Airlines are upping their game when it comes to free amenities, making flying a little less frustrating for passengers who once had to pay extra for even the most basic conveniences. Many carriers now include free texting and messaging as part of their loyalty programs, which are often free to join. Entertainment systems have also improved significantly, with airlines offering seat-back screens or streaming options that include movies, TV shows, podcasts, and even yoga and meditation. Remember when you had to swipe your credit card just to watch a movie? Those days seem to be fading into the past.
One of the most family-friendly changes is the shift toward free seating arrangements for parents and young children. What once required an additional fee is now expected to be standard, thanks to a proposed government rule. And for families traveling with kids, airlines often have surprise goodies or fun perks, some of which just need to be requested. Carriers are also stepping up their Wi-Fi game, with United leading the pack by announcing plans to offer free high-speed internet through Starlink on all its aircraft by late 2025. This development marks a significant upgrade, turning what used to be an expensive luxury into an expected feature.
Other small but welcome perks include complimentary water, blankets, pillows, basic amenity kits, and even extra snacks and drinks for all passengers who request them. For aviation enthusiasts, some airlines, like United and Delta, even provide collectible trading cards featuring aircraft stats and designs—a quirky nod to nostalgia. These cards have gained enough popularity to spark a secondary market on platforms like eBay, where avid collectors can snag sets for a premium.
On long-haul flights, airlines like Turkish Airlines and Emirates go the extra mile by offering economy passengers high-quality amenity kits. Turkish Airlines, for instance, packages its essentials—eye masks, ear plugs, and toiletries—in a stylish vinyl bag by Mandarina Duck. Emirates takes a sustainable approach with reusable kits containing socks, an eye mask, and a dental kit, while Qantas opts for recycled materials for its pouch of comfort items. These thoughtful touches make long flights more bearable and add a touch of luxury to economy class.
In-flight Wi-Fi remains a priority for many airlines, with JetBlue leading the charge by offering its fast, free “Fly-Fi” service on most flights within the U.S. and Europe. Other carriers are following suit, including Hawaiian Airlines, which offers free Starlink Wi-Fi on select aircraft, and Air New Zealand, which encourages passengers to check for connectivity options on their specific flights. Meanwhile, loyalty program members on airlines like Delta gain access to perks like free Paramount+ streaming for 24 hours, even after landing. These advancements show that airlines are finally recognizing the importance of seamless, connected, and enjoyable travel for passengers at all levels.
