Want to fly in style? In this Air France Business Class guide, we’ll show you what flying looks like with one of the world’s leading airlines. From the booking experience to in-flight amenities, we’ll cover all the perks of business class with Air France. Dive in to discover what makes Air France one of the best airlines in 2024.
Welcome aboard, the ultimate guide to Air France Business Class! If you’re pondering which airline to fly to France, you’re in the right place. We’re about to embark on a journey exploring the luxurious world of Air France’s premium service.
From the sleek design of their seats to the exquisite in-flight dining, we’ll cover everything. Get ready to discover why Air France is often hailed as Europe’s best airline for business class travel. Buckle up, and let’s take off into this high-flying adventure!
#1 tip to find cheap Air France Business Class tickets
Looking for a steal on Air France business class tickets? Before jumping into the article, I first wanted to give you this insider tip to find cheap airfare on business class flights.
For years, I’ve been using this site called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), which sends you alerts on airline deals, discounts, and mistake fares. It’s a total game-changer – saving me $10,000+ on flights each year.
Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing.
And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version. Last year, this service saved me $2,750 on a first class flight and $1,500 on a business class flight. At just $199 year year, trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.
Overview of Air France Business Class
Are you thinking about flying business class with Air France this year? Boasting a fleet of over 200 aircraft, Air France connects travelers to over 200 destinations worldwide. Flying with Air France means experiencing a slice of French culture at 30,000 feet.
In Business Class, Air France elevates this experience. Imagine sipping a fine French wine while cruising above the clouds. Picture yourself enjoying gourmet meals that rival top Parisian restaurants. This is what Air France Business Class offers – a taste of France, delivered with impeccable service.
So, are you ready to explore the chic and sophisticated world of Air France Business Class? Let’s embark on this stylish adventure together!
Benefits of Air France Business Class in 2024
Air France Business Class is a game-changer in the world of air travel, especially for those seeking the best business class in Europe. Here’s why it’s a top pick:
- Lie-Flat Beds: Experience the comfort of fully lie-flat beds on long-haul flights. With a 1-2-1 configuration, enjoy direct aisle access and ample personal space. The beds, depending on the aircraft, offer generous sleeping space.
- Lounge Access: Step into the world of luxury with access to Air France lounges. These lounges offer a tranquil environment with amenities like spa-like showers, gourmet dining, and Wi-Fi. In select airports, enjoy the unique ‘Night Service’ for a pre-flight dining experience.
- Baggage Allowance: Travel without worries with a generous baggage allowance. Business Class passengers can check in two bags, free of charge, up to 70 pounds each.
- Priority Services: Enjoy the convenience of SkyPriority services, including priority check-in, security lines, boarding, and baggage handling.
- In-Flight Comforts: Air France’s attention to detail shines in their amenity kits, featuring luxury Clarins products. The cabin ambiance, with its calming color palette and comfortable seating, is for relaxation and enjoyment.
- Dining and Beverages: Savor multi-course meals designed by top chefs, complemented by a selection of fine wines and spirits.
- Entertainment: Stay entertained with a wide range of movies, TV shows, and music on personal screens. The in-flight entertainment system caters to diverse tastes.
- Flying Blue Advantages: As part of the Flying Blue program, earn and redeem miles on Air France and its extensive SkyTeam network. This opens up a world of travel opportunities and rewards.
Air France Business Class stands out for its blend of French elegance, comfort, and convenience. It’s a compelling reason why Air France is one of Europe’s best airline for business class travel.
Tips for Booking Air France Business Class Tickets
Booking a Business Class ticket on Air France can be a nuanced process, with various factors influencing cost and availability. Here are some tips and insights to help you find cheap Air France flight tickets.
- Cost of Tickets: The price for a Business Class ticket on long-haul routes varies widely. It can be twice or several times the cost of an Economy ticket. For a Transatlantic flight, prices typically range from $3,600 to over $6,000 roundtrip.
- Subscribe to Cheap Flight Alerts: Again, if you want to find the best possible deals on business class airfare, I highly recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for finding discounted economy flights, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.
- Upgrading with Miles: If you’re a member of the Flying Blue program, check for mile upgrade options. For example, upgrading from New York to Paris might cost around 30,000 miles one-way.
- Opportunistic Upgrades: Air France may offer spontaneous upgrades for operational reasons. Elite members of the Flying Blue program often have a higher chance of receiving such upgrades.
