The 10 Best Airlines for First Class Travelers in 2025

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Let’s talk first class, and I mean the real deal, not just a bigger seat and a fancy menu. After trying pretty much every premium cabin out there, I can tell you which airlines actually make you feel like you’re living the dream. From caviar service that would make a restaurant jealous to suites where I’ve had the best sleep of my life, some airlines just know how to do luxury right.

After flying first class all over the world, I’ve found the best places in aviation to burn those hard-earned miles or treat yourself to something special. I analyzed over 100 best airlines from around the world for first class, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Here are the ones that truly nail the first-class game.

How to score cheap first class airline tickets

Just because you’re looking for first class airline tickets doesn’t mean you have to pay first class airfare. There are plenty of ways to score the comfiest, roomiest seats without spending an arm and a leg.

One of the best ways to do this is through a service called Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). With Going, you can make an account on their website and sign up for free email alerts. Before you know it, your inbox will be full of extremely cheap flights. 

What’s more? They also offer a premium version of this service, and it’s a great choice for anyone who travels frequently. With the premium subscription, you get even more emails with low-cost airfare. This can be crucial for snagging deals that are only available for a limited time. 

But wait, there’s even MORE! If you’re looking to snag deals on first class fares, sign up for their Elite version. I saved over $3,000 on my last first class flight alone thank to Scott’s! You can use my coupon code JON20 to save 20% on your premium subscription! This will help you put a little more money in your pocket for your next adventure.

Best First Class Airlines to Fly in 2025

Looking for the best first-class airlines to fly in 2025? Experience luxury and top-tier service with Qatar Airways, enjoy world-class comfort with Lufthansa, fly in style with American Airlines, and indulge in premium travel with British Airways. Whether you seek exclusivity, comfort, or exceptional service, these airlines offer the finest first-class experiences.

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1. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Hamad International Airport, Doha (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Qsuite), First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Private suites with closing doors, on-demand dining, exclusive lounge access, chauffeur service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book with Cathay Pacific Asia Miles for lower fees

Flying First Class in Qatar Airways is less about getting from A to B and more about feeling like you’ve checked into a luxury hotel in the sky. While their Qsuite Business Class already competes with most airlines’ top-tier offerings, the airline’s First Class goes a step further and brings an entirely different level of comfort and attention.

It all starts in Doha at the Al Safwa First Lounge, which looks more like a private museum than an airport facility. Soaring ceilings, minimalist design, and quiet dining spaces offer a calm, exclusive atmosphere before you even board. The lounge also features private nap rooms and spa treatments that set the tone for what’s ahead.

Once onboard, the privacy of Qatar’s First Class is hard to match. The spacious seats convert into extra-long fully flat beds with high-quality bedding and thoughtful lighting. Cabin crew offer genuinely warm, personalized service, often adjusting meal times and cabin settings based on your preferences without you needing to ask.

Dining is a standout feature. There’s no meal schedule—you eat what you want, when you want. From caviar service to Arabic mezze to international fine dining, the food consistently impresses. Every dish is plated like it belongs in a fine restaurant, and the wine list includes vintages you’d expect to find at a sommelier-led tasting.

2. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More – part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: First Class Terminal in Frankfurt, Porsche transfers, insane wine selection
• 💡 Pro Tip: Instead of Miles & More, use Avianca LifeMiles to skip the crazy fees

Lufthansa‘s First Class remains a bucket-list experience for luxury travelers. The German airline doesn’t just offer a lounge, they give you an entire terminal in Frankfurt. Yes, a whole building just for First Class passengers with its own security, dining, baths, and nap rooms. When it’s time to board, they drive you to your plane in a Porsche across the tarmac.

Step into the First Class cabin and you’ll find the same level of refinement carried through the entire journey. Lufthansa’s Boeing 747-8s and retrofitted A350s feature just eight spacious suites, each designed for rest and privacy. The new Suite Plus takes it even further with a fully enclosed space, wide lie-flat bed, and private wardrobe. Small touches like temperature-regulated bedding and Rimowa amenity kits with La Prairie skincare make it clear you’re flying in a class of its own.

