How Girl, 5, Acts When Traveling First Class vs Economy on Same Day

The saying "all good things must come to an end" might come to mind while watching this viral video of a 5-year-old experiencing the stark contrast between first class and economy.

Little Natalie was living the dream from the moment she was greeted by an air steward, ready to embark on a luxurious flight from Hong Kong to Bangkok. With her own private cabin and a caviar lunch, she soaked in every bit of the first-class experience. But, when it was time to board the economy flight home, her expression said it all.

Her priceless reaction quickly went viral on Instagram (@brunaandnatalie), with more than 18.7 million views and over 570,000 likes. The clip captioned, "She felt a bit confused, but life has a way of humbling us," sparked plenty of laughs online. Natalie's mom, Bruna Fava, told Newsweek that her daughter took the downgrade in stride.

"Natalie was OK during the flight home—she appreciates traveling regardless of the class," Fava said.

The video captures Natalie in awe as she steps into Emirates' first-class cabin, her mouth wide-open in disbelief. However, the mood shifts when she boards what she dubs the "low-class airline" for the return trip. Though she musters a smile for the camera, her disappointment is unmistakable.

Newsweek reached out to Emirates via email.

A January YouGov poll found those in the front cabin are more likely to be married and have children under 18.

Fava, the owner of the kids' hair-care brand Pixie Who, said that this was Natalie's first time flying first class, made possible by an upgrade using reward points.

Newsweek previously shared nine tips on how to get an upgrade on your flight. These include signing up for an airline's loyalty program, bidding for an upgrade online, or simply asking for one in person.

Arsen Misakyan, cofounder of the airport car service company LAXcar, previously told Newsweek that the best time to ask for an upgrade is often while waiting to board, as "gate agents have a clearer picture of available seats and can make last-minute adjustments."

Instagram Reacts

The video has already received over 900 comments, with many users expressing that flying first class is nothing more than a distant dream for them.

"Sorry honey, we spent all the money on that other flight. LOL [laugh out loud]. My guess is she didn't really care," one user commented.

Another wrote: "She's gonna work hard for the good stuff—that's a great thing! Mine's the same … was so disappointed there was no mini robe and slippers in our last hotel."

A third commenter posted: "Her facial expression is the best—she just stole our hearts."

If you have a family dilemma, let us know via life@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.