Do airlines give out blankets anymore?

The Airline Blanket: A Relic of the Past?

The comforting weight of a fluffy airline blanket, once a staple of any flight, is becoming a relic of the past for economy travelers. While the opulent business class traveler might still be greeted by a plush, if slightly sanitized, blanket, the everyday economy passenger is increasingly left to their own devices.

The shift in policy is largely driven by hygiene concerns and cost-cutting measures. Laundering blankets on a large scale, especially during the peak travel seasons, is both time-consuming and expensive for airlines. Reusing blankets for multiple passengers, though previously a common practice, is now viewed by some as a significant risk to public health, particularly in the context of current hygiene standards.

The bottom line for economy class passengers? It’s time to embrace the personal item carry-on. A lightweight, portable blanket is a smart investment for any traveler. Whether it’s a fleece, a shawl, or a simple microfiber wrap, bringing your own blanket provides assurance of warmth and, more importantly, personal hygiene.

While business class passengers continue to enjoy the comfort of a blanket, it’s often a testament to their class of service. These heavier, often more plush blankets, are typically laundered and reused, but are reserved for the higher-paying customer. The quality and feel of these blankets reflects the higher cost of the business class ticket, and their frequent laundering ensures a somewhat sanitary experience.

In conclusion, the blanket policy of most airlines reflects a changing landscape of priorities. For the budget-conscious traveler, the modern approach is simple: Pack your own. For the luxury traveler, the blanket remains a perk of the elevated experience. The convenience and hygiene of a disposable blanket, however, is likely a temporary trend, and may be something airlines return to when hygiene standards allow.