For bookings, avoid using Lufthansa’s own Miles & More program unless you enjoy paying hundreds in surcharges. The smart move is using Avianca LifeMiles or Air Canada Aeroplan points, which charge way less in fees for the same seats. If you’re planning a special trip and want the full experience, schedule a long layover in Frankfurt to enjoy that amazing First Class Terminal.

3. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Flagship Business), First (Flagship First)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage – part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Flagship First Dining, premium champagne, Casper bedding
• 💡 Pro Tip: Use AAdvantage Web Specials for discounted First Class awards on long-haul routes

American Airlines’ Flagship First has finally caught up to international standards after their 2024 cabin refresh. Available primarily on transcontinental and select international routes, their true First Class is exclusively offered on their Boeing 777-300ER fleet connecting hubs like Dallas (DFW) and Miami (MIA) to London, Tokyo, and São Paulo.

The luxury experience starts on the ground with Flagship First Check-In, a separate, private area where you breeze through a dedicated security line. And then there’s Flagship First Dining, a restaurant within the lounge that serves made-to-order meals and top-shelf drinks that rival upscale restaurants. It’s so exclusive they won’t even let business class passengers in, no matter their status.

On board, the seats aren’t the fanciest out there (still no doors), but they’re spacious and comfortable with Casper bedding that actually lets you sleep. The soft product makes up for it. American serves Krug champagne, and their partnership with James Beard Award-winning chefs has seriously upgraded the food. The crew-to-passenger ratio in First is excellent, and they’ve stepped up training for premium cabin staff.

The AAdvantage program offers solid value for booking First, especially with their “Web Special” awards that can save you thousands of miles. Frequent flyers with Executive Platinum status get four systemwide upgrades annually. These are golden tickets to jump from Economy to Business or Business to First. 

4. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) – part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Exclusive Concorde Room access, private dining booths, dedicated concierge
• 💡 Pro Tip: Booking First with Alaska or Asia Miles can cut fees dramatically compared to using Avios

British Airways brings classic British elegance into the modern era with their First Class offering. The latest First suites on their Airbus A380s and refitted Boeing 777s provide enclosed spaces, huge HD screens, and ambient lighting that adapts to your schedule. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking privacy and comfort while connecting through London to dozens of global destinations.

The standout feature for First Class passengers is access to the legendary Concorde Room at Heathrow and JFK, reserved exclusively for First passengers (not even top-tier elites can enter unless flying First). Inside, you’ll find private dining booths, handcrafted cocktails, and cabanas for napping between flights. Their new First service also includes custom pajamas, upgraded Temperley London amenity kits, and a specialized sleep service with cooling pillows.

For in-flight dining, BA’s First Class showcases British culinary excellence with seasonal menus featuring exclusive wines and proper afternoon tea service. There’s on-demand dining throughout the flight rather than scheduled meal times, catering perfectly to international travelers dealing with time zone changes. 

For savvy luxury travelers, the sweet spot for booking BA First is using partner airline miles rather than BA’s own Avios, which carry hefty surcharges. Cathay Pacific Asia Miles and Alaska Mileage Plan offer significantly better value for the same seats. First Class passengers also enjoy expedited immigration through the exclusive Fast Track service and dedicated arrival lounges for refreshing after long-haul flights.

5. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue – part of SkyTeam
• ☕ Perks: Private lounge suites, Michelin-starred dining, luxury car transfers
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book La Première on daytime flights from New York or Los Angeles to Paris for the full lounge-to-lounge experience without sacrificing overnight rest

Air France‘s La Première continues to be the crown jewel for first class travelers seeking exclusivity in 2025. Limited to just four suites on their flagship routes, this is basically the epitome of French luxury in the skies. Their newly redesigned suites offer three-room configurations: a seat, a fully flat bed, and an ottoman, with sliding partitions for absolute privacy or conversation with travel companions.

