11 Best Airlines for Luxury Business Class Flights to Europe From The USA

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Europe completely ruined the economy class for me forever. After testing dozens of premium cabins across the Atlantic, I can confidently tell you which airlines deliver a genuinely luxurious experience versus which ones are just charging you double for mediocre service with a fancy name.

While exploring the best places in Europe, like the trendy canal districts of Amsterdam and the stunning coastal neighborhoods of Barcelona, I discovered how dramatically different business-class experiences can be on these long flights. I analyzed over 100 best business class flights to Europe from the USA, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. From champagne that costs more than your shoes to seats that transform into beds better than the one in my apartment, these airlines offer transatlantic luxury that actually justifies their premium price tags.

Quick Tip to Find Cheap Business Class Flights to Europe from the USA

Looking to fly in style across the Atlantic? Before you delve into the specifics, here’s a pro tip for snagging great deals on business class tickets to Europe from the USA.

For years, I’ve used this fantastic service called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). It notifies you of airline bargains, discounts, and error fares. It has revolutionized my travel expenses, saving me more than $10,000 on flights annually.

Their premium membership at $49/year is a steal – one discounted flight pays for itself.

If you prefer flying business or first class, sign up for their Elite version. Just last year, it saved me $2,750 on a first class ticket and $1,500 on a business class ticket. At $199 per year, it’s a small investment for significant savings.

The Best Business Class Flights to Europe from the US

Get ready to elevate your transatlantic experience as we explore the crème de la crème of business class travel. The fare prices listed below are what you can typically get if you score a good deal, use miles and points, or subscribe to fare alerts.

No time to read? Here’s a rundown of the best business class flights to Europe:

Highlights	Airlines
Best for Seamless Connections	Delta Air Lines
Most Luxurious	Emirates
Exemplary Service Excellence	Singapore Airlines
Most Sophisticated In-Flight Dining	Air France
Premier Lounge Experience	British Airways
Friendliest and Most Welcoming Crew	KLM
Ideal for Business Professionals	Lufthansa
Superior In-Flight Comfort	Swiss International Air Lines

1. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Minneapolis (MSP)
• 💺 Business Class: Delta One with lie-flat suites and sliding doors
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam)
• ☕ Perks: Delta One lounges, farm-to-table dining, Westin Heavenly bedding, extensive European network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose Delta One flights operated on the Airbus A350 or A330-900neo for the most updated suites and better cabin pressure, which helps reduce jet lag on overnight flights to Europe.

Delta might be the most underrated option for getting to Europe in style. While everyone talks about fancy foreign carriers, Delta One quietly delivers one of the best business class experiences across the Atlantic. The suites come with actual sliding doors and beds that work for sleeping, which is pretty crucial when you’re trying to arrive in London or Paris ready for meetings instead of looking like a zombie.

Here’s what Delta gets right: they understand American travelers. No weird cultural quirks or confusing service styles, just solid premium travel that works. The food program has gotten really good with their farm-to-table approach, featuring meals that actually taste like they came from a decent restaurant. Plus, those Westin beds make a huge difference when you’re trying to sleep through a red-eye flight to Europe.

SkyMiles used to be a headache, but it’s actually become pretty valuable for European travel. You can rack up miles easily on domestic flights, then use them for business class to Europe at reasonable rates. Two free bags mean you can pack properly for longer European trips, and Delta’s mobile app handles everything smoothly from check-in to gate changes.

Flying out of JFK or Boston gives you access to Delta’s best-equipped aircraft and smooth transatlantic schedules. The Delta One lounges are a nice bonus, offering quiet seating, quality dining, and showers before long flights. And since Delta has built a strong reputation for on-time performance, you’re less likely to run into last-minute issues.

• Read next: Affordable Destinations from Atlanta

2. 🇦🇪 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, Dubai stopover opportunities, chauffeur transfers
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose flights departing from New York, Los Angeles, or Houston to experience Emirates’ A380 service at its best, and don’t forget to pre-book complimentary chauffeur transfers.

Emirates turns the long journey to Europe into an actual experience rather than something you just endure. Sure, you’re connecting through Dubai instead of flying direct, but that becomes part of the adventure when you’re sipping cocktails at the onboard bar on their A380. Business class features lie-flat seats with your own personal minibar, because apparently Emirates thinks you should be able to make yourself a proper drink whenever the mood strikes.

