Top 10 Airlines for the Best Flights to France This Year

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Getting to France is an art form, and trust me, I’ve mastered it through trial and error. After dozens of flights across the Atlantic, I’ve figured out which airlines actually turn that long journey into part of your French adventure. From touchdown champagne service to crews that make you feel like you’re already strolling down the Champs Élysées, some airlines just get what French travel should be.

Want to arrive ready to explore the best places in France without feeling like you’ve been through the wringer? I analyzed over 100 famous flight routes to France from around the world this year, considering factors like the amenities, pricing, seat comfort/legroom, and on-time performance. Here are the carriers that’ll get your French adventure started right, even before you land.

#1 tip to find cheap flights to France

Looking for the cheapest flights to France? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

Here’s the deal: Sign up for free email alerts, set your departure and destination, and boom – you’ll get alerts for insanely cheap flights. Mistake fares? Deep discounts? They’ve got it all.

I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $300 roundtrip fare from NYC to Paris during the late spring. Not bad!

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll definitely want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $5,000 in 2024 alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.

Now, let’s discuss the best way to fly to France in 2025.

Top Airlines for Traveling to France

Looking for the best airlines for traveling to France? Fly with Air France for top-tier service, choose American Airlines for convenient routes, enjoy premium comfort with Delta Airlines, or experience all-business-class luxury on La Compagnie. Whether you’re visiting for history, culture, or cuisine, these airlines offer great options for your trip to France.

1. 🇫🇷 Air France

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, La Première (First Class on select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Flying Blue — monthly promo awards with SkyTeam alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: French cuisine and wine service, stylish cabins, Air France lounges, complimentary meals on long-haul
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book during Flying Blue’s monthly promo awards for up to 50% off award tickets, and arrive early at CDG to explore their premium lounges

Flying with Air France feels like starting your French holiday the moment you board. Direct flights from major U.S. cities including New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Atlanta, and Miami connect you to Paris with schedules that are flexible and convenient. The aircraft, including the A350, 777, and A380, are thoughtfully designed with clean lines, soft lighting, and just the right amount of French flair to make the journey feel elevated.

The Premium Economy here is seriously worth the splurge when you’re heading to France. Think better seats, actual French food that tastes good, and wine that makes you feel sophisticated instead of questioning your life choices. Business class takes it up several notches with lie-flat beds and meals that rival what you’ll eat in Paris restaurants. Meanwhile, La Première is basically flying in a private French apartment with a personal chef. 

What really sets Air France apart is how well it sets the mood. Even in Economy, you get proper plates, metal cutlery, and wine that isn’t an afterthought. The CDG lounges offer fresh croissants, regional wines, and a vibe that feels more café than terminal.

The Flying Blue program is especially rewarding if France is a regular destination. Their monthly promo awards can offer serious discounts, and your miles don’t expire. Plus, with SkyTeam partners like Delta, you can earn and redeem miles easily from the U.S.

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Chicago

2. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Miami (MIA), Phoenix (PHX), Philadelphia (PHL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business, Flagship First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage — extensive partner network with Oneworld alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Admirals Club access, flagship lounges, complimentary snacks and drinks, strong domestic connections
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Route through Charlotte or Philadelphia for smoother connections to Paris, and use AAdvantage miles during off-peak awards for better value

American Airlines has quietly become one of the most reliable ways to get to France without overcomplicating the journey. With direct service to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) from Charlotte, Philadelphia, New York, and Dallas, they make it easy to book a single-carrier trip from almost anywhere in the U.S.

Based out of major US hubs, American operates modern Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777s on their Paris routes. While you won’t get the French flair of Air France, you’ll get dependable service and aircraft that are configured for long-haul comfort. Charlotte and Philadelphia connections are surprisingly efficient, often getting you to Paris faster than you’d expect from domestic routing.

American operates premium cabin options that make the 8-hour flight to Paris much more bearable. Premium Economy offers significantly more legroom and better meal service, while Business Class features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access. Flagship First on select routes brings domestic first-class luxury to international flying. Not up to splurge? No worries as the Standard Economy includes meals and entertainment.