What makes La Première different from the usual First Class is the unmatched personalized service. The crew remembers your dining preferences, adjusts the temperature around your seat, and lets you eat, rest, or sleep on your schedule. The bonus? Meals feature French ingredients and wines you’d expect at top-tier restaurants, and the small touches like monogrammed pajamas or tailored amenity kits remind you that this is a different kind of first class.

The La Première lounge in Paris is essentially a private club with dedicated rooms for each passenger. Enjoy private check-in, security, and immigration, never waiting in a single line. The exclusive lounge enhancements include private dining rooms with visiting Michelin-starred chefs, spa treatments, and personal shoppers for last-minute Parisian luxury goods.

Redemptions with points can be tricky, since La Première is typically reserved for Flying Blue elites. Still, promotions and Miles & Cash bookings do pop up from time to time.

6. 🇺🇸 Hawaiian Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Honolulu (HNL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Extra Comfort, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: HawaiianMiles – independent (partners with JetBlue, Virgin Australia)
• ☕ Perks: Island-inspired cuisine, fully flat beds on A330s, priority airport services
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book First Class on A330 routes specifically for the full premium experience

Hawaiian Airlines’ First Class delivers a premium island experience for luxury travelers looking to arrive in paradise refreshed. Their redesigned cabin on A330 aircraft offers 18 lie-flat seats arranged with two seats on each side of the aisle, perfect for couples heading to honeymoons or anniversary celebrations. The airline connects Hawaii with major mainland cities plus international destinations including Tokyo, Sydney, Auckland, and Seoul.

For First Class travelers, Hawaiian’s primary appeal lies in its authentic island hospitality. The experience begins with priority check-in and security, followed by access to their refreshed lounges featuring panoramic runway views and traditional Hawaiian design elements. Their newest cabins feature handcrafted details like wooden accents and fabric patterns inspired by traditional Hawaiian quilts.

The food? An absolute stand out with locally sourced ingredients and island specialties. First Class passengers enjoy multi-course meals designed by renowned Hawaiian chefs alongside a curated wine program and signature Mai Tais. The airline’s exclusive partnership with Kona coffee farms provides unlimited fresh-brewed specialty coffee throughout the flight.

Despite being an independent airline, Hawaiian offers excellent first class award availability. The smartest approach for luxury travelers is booking with Virgin Atlantic miles or JetBlue points, both offering better rates than Hawaiian’s own program. 

Here’s a cherry on top: complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity even over the Pacific. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Hawaii
• You may also like: Cheapest Airports to Fly into Hawaii

7. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards – independent (partners with JetBlue, Alaska)
• ☕ Perks: Private suites with showers on A380s, Bulgari amenity kits, Dom Pérignon
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book Fifth Freedom routes (like Athens to Newark) for shorter Emirates First experiences

The Emirates First Class is often the benchmark for luxury air travel, offering a fully enclosed suite experience with more personal space than some city apartments. On their Airbus A380, passengers can take a proper shower at cruising altitude, complete with heated floors and luxury spa products. Their Boeing 777 “Game Changer” suite upgrades the experience even further, with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and a seat that reclines into a NASA-inspired zero gravity position.

Everything feels tailored. Each suite includes a personal minibar, touchscreen controls, and lighting designed to ease jet lag. The crew anticipates needs quietly and efficiently, keeping service polished but unintrusive. 

The food and drink situation is next level. We’re talking vintage Dom Pérignon, wild Iranian caviar served with mother-of-pearl spoons, and multi-course meals you can order whenever you want. For resting, they’ll make your bed with Egyptian cotton sheets, give you moisturizing pajamas (that’s right, the fabric has skincare built in), and hand you a leather-bound Bulgari amenity kit that’s nicer than most purses.

Skywards may not offer the best value when booking directly, but Emirates’ Fifth Freedom routes—like New York to Milan or Athens to Newark—are ideal for sampling the First Class experience on a shorter, more affordable flight. 

8. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, Suites
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer – part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Double beds in Suites Class, Book the Cook pre-order dining, Lalique amenities
• 💡 Pro Tip: Transfer points from multiple credit card programs for amazing Suites availability

Singapore Airlines’ First Class is actually offered in two distinct products: traditional First on their 777s and the ultra-premium Suites on their A380s. Both deliver some of the most polished luxury experiences in the sky, with Suites being the crown jewel. The newest A380 Suites feature separate full-flat beds and leather swivel chairs in private enclosures with sliding doors. For couples traveling together, select suites can convert to create the only true double beds flying commercially.

Before your flight, the experience begins with ground service that often includes limo transfers and, at Changi Airport, access to The Private Room. This exclusive lounge within the First Class lounge features à la carte dining, plush seating, and shower suites that feel more like a five-star hotel than an airport.

Once onboard, the attention to detail is unmatched. The cabin crew is known for offering intuitive, graceful service that feels warm without being overbearing. Meals are plated restaurant-style, and the Book the Cook program allows you to pre-order dishes like lobster thermidor or wagyu beef from a gourmet menu.

For travelers using points, Singapore First and Suites can only be booked through their own KrisFlyer program, but they partner with all major transferable points currencies. Solo travelers will find better availability, especially with early planning. 

9. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Cathay – part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Private cabanas in The Wing First lounge, handmade mattresses, Champagne and caviar
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book using Alaska Airlines miles for the best value on transpacific First Class

Cathay Pacific offers one of the most refined First Class experiences in the sky, blending minimalism, comfort, and deeply polished service. With just six suites in the First Class cabin on select Boeing 777-300ERs, the space feels incredibly private. The seats are nearly a meter wide, upholstered in rich leather, and transform into beds with custom mattress pads and ultra-soft duvets.

Where Cathay really shines is on the ground in Hong Kong. Their flagship “The Wing” First Class lounge features private cabanas with full bathtubs, rain showers, and daybeds. Passengers can also visit “The Pier” lounge with its day spa, meditation room, and restaurant serving both made-to-order dishes and traditional dim sum carts that come around while you relax.

The food experience is a perfect balance of Western luxury with Asian hospitality. Expect Krug champagne, a thoughtful caviar presentation, and menus offering both European fine dining and Cantonese comfort dishes. The crew quietly anticipates your needs without being intrusive, creating a feeling of seamless, personalized care from gate to gate.

First Class redemptions through Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan are one of the best sweet spots in award travel. Just 70,000 miles can get you from the US to Asia in Cathay’s First Class, often with a free stopover in Hong Kong. It’s a smart way to enjoy both one of the world’s top lounges and an exceptional inflight experience all in one trip.

10. 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, The Residence
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Etihad Guest – independent (partners with American Airlines)
• ☕ Perks: On-demand dining, dedicated First Class lounge with spa, chauffeur service
• 💡 Pro Tip: Book The Apartment using American Airlines miles for the ultimate value sweet spot

Etihad doesn’t just offer First Class, they’ve created something closer to flying royalty. On their A380s, the First Apartment gives you an actual leather armchair and a separate bed, along with your own vanity and minibar. But the most over-the-top experience is The Residence, which is a full three-room suite in the sky with a bedroom, living room, and private bathroom complete with a shower.

The luxury starts well before takeoff. Travelers from the Abu Dhabi hub are picked up by chauffeur and escorted to Etihad’s First Class lounge that boasts a full-service restaurant, bar, fitness space, and complimentary spa treatments. Onboard, a personal chef prepares meals tailored to your tastes, and if you’re in The Residence, you even have your own butler trained at the Savoy.

Every detail in First is carefully curated. From designer loungewear by a local Emirati label to Acqua di Parma amenity kits and temperature-controlled bedding, the whole experience is focused on comfort and elegance. The wine and spirits list is as refined as any fine restaurant, and meals can be enjoyed on your schedule rather than the airline’s.

For points travelers, booking with American Airlines AAdvantage is the golden ticket. You can often snag the First Apartment for just 115,000 miles one-way from the US to Abu Dhabi, a deal that’s hard to beat considering the retail price regularly tops $8,000. 