- Online Check-In Upgrades: During online check-in, Air France sometimes presents upgrade offers. These can be paid in miles, cash, or a combination of both. The cost varies, so it’s worth checking in as soon as it’s available.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for Air France’s newsletter and frequent flyer program to stay updated on promotions and special offers.
Air France’s Fleet: A Detailed Comparison
Navigating Air France’s fleet for the best Business Class experience? Here’s a detailed comparison:
Airbus A220-300 (Short & Medium Haul)
For those hopping across Europe or on medium-haul journeys, the Airbus A220-300 is your go-to. This aircraft features a comfortable seating configuration with the neighboring seat blocked for increased privacy and comfort. I always recommend snagging a window seat for that extra bit of space and privacy.
Despite the flight duration, you’ll be treated to a range of beverages. This includes Champagne. Meal service varies with flight length, offering cold meals on shorter trips and hot dishes on longer ones.
Boeing 777-300ER
Long-haul flights are a treat on the Boeing 777-300ER, especially with the introduction of the new Safran Versa seating. These seats, arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, convert into nearly 2-meter-long fully-flat beds.
For the best experience, aim for the bulkhead seats in rows one and nine, offering ample space and an unrestricted ottoman. The seats come with sliding doors for privacy and are equipped with the latest technology. This include wireless charging.
Airbus A350-900
The Airbus A350-900, a newer addition to the fleet, features a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration. For added privacy, select an even-numbered seat. These aircraft have the largest 4K IFE screens in Air France’s long-haul fleet. This enhances your in-flight entertainment experience.
Be aware that the existing A350s have a slightly more cramped staggered seat formation, so choosing the right seat is crucial for your comfort.
Airbus A330-200
On the Airbus A330, you’ll find a mix of 2-2-2 configurations, offering both angle-flat and fully flat seats. This aircraft is a solid choice for couples, with window-aisle pairs providing a cozy travel experience. It strikes a fine balance between comfort and privacy, which makes it a reliable option for various routes.
This aircraft typically operates routes to India and various destinations in Africa. The fleet of 14 A330-200s will soon be retired and replaced by the Airbus A350.
Boeing 777-200ER
The Boeing 777 varies in its seating configurations, ranging from a denser 2-3-2 arrangement to a more spacious 1-2-1 layout. In the 1-2-1 configuration, enjoy the convenience of all-aisle access. If you find yourself on a 2-3-2 layout, I suggest opting for an aisle seat to avoid the need to climb over other passengers.
Air France’s fleet of 18 777-200s will soon be retired and replaced by the Airbus A350.
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
All Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners feature a 1-2-1 configuration with fully flat beds, making them an excellent choice for both privacy and comfort. The Dreamliner is also famous for its enhanced cabin environment. It offers a more comfortable experience in terms of air humidity and pressure.
Each aircraft in Air France’s fleet offers a unique experience. Whether you’re on a short hop across Europe or a long-haul journey, there’s a seat and service to match your needs. Remember, always check the specific aircraft and seat map when booking to get the most out of your Air France Business Class experience!
Air France Business Class Ground Experience
When people ask me which airline is best in Europe, I often mention Air France, largely thanks to its incredible airport lounges experience. The ground experience, especially at their primary hubs in Paris – Charles de Gaulle and Orly, is a prelude to the luxury that awaits in the skies.
Check-in & Security
At both Parisian hubs, the journey starts smoothly with SkyPriority queues. These expedite the check-in process. Additionally, dedicated fast-track lines for security and immigration are a boon, ensuring you spend less time in queues and more in comfort.
Air France Lounges
Once past security, the Salon Air France lounges beckon. Scattered across various terminals, each lounge is an oasis of tranquility. Inside, you’ll find self-serve bars stocked with wine, beer, spirits, and premium Champagne like Laurent Perrier.
The food offerings, curated by guest chef Ducasse Paris, are a gastronomic delight. Imagine savoring the gourmet Burgal, a plant-based delight, or indulging in classic French pastries like croissants and pain au chocolat. As the day progresses, the menu shifts to include salads, soups, and sandwiches, but the exquisite bakery and cheese selection remains a constant.
Refrigerators filled with soft drinks, juices, and premium waters like Perrier and Evian are at your disposal. For those seeking a quiet moment, a wide selection of magazines and newspapers is available. Need to work or connect? The lounges have workstations and free Wi-Fi. And for a refreshing break, many lounges offer shower facilities.
The international 2E Hall L Lounge at Charles de Gaulle even features a sauna and complimentary Clarins Spa treatments, adding a touch of spa luxury to your travel experience.
