Yep, it's all come down to "affordable" air travel, for the masses. As stated, it used to be only the moderately wealthy, who could afford an overseas vacation. With the advent of credit cards [instant debt], and the need for immediate self-gratification - rather than saving for years - everybody wants, and is now able, to travel tomorrow...make the booking, and pack the bags today!!
Hence the aircraft manufacturers' necessity to build larger capacity vehicles.
Justapax's concept of dividing the aircraft into different sections is interesting, provided you are able to fill each section.
Concorde, I understand, still offers travel on a limited basis, as do certain other charter companies, eg. Air 2000, for those willing to pay extra, and take their time...personally, I'd prefer a boat cruise!!
Ask the crew what the pax REALLY want, and I think you'll get a different response...let me guess though;
- a First Class size seat,
- 7 course, cordon bleu meal, served by at least one [but preferably two] attentive cabin crew,
- an unlimited beverage selection,
- no other pax in your section,
- a large, fully tiled bathroom,
- access to ALL of your baggage,
- an opportunity to visit the cockpit, and 'have a go' at flying the beast,
- on call masseuse,
- a telephone/fax/internet connection to stay in touch [and add "Oh, I'm calling you from 41,000 feet.."]
- a 'Thank You' gift from the Airline..preferably a $25,000 watch
What did I forget??