The 12 Best Airlines for International Business Class Right Now

Jon Miksis Jon Miksis clock Updated June 30, 2025 tourism Travel Tips
by Jen
12 Best Airlines to Fly Business Class Internationally in 2024
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International business class changed my entire perspective on long-haul travel. After testing dozens of premium cabins across six continents, I can confidently tell you which airlines actually deliver a luxury experience versus which ones are just charging you extra for mediocre service with a fancy name.

While jetting between the best places in destinations like Singapore with its futuristic Changi district and the vibrant neighborhoods of Mexico City, I realized how dramatically different business class offerings can be. I analyzed over 50+ popular airlines and 250 flight routes for business class, considering onboard services, pricing, seat comfort, lounge access, and on-time performance. From incredible multicourse meals to lounges with proper showers, these airlines offer business-class experiences that genuinely justify their premium price tags.

Quick Tip to Find Cheap Business Class Flights

Planning to fly business class internationally in 2025? Before diving into the article, I wanted to share an insider tip for finding cheap airfare on business class flights.

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Their premium membership, costing $49/year, is a great investment – one discounted flight can easily cover the expense.

If you enjoy flying business or first class, their Elite membership is a must-have. Last year, this service saved me $2,750 on a first class ticket and $1,500 on a business class ticket. At $199 per year, it offers massive savings for a minimal price.

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The top airlines to fly business class internationally in 2024

The Best International Business Class Airlines in 2025

As we dive into the specifics, each airline will be evaluated based on several criteria including seating comfort, service excellence, culinary offerings, and overall passenger experience. Let’s discover which airlines are setting the benchmarks for business class travel globally.

In a hurry? Here are the best business class airlines to fly internationally in 2025:

HighlightsAirline
Most luxuriousQatar Airways
Best serviceANA All Nippon Airways
Top for innovationEtihad Airways
Best for comfortSingapore Airlines
Most opulentEmirates
Best for foodTurkish Airlines
Most reliableEVA Air
Best for frequent fliersCathay Pacific
Best for long-haulQantas

1. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

  • 🏠 Hub: Hamad International Airport (DOH), Doha
  • 💺 Business Class: Qsuite with sliding doors and convertible double beds
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club
  • Perks: 1-2-1 configuration, Al Mourjan lounge access, celebrity chef dining program
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for Qsuite availability on A350-1000 and Boeing 777 routes. These aircraft offer the most refined Qsuite layout with smoother recline and upgraded tech.

Qatar Airways basically broke the business class game with their Qsuite, and everyone else is still trying to catch up. These aren’t just seats, they’re actual private suites with sliding doors that close completely. The genius part? If you’re traveling with someone, you can lower the middle divider and create a proper double bed. No other airline has figured out how to pull this off in business class.

The 1-2-1 configuration means every single passenger gets direct aisle access, so you’re never climbing over anyone to get up. Each suite comes with a massive 21.5-inch 4K touchscreen, tons of storage space that actually makes sense, and a bed that’s genuinely comfortable for sleeping. The privacy level rivals most First Class cabins on other airlines, which is pretty incredible for a Business Class product.

Doha’s location makes it perfect for connecting between continents, and their route network covers basically everywhere you want to go. The Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha is like a small city with quiet zones, family areas, sleeping pods, spa services, and multiple restaurants. You could easily spend hours there without getting bored.

Service on Qatar Airways feels genuinely personal rather than scripted. The cabin crew actually seems to care about making your flight comfortable, probably because their training is famously rigorous. The dining program features dishes created by celebrity chefs, and they’re not stingy with the wine selection either. 

Qatar Airways is one of the best airlines to fly business class internationally in 2024.
Qatar Airways tops our list for best international business class with luxurious Qsuites and fully flat beds.

2. 🇯🇵 ANA All Nippon Airways

  • 🏠 Hub: Tokyo Haneda (HND), Tokyo Narita (NRT)
  • 💺 Business Class: The Room with individual suites and sliding doors
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: ANA Mileage Club (Star Alliance)
  • Perks: Omotenashi service, kaiseki dining, premium bedding, traditional Japanese amenities
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: The Room is only on select 777-300ER routes. Look for flights from Tokyo to New York, London, or Frankfurt to experience ANA’s most spacious and private suites.