Global Lounge Access
Air France’s hospitality extends beyond Paris. You’ll find Salons in major airports worldwide, including Munich, Bangkok, Frankfurt, Houston, New York JFK, San Francisco, and Washington Dulles. These lounges mirror the elegance and comfort found in Paris.
Spa Treatments
A unique feature in some non-Schengen lounges at Charles de Gaulle is the complimentary 15-minute Clarins Spa treatment. Available on a first-come, first-served basis, these treatments, including massages and facials, are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation before your flight.
Partner Lounge Access
In cities without an Air France Business Class lounge, passengers are not left wanting. Access to third-party facilities, often SkyTeam partner lounges, ensures a comfortable and luxurious wait before departure.
Travelers with SkyTeam Elite Plus status on any SkyTeam airline can access these lounges on international itineraries, regardless of their cabin. However, the privilege is extended to all Air France Business Class passengers, irrespective of their status.
In-Flight Comfort & Amenities on Air France Business Class
Stepping onto an Air France Business Class flight, you’re immediately welcomed into a world of comfort and style. At your seat, a plush pillow, slippers, and a chic duvet blanket awaits. There’s even a shoe bag for stowing your shoes overhead and a hanger for your jacket – talk about attention to detail!
The amenity kit is a standout feature. Fashioned from 96% recycled materials, it’s not just eco-friendly but also elegantly designed with a herringbone pattern and the iconic winged seahorse emblem. It’s filled with Clarins skincare treasures, an eco-friendly toothbrush, earplugs, a soft eye mask, socks, and toothpaste. It’s the little luxuries that make all the difference.
Other amenities to be aware of with Air France
For young adventurers, Air France has introduced charming activity kits. Kids get a dog figurine, a mini airplane, a runway puzzle, and more, all wrapped in a French bakery-themed package. Babies aren’t left out either – they receive a cuddly toy dog in a kraft paper kit. On long-haul flights, families with little ones can expect exceptional care, including the option to request a bassinet for babies.
Freshen up in-flight with Clarins products in the lavatories, including lotion and facial toner. Combined with the hot towels provided before meals, you’ll land feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Entertainment is top-notch in the new Business Class cabins. Immerse yourself in over 350 movies, a vast music library, and podcasts on the latest 4K HD screens. The Boeing 777 boasts a 17.3-inch touchscreen whilst the A350 features an even larger 20-inch screen. Both offer Bluetooth connectivity for your favorite headphones.
Staying connected is easy with Wi-Fi available on most long-haul flights. Choose from various affordable plans based on time, not data usage, and even enjoy complimentary messaging on apps like WhatsApp and iMessage. These touches make Air France one of the world’s best airlines.
On-board Dining with Air France Business Class
When it comes to dining in the skies, Air France Business Class truly sets the standard. Believe me, they’re one of Europe’s best airlines for gourmet in-flight meals.
Food
When it comes to dining in the skies, Air France Business Class truly sets the standard. Believe me, they’re one of Europe’s best airlines for gourmet in-flight meals.
On intercontinental flights, passengers will be served a multi-course meal crafted by a rotating team of top chefs. The journey begins with starters like foie gras, lobster, or shrimp, accompanied by a marinated vegetable salad and a mixed seasonal salad dressed in olive oil and vinaigrette. And yes, there are hot bread rolls with French butter – a nod to international palates.
The cheese selection is a highlight, featuring a hard cheese, a soft cheese, and a surprise “wild card” option. In true French fashion, this cheese course is savored after the main course.
Speaking of main courses, the options are diverse and delectable. Typically, you’ll have three to four choices, including meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. The selection depends on the flight’s length and destination, ensuring a fresh and exciting experience each time.
Desserts are a delightful array of small sweets, perfectly paired with coffee, tea, or cordials. For those who love to snack, most long-haul flights feature a self-service bar in the galley, stocked with snacks, beverages, and even Haagen-Dazs ice cream. If you’re feeling peckish, don’t hesitate to ask the crew for hot snacks.
Before landing, a light meal or breakfast is served, depending on the time of day. For those who’d rather maximize their rest, there’s the option to have just coffee and a pastry up to 30 minutes before arrival.
Air France’s commitment to exceptional in-flight dining is just one of the many reasons why it’s one of the best airline to fly to France.
Beverages
In Air France Business Class, the beverage selection is a highlight. This reflects the airline’s deep roots in a country celebrated for its Champagne and fine wines. It’s a key aspect that makes Air France not just the best French airline but also a contender for the best business class in 2024.
