In smaller airplanes for shorter trips yes. For example, you could charter a Cessna 400 series airplane 6 - 8 passenger seat twin engine piston airplane from Los Angeles to Las Vegas for a little bit more than first class at an airline like cost.
All six seats filled splitting the cost would be a little more per passenger than getting first class. But trust me the experience is 1000x better than the airlines. No security, no waiting, no baggage check, no charge for parking, none of that.
Still pricey for the average flyer, I think. However, if many who typically fly first class took your option instead, I'm thinking the airlines would regret it. First class seat sales must be a significant portion of their profit.
Can it be done for a price most middle class could afford?
In smaller airplanes for shorter trips yes. For example, you could charter a Cessna 400 series airplane 6 - 8 passenger seat twin engine piston airplane from Los Angeles to Las Vegas for a little bit more than first class at an airline like cost.
Is that first class like cost divided among 6-8 passengers or is that per passenger?
All six seats filled splitting the cost would be a little more per passenger than getting first class. But trust me the experience is 1000x better than the airlines. No security, no waiting, no baggage check, no charge for parking, none of that.
Still pricey for the average flyer, I think. However, if many who typically fly first class took your option instead, I'm thinking the airlines would regret it. First class seat sales must be a significant portion of their profit.