• Read next: Best Business Class Airlines

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about best airlines for first class

When you’re looking for the best airlines for first class, you have a lot to consider. For one, you want to make sure that the airline is reliable and known for superior service. You also want to make sure that your experience is going to be worth the price of your upgraded ticket. 

Even with the above list of 10 best airlines for first class, you might still have questions about booking first class tickets, especially if it’s your first time. Whether it’s your first time booking first class or your tenth, here are some common questions (and answers) about booking the best first class tickets. 

Which is the best first class airline?

As a seasoned travel blogger, I am often asked, “Which is the best first class airline?” Join me on this thrilling journey as I reveal the crème de la crème of luxury flying experiences.

When it comes to the epitome of opulence, Emirates takes the crown. Picture yourself reclining in a private suite, complete with a personal minibar and sliding doors for ultimate privacy. Indulge in gourmet cuisine prepared by renowned chefs, savor vintage wines, and embark on a voyage of culinary delight. Oh, and let’s not forget the in-flight shower spa, where you can freshen up at 40,000 feet, feeling like a true jet-setting royalty.

For those seeking the perfect blend of sophistication and personalized service, Singapore Airlines is an exquisite choice. Immerse yourself in the lavishness of their spacious suites, each boasting a plush bed and a separate dining area. And let’s not overlook the iconic “Book the Cook” feature, allowing you to pre-order a delightful array of gourmet dishes tailored to your taste. It’s easy to see why this is one of the best first class airlines.

We also must not forget Etihad Airways, renowned for its innovative and extravagant offerings. Experience the pinnacle of luxury in “The Residence,” an ultra-exclusive three-room suite complete with a living room, bedroom, and private bathroom. With a personal butler attending to your needs, you’ll feel like a true VIP. The inflight chef will craft a bespoke menu just for you, ensuring a gastronomic journey that tantalizes the senses.

So as you traverse the skies, consider these remarkable airlines—Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Etihad Airways. They are the torchbearers of luxury, offering experiences that redefine the boundaries of opulence. Buckle up, embrace the extravagance, and let your high-flying adventure begin!

How do I save extra money on first class flights?

Flying first class can be expensive, but you can save a ton of money by using Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Going brings the deals right to your inbox with low-cost fares for over 90 destinations all across the globe.

Going helps you find flights that are anywhere from 40-90% off the regular price. To get the best deals, sign up for their free email alerts and start receiving heavily discounted fares right in your inbox. 

Don’t forget—you can get the most out of your subscription by paying just $49 a year to upgrade to a premium account. Use coupon code JON20 to save 20% today, so you can start planning your next budget adventure.

Which airlines have the best first class experience?

There are several airlines known for providing exceptional first class experiences. Here are some of the top contenders for best airlines for first class and what they offer:

• Emirates: Emirates offers luxurious first class suites with fully enclosed cabins, comfortable beds, in-flight showers (on some aircraft), an onboard lounge, gourmet dining options, and attentive service.
• Singapore Airlines: Singapore Airlines’ first class cabins feature spacious and private suites with sliding doors, plush bedding, fine dining with a wide range of gourmet options, personalized service, and access to exclusive lounges.
• Etihad Airways: Etihad’s first class apartments provide a private and spacious environment with sliding doors, a separate reclining bed and seat, in-flight showers, fine dining options with a chef on board, and a dedicated onboard chef.
• Qatar Airways: Qatar Airways’ first class experience offers luxurious suites with sliding doors, fully lie-flat beds, premium dining options, personalized service, and access to their award-winning lounges.
• Cathay Pacific: Cathay Pacific provides comfortable first class suites with privacy partitions, lie-flat beds, fine dining options, personalized service, and access to their exclusive lounges.
• Lufthansa: Lufthansa’s first class cabins offer spacious seats that convert into fully lie-flat beds, gourmet dining with a la carte menus, exceptional service, and access to their luxurious first class lounges.

What amenities can I expect in first class?

Just as regular in-flight amenities vary from carrier to carrier, so, too, do the first class amenities. For instance, not every airline offers complimentary Dom Pérignon like Emirates. However, there are some amenities that are pretty constant across all airlines with the best first class.

