EVA Air has built a reputation as one of Asia’s most polished airlines, and its business class – Royal Laurel Class – continues to impress in 2025. From lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 layout to Rimowa amenity kits and Dom Pérignon champagne, this is a cabin that blends comfort with refinement in a way few carriers can match.
On long-haul routes like Los Angeles to Taipei, San Francisco to Taoyuan, and even connections to Bangkok or Vienna, EVA consistently delivers a premium experience that rivals the likes of Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines. The service feels both professional and genuinely warm, while the cabin design offers space and privacy ideal for overnight journeys. For anyone eyeing a stylish way to cross the Pacific, EVA’s business class belongs at the top of the shortlist.
- Read also: My Favorite Spots to See in Taiwan
My #1 tip to find cheap EVA Air Business Class tickets
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Overview of EVA Air
EVA Air is Taiwan’s second-largest airline and honestly one of the most underrated carriers flying to Asia. They operate exclusively international routes from their main hub at Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, which makes them super focused on long-haul service quality. As a 5-star Skytrax airline and Star Alliance member, they’re legit – but what really impressed me is their perfect safety record with zero aircraft losses or passenger fatalities ever. That’s pretty remarkable for an airline that’s been around since 1991. Their fleet is relatively young at 8 years average age, which means you’re getting modern aircraft with updated cabins. The business class experience varies depending on which plane you’re on, but even their “basic” Premium Laurel class beats most US carriers. I’ve flown them multiple times, and the consistency is what keeps bringing me back.
EVA Air’s fleet: A detailed comparison
The business class experience on EVA Air really depends on which aircraft you end up on, so it’s worth knowing what you’re booking. Here’s the real deal on each type.
Boeing 787-9 & 787-10
These are EVA’s newest and best long-haul aircraft, serving routes like Seattle, Munich, Milan, and Bangkok. The Royal Laurel Class here features a 1-2-1 staggered layout that actually works – every seat has direct aisle access and decent privacy. If you’re flying solo, grab seats 2A or 2K for maximum seclusion. Couples should book the middle D and G seats since you can actually talk to each other. The 787s also have those cool “night sky” ceilings and better air pressure, so you arrive feeling less like garbage. I always try to snag these aircraft when possible – they’re just more comfortable than the older planes.
Boeing 777-300ER
EVA’s 777s handle most US and Canadian routes like Los Angeles and Vancouver. The Royal Laurel Class uses the same 1-2-1 reverse herringbone setup but feels a bit more dated than the 787s. There are 38 business class seats split between two cabins, which can be nice if you want a quieter section. The seats are still fully flat and comfortable, just not as modern feeling. These planes also serve European destinations, so if you’re headed to London or Paris, this is probably what you’ll get. Not bad at all, just not as fancy as the Dreamliners.
Airbus A330-300 & A330-200
For Asian routes like Beijing, Seoul, or Bangkok, you’ll likely end up on an A330 with Premium Laurel Class. The good news is they’ve recently updated these cabins with a 2-2-2 configuration that’s perfect for couples. The seats go fully flat, which is crucial for those 4-6 hour flights within Asia. Solo travelers should grab window seats for privacy. These aren’t as fancy as the long-haul products, but for regional Asian flying, they’re actually really solid. I’ve had some great naps on these planes.
Airbus A321
On shorter hops to places like Hanoi or Hangzhou, EVA uses A321s with a simple 2-2 business class layout. It’s basically domestic first class – fine for 2-3 hour flights but nothing special. The seats are comfortable but don’t lie flat, so don’t expect to sleep much. These are being replaced by A321neos starting in 2029, which should be a nice upgrade.
Future aircraft
Here’s where it gets exciting – EVA has some serious fleet updates coming. They’ve ordered 24 Airbus A350-1000s starting in 2027 to replace the aging 777s, plus 18 A321neos by 2029. The A350-1000 is supposed to be incredible for long-haul flying with better fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. I’m definitely planning some trips around when these start flying – new aircraft usually mean updated business class products too.
EVA Air business class baggage allowance
EVA’s baggage policy for business class is actually pretty generous compared to most airlines. You get two checked bags up to 32kg (70lbs) each – that’s serious luggage space. For carry-on, you can bring two pieces at 7kg (15lbs) each, plus a personal item like a laptop bag. I’ve never had issues with them being strict about the weight limits either, though I wouldn’t push it too far. The priority baggage tags mean your stuff comes out first at baggage claim, which is clutch when you’re trying to make connections or just get home quickly. One thing I love is they don’t nickel and dime you for sports equipment like some carriers do.
Ground experience when flying EVA Air business class
One of the reasons why I think EVA Air is one of the best airlines to fly to Asia is the seamless airport experience.
