If you're a New Yorker, or live elsewhere but plan to head to the Big Apple sometime this year, you might want to fly first class, even if you're a frugal flier.

Don't laugh. We've found fares that compare favorably with the usual stratospheric prices for first class, and compare extremely favorably with premium economy. See for yourself in this list, then check out the pros and cons.

Cheap first class flights

These sample round-trip first class airfares from Delta feature flights between New York and the following cities:

  • Atlanta, $470
  • Charlotte, from $370
  • Chicago, $508
  • Dallas, $418
  • Denver, $554
  • Detroit, $450
  • Miami, $496
  • Raleigh/Durham, $342
  • Washington, D.C., $326

What's the catch?

There are a few of them, in no particular order.

1. These fares are generally only good on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Fly other days and you'll pay 30% more.

2. These flights are typically on older, narrow body and regional aircraft that seat 70 or more, so don't expect those shiny, new planes other airlines are taking delivery of.

3. Destinations and departure cities are limited to a select number of legacy airline hubs and larger cities. You'll notice hotly contested coast-to-coast routes that include Los Angeles and San Francisco are not included.

4. A 7-day advance purchase is required, as is a Saturday night stay (in some cases).

5. Delta's competitors are not doing much price-matching, so taking advantage of these fares won't help you rack up miles if you belong to another airline's rewards program.

What's the best part?

1. The price, of course.

2. The aircraft may be older but the seats are similar in size and legroom to the shiny, new aircraft.

3. These fares are available up to 7-days before departure so you do have some room for procrastination.

4. Flying first class typically offers the perk of bonus miles for elite miles members.

5. Did we mention the price?

By the way, most of these first class fares are blacked-out during the holidays, but then, so are most of the cheaper fares in every cabin.

READ MORE: Is premium economy worth the extra money?

FareCompare CEO Rick Seaney is an airline industry insider and top media air-travel resource. Follow Rick (@rickseaney) and never overpay for airfare again.

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