ANA’sThe Room” Business Class lives up to its name by giving you an actual private room at 40,000 feet. Each suite features sliding doors and a 1-2-1 configuration that provides complete privacy and direct aisle access. The space feels more like a luxury hotel room than an airplane seat, with a separate seating area and a bed that converts into a proper sleeping space.

The omotenashi philosophy isn’t just marketing speak with ANA, it’s genuinely how they approach every interaction. Flight attendants anticipate your needs before you realize you have them, and the service feels respectful and personal rather than robotic. The attention to detail is extraordinary, from the comfortable pajamas to the high-quality amenity kits with Japanese skincare products.

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ANA’s dining program features seasonal kaiseki-style meals that are basically edible art, created with traditional Japanese techniques and premium ingredients. The sake and Japanese whisky selection is exceptional, plus they offer proper Japanese tea service that feels like a cultural experience. Even the way they present meals shows this incredible attention to aesthetics and quality that makes other airlines’ food service look amateur.

Tokyo’s airports showcase Japanese efficiency at its finest, and ANA’s lounges continue that theme with traditional design elements mixed with modern comfort. The Business Class lounges feature local specialties, quiet meditation areas, and shower facilities that rival upscale hotels. Everything runs with clockwork precision, from boarding to baggage claim.

All Nippon Airways (ANA) at Tokyo International Airport.

3. 🇦🇪 Etihad Airways

  • 🏠 Hub: Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
  • 💺 Business Class: Business Studios with apartment-style suites and chaise lounge seating
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Etihad Guest
  • Perks: Flat-bed seats, The Lobby social area, premium dining, extensive entertainment system
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Pick the A380 or 787 for the full Business Studio setup, and use Abu Dhabi as a smooth connection point to Asia, Africa, or the Middle East.

Etihad‘s Business Studios feel more like luxury apartments than airplane seats. Each suite features a separate seating area with a chaise lounge that converts into a fully flat bed, plus plenty of space to move around and store your belongings. The 1-2-1 configuration ensures everyone gets direct aisle access, and the privacy level is impressive even with the open-suite design.

The onboard dining program features dishes created by renowned chefs, with a focus on both international cuisine and Middle Eastern specialties. The wine list includes selections from premium vineyards, and the service style lets you dine whenever you want rather than being stuck with rigid meal times. The crew training shows in how personalized and attentive the service feels.

What sets Etihad apart is their willingness to innovate beyond traditional Business Class concepts. The Lobby on their A380 creates a social space where Business Class passengers can meet and relax, while the apartment-style suites provide more space and comfort than most competitors. Flying Etihad feels like experiencing luxury hospitality that happens to be taking place on an airplane, with attention to detail that rivals the best hotels.

Abu Dhabi’s location between Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it perfect for connecting flights, and the airport experience matches the onboard luxury. Etihad’s Premium Lounge spans multiple levels with spa services, fine dining restaurants, and quiet zones that feel more like upscale hotels. The lounge’s nap rooms and shower facilities help you arrive refreshed, especially on long connections.

Etihad Airways redefines luxury with its Business Studio, offering fully flat beds and direct aisle access.
Etihad Airways redefines luxury with its Business Studio, offering fully flat beds and direct aisle access.

4. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

  • 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
  • 💺 Business Class: Lie-flat seats with direct aisle access and updated cabin design
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer (Star Alliance)
  • Perks: Singapore Girl service, Book the Cook dining, premium entertainment system, excellent lounges
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for Singapore Airlines’ “Spontaneous Escapes” promo, where you can book select business class award seats at up to 30% off using KrisFlyer miles.

Singapore Airlines has perfected the art of consistent excellence in Business Class without needing gimmicks or flashy features. The seats lie completely flat and offer direct aisle access in most configurations, but what really sets them apart is the legendary “Singapore Girl” service that genuinely lives up to the hype. The cabin crew delivers attentive, gracious service that feels effortless and personal.

