11 Best Business Class Airlines to London from the US

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I swear the flight to London can make or break your entire UK trip. After dozens of Atlantic crossings, I’ve figured out which business class seats are worth the money and which ones leave you feeling robbed.

London never gets old for me. One day I’m wandering through Notting Hill, checking out those gorgeous, colorful houses and stuffing my face at the food markets; the next I’m taking in the river views from Greenwich Park. I analyzed over 100 best airlines for business class to London from the USA, considering factors like amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. After way too many trips across the pond (and some serious jet lag disasters), I’ve narrowed down the 11 airlines that actually deliver on their premium promises. These are the ones that’ll get you to London feeling like a human being, not luggage.

Quick Tip to Find Cheap Business Class Flights

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The Best Business Class Flights to London from the US

Check out which airlines offer the most comfort, service, and value for your journey to London. The prices below are what you can typically expect if you snag a good deal, use miles and points, or sign up for fare alerts.

Don’t have time to read? Here are the best business class airlines to London from the US.

Highlights	Airline
Most Luxurious Seats	British Airways
Best Layover Destination	Icelandair
Best Entertainment Options	Delta
Most Privacy	JetBlue Mint
Best In-Flight Dining	Air France
Best Airport Lounges	Virgin Atlantic
Best Value for Money:	Iberia
Best Stopover Experience	KLM
Best Airport Amenities	Lufthansa
Best Long-Haul Comfort:	United Polaris

1. 🇬🇧 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: Direct access to London, afternoon tea service, Club Suite privacy, extensive US departure cities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: When booking, look for flights operated by the A350 or refurbished 777s to guarantee the Club Suite. Older aircraft may still have the older layout, which doesn’t offer the same level of privacy or comfort.

British Airways basically owns the route to London, and honestly, they should since it’s their home turf. The new Club Suite is a game changer with actual sliding doors that close completely, giving you your own private space for the overnight flight. You can fly direct from tons of US cities with multiple daily options, which is incredibly convenient when you’re trying to work around schedules or catch a specific arrival time in London.

Here’s what BA gets right: they don’t try to be something they’re not. The afternoon tea service is properly British with real scones and clotted cream, not some weird international interpretation. The crew actually knows London and can give you solid recommendations about where to go and what to avoid. Plus, those Club Suites let you sleep horizontally instead of that awkward semi-reclined position that leaves you feeling destroyed.

Earning Avios can be surprisingly valuable for London flights, especially if you’re flexible with dates or book well in advance. Heathrow is a madhouse, but BA’s lounges are decent escapes where you can grab a proper English breakfast or a pint before your return flight. 

What makes BA such a strong option to London isn’t just the convenience, it’s how naturally the experience aligns with the destination.You’re dealing with people who know the destination, the timing works well for business or leisure travel, and you get two free bags which is perfect for longer UK trips. 

2. 🇺🇸 JetBlue

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK (JFK), Boston (BOS)
• 💺 Business Class: Mint with lie-flat suites and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue
• ☕ Perks: Competitive pricing, JFK convenience, modern aircraft, boutique airline feel
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Choose seats in the single suite rows for full privacy and more personal space. These are perfect for solo travelers and often book up fast due to their popularity.

JetBlue brings that boutique airline energy to transatlantic flying, and their London route from JFK is genuinely impressive for an airline that most people think of as domestic-only. Mint business class features lie-flat suites with direct aisle access that rival what legacy carriers offer, often at prices that make you wonder why other airlines charge so much. The A321XLR aircraft feel modern and fresh, with cabin designs that prioritize passenger comfort over cramming in extra seats.

What’s refreshing is how JetBlue skips the pretense and just focuses on getting the basics right. The crew strikes that perfect balance of casual and professional, and the meal service features dishes from NYC-based restaurant partners, which puts typical airline catering to shame. There’s free high-speed WiFi that actually works, plus tons of entertainment options to get you through the flight without boredom or frustration.

TrueBlue points are surprisingly valuable for international redemptions, and JetBlue’s pricing strategy often makes their business class the most affordable option to London. JFK Terminal 5 is their home base, giving you a smoother departure experience than dealing with the chaos at other terminals. The whole operation feels more personal and less industrial than flying with massive legacy carriers.

