"Is it a problem with you if I buy a business-class ticket?"

"The air fare can also be deductible," he said, "but probably not a first- or business-class ticket."

That's not true for business-class tickets, which routinely cost $1,000 or more round trip, so the biggest impact of Delta's limits could be felt there.

A general received a first- or business-class ticket, while colonels and others received economy tickets, he said.

Do I think it's outrageous to pay for a business-class ticket and get what amounts to a coach seat?

But, he says, he wants to buy discounted business-class tickets and get upgraded to first class.

For long international flights, brokering of business-class tickets is also popular.

This lounge will be reserved for travelers who buy either first-class or business-class tickets.

Airplanes usually offer few extra amenities beyond those that come with a first-class or business-class ticket.

And first- and business-class tickets often include admission, too.