Skywards miles can be used across the vast Emirates network, and the two-bag allowance gives you room to pack for both business and leisure. The airline’s mobile app is also sleek and useful for managing multi-leg trips. If you’re flying for work but want the journey to feel like something more, Emirates makes it surprisingly easy to blend comfort, style, and fun.

Dubai’s location makes it a brilliant stopping point between the US and Europe, and honestly, the airport might be nicer than your final destination. Emirates lounges are like small cities with spa services, multiple restaurants, and spaces where you can actually relax. The ice cream sundae service has become legendary for good reason, and watching business travelers get genuinely excited about choosing toppings never gets old.

One of the best parts about Emirates is how easy they make complex itineraries feel. Business class comes with chauffeur service in many cities, and US passport holders can enter Dubai visa-free for short stays. Whether you want to explore the souks, try desert activities, or just unwind in a five-star hotel, the stopover can feel like a bonus vacation.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Milan

3. 🇸🇬 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, exceptional lounges, Changi Airport experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Select flights operated by the Airbus A350 or Boeing 777-300ER for the newest business class cabins with extra-wide seats and enhanced privacy features.

Singapore Airlines isn’t the most direct way to get from the US to Europe, but it might be the most enjoyable. Business Class comes with spacious lie-flat seats, plenty of privacy, cabin design that feels fresh and calming, and that legendary Singapore crew service that genuinely lives up to the hype.

Dining onboard is next-level thanks to the airline’s “Book the Cook” program, which lets you pre-select gourmet meals before you fly. Options range from lobster thermidor to Asian comfort dishes, and everything comes plated like a restaurant course. The standard meal service still holds up, with great presentation, thoughtful flavor choices, and wine pairings that actually feel curated.

If you’re connecting through Changi Airport, it’s not just a layover, it’s an experience. There are butterfly gardens, a rooftop pool, and even movie theaters if you’ve got time to kill. The lounges for Business Class passengers are some of the best in Asia, and even Economy passengers rave about the airport. KrisFlyer’s Star Alliance partnership also makes it easier to earn and redeem miles across a broad network.

While this route isn’t for those in a hurry, it’s perfect for travelers who enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Two checked bags up to 70 lbs each come with your ticket, and the Singapore Airlines app is smooth and reliable for managing bookings. If you’ve got flexibility and want a luxury travel experience that feels world-class at every step, this is a worthy detour.

• Read next: Best Airlines to London

4. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Business Class: Business class with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue (SkyTeam)
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wines, stylish cabin design, Paris as gateway to Europe, La Première lounges
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Arrive in Paris and easily connect to other European destinations, and don’t miss the French wine selection which is genuinely excellent

Air France brings effortless French elegance to business class travel, and flying into Paris makes for an ideal first stop on any European adventure. The lie-flat seats are designed with comfort and privacy in mind, arranged in a 1-2-1 layout so no one’s stuck in a middle seat. The overall cabin vibe is calm and chic, nothing flashy, just clean, thoughtful design.

Dining is where Air France really stands out. Meals are created by French chefs using seasonal ingredients, with a menu that feels more like a high-end bistro than typical inflight fare. And the wine? Expect high-quality French selections, with options from Bordeaux, Champagne, and beyond. Flight attendants present everything with that trademark French finesse that’s both attentive and relaxed.

Paris Charles de Gaulle serves as an excellent hub for reaching virtually anywhere in Europe, with Air France’s extensive network making connections smooth and convenient. The Flying Blue program works well with SkyTeam partners like Delta, and Paris offers easy train connections to major European cities if you want to skip additional flights entirely.

What makes Air France special is how authentically French everything feels rather than some generic international airline trying to be fancy. You get two free bags up to 70 lbs each, and their app handles most travel management reasonably well. Flying Air France to Europe feels like your French experience starts the moment you board, setting the perfect tone for exploring European culture and sophistication.

5. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Business Class: Club Suite with sliding doors and lie-flat seats
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) – part of Oneworld
• ☕ Perks: Club Suite privacy, afternoon tea service, extensive European network, Concorde Room access
• 🧠 Pro Tip:  Use British Airways’ “Avios & Money” option to reduce the cash cost of business class flights while still earning points on your journey.