“Book the Cook” is a game-changer that lets you pre-order restaurant-quality meals from renowned chefs before you even board. No more hoping the good option doesn’t run out, you’re getting exactly what you want, prepared to perfection. The regular onboard dining is excellent too, with a focus on both international cuisine and regional Asian specialties that reflect Singapore’s diverse food culture.

Singapore Airlines proves that luxury doesn’t always need to be revolutionary, sometimes it’s about executing the fundamentals flawlessly. The entertainment system rivals premium home theaters, the wine selection features both international and regional offerings, and every touchpoint has been thoughtfully designed. Flying Singapore Airlines feels like being welcomed into an impeccably run operation where everything just works the way it should.

Changi Airport consistently ranks as the world’s best airport, so even your layover becomes part of the luxury experience. Think butterfly gardens, movie theaters, swimming pools, and shopping that rivals major cities. The SilverKris Business Lounges scattered throughout the airport even offer everything from nap areas to gourmet dining, making long connections almost enjoyable.

Singapore Airlines preparing for takeoff

5. 🇦🇪 Emirates

  • 🏠 Hub: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
  • 💺 Business Class: Lie-flat seats with personal minibar and direct aisle access
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards
  • Perks: A380 onboard bar, ice cream sundae service, chauffeur transfers, extensive route network
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the A380 for access to the famous onboard bar and lounge, or try their 777 business class for a more intimate cabin experience

Emirates figured out that flying should actually be enjoyable, not just endurable. Their A380 has this amazing onboard bar where you can actually hang out and meet other passengers while cruising at 40,000 feet. Business Class seats lie completely flat and come with your own personal minibar filled with top-shelf spirits, because apparently Emirates thinks you should be able to make yourself a proper drink whenever you want.

Here’s what’s genius about Emirates: they get that business travelers want to have some fun too. The ice cream sundae service is legendary, and watching grown adults get excited about choosing their toppings at 40,000 feet never gets old. The crew also comes from all over the world, so every flight feels like this cool international mix of cultures and personalities.

Flying Emirates feels like they’ve taken all the stress out of long-haul travel and replaced it with actual enjoyment. The entertainment system has basically every movie ever made, the wine list is solid, and the food reflects all the interesting places they fly to. It’s premium travel that doesn’t take itself too seriously, which somehow makes it even more appealing than airlines that are trying way too hard to impress you.

Emirates’ Dubai hub sits perfectly between everywhere you want to go, which is brilliant when you think about it. Sure, DXB can be absolutely chaotic, but Emirates lounges are like little oases of calm with spa treatments, great food, and spaces where you can actually relax. The duty-free shopping is insane, but honestly, you might be too comfortable to leave the lounge.

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals on flying business class internationally this year. The Elite version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

Emirates is one of the best airlines to fly business class internationally in 2024.
Emirates starts your journey with a chauffeur ride, priority check-in, and access to opulent lounges worldwide.

6. 🇹🇷 Turkish Airlines

  • 🏠 Hub: Istanbul Airport (IST)
  • 💺 Business Class: Lie-flat seats with direct aisle access and privacy panels
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles&Smiles (Star Alliance)
  • Perks: Flying Chef service, Turkish cuisine specialties, extensive route network, complimentary chauffeur service
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: If you have a long layover in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines may offer a free hotel stay or guided city tour. Business class travelers can often join the Stopover or Touristanbul programs, so it’s worth checking your eligibility when booking.

Turkish Airlines serves more countries than any other airline in the world, and flying through Istanbul gives you access to this massive network with surprisingly smooth connections. Business class features lie-flat seats with good privacy and direct aisle access, but what really sets them apart is how they’ve managed to create a premium experience that feels authentically Turkish rather than generic international luxury.