Flying JetBlue to London feels like being in on a secret. The comfort is real, the service is friendly without being forced, and the price usually makes sense. Basically, you get two free checked bags, a stylish and private seat, and a crew that treats you like a person, not just another business class passenger. 

• Read next: Budget-Friendly Destinations from NYC
• You may also like: Best Airlines to London
• For more reading: Business Class Flights Guide

3. 🇺🇸 Delta

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS)
• 💺 Business Class: Delta One with lie-flat suites and sliding doors
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles (SkyTeam)
• ☕ Perks: Multiple daily departures, operational reliability, farm-to-table dining, extensive lounge network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If flying from JFK, book the late-night Delta One departure for the best chance at uninterrupted sleep and a quieter onboard experience before landing in London early morning.

Delta has quietly become one of the best choices for London, with Delta One suites that compete with international carriers and operational reliability that actually gets you there on time. The suites feature sliding doors and 76 inches of lie-flat space, making overnight flights to London genuinely restful. Multiple daily departures from JFK give you flexibility, while their partnership with Virgin Atlantic opens up additional routing options.

The Delta approach focuses on making American travelers comfortable without unnecessary complications, which becomes really valuable when you’re dealing with jet lag and trying to hit the ground running in London. The airline’s farm-to-table dining program has significantly improved food quality, featuring seasonal ingredients prepared by known chefs. Plus, the Westin Heavenly bedding actually helps you sleep during the crucial overnight segment.

SkyMiles is more useful than it used to be, especially if you take advantage of partner redemptions with Virgin Atlantic or Air France. Delta’s lounges at JFK and other US hubs are well-stocked and spacious, and the boarding experience feels smoother compared to many international carriers flying out of crowded terminals.

Going for Delta makes sense if you’re after reliability. The operation runs on time, the crew does their job well, and you get two free checked bags at 70 lbs each. Add in a well-designed business class cabin and easy airport connections, and you’ve got a US-based airline that holds its own on one of the world’s busiest routes.

4. 🇺🇸 United

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Chicago (ORD), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Business Class: Polaris with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Multiple hub departures, Star Alliance benefits, Polaris lounges, reliable scheduling, free checked bags
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For the smoothest experience, choose flights operated on the 787 or 777 with the updated Polaris cabin. These offer better privacy and newer amenities for the transatlantic hop to London.

United makes getting to London straightforward, with direct flights from key hubs like Newark, Chicago, and San Francisco. The airline’s Polaris business class doesn’t try to dazzle with gimmicks, it just delivers solid comfort with lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, and well-designed cabins that do the job for overnight travel. If you’re flying out of Newark, the proximity to Manhattan is a major plus for East Coast flyers.

The Polaris experience focuses on comfort that feels practical and well thought-out. Expect Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, chef-designed meals, and a surprisingly decent wine list. Flight attendants tend to keep things efficient and friendly without overdoing it. The inflight entertainment also covers all the essentials, plus the WiFi is generally stable enough to get things done or stream mid-flight.

MileagePlus has become increasingly valuable for international travel, offering competitive redemption rates for London routes and excellent earning opportunities through Star Alliance partners. The Polaris lounges at major hubs provide comfortable spaces with quality food and good work areas, while United’s extensive domestic network makes it easy to connect from smaller US cities.

5. 🇬🇧 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 personality, stylish cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Arrive early to enjoy a spa treatment at the Heathrow Clubhouse before your flight. It’s one of the few lounges where pampering is part of the pre-flight experience.

Virgin Atlantic brings that playful British energy to London flights, making the journey genuinely fun rather than just transportation across the pond. 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 experience it, then you wonder why other airlines don’t create social spaces at 40,000 feet.

Onboard, it feels like being invited to a stylish party that happens to be flying to London. The cabin crew brings genuine personality instead of robotic politeness, creating this relaxed atmosphere that immediately puts you in vacation mode. You’ll get proper cocktails made with premium spirits, meals that focus on being delicious rather than just looking fancy, and entertainment that includes plenty of British humor.

Heathrow’s Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse 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 spaces designed for both work and relaxation. Flying Club offers competitive redemption rates, and Virgin’s partnership with Delta provides additional earning and booking opportunities, which can earn you different perks and even award flights.

What makes Virgin special for London travel is how they’ve made business class feel approachable and entertaining without sacrificing comfort or quality. The cabins look genuinely cool with mood lighting and contemporary design, the service backs up the stylish aesthetics, and everything feels designed to make you smile rather than just impress you. 

6. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Business Class: Business class with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More (Star Alliance)
• ☕ Perks: Frankfurt connections to London, German engineering precision, quality lounges, reliable operations
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Lufthansa’s U.S.-Frankfurt routes often have more award availability in business class than nonstop London flights, making it easier to book with points and still arrive in the UK with just a short hop from Frankfurt.

Lufthansa might not be the obvious choice for London, but they’ve got this whole German efficiency thing down to a science that actually makes the journey more pleasant. Sure, you’re connecting through Frankfurt instead of flying direct, but when everything runs like clockwork and you get comfortable Business Class seats that actually lie flat properly, the extra stop becomes worthwhile. Plus, Frankfurt’s location opens up tons of European cities if you want to explore beyond London.

The German crew doesn’t mess around with elaborate service rituals, they just focus on keeping you comfortable and well-fed during the flight. You’ll get solid German beer and wine that’s way better than most airline selections, plus meals that emphasize quality ingredients over fancy presentation. The entertainment system works reliably, which sounds basic but matters more than you’d think when you’re stuck in a metal tube for hours.

Frankfurt Airport showcases everything Germans do well: efficiency, organization, and facilities that actually function as designed. Lufthansa’s lounges provide comfortable spaces with quality German food and beer, plus shower facilities that help you freshen up during connections. Miles & More works well if you’re planning to explore multiple European destinations, and the Star Alliance partnership gives you decent redemption options.

Here’s what’s great about choosing Lufthansa for London: you know exactly what you’re getting. No surprises, no drama, just reliable service that gets you there on schedule. The Business Class product is comfortable without being flashy, the operations run smoothly, and you can easily add other European cities to your itinerary. 

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

INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss out—sign up for Going.com (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) to get excellent deals in scoring business class flights to London from the USA. 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.

7. 🇳🇱 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: Amsterdam’s charm, Dutch straightforwardness, efficient connections, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: KLM often includes free stopovers in Amsterdam, so you can add a mini vacation in the Netherlands before heading to London. No extra ticket required if you plan it right.

KLM gets you to London through Amsterdam, and honestly, that Dutch approach to things just works really well for travelers who want efficiency without pretension. World Business Class gives you proper lie-flat beds with direct aisle access, and the whole experience feels refreshingly straightforward compared to airlines that try too hard to impress you. 

Business class on KLM includes some nice touches like premium amenity kits with Dutch brand products and meals that feature both local and international cuisine. The seats provide 78 inches of lie-flat space, which is generous for sleeping during overnight segments. You get two free bags at 70 lbs each, plus priority boarding that actually saves time. The entertainment system also offers a solid selection, and their WiFi works well enough for staying connected during flights.

Amsterdam Schiphol consistently ranks among Europe’s best airports, with clean facilities and a layout that makes connections surprisingly smooth. KLM’s lounges offer comfortable spaces with local Dutch specialties, and Flying Blue provides decent value through SkyTeam partnerships. 

What makes KLM appealing for London travel is how they’ve made the routing through Amsterdam into an opportunity rather than an inconvenience. You can explore Amsterdam’s canals, museums, and coffee culture, then hop over to London feeling like you’ve already had one great European experience. Often their business class pricing beats direct options, and the Dutch efficiency means everything actually works as promised.

8. 🇮🇸 Icelandair

• 🏠 Hub: Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Reykjavik
• 💺 Business Class: Saga Premium with lie-flat seats and extra space
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Saga Club
• ☕ Perks: Iceland stopover opportunities, Nordic design, unique routing, competitive pricing
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Saga Premium passengers earn extra Saga Points on transatlantic routes, which can be redeemed for upgrades, lounge access, or even free flights.

Icelandair offers one of the most unique ways to reach London, routing through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and giving you a completely different perspective on transatlantic travel. Saga Premium business class features lie-flat seats with generous space, though the real appeal is how Iceland’s location lets you break up the journey with an incredible Nordic adventure. You can explore glaciers, geysers, and the Northern Lights before continuing to London.

The Icelandic approach to hospitality feels authentic and unpretentious, with crew members who genuinely seem proud to represent their country. Meals showcase Icelandic specialties like fresh seafood and lamb alongside international options, giving you a taste of Nordic cuisine. The cabin design incorporates Icelandic design elements that create a distinctly Nordic atmosphere, and the entertainment system includes plenty of content about Iceland’s unique culture and landscapes.