British Airways owns the transatlantic route in many ways, and their updated Club Suite brings them into the modern era of business class. These suites come with sliding doors, lie-flat beds, and a 1-2-1 layout that gives everyone direct aisle access and real privacy. London Heathrow may be hectic, but it’s one of the best-connected airports in the world, giving you endless options for continuing deeper into Europe.

The inflight experience leans into British charm without trying too hard. Afternoon tea is served properly (yes, with scones), and the crew strikes that balance between polished and friendly that British Airways is known for. Meals blend comfort with creativity, and the wine list is solid enough to pair well with whatever you’re served. It’s a subtle but confident kind of luxury.

Executive Club‘s Avios program offers some interesting redemption opportunities, especially for European travel where short-haul flights can be surprisingly affordable with points. London serves as the perfect base for exploring Europe, whether you’re continuing by air or taking advantage of the excellent train connections to continental Europe.

Heathrow might be chaotic, but BA’s lounges provide comfortable escapes with proper British fare and spaces that feel relaxing rather than crowded. The Concorde Room for first class passengers is legendary, while business class passengers get access to quality lounges throughout their network.

• Read next: Cheap Places to Fly Into Europe

INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss out—sign up for Going.com (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) to uncover unbeatable deals. Investing in the Elite version is a game-changer, but signing up with the free version is a smart move to start saving big on airfare this year.

6. 🇳🇱 KLM

• 🏠 Hub: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
• 💺 Business Class: World Business Class with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue (SkyTeam)
• ☕ Perks: Dutch efficiency, Amsterdam’s central European location, quality lounges, excellent connectivity
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a long layover in Amsterdam and use KLM’s “Layover with Benefits” program for discounted hotel rates and city experiences without needing to recheck your bags.

KLM proves that Dutch efficiency extends to luxury air travel, offering a consistently reliable business class experience that gets you to Europe without unnecessary drama. World Business Class features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, and while it’s not the flashiest product out there, everything works exactly as it should. Amsterdam’s central location makes it perfect for reaching virtually anywhere in Europe with minimal connection hassle.

The service style reflects the Dutch reputation for being both warm and practical. The crew is friendly in a relaxed way, never overbearing but always attentive. Meals include Dutch favorites alongside global dishes, and you’ll find thoughtful touches like warm bread and local cheeses. The wine list is curated with a solid mix of European bottles that pair well with most meals.

Amsterdam Schiphol is one of Europe’s most efficient airports, and that’s a game-changer when you’re dealing with tight connections. KLM’s lounges offer a quiet place to unwind before your flight, with decent food and plenty of space to recharge. The Flying Blue loyalty program pairs well with partners like Delta and Air France, making it easy to earn or redeem across a wide network.

KLM stands out for making travel feel easy. Two checked bags up to 70 lbs are included, and the mobile app makes managing your trip straightforward. Schiphol’s direct train line into central Amsterdam makes quick city visits easy, turning even a long layover into a relaxing cultural break before continuing on to your final destination.

7. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Business Class: Business class with lie-flat seats and updated Allegris configuration
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: German engineering precision, extensive European network, quality lounges, efficient operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book your long-haul flight from the U.S. into Munich for a calmer, more passenger-friendly airport experience compared to Frankfurt, especially during busy seasons.

Lufthansa embodies everything you’d expect from German engineering applied to air travel, meaning everything works exactly as advertised without surprises. Business Class features lie-flat seats that actually lie flat, entertainment systems that don’t glitch, and service that’s professional without unnecessary fuss. 

German efficiency extends to every aspect of the flying experience, from punctual departures to crew members who know what they’re doing. The food program features quality German cuisine alongside international options, with a wine selection that includes excellent German vintages most people never get to try. The service style is refreshingly direct and competent, focusing on getting things done right rather than theatrical presentations.

Frankfurt and Munich are two of Europe’s most important aviation hubs, and Lufthansa runs both with impressive precision. Munich is slightly easier to navigate for connections, while Frankfurt offers more long-haul options. The lounges are clean, comfortable, and functional, with food and drinks that feel thoughtfully chosen rather than generic. Miles & More integrates well with Star Alliance partners, especially for earning and using points across continents.

What Lufthansa does best is consistency. Flights leave when they’re supposed to. Bags show up where they should. Gate agents don’t improvise. Two checked bags up to 70 lbs are included with business class, and their app is solid for check-ins and notifications. 

