I treated myself to a first-class flight with United Airlines for my birthday. I thought United's in-flight service was exceptional, and the meals were worth the upgrade. I'm already looking forward ...

For years, the poor passengers farther back in a plane have had to wrestle with hunger pangs as they smelled the fine cuisine being served on the other side of the curtains in first or business class.

For my birthday last year, I decided to treat myself to something new — a first-class flight on United Airlines. I figured the trip would be more comfortable than the ones I was used to in economy, ...