The key to maximizing American for France travel is through the AAdvantage miles. The program offers solid redemption rates to Paris, especially during off-peak periods when you can snag Business Class awards for reasonable point values. Oneworld alliance partnerships with British Airways and Iberia can also open up additional earning and redemption opportunities across Europe. 

3. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis (MSP), New York JFK, Seattle (SEA)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, Delta One (Business), First Class (domestic)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles — points never expire with SkyTeam alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Sky Clubs, complimentary snacks and beverages, reliable operations, premium customer service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Delta’s evening departures from JFK or ATL to arrive in Paris mid-morning. This gives you more time to check into your hotel, adjust to the time zone, and explore on day one.

Delta offers a no-fuss way to get to France, and that kind of consistency is a welcome relief when you’re planning a major international trip. With nonstop flights from New York, Atlanta, Detroit, and Minneapolis to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Delta gives you multiple options with schedules that make sense, especially for East Coast and Midwest travelers.

Operating modern Airbus A350s and Boeing 767s on their Paris routes, Delta focuses on consistent service rather than flashy amenities. Atlanta connections are particularly smooth since it’s their massive hub, and their JFK operations feel more international than typical domestic Delta flights. On these long-haul routes, crews are usually seasoned and well-prepared for international service.

Comfort+ is a solid step up with extra legroom and priority boarding, making it easier to settle in before takeoff. Delta One delivers the full business class experience with lie-flat seats, premium meals, and attentive service that has improved noticeably over the years. If you’re leaving from a hub, Sky Clubs offer a quiet space to relax, with snacks, WiFi, and showers that can make a big difference on travel days.

SkyMiles is one of the few programs where your points don’t expire, which makes it ideal for travelers who visit France regularly. Look out for flash sales on award tickets to Paris, which can offer excellent value if you’re flexible. Plus, earning and redeeming miles with SkyTeam partners like Air France makes it easier to plan extended European itineraries.

4. 🇫🇷 La Compagnie

• 🏠 Hub: Paris Orly (ORY)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Business Class only (all-business class configuration)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None — focus on premium service without traditional loyalty rewards
• ☕ Perks: All lie-flat seats, French cuisine, personalized service, boutique airline experience
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales. You can often book a lie-flat business class seat for less than what major carriers charge for premium economy.

La Compagnie is that hidden gem that makes you feel like you’ve discovered France’s best-kept aviation secret. Flying Airbus A321neo aircraft in an all-business class configuration from New York and Miami to Paris Orly, they’ve created something genuinely special in transatlantic travel. Every single seat is lie-flat business class, which means you’re getting premium service without the premium attitude that sometimes comes with bigger airlines.

What sets them apart is their boutique approach. The French crew delivers warm, thoughtful hospitality, and meals are designed by top chefs with wine pairings that wouldn’t be out of place in a Paris bistro. The smaller Paris Orly airport adds to the ease, offering quicker arrivals and departures than Charles de Gaulle for many travelers.

The all-business model means no awkward walk through first class to reach your cramped economy seat. Everyone gets the same premium experience with lie-flat beds, direct aisle access, and amenities that make the 8-hour flight feel more like a luxury hotel experience. Their A321neo aircraft are modern, quiet, and configured specifically for comfort rather than cramming in maximum passengers.

While they don’t offer a loyalty program, La Compagnie’s seasonal fares are often a steal, especially when you compare them to legacy airlines charging more for less. It’s a perfect pick for honeymoons, anniversaries, or travelers who want the luxury experience without the stuffiness. 

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Last year, I got an email alert on a $350 roundtrip fare from Boston to Paris with Air France. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

5. 🇺🇸 JetBlue

• 🏠 Hub: New York JFK, Boston (BOS), Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Blue (Economy), Blue Plus, Blue Extra, Mint (Business Class)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue — points-based system with family pooling options
• ☕ Perks: Free WiFi, live TV, extra legroom, complimentary snacks and drinks, even in economy
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Mint class for transatlantic flights to Paris for lie-flat luxury at prices that often beat legacy carrier business class.