• Read next: Magical Spots in Munich

8. 🇨🇭 Swiss International Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Zurich Airport (ZUR)
• 💺 Business Class: Business class with lie-flat seats and 1-2-1 configuration
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Swiss precision and hospitality, premium Alpine cuisine, Zurich’s efficiency, Swiss chocolates
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re flying out of New York or Chicago, look for SWISS’ “Taste of Switzerland” rotating menus, which spotlight dishes from top Swiss regions and chefs on select routes.

There’s something quietly impressive about how SWISS handles long-haul Business Class. No flash, no gimmicks, just polished service and well-considered design. The 1-2-1 seat configuration gives every passenger direct aisle access and enough privacy to sleep without distractions. Bedding is plush, cabin lighting is easy on the eyes, and the overall vibe leans more boutique hotel than corporate jet.

Rather than outsourcing luxury, SWISS brings local flavor on board in all the right ways. Menus often include regional Alpine dishes and ingredients sourced directly from Swiss producers. Wines are handpicked from small Swiss vineyards, and the signature chocolates aren’t just a token, they’re genuinely worth saving. Service feels warm and intuitive without hovering, delivered with the kind of quiet confidence that makes you trust everything is under control.

Zurich Airport is what you’d expect from Switzerland: efficient, immaculately clean, and designed to reduce stress. Security lines move quickly, signage is easy to follow, and connections throughout Europe are fast and frequent. The SWISS business lounges reflect the same thoughtfulness, offering fresh pastries, regional specialties, and quiet corners that are actually quiet.

SWISS has maintained that old-school European approach where airlines actually care about passenger comfort rather than just maximizing profits. Two free bags up to 70 lbs each, premium amenity kits, and service that feels personal rather than corporate create an experience that reminds you why flying used to be considered glamorous. 

• Read next: Best Ways to Book Business Class to Europe

9. 🇬🇧 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: Upper Class bar, Clubhouse lounges with spas, quirky British humor, stylish cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book flights departing from the US in the evening to maximize sleep time in Upper Class and arrive in London refreshed.

Virgin Atlantic refuses to take flying too seriously, and that playful British energy makes the transatlantic journey to London genuinely fun rather than just transportation. Upper Class features 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 sounds gimmicky until you try it, then you wonder why more airlines don’t create social spaces at 40,000 feet.

Virgin’s signature flair shows up in the smallest details. Cabin crew lean into their personalities with just the right amount of charm, creating a relaxed vibe without skimping on professionalism. Expect thoughtfully designed menus, premium spirits in actual glassware, and entertainment options curated with a British twist. Everything about the experience feels a bit cooler and more personal than your average Business Class ride.

Heathrow’s Virgin Clubhouse is one of the best pre-flight lounges in the world. There’s a spa for massages and facials, restaurant-style dining, and even a rooftop terrace if you need some fresh air. Pair that with a sleek app and easy train access from London to Europe, and your trip becomes seamless from takeoff to arrival.

Virgin Atlantic succeeds by being stylish without trying too hard. The mood-lit cabins, approachable service, and unique amenities make it one of the most enjoyable ways to cross the Atlantic. Two checked bags up to 70 lbs each come with Upper Class, and the Flying Club program offers solid transatlantic value, especially when paired with partner redemptions.

• Read next: Cheapest Way to Get to Europe
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Ireland
• For more reading: Affordable Destinations from Boston

10. 🇦🇹 Austrian Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
• 💺 Business Class: Business class with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Vienna’s central European location, Austrian hospitality, quality cuisine, efficient connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Pre-order a specialty meal like schnitzel or goulash from Austrian’s “Flying Chef” menu. it’s one of the few airline meals worth planning ahead for.

Few airlines manage to fly under the radar quite like Austrian Airlines, but savvy travelers know it’s one of the smoothest ways to reach Central and Eastern Europe. The airline’s Business Class cabin offers fully flat beds and direct aisle access, with a layout that feels calm and uncluttered. Routes into Vienna are timed well for easy onward travel, especially to cities that often require multiple transfers through other hubs.

The onboard experience showcases Austrian culture with meals featuring traditional Alpine cuisine alongside international options, plus a wine selection that highlights excellent Austrian vintages most travelers never encounter. The crew provides attentive service with that distinctly Austrian charm that feels both sophisticated and approachable. The cabin design emphasizes comfort and functionality over flashy amenities, creating a relaxed atmosphere for the Atlantic crossing.