The Flying Chef program brings actual chefs onboard who prepare meals in the galley kitchen, which makes a huge difference in food quality and presentation. Turkish Airlines takes serious pride in their cuisine, featuring both traditional Turkish dishes and international options. The Turkish breakfast service is absolutely phenomenal, with fresh bread, local cheeses, olives, and honey that rivals what you’d get at Istanbul’s best hotels.

What makes Turkish Airlines special is how they’ve maintained their cultural identity while building a world-class premium product. The cabin crew brings genuine Turkish hospitality that feels warm and personal, not scripted. The wine selection includes excellent Turkish vintages alongside international options, and the overall experience feels like being welcomed into Turkish culture rather than just transported between cities. It’s premium travel with personality and authenticity.

Istanbul Airport is massive and modern, designed specifically to handle Turkish Airlines’ ambitious connecting hub strategy. The business lounges showcase Turkish hospitality at its finest, with spaces that blend traditional Turkish design with contemporary comfort. The food offerings include both international options and Turkish specialties that you won’t find in other airline lounges.

Turkish Airlines in flight against clouds

7. 🇹🇼 EVA Air

  • 🏠 Hub: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
  • 💺 Business Class: Royal Laurel Class with lie-flat seats and 1-2-1 configuration
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Infinity MileageLands (Star Alliance)
  • Perks: Excellent Taiwanese hospitality, premium dining with local flavors, Hello Kitty themed flights, top-tier lounges
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Try to book the 777-300ER or A350 for the most spacious Royal Laurel seats. If you have a long layover in Taipei, EVA offers a stopover package that includes hotel discounts and guided local tours.

EVA Air is one of those airlines that quietly does everything really well without making a big fuss about it. The airline’s Royal Laurel Business Class feels genuinely comfortable, with lie-flat seats that actually let you sleep and a 1-2-1 layout that gives everyone direct aisle access. Taipei makes a perfect stopover point for getting around Asia, and honestly, you might want to extend your layover just to explore the city.

Taiwan Taoyuan Airport isn’t the flashiest hub, but it’s incredibly efficient and EVA’s lounges are surprisingly luxurious. The Infinity Lounge features traditional Taiwanese design elements mixed with modern amenities, plus local food specialties that give you a taste of Taiwan before you even leave the airport. The shower facilities are spotless and the quiet areas actually stay quiet.

Here’s where EVA Air gets fun: they have these Hello Kitty themed planes that are absolutely adorable, from the exterior paint job to the cabin decor to the themed amenities. It sounds gimmicky, but it’s executed so well that even adults end up charmed by the whole experience. The regular flights focus on excellent Taiwanese hospitality with crew that seems genuinely happy to be there.

Flying EVA Air feels like discovering a hidden gem. The food program highlights Taiwanese cuisine alongside international options, and they’re not afraid to showcase local flavors that you won’t find on other carriers. The wine selection is solid, the service strikes that perfect balance between attentive and respectful, and everything runs smoothly without drama.

EVA Air’s 787-10 Dreamliner offers Royal Laurel Class luxury and exclusive lounge access.

8. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific

  • 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
  • 💺 Business Class: Reverse herringbone seats with direct aisle access and maximum privacy
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Asia Miles (Oneworld)
  • Perks: The Pier lounges, award-winning wine program, excellent connectivity across Asia
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose flights with the reverse herringbone layout for extra comfort and privacy.

Cathay Pacific has this effortlessly cool vibe that makes other airlines feel like they’re trying too hard. The reverse herringbone Business Class setup is pure genius because every seat faces the window and gets direct aisle access, so you never have to awkwardly squeeze past anyone. The privacy level is incredible, almost like having your own little cocoon in the sky.

Hong Kong International Airport runs like clockwork, and The Pier lounges are absolutely stunning. Picture floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the tarmac, noodle bars where they make fresh food to order, and shower facilities that put most hotels to shame. The First Class lounge even has private cabanas where you can properly nap between flights without random people walking by.

Cathay’s wine program is legendary among frequent flyers, and for good reason. They actually care about curating excellent bottles from both established and boutique wineries, not just picking expensive names. The food focuses on quality ingredients over fancy presentation, with a nice mix of Asian specialties and international comfort food that actually tastes good at altitude.