Business class fares on Icelandair are often lower than what you’ll find on larger carriers, especially if you book early or take advantage of off-season pricing. Saga Premium passengers usually get two free checked bags, fast-track security, lounge access, and priority boarding.

Keflavik Airport might be smaller than major European hubs, but that’s actually part of its charm, offering a more intimate and manageable connection experience. The Saga Lounge provides comfortable seating with views of Iceland’s dramatic landscape, and the airport’s location gives you easy access to Reykjavik for extended stopovers. Iceland doesn’t require advance visas for US citizens, making stopovers incredibly straightforward to arrange.

• Read next: Dreamy Spots in Reykjavik

9. 🇨🇭 SWISS

• 🏠 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, Alpine hospitality, Zurich’s efficiency, genuine Swiss chocolates
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Flying out of major US hubs like JFK or LAX usually gives you the best seat availability and pricing on SWISS business class, especially if you’re flexible with midweek departures.

SWISS gets London right by doing everything the Swiss way, which means no drama, no surprises, just really solid business class that works exactly as promised. The seats lie completely flat with plenty of space, and connecting through Zurich actually makes geographic sense for exploring Europe. Plus, you get genuine Swiss chocolates from local chocolatiers, not some generic airline candy that tastes like cardboard.

Here’s what’s cool about flying SWISS: they actually care about the little details that make flying pleasant. The crew brings genuine Alpine hospitality that feels warm without being fake, and the food showcases Swiss ingredients that you won’t find on other airlines. The wine program includes bottles from tiny Swiss vineyards that most people never get to try, and even the amenity kits have quality Swiss skincare products.

Flying Business class also includes two checked bags at 70 lbs each, plus priority check-in and lounge access across the Star Alliance network. Miles & More is flexible for European redemptions, and US citizens don’t need a visa for short stays, making it easy to turn your London trip into a Swiss mini-break.

Zurich Airport runs like clockwork, which shouldn’t surprise anyone who knows anything about Switzerland. The SWISS lounges have this clean, minimalist design with regional food that’s actually worth eating, and connections to London are smooth and efficient. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Zurich

10. 🇫🇷 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, Paris connections, stylish cabin design, culinary partnerships
• 🧠 Pro Tip: For the best Air France business class experience, aim for their Boeing 777-300ER or A350 aircraft. These feature the newest seats, more privacy, and upgraded inflight entertainment systems.

Nobody does inflight food and wine quite like Air France, and their London routing through Paris gives you an excuse to enjoy a dose of French luxury before you even land in the UK. Business class includes 74 inches of lie-flat comfort, and the inflight meals are curated by Michelin-starred chefs using regional French ingredients. Wines come from Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne, offering a tasting experience that feels more like fine dining than airline catering.

Paris Charles de Gaulle can be chaotic, but Air France’s lounges bring calm and indulgence. Expect fresh pastries, regional cheeses, and an extensive wine bar, plus solid workspaces if you’re traveling for business. Flying Blue members get access to frequent Promo Rewards, and roundtrip fares from the US often range between $2,800-4,200 depending on the season and departure city.

Routing through Paris opens up your itinerary without complicating it. Spend a day or two wandering through art galleries and sidewalk cafés before hopping on the Eurostar to London. Business class includes two 70 lb checked bags, priority check-in, lounge access, and boarding that actually makes a difference when you’re tight on time.

Air France’s business class is built around elegance and ease. The seats feel spacious, the lighting is warm and well-designed, and the service has that French confidence that doesn’t feel forced. It’s a great way to bring a bit of Paris into your travel experience, even before you touch down in London.

• Read next: Must-See Europe Attractions
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Paris

11. 🇪🇸 Iberia

• 🏠 Hub: Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD)
• 💺 Business Class: Business Class with lie-flat seats and direct aisle access
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Iberia Plus (Oneworld)
• ☕ Perks: Spanish hospitality, Madrid connections, competitive Avios redemptions, tapas-inspired dining
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Iberia often releases discounted business class fares during off-peak months, especially for east coast departures like New York and Boston.