Vienna International Airport is efficiently designed and much less chaotic than major European hubs like Heathrow or Charles de Gaulle. Austrian’s lounges provide comfortable spaces with quality Austrian specialties and good amenities for relaxing between flights. The Miles & More program works well through Star Alliance partnerships, and Vienna itself is an incredible city for stopovers with its rich musical heritage, stunning architecture, and famous coffeehouse culture.

Austrian Airlines delivers a quieter, more refined way to reach Europe. Two checked bags up to 70 lbs are included, the mobile app is simple to use, and Vienna itself makes for an ideal stopover, especially if you’re curious about classical music, café culture, or baroque architecture. It’s a smart, stylish choice that often gets overlooked.

11. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO), Washington Dulles (IAD)
• 💺 Business Class: Polaris with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Polaris lounges, extensive US departure cities, Star Alliance benefits, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For smoother boarding and better sleep, choose seats in the smaller Polaris cabin located between First and Economy.

United closes out this list by proving that American carriers can compete effectively on European routes when they put their minds to it. Polaris business class provides lie-flat seats with direct aisle access in a configuration that works well for the 7-8 hour flights to major European cities. What really sets United apart is their extensive network of US departure cities, making it easy to reach Europe from practically anywhere in America without complicated domestic connections.

The Polaris experience puts comfort front and center. Bedding from Saks Fifth Avenue, amenity kits with real utility, and menus that rotate seasonally make the flight feel like more than just transportation. The crew tends to keep things efficient and straightforward with less performance, but more practicality, which can be a plus if you just want to rest and arrive ready to go.

MileagePlus stands out for travelers who want solid value on redemptions, especially with regular saver award space to Europe. The program also integrates well with Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa and Swiss, giving you more flexibility if you’re combining flights. United includes two checked bags up to 70 lbs with Polaris tickets, and the mobile app handles nearly everything without hassle.

United’s biggest advantage is operational convenience for American travelers, with multiple daily departures to major European cities from hubs that actually make geographic sense. The Polaris lounges at major airports provide comfortable spaces with quality food and good work areas, while United’s improved punctuality means your European connections are more likely to work as planned. 

• Read next: Cheapest Destinations from Chicago

Frequently Asked Questions About USA to Europe Business Class Flights

Discover everything you need to know about scoring the best business class flights to Europe from the USA!

Which airline has the best business class from the US to Europe?

When searching for the best business class fares to Europe, consider airlines like Delta Air Lines and Emirates. Delta offers exceptional comfort with fully flat beds and direct aisle access from all seats, while Emirates is renowned for its luxurious A380 with onboard lounges. Both provide top-notch service, gourmet dining, and extensive entertainment options, making them leaders for transatlantic business class travel.

How to get the best deals on business class tickets?

To secure the cheapest business class to Europe from the USA, start by booking early or searching for last-minute deals. Airlines often release discounted fares during low travel seasons or special sales events. Signing up for airline newsletters and frequent flyer programs can also alert you to flash sales and exclusive deals. Additionally, using flexible date searches on airline and travel comparison sites can help you spot the lowest fares.

Is traveling business class worth it?

Traveling business class is worth it for many, especially on long-haul flights to Europe. The benefits go beyond just extra legroom; you get a fully flat bed, premium meals, and access to lounges. This level of comfort and service can significantly reduce jet lag and increase productivity, particularly for business travelers who need to arrive ready to work.

Are there any additional fees with business class tickets?

Business class tickets typically include most amenities and services without additional fees. However, some airlines might charge for specific seat selections or extra baggage beyond the generous allowance. Always check the terms of your ticket and airline policy to avoid unexpected charges. In general, the inclusive nature of business class tickets means fewer additional costs compared to economy class.

Final Thoughts on Business Class Flights to Europe from the US

As we wrap up our exploration of the best business class airlines for flights from the USA to Europe, it’s clear that the options are both varied and luxurious. Each airline we’ve discussed offers unique features that cater to the needs of discerning travelers looking for comfort, convenience, and class.

Whether you choose the unparalleled service of Emirates, the understated elegance of Swiss, or the innovative comforts of Virgin Atlantic, your journey to Europe will be nothing short of spectacular.

• Looking to find business class deals to Europe for under $2,000 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 class deals.