantas of Australia is reported to be taking out first-class on most of its flights, while United Airlines is considering taking out first-class seating to retain only with business and economy section like Continental has. By cutting out first class altogether airlines can offer seats with more leg room, such as premium economy, or enhanced business class seats.
The International Transport Association said demand for business and first-class fell 16% in 2009.