Iberia closes out this list by offering a distinctly Spanish take on reaching London, and honestly, the airline’s Business Class through Madrid can be a surprisingly pleasant way to get there. The seats provide comfortable lie-flat space with direct aisle access, while the Spanish crew brings this relaxed Mediterranean energy that makes the journey feel less corporate and more welcoming. 

Spanish hospitality shines through in Iberia’s approach to dining, with tapas-inspired business class meals that showcase ingredients like Iberico ham, Manchego cheese, and quality Spanish wines from regions like Rioja. The entertainment system also includes Spanish films and content that gives you a cultural preview if you’re planning to explore Spain.

Madrid Barajas operates efficiently with good connections throughout Europe, and Iberia’s lounges feature Spanish specialties alongside international options. Iberia Plus works through Oneworld partnerships, and their Avios redemptions often have better availability than booking through British Airways directly. Spain doesn’t require advance visas for US citizens, making Madrid stopovers easy to arrange for exploring Spanish culture.

Business class fares typically range from $2,500-4,500 roundtrip, often undercutting other European options, and you get two free bags at 70 lbs each. They frequently run promotional pricing during off-peak periods, making Spanish routing an affordable way to reach London. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Madrid

Frequently Asked Questions About USA to London Business Class Flights

Got questions about snagging the best business class seats to London? We’ve got the answers right here to help you make the smartest choice for your flight.

What factors determine cheap business class fares?

When looking for the cheapest business class fares, several factors come into play. The time of year significantly affects prices, with fares generally lower during off-peak seasons like early spring and late autumn. Airlines also run promotions and sales, so keeping an eye on these can lead to substantial savings. Additionally, flexibility in travel dates and booking in advance can help secure the best rates.

Which airline has the best transatlantic business class?

For the best transatlantic business class experience, many travelers prefer British Airways. Their Club World cabin features lie-flat seats, excellent dining options, and a sophisticated amenity kit. British Airways also offers an exclusive business class lounge access, making the experience more comfortable and luxurious from departure to arrival.

Which airline is best for travel to London?

For travel to London, Virgin Atlantic is often praised for its premium service and comfort. Offering one of the best business class services, Virgin Atlantic ensures a memorable journey with outstanding cabin comfort, high-quality meals, and superior customer service. Their dedication to passenger satisfaction makes them a top choice for flying to London.

How can I find affordable business class tickets to London?

To find affordable business class tickets to London, start by comparing prices across various booking platforms and airlines. Sign up for newsletters and fare alerts from your preferred airlines to receive updates on discounts and special promotions. Consider flying during off-peak times and booking well in advance to secure the best rates.

Is it worth upgrading to business class for London flights?

Upgrading to business class for flights to London can be worth it, especially for those looking for comfort and productivity on long-haul flights. The extra space, enhanced privacy, and superior service can help mitigate jet lag and improve the overall travel experience, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

What is the best time to book a business class flight?

The best time to book business class flights to London is usually during airline sales events or during less busy travel periods. Booking approximately six months in advance can often secure the most competitive fares. Keep an eye on trends and prices, as they can fluctuate based on demand and seasonality.

How do business class experiences differ among airlines flying to London?

Business class experiences differ significantly among airlines flying to London. Some airlines, like Lufthansa and Air France, offer highly personalized service with premium seating that converts into fully flat beds and gourmet meals curated by renowned chefs. Others might focus more on enhanced privacy and exclusive onboard amenities. Always check the specific offerings from each airline to match your preferences and needs.

Can I earn frequent flyer miles on business class tickets to London?

Yes, you can earn frequent flyer miles on business class tickets to London. Most airlines offer enhanced mile accrual for business class tickets compared to economy. Make sure to include your frequent flyer number when booking your ticket. It’s also beneficial to understand the partnership networks of the airline, as this can maximize your potential mile earnings and lead to quicker rewards like upgrades or free tickets for future travel. Always check the specific airline’s frequent flyer program for exact details on mileage accrual rates.

Final Thoughts on Business Class Flights to London from the US

Flying business class to London from the USA offers an array of premium options tailored to enhance the travel experience. Each airline brings its own unique set of features and amenities that cater to the needs of discerning travelers looking for comfort, luxury, and exceptional service.

Whether you prioritize sleeping comfort with lie-flat beds, gourmet dining, expansive lounges, or comprehensive in-flight entertainment, there is a business class service that meets your demands.

• Looking to find business class deals to London for under $1,500 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.