JetBlue flying to France feels like your favorite domestic airline finally taking their talents abroad. With daily nonstop service from New York and Boston to Paris Charles de Gaulle, they bring their signature customer-first approach to international travel using modern Airbus A321XLRs built for long-haul comfort.

Mint business class is where JetBlue really shines on Paris routes. Lie-flat suites with sliding doors, premium dining, and amenities that rival much more expensive carriers, often at prices that make you wonder what legacy airlines are thinking. Blue Extra economy offers significantly more legroom than typical transatlantic economy, making the 7-hour flight to Paris much more bearable without the business class price tag.

Every seat still gets free WiFi that actually works, live TV with dozens of channels, and that JetBlue hospitality that feels genuine rather than scripted. Flight attendants maintain that friendly, approachable vibe that makes international flying feel less intimidating. Complimentary snacks include recognizable brands, and their blue potato chips have somehow become a comfort food for nervous international flyers.

JetBlue’s TrueBlue program keeps things easy. Points never expire, and features like family pooling make it simple to book reward flights for group trips. You won’t run into surprise charges or confusing upgrade policies either as their pricing stays clear and honest.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to New York

6. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Premium Plus, Business, First Class (domestic)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus — flexible award program with Star Alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Polaris lounges, complimentary snacks, extensive route network, solid upgrade opportunities
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Route through Chicago or Newark for most France connections, and use MileagePlus awards during saver availability periods.

United has quietly built a strong presence on France routes, and the improvements show where it counts. With nonstop flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) from Chicago, Newark, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., United gives travelers multiple ways to cross the Atlantic with schedules that suit both business and leisure trips.

Premium Plus is honestly one of the better premium economy products for France travel, with significantly more legroom, enhanced meal service, and priority boarding that matters during busy summer travel seasons. Polaris Business delivers lie-flat comfort with direct aisle access and dining that’s actually improved dramatically. Plus, their Polaris Lounges at major hubs provide genuinely impressive spaces to start your France adventure feeling relaxed rather than stressed.

What makes United work well for France is their operational reliability on international routes. Chicago and Newark connections tend to be smooth, and their mobile app actually functions for managing international reservations and seat upgrades. Flight crews on Paris routes maintain professional service standards, and their customer service recovery has gotten much better when weather or mechanical issues impact travel plans.

The MileagePlus program remains one of the most flexible for France travel. Redemption options through Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa or Swiss can help expand your route choices, and Saver Awards often provide solid value on your Paris flights.

7. 🇵🇫 Air Tahiti Nui

• 🏠 Hub: Tahiti Faa’a International Airport (PPT)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Tahiti Economy, Tahiti Premium, Tahiti Business (Poerava)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: None — focus on cultural experience and island hospitality
• ☕ Perks: Polynesian cultural experience, unique routing via Tahiti, warm island hospitality, flower leis
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use the Los Angeles to Paris routing for a unique Pacific stopover experience, and book during shoulder seasons for better availability.

Air Tahiti Nui offers probably the most unique way to get to France you’ve never considered, turning your Paris trip into an unexpected cultural adventure. Flying from cities like Los Angeles to Paris Charles de Gaulle with a stopover in Tahiti (PPT), they blend Polynesian hospitality with long-haul comfort in a way no other airline does. The journey is operated on Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and the cabin interiors are inspired by island life, complete with calming colors, soft lighting, and floral accents.

Tahiti Premium is a great middle-ground option with extra legroom, upgraded service, and thoughtful island details. Poerava Business Class includes lie-flat seating, elevated dining, and service that feels genuinely warm. From the moment you board, you’re greeted with a flower lei and a relaxed energy that sets the tone for a more meaningful flight.

Depending on how you book, the Tahiti stopover can be a quick layover or a full-blown mini-vacation. Faa’a International Airport is refreshingly low-key with open-air areas, tropical ambiance, and local music playing softly in the background. Onboard meals feature regional flavors, and the crew often shares elements of Tahitian culture throughout the flight.

