The gap between economy and premium passengers just keeps getting bigger

Just as the gap between the world's richest and poorest is continuing to grow, so too is the divide between business travellers and economy flyers becoming more accentuated as airlines look to maximise their revenues.

Such a trend has been effectively illustrated this week, with a pair of carriers issuing two very different announcements.

First up was Virgin Atlantic, which capped off a fine few days wallowing in the ongoing troubles of long-time rival British Airways by announcing that it is to launch on-board email and text services for its business-class passengers over the next couple of years.

In a statement released by the British airline, it was confirmed that it has signed a $2.1 billion order for ten new Airbus A330-300 planes, all of which will be fitted with top-of-the-range entertainment systems, complete with USB ports and power sockets for the benefit of on-the-go businessmen.

The new technology, which is to be made available from 2011, will enable passengers in Upper Class and Premium Economy to stay in touch with clients or family and friends on the ground by text, with flyers then only required to put down their Blackberrys for take off and landing.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the aviation spectrum, Ryanair has announced plans to do away with nearly all of its baggage handlers and instead encourage its passengers to carry their luggage onto the plane themselves.

In line with its move to remove check-in facilities from airports, the low-cost carrier believes that professional baggage handlers are unnecessary and that such a move would benefit both Ryanair and its passengers.

Chief executive Michael O'Leary explained: "What it means is no more waiting at the carousel, no more losing your bags, no more wasting your life in over-priced airport terminals."

What it will also probably mean, however, is that the work of the airport's own security staff will be increased, meaning longer queues that will only add to the stresses of modern, budget air travel.

Though it remains to be seen whether such 'carry it youself' plans will actually be implemented - as is also the case with the recent revelations that the airline will soon charge passengers to use on-board toilets - what is becoming increasingly clear is that, just as top-paying passengers are getting more for their money, those who would normally turn right upon entering the aircraft are getting even less.