The wine list, curated by Master Sommelier Paolo Basso, the world’s best sommelier in 2013, is nothing short of impressive. It’s designed to perfectly complement the Michelin-starred cuisine onboard. Business Class passengers can indulge in a rotating selection of Champagne. This includes prestigious labels like Taittinger Brut Réserve, Deutz Brut Classic, and Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve.
The experience begins before takeoff, with flight attendants offering Champagne, juice, or water as a welcome drink. However, note that Champagne may not be served on the ground at certain destinations.
During the flight, you’ll receive a printed menu detailing the drink options available with your meal. Expect two choices each of white and red wines, carefully selected to pair with the dishes. For beer lovers, there’s usually a lager like Heineken. The selection of aperitifs and digestifs is diverse, including a port wine for those who enjoy a sweeter end to their meal.
For flights longer than two and a half hours, after-dinner drinks and gourmet coffee are served. The coffee selection includes Italian brands Segafredo and Illy, and for tea enthusiasts, there’s Palais des Thés.
Air France Business Class vs. La Première: What’s the Difference?
When comparing Air France Business Class with La Première (First Class), it’s like comparing two levels of luxury. In fact, La Première is often considered one of the world’s best first class products. Both offer exceptional experiences, but La Première takes it a notch higher. Here’s a breakdown:
Seat and Space:
In Business Class, you’ll enjoy lie-flat seats with direct aisle access. La Première, however, offers individual suites for unparalleled privacy and comfort. The suites are more spacious and come with a personal coat service and additional storage.
Dining Experience:
While Business Class offers a gourmet multi-course meal, La Première elevates this with even more exquisite culinary creations. The dining in La Première is akin to a top-tier restaurant, with a menu crafted by world-renowned chefs.
Amenities:
Both classes provide luxury amenity kits, but La Première’s kit includes additional high-end products. The bedding in La Première, with its mattress topper and plush duvet, is designed for ultimate sleep comfort.
Ground Service:
La Première passengers enjoy a personalized airport experience, including dedicated check-in areas, escort through security, and access to exclusive lounges. At select airports, La Première guests are chauffeured to their aircraft.
In-Flight Entertainment:
Both classes offer a wide range of entertainment options, but the screens and sound systems in La Première are typically more advanced.
Overall Service:
The service in La Première is even more personalized, with a higher staff-to-passenger ratio. This means more attentive service throughout your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Air France’s Business Class
Are you still curious about which airline is the best in France? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help decide whether Air France business class is the right option for you.
What is business class like with Air France?
Flying Business Class with Air France is an experience I always look forward to. It’s a blend of comfort, luxury, and exceptional service. The seats are spacious and convert into lie-flat beds, perfect for relaxing on long flights. The in-flight dining is a culinary adventure, with meals designed by top chefs. You’re also treated to a premium selection of wines and champagnes. The service is attentive, making you feel pampered throughout the journey.
Does Air France have flatbeds in business class?
Yes, Air France offers lie-flat beds in Business Class on their long-haul flights. These beds provide a comfortable sleeping experience, ensuring you arrive at your destination refreshed. The bedding, including a soft pillow and duvet, adds to the comfort. Believe me, it feels like a bedroom in the sky!
Is business class the same as first class on Air France?
No, Business Class and First Class (La Première) on Air France are distinct. While Business Class offers a high level of comfort and service, La Première takes it to an even more luxurious level. In La Première, you get more privacy with individual suites, superior dining options, and additional exclusive services both on the ground and in the air. The level of personalization and luxury in La Première is unmatched.
Does Air France give you pajamas in business class?
No, Air France does not typically provide pajamas in Business Class. However, you do receive a comfortable amenity kit that includes items like an eye mask, earplugs, and skincare products from Clarins. For optimal comfort, I recommend bringing your own sleepwear if you plan to sleep during the flight.
What is the difference between premium economy and business class on Air France?
The difference between Premium Economy and Business Class on Air France is quite significant.
In Business Class, you get lie-flat beds, access to exclusive lounges at the airport, a higher quality of meal service, and more personalized attention. The seating arrangement is more spacious. It offers more privacy and comfort. Premium Economy, on the other hand, is a step up from Economy. There’s more legroom, enhanced meal service compared to Economy, and additional amenities like a larger personal screen and improved headphones.
However, it doesn’t provide the same level of luxury and comfort as Business Class, particularly in terms of seat comfort and additional services like lounge access.
- Looking to find international business class flights for under $1,300 roundtrip? You’ll want to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for economy deals, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.