What makes Cathay special is how understated everything feels. The crew provides attentive service without being overly formal, the cabin design prioritizes comfort over Instagram moments, and the whole experience just works without any unnecessary drama. 

Cathay Pacific in flight against clouds

9. 🇦🇺 Qantas

  • 🏠 Hub: Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL)
  • 💺 Business Class: Skybed with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Frequent Flyer (Oneworld)
  • Perks: Australian wine selection, premium dining with local ingredients, excellent safety record, Neil Perry designed meals
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the A380 or 787 for the best Business Class experience, and try their domestic business lounges which rival international standards.

Qantas brings that laid-back Australian hospitality to Business Class, and somehow makes long-haul flying feel less stressful. The Skybed configuration gives you a proper lie-flat experience with direct aisle access, but what really stands out is how the crew manages to be professional without being stuffy. There’s this genuine friendliness that feels authentically Australian rather than scripted customer service.

The food program features dishes designed by celebrity chef Neil Perry, focusing on premium Australian ingredients and wines from renowned local vineyards. You’ll get proper Australian beef, fresh seafood, and wine selections that showcase regions like Barossa Valley and Margaret River. The breakfast service alone is worth booking Qantas, with options that actually taste like they came from a good Australian cafe.

Flying Qantas feels like being hosted by friends who happen to run a really professional airline. The entertainment system features plenty of Australian content alongside international options, the seats are comfortable for sleeping, and everything runs with that no-nonsense efficiency Australians are known for. It’s premium travel that feels approachable and genuine, without any pretension or over-the-top luxury theater that some airlines think they need.

Sydney and Melbourne airports showcase the best of Australian efficiency mixed with that relaxed Aussie vibe. The Qantas business lounges are surprisingly excellent, especially the First Lounge in Sydney with its spa treatments and restaurant-quality dining. Even their domestic lounges punch above their weight with local wine selections and fresh food that beats most international airline lounges.

Qantas offers top international business class with priority check-in, swift boarding, and quick disembarkation.
Qantas offers top international business class with priority check-in, swift boarding, and quick disembarkation.

10. 🇹🇼 Starlux Airlines

  • 🏠 Hub: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
  • 💺 Business Class: STARLUX Business with lie-flat seats and 1-2-1 configuration
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: COSMILE (launching comprehensive program)
  • Perks: Luxury boutique airline experience, premium Taiwanese hospitality, modern fleet, gourmet dining
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the A350 for Starlux’s latest Business Class cabin and fly regional routes to enjoy full-service perks on shorter flights.

Starlux Airlines is like the cool new kid on the block who immediately gets everything right. Founded by the former EVA Air chairman, they’ve taken everything learned from decades in the industry and created this boutique luxury experience that feels fresh and exciting. The Business Class cabin design is sleek and modern, with lie-flat seats that prioritize both comfort and aesthetics.

Everything about Starlux screams “brand new and proud of it.” The planes are so fresh they practically still have that new car smell, and the cabin design looks like something from a luxury hotel rather than a typical airline. Taipei works perfectly as a hub for bouncing around Asia, and honestly, the connections are way smoother than dealing with the chaos at bigger airports.

Here’s what’s cool about flying a new airline: the crew actually seems excited to be there. No burnt-out flight attendants going through the motions, everyone genuinely wants to make a good impression. The food program showcases Taiwanese cuisine alongside international options, and they’re clearly trying to prove they belong in the same conversation as the established premium carriers.

The entertainment system features 4K screens with tons of content, plus fast WiFi that actually works for streaming and video calls. Seats convert to fully flat beds with premium bedding, and each passenger gets generous storage space and charging options. The wine selection includes both Taiwanese selections and international vintages, while amenity kits come from luxury brands. Even the airport lounges they partner with offer elevated experiences that match their onboard service quality.