Here are some amenities you can expect on a first class flight:

• Spacious and comfortable seating
• Priority boarding
• Dedicated cabin crew
• Gourmet meals
• A wide selection of beverages
• Luxurious bedding and pillows
• Amenity kits with toiletries
• In-flight entertainment systems
• Wi-Fi
• Access to exclusive lounges

Is flying first class worth it for a four-hour flight?

Flying first class for any amount of time is incredible, but for shorter flights, is it worth it? Here are a few reasons I would consider upgrading to first class for a flight.

Personally, I think first class makes a difference for me for flights over four hours. This is especially true if I plan to nap on the plane. First class on overnight flights can be a game changer when it comes to getting a restful sleep and feeling rejuvenated after a long trip.

Another reason to upgrade to first class is if you’re quickly going from work mode into vacation mode or back to work mode after it’s over. Most people don’t have the luxury of taking a few days off before or after a vacation, so getting as much rest on the plane as possible can put you in the best head space possible when you return to work the next day. That flight may be the one bit of downtime in a busy, fun-filled adventure—use it wisely.

To save a little extra money, it may be worth splurging on first class for just one leg of the trip. Being from the East Coast, my flights out West are usually in the morning or afternoon, but my return flights are often overnight because of the time difference. A 4- to 6-hour flight across the country isn’t as difficult during the day when I’m excited for the adventure to come, but I really appreciate that extra room to sprawl out and relax once I’m worn out.

Ultimately, it’s up to you. But it’s almost always worth it if you can score a great deal on first class seats.

What is the best class flight?

While first class often steals the spotlight, let’s shine a light on the marvelous business class. Embracing the perfect balance between luxury and value, it offers a haven of indulgence for discerning travelers. Picture yourself nestled in a spacious seat that transforms into a fully-flat bed, allowing you to slumber in style on those long-haul journeys.

Business class cabins are adorned with exquisite amenities. This includes noise-canceling headphones and sumptuous bedding and heavenly duvets. Pamper yourself with premium toiletries, relish delectable gourmet meals paired with fine wines, and savor tantalizing desserts that rival those of a five-star restaurant.

But the true allure lies in the impeccable service and personalized attention. Experience the warmth of a dedicated cabin crew, always ready to fulfill your wishes, ensuring your journey is as seamless and enjoyable as can be. It’s easiest to see why this is the best first class flight in 2025.

Are there any frequent flyer programs or loyalty programs for first class passengers?

Yes, most airlines have frequent flyer programs allowing passengers to earn miles or points for travel. These programs often have elite tiers offering additional benefits to frequent travelers, such as priority check-in, airport lounges, and complimentary upgrades.

When looking for the best airlines for first class, check to see which have loyalty programs before booking. This way, if you love the experience, you can earn more rewards for future travel. 

Is it cheaper to upgrade to first class after booking?

In most scenarios, the answer is YES. Upgrading to first class after booking is cheaper than booking a first class flight. It is also better to wait to upgrade, as airlines often lower cabin fares closer to departure to make room for more passengers looking for economy seats. 

You can always check for first class upgrades when you check in early at the airport. Sometimes they’re available at no extra charge if the front of the plane happens to be empty, but in this scenario, there’s no guarantee.

How can I get first class without paying any extra?

There are a few tips and tricks for scoring a free or deeply-discounted first class seat. One way is to volunteer to be bumped from your flight. Airlines often overbook, and when this happens, they’ll offer passengers the option to switch to a less-crowded flight at a later time or even a day later. This isn’t ideal for everyone, but if your travel plans are flexible, you can really make out well. Once you’re placed on a new flight, the airline may offer you a free upgrade to first class.

Airlines also offer incentives for loyalty program members. For example, let’s look at the American Airlines rewards program. When you have enough points for American Airlines and you are a specific level of membership, you are automatically on a list that, based on availability, will upgrade you for free. If that does not work, you can also use your points to upgrade using the app. However, there are limits around how many times you can upgrade and on which flights you can use this.