Although there’s no loyalty program, the experience itself is the reward. The route is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to turn a trip to France into something far more immersive.  It’s not the fastest route to Paris, but it just might be the most unforgettable.

• Read next: Surreal Places in French Polynesia

8. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus), Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club (Avios) — part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea in-flight, solid airport lounges, stylish business class, complimentary meals and drinks
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Avios flights with low surcharges using partner airlines, and use London connections for easy onward travel to France

Flying British Airways to France feels like taking the scenic route through European sophistication. You’ll connect through London Heathrow from cities like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and Chicago before continuing to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). Sure, it’s not direct, but there’s something charming about experiencing British hospitality before diving into French culture.

World Traveller Plus is one of the better premium economy cabins, with more space and thoughtful service touches like afternoon tea. Club World gives you a private suite with sliding doors, and First Class means access to the Concorde Room, a lounge that lives up to its reputation. Heathrow might not be the fastest transit point, but if you’ve got the time, it’s one of the better places to spend a layover thanks to solid food options, shops, and lounges that actually feel relaxing.

What makes BA stand out is how it still treats flying as something worth enjoying. You’ll get real meals, decent wine, and flight attendants who carry that low-key British charm. The lounges aren’t flashy, but they’re comfortable, well-stocked, and feel a step above what you’ll find elsewhere.

Avios can be tricky with fuel surcharges, but the program opens up tons of European destinations once you’re already across the pond. London’s location also makes it perfect for exploring multiple French cities or combining France with UK adventures. 

9. 🇧🇪 Brussels Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Brussels Airport (BRU)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More — shared with Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance benefits
• ☕ Perks: Belgian chocolate service, European hospitality, convenient Brussels connections, Star Alliance benefits
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use Brussels as a gateway to multiple French cities, and take advantage of Miles & More program integration with Lufthansa partners.

Brussels Airlines is the kind of airline that flies under the radar, but once you try them, you wonder why more people don’t. With nonstop service from New York and Washington D.C. to Brussels, it’s a smart alternative for travelers heading to France who want to skip the chaos of airports like Frankfurt or Heathrow. Their Airbus A330s are well-equipped, and the crew brings a genuine, relaxed European vibe that sets the tone for your trip.

The Belgian chocolate service isn’t just a cute gimmick, it’s genuinely good and adds a bit of joy mid-flight. Premium Economy gives you proper legroom and solid meals with a Belgian twist, while Business Class offers lie-flat comfort without the overly formal feel. Brussels Airport is one of Europe’s more manageable hubs, so connections to Paris, Lyon, or Nice are quick and painless.

Brussels sits perfectly between everything European, so your France connections are quick and frequent. You can be sipping wine in Paris just a couple hours after landing, or exploring French wine country by afternoon. Star Alliance membership means your miles and status work everywhere, and honestly, Brussels often has better award availability than the big guys.

The Miles & More program, shared with Lufthansa and Swiss, makes earning and using miles straightforward. Plus, perks like priority boarding and lounge access extend across a huge network of European destinations. Brussels Airlines is ideal if you’re planning a multi-country trip that starts in France but doesn’t stop there.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Italy

10. 🇩🇪 Lufthansa

• 🏠 Hub: Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Miles & More — comprehensive Star Alliance program with extensive partner network
• ☕ Perks: German engineering reliability, excellent lounges, premium service standards, extensive European network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Route through Frankfurt or Munich for reliable connections to multiple French cities, and use Miles & More status for Star Alliance benefits

Lufthansa might not be flashy, but when you need things to run smoothly, they’re the airline you want. With connections through Frankfurt or Munich from cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, Lufthansa gets you to Paris, Nice, Lyon, or just about anywhere in France with impressive precision. Their long-haul fleet, including the A350, 747-8, and A380, is modern, clean, and impeccably maintained.

Premium Economy is worth it for the extra space and service that actually feels premium, while Business Class delivers proper lie-flat comfort with meals that emphasize quality ingredients over flashy presentation. First Class is genuinely luxurious with private suites and those legendary First Class lounges that other airlines try to copy. Frankfurt and Munich are huge, but they’re organized in that German way that makes sense once you figure it out.