Image showing Starlux Airlines business class

11. 🇺🇸 Delta Airlines

  • 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), Seattle (SEA)
  • 💺 Business Class: Delta One with lie-flat suites and direct aisle access
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam)
  • Perks: Sky Clubs, farm-to-table dining, Westin Heavenly bedding, premium amenity kits
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Delta One on their A350 or A330neo for the best suites with sliding doors, or try the domestic First Class which rivals international business on some routes.

Delta has quietly become one of the best Business Class products coming out of the US, and honestly, a lot of people still don’t realize how good Delta One has gotten. The suites on their newer aircraft feature sliding doors and lie-flat beds that actually let you sleep comfortably. Atlanta’s massive hub connects you to basically everywhere, and the operation runs surprisingly smoothly for such a huge airport.

The inflight dining program stepped up dramatically with their farm-to-table approach, featuring ingredients sourced from local farms and prepared by celebrity chefs. No more mystery meat and sad vegetables, you’re getting meals that would be decent at a real restaurant. The Westin Heavenly bedding makes a genuine difference for sleeping, and the amenity kits include products from brands like Malin+Goetz that you might actually use.

Delta’s Sky Clubs have been getting major upgrades, especially the Centurion-level ones in hubs like New York and Los Angeles. The food offerings also go way beyond typical airport lounge fare, with craft cocktails, local specialties, and spaces designed for both work and relaxation. Some locations even have outdoor terraces, which is pretty amazing for an airport lounge.

What sets Delta apart is their operational reliability paired with genuinely improved premium products. The crew training shows in how smoothly everything runs, from boarding to meal service to arrival. The entertainment system has a solid selection of movies and TV shows, plus decent WiFi that actually works for streaming. Flying Delta One feels like proof that American carriers can compete with international premium products when they actually try.

Delta Connection soaring above the clouds

12. 🇬🇧 Virgin Atlantic

  • 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), Manchester (MAN)
  • 💺 Business Class: Upper Class with lie-flat suites and direct aisle access
  • 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Club
  • Perks: Onboard bar, Clubhouse lounges with spas, quirky British service, premium cocktails
  • 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Upper Class on the A350 for the latest suite design, and make time for the Clubhouse lounge at Heathrow as it’s one of the best.

Virgin Atlantic refuses to take flying too seriously, and that’s exactly what makes their Business Class so enjoyable. Upper Class features proper lie-flat suites with direct aisle access, but the real magic happens at the onboard bar where you can actually hang out and meet other passengers. It’s one of those things that sounds gimmicky until you try it, then you wonder why more airlines don’t do this.

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at Heathrow is absolutely legendary, featuring a full spa where you can get massages and facials before your flight. There’s also a rooftop terrace, multiple restaurants, and even a games room with pool tables. The Manchester Clubhouse brings similar energy with its own unique touches. These aren’t just airport lounges, they’re proper destinations in themselves.

Flying Virgin feels like being invited to a really fun party that happens to be crossing the Atlantic. The cabin crew brings genuine personality to the service instead of robotic politeness, probably because Virgin actually encourages their staff to be human. You’ll get proper cocktails made with premium spirits, not just wine and beer, plus meals that focus on being delicious rather than just looking fancy.

Upper Class cabins also feature mood lighting and contemporary design that actually looks cool, while the entertainment system includes plenty of British content alongside international options. The seats convert to comfortable beds with quality bedding, and each suite has enough storage space for your stuff. Virgin proves that Business Class can be sophisticated without being stuffy, fun without being unprofessional, and luxurious without taking itself too seriously.

Virgin Atlantic aircraft ascending after takeoff

Frequently Asked Questions About International Business Class Flights

Discover what makes the best international business class flights stand out and why they’re worth the splurge.

What airline is best for international flights?

Qatar Airways is often cited as the best airline for international flights due to its extensive network that connects passengers to over 160 destinations globally. Its commitment to quality service, luxurious amenities, and a superior in-flight experience with its Qsuites in business class make it a favorite among international travelers. The airline’s attention to passenger comfort and its state-of-the-art fleet ensure a pleasant journey regardless of the destination.

Which airline has the most expensive business class?

