Joe Brancatelli’s column is dead on this morning. Conventional wisdom is that domestic first class is getting more affordable. He offers the but’s —

• But it’s getting more rare, as half the flights operated by major airlines are on regional jets or props, more flights are being turned over to one class products like United’s TED, and remaining first class cabins are being downsized.

• But the quality of first class varies widely across carriers and has been generally downgraded.

• But tjere are lots of terms and conditions and fineprint associated with these fares.

It isn’t the case that consumers can buy what was once available, only for less money.

At the same time, though, a couple weeks back I managed a no advance purchase Philadelphia-Los Angeles one-way ticket on Delta for only $500. I was pleased.