Ordinary people will make up the bulk of the A380's customers, though buying a tourist class ticket will not bring them any closer to the rich and famous.

Legroom might be better than they are used to, but access to bars and lounges will probably not be included in the price.

Indeed, the idea behind carrying hundreds of tourists at the same time is thrift.

Fewer flights which carry more people result in reduced fuel costs and landing fees at airports.