Etihad Airways is known for offering some of the most expensive business class fares, particularly on routes that feature their Residence and Apartment suites. These fares reflect the level of luxury provided, including private suites with a bed, personal shower, and a dedicated butler service. This level of opulence and privacy sets Etihad apart in the high-end market segment.

Which international airline has the most comfortable seats?

For comfort, Japan Airlines is often recognized for having some of the most comfortable seats in its business class. Their Sky Suite offers a high level of privacy and comfort, with seats that expand into fully flat beds. The padding and ergonomic design ensure that passengers can relax or sleep comfortably during long-haul flights.

Are there any airlines that offer special services for business class passengers during long layovers?

Several airlines provide special services for business class passengers during long layovers, including complimentary hotel stays, guided city tours, and access to premium lounges. Turkish Airlines, for example, offers a free hotel stay for business class passengers with layovers between 8 and 24 hours in Istanbul, enhancing the overall travel experience without additional cost.

Starlux Airlines business class seat on the A350
Starlux Airlines business class seat on the A350

What extra services do airlines provide to attract business travelers?

Airlines cater to business travelers by offering services like in-flight Wi-Fi, ample workspace, and power outlets to charge electronic devices. Some also provide fast-track security checks, priority baggage handling, and the ability to collect more frequent flyer miles. These services are designed to maximize productivity and convenience for travelers who need to stay connected and comfortable during their journeys.

How early should I arrive at the airport for an international business class flight?

For international business class flights, it’s generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your scheduled departure. This extra time ensures you can enjoy the exclusive business class check-in services and security lanes, which are faster but still require processing. Additionally, arriving early gives you the chance to make the most of the business class lounge amenities, where you can relax, eat, or catch up on work before your flight.

Can I bring guests into the business class lounge for an international flight?

Most airlines allow business class passengers to bring at least one guest into the lounge, depending on the airline’s specific policy and the type of lounge access provided with your ticket. Some airlines might allow more guests for passengers with higher-tier frequent flyer status. It’s best to check the specific airline’s lounge access rules beforehand to understand the privileges for bringing guests. This way, you can plan accordingly and ensure a smooth experience for you and your accompanying guests at the airport.

Final Thoughts on International Business Class Airlines

Traveling in business class on international flights is all about comfort and luxury. Airlines like Singapore Airlines and Etihad Airways set the standard with top-notch service. Business class offers more than just a flight; it gives you space to relax, fine food, and extra care. These features make long trips much more enjoyable.

Airlines constantly upgrade their services to make sure passengers have the best experience. This means better seats, tastier meals, and more personal space. Whether flying for work or fun, choosing business class can make your journey smoother and more pleasant.

The top airlines to fly business class internationally in 2024
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Jon Miksis

About Jon Miksis

Award-winning Travel Writer • Founder of Global Viewpoint • 70+ countries visited • 10 Million+ readers

Since 2017, I’ve traveled 3–6 months a year, sharing detailed guides that have helped over 10 million readers travel smarter, deeper, and better. My work blends firsthand experiences — from U.S. road trips and cold-plunge cabins to Michelin-starred dining and business-class flights — with honest, independent reviews.

I’ve been hired by leading tourism boards in 7 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, as well as international travel brands. My travel tips and insights have been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Yahoo Travel, and The Boston Globe. I’ve personally reviewed 500+ hotels, retreats, and flight experiences — and I never recommend a place I wouldn’t return to myself.

I also save $5–10K per year on airfare using flight tools and 10+ travel credit cards, and I’ve invested over $100K into personal development through transformational retreats and coaching since 2021.

When I’m not road-tripping across the Northeast or writing guides for Global Viewpoint, you’ll find me cold plunging in local lakes, sipping espresso in quiet cafes in Vienna, or chasing fall foliage across New England. I split my time between exploring the world and soaking up life in Boston, my lifelong home base. Some of my favorite places I keep going back to? Switzerland, Spain, Iceland, Italy, Greece, the Faroe Islands, Guatemala, California, Montana, Vermont, and coastal Maine in autumn.

See my latest adventures on Instagram and TikTok.

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