Check-in
Business class check-in is fast and smooth – you skip the economy lines and get dedicated counters. Online check-in works great too if you want to avoid the airport entirely. I usually check in online and just drop bags at the priority counter, which takes maybe 5 minutes max. The staff is consistently friendly and efficient, none of that rushed feeling you get with US carriers.
Lounges
At Taoyuan Airport in Taipei, EVA operates two solid lounges for business class passengers. The Infinity Lounge is my favorite – it has this cool urban forest theme and actually decent food. They serve both Chinese and Western options, plus there are four private shower rooms if you need to freshen up. The Star Lounge is more business-focused with proper work tables and fast WiFi. Both have plenty of power outlets and comfortable seating. Outside Taiwan, you get access to Star Alliance partner lounges, which is usually fine but not as nice as EVA’s own spaces. I’ve used their Bangkok lounge too, which is solid.
Boarding
Priority boarding actually means something here – you get on first and can settle in while economy passengers are still waiting. The cabin crew is already taking drink orders before everyone’s even boarded, which is a nice touch. No standing around in long lines wondering when your zone will be called.
In-flight comfort & amenities on EVA Air business class
Once you’re comfortably settled in your seat on EVA Air business class, the premium experience really takes off. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during your flight.
Seat features
The Royal Laurel seats are where EVA really shines. They go completely flat – not just “lie-flat” but actually horizontal. The privacy dividers work well, and there’s decent storage space for your stuff. USB and power outlets are everywhere, so keeping devices charged isn’t an issue. When it’s time to sleep, the crew offers turndown service with a mattress pad, pillow, and duvet that makes it feel like an actual bed. I’m 6’2″ and can stretch out completely, which isn’t true on every airline. The Premium Laurel seats on A330s aren’t quite as fancy but still go nearly flat with 62-inch pitch.
In-flight entertainment
The screens are huge – 18 inches in Royal Laurel and 15 inches in Premium Laurel. Picture quality is sharp, and there’s actually a decent selection of movies and shows. They have new releases plus lots of Asian content you won’t find on US carriers. The system is responsive too, none of that laggy nonsense. Noise-canceling headphones are provided and actually work well.
Amenity kits
EVA partnered with Giorgio Armani for their amenity kits, which contain Malin+Goetz products. You get the usual suspects – eye mask, earplugs, toothbrush, lotion – plus they actually give you pajamas on long-haul flights. Jason Wu designed them, and they’re legitimately comfortable, not those cheap polyester things some airlines provide. The amenity bag itself is nice enough to keep using after the flight.
Wi-Fi
Here’s some great news – as of July 2025, EVA started offering free unlimited web browsing for all business class passengers. Before that, WiFi was pretty expensive at $40 for unlimited data. The new policy is permanent starting October 2025, so no more paying for internet in business class. Speeds are decent for basic browsing and messaging, though don’t expect to stream Netflix. They specifically block video streaming and video calls to keep bandwidth manageable.
On-board dining in EVA Air business class
In my opinion, EVA Air’s food and drink offerings rival the best airlines in the world. Trust me, you won’t go hungry!
Food
EVA’s catering is legitimately some of the best in the sky. On long-haul flights, you get three menu options – Western, Taiwanese, and Japanese. I always go for the Taiwanese option because it’s stuff you can’t get anywhere else. The Japanese multi-course meal is incredible if you’re into that experience. Portions are generous without being ridiculous, and presentation is restaurant-quality. For snacks, they’ll make you fresh noodles anytime, which is clutch on those 14-hour flights when you get hungry between meals. Their famous lychee and strawberry bread is actually worth the hype – sweet, fluffy, and definitely Instagram-worthy.
Beverages
The drink selection is where EVA really stands out. They serve Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame champagne in business class – that’s $150+ bottle wine at 35,000 feet. The cocktail menu has creative options, and they stock premium spirits. I’m a whiskey guy, and they serve KAVALAN, which is Taiwanese single malt that’s surprisingly good. Wine selection changes but is consistently solid. For non-alcoholic options, they have fresh juices, premium teas, and different types of milk if you’re into that.
EVA Air Royal Laurel Class vs. Premium Laurel Class
Deciding between EVA Air’s Royal Laurel and Premium Laurel classes depends largely on your destination, as these business class offerings cater to different flight lengths.
Royal Laurel Class
This is EVA’s top business class product on Boeing 787s and 777s. The 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout gives everyone direct aisle access and good privacy. Seats convert to fully flat beds with proper bedding. The 18-inch screens are massive, and you get Giorgio Armani amenity kits. This is what you want for long-haul flights to North America or Europe. Service is typically more attentive too since it’s their premium product.