Here, German efficiency extends to everything from on-time performance to baggage handling to crew training. Senator Lounges provide excellent workspaces and food that doesn’t suck, plus shower facilities that make long layovers actually refreshing. When weather hits or mechanical issues arise, Lufthansa’s operational recovery tends to be faster and more organized than most competitors.

The Miles & More program is ideal for European travel, especially if you’re flying Star Alliance partners like Swiss, Austrian, or Brussels Airlines. Award availability is solid, and elite perks like lounge access, upgrades, and priority boarding work smoothly across the network.

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Africa

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Fly to France

Curious about the best airlines to France? Our FAQ section answers all your burning questions, ensuring your next trip is as smooth as a fine French wine.

What is the best airline to take to Paris?

When choosing the best airline to fly to Paris, consider your priorities like comfort, cost, and convenience. Air France, known for its French elegance, offers direct flights and a taste of French culture onboard. For budget-conscious travelers, Delta Airlines and American Airlines provide competitive pricing with quality service. Each airline has its unique perks, so your choice might depend on specific amenities, loyalty programs, or flight schedules.

Which airlines fly direct to France?

Several airlines offer direct flights to France, especially from major US cities. Air France, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines are popular choices for direct routes. United Airlines and Lufthansa also provide direct flights, connecting various US cities to Paris. These airlines are known for their reliability and comprehensive network, making them convenient options for traveling directly to France.

Which airline is best in Europe?

Determining the best airline in Europe depends on various factors like route network, service quality, and passenger preferences. Lufthansa is often praised for its extensive network and top-notch service. British Airways is another strong contender, known for its premium services and wide reach across the continent. Each airline has its strengths, so the best choice can vary based on your specific travel needs and preferences.

Where is best to fly into France?

The best airport to fly into in France largely depends on your destination. Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris is the most popular choice for its central location and connectivity. For those exploring the French Riviera, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is ideal. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is a great gateway to the Alps. Each airport offers unique access to different regions of France, so choose based on your itinerary.

What is the best airline to fly to France?

The best airline to fly to France varies based on your needs. Air France offers a direct and authentic French experience. For comfort and extensive flight options, Lufthansa and British Airways are excellent choices. Budget travelers might prefer Delta or American Airlines for their competitive pricing. Consider factors like flight duration, cost, and onboard amenities when choosing.

What are the best airlines from the US to France?

The best airlines from the US to France include Air France for a direct and immersive French experience, and Delta Airlines for its customer service and extensive network. United Airlines is another top choice, known for its comfort and reliability. Each airline offers unique advantages, so the best choice depends on your preferences for cost, comfort, and flight schedules.

Which airline offers the best in-flight experience to France?

For the best in-flight experience to France, consider airlines like Air France or Lufthansa. Air France provides a taste of French culture with its cuisine and in-flight entertainment. Lufthansa is known for its comfortable seating and quality service. The choice depends on what aspects of the flight experience are most important to you, such as food, comfort, or entertainment.

Are there budget airlines that fly to France?

Certainly, budget-conscious travelers have options for flying to France. Airlines like Norwegian Air offer affordable flights to various French cities. These budget airlines typically provide lower fares by offering basic services, with additional fees for extras like checked baggage and onboard meals. They are ideal for travelers prioritizing cost savings over additional amenities, allowing for a more economical way to explore the beauty of France.

France Airlines in 2025: A Recap

In conclusion, there are many top-rated airlines that fly to France, each with its own unique strengths and offerings. From the luxurious amenities of La Compagnie to the affordable fares of American Airlines, there is an airline out there to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.

Whether you’re looking for exceptional customer service, state-of-the-art technology, or an extensive network of routes, France has it all. So, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a quick weekend getaway, be sure to consider these top airlines for your journey to France. And don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year!

Happy Travels! – Jon

Read next: Scott’s Cheap Flights Review