Premium Laurel Class
Found on A330s for Asian routes, Premium Laurel uses a 2-2-2 layout that’s better for couples. Seats recline to nearly flat (not completely) with 62-inch pitch. Screens are smaller at 15 inches but still good quality. It’s a solid regional business class that beats most US domestic first class products. Perfect for 4-6 hour flights within Asia.
Key differences
Royal Laurel is clearly the premium option with better privacy, fully flat beds, and larger screens. Premium Laurel is more social with the 2-2-2 layout but slightly less luxurious. For flights over 8 hours, I’d definitely prefer Royal Laurel. For shorter Asian routes, Premium Laurel is perfectly fine and often costs less.
Tips for booking EVA Air business class flights
Looking for cheap business class flights to Taiwan? Here are some pointers to get you sitting pretty without breaking the bank.
Use points & miles
EVA is part of Star Alliance, so you have options. Air Canada Aeroplan is probably the easiest for North Americans – 75,000 miles one-way to Asia in business class. ANA Mileage Club charges similar amounts but with minimal fuel surcharges. United MileagePlus has gone up to 110,000 miles one-way after recent devaluations, so it’s less attractive. Avianca LifeMiles can be a good deal during sales. Award space opens 360 days out, so book early if your dates are fixed.
Keep an eye on fare deals
Cash prices fluctuate wildly. I’ve seen business class to Taipei for $1,800 roundtrip during sales, but it can jump to $5,000+ during peak season. Services like Going will alert you to these deals. EVA also runs direct promotions occasionally – sign up for their newsletter and follow their social media.
Book early
If you’re paying cash and have set dates, book as early as possible. Business class inventory gets snatched up by corporate travelers closer to departure, driving prices up. I usually book 2-3 months ahead for the best balance of price and flexibility.
Review the cabin configuration
Before booking, check which aircraft you’ll be on. Royal Laurel on 787s and 777s is significantly better than Premium Laurel on A330s. If you have route options, choose the one with newer aircraft. ExpertFlyer or SeatGuru can help identify aircraft types before booking.
EVA Air business class vs. rival products
There are plenty of the best business class airlines that fly to Asia from the US. Here’s how EVA Air stacks up against some of its main competitors.
China Airlines vs. EVA Air
Both Taiwanese carriers offer solid business class, but EVA edges out China Airlines in service quality and dining. China Airlines’ newest A350 and 777 cabins are competitive on hardware, but EVA’s soft product is more consistent. The Giorgio Armani amenity kits and premium dining give EVA the edge. China Airlines is SkyTeam, so your loyalty program might influence your choice.
EVA Air vs. Starlux
Starlux is the new kid on the block with gorgeous cabins and boutique service. Their business class feels more modern and luxurious than EVA’s. However, EVA has better route coverage and more predictable service. Starlux is great if they serve your route, but EVA is more reliable for consistent quality across their network.
Cathay Pacific vs. EVA Air
Cathay used to be the gold standard for Asian business class, but they’ve cut back significantly post-COVID. EVA now offers better value and more consistent service. Cathay’s hard product is still excellent when you get their updated aircraft, but service has become inconsistent. EVA is usually cheaper too.
Bottom line
EVA Air offers one of the best business class experiences for flights to Asia. The combination of modern aircraft, excellent dining, flat beds, and consistent service makes it my go-to choice. While Starlux might be fancier and Singapore Airlines more premium, EVA delivers the best overall value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about EVA Air business class
Are you still curious about which airline is the best to fly to Taiwan? Here are some questions I get asked a lot that will help decide whether EVA Air business class is the right option for you.
Does EVA Air have lay-flat seats?
Yes, EVA Air’s business class (Royal Laurel Class and Premium Laurel Class) offers lay-flat seats. In Royal Laurel Class, the seats fully recline into flat beds.
Does EVA Air give pajamas in business class?
Yes, EVA Air provides pajamas to business class passengers on long-haul flights. These pajamas are high quality and comfortable.
Do you get free alcohol on EVA Air?
Yes, passengers in business class on EVA Air can enjoy a range of complimentary alcoholic beverages. The selection includes premium spirits, cocktails, wine, and champagne, along with various non-alcoholic options.
Does EVA Air have a lounge?
Yes, EVA Air operates several lounges. At Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, their primary hub, EVA Air offers the best lounges for business class passengers. This includes The Infinity and The Star lounges, which provide various dining options, showers, and comfortable seating areas. Additionally, EVA Air has dedicated lounges at other airports and also provides access to partner lounges through its Star Alliance membership at airports around the world.
- Looking to find EVA Air business class deals 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 and first class deals.
