What is it like to fly in the luxury business & first class of different airlines?
Sky high enjoy luxury and comfort in business and first class
Traveling by plane is and always has been a luxury. You can travel great distances in a relatively short time, it is safe and (when choosing the right airline) you are served at your beck and call along the way. Now, every level of service comes with a certain price tag. Traveling in business or first class often provides the ultimate flight experience for many travelers. The price tag can be seen as a disadvantage, but the benefits for the traveler are often the deciding factor. Faster check-in, priority boarding, choice of meals and beverages and a good bed to sleep in ensure that travelers arrive at their destination a lot more rested. However, one business or first class is not the other! There are airlines that go a step further and offer over-the-top exclusivity. Wondering what to expect from the most luxurious business and first class of different airlines? Then be sure to read on!
KLM - Royal Dutch Airlines
Our national pride KLM, has now updated their World Business Class on all aircraft. All seats (2 - 2.07 meters) can lay completely flat for optimal sleep or relaxing naps. Privacy screens provide even more comfort and the ultimate travel experience. Each passenger also has a personal entertainment screen on which to work or relax, as well as having access to free Wi-Fi on board. On some flights it is possible to dine according to the Anytime for You concept, so-called Restaurant-style dining, with a choice of delicious menus and many extras.
Did you know... KLM is at the forefront of sustainability? For example, sustainable chocolate is served in business class and the carpet is made from recycled materials, including old flight attendant uniforms!
Source: KLM
Etihad Airways
Founded in 2003, this United Arab Emirates airline does take the crown in terms of luxurious indulgences. Not for nothing did this airline receive the title Best Airline of the World several times during the World Travel Awards. On the Airbus A380, which unfortunately does not (anymore) depart from Schiphol, Etihad offers "The Residence: a luxurious three-room apartment in the air, suitable for up to 2 persons. The Residence offers a private bedroom, shower room and separate living room. Travelers have their own VIP Travel Concierge who ensures they lack nothing. Think a private check-in desk, chauffeured limousine and their own private airport lounge. Of course, a private chef at The Residence is also included. Price tag: about 16,000 euros one way.
Source: Etihad Airways
Emirates
On the Airbus A380, Emirates offers a private suite for the first class traveler who likes to dig a little deeper. This suite has its own cinema, privacy doors and a shower spa with products by Bulgari. Á-la-carte dining or enjoying a snack is possible at any time. The cocktail bar is also worth a visit. Colleague Jizlia, got to taste the luxury in business class himself and shared his very pleasant experiences in this blog.
First class in Emirates' Boeing 777 is similar, equipped with soft leather seats and dimmable lights. A real treat!
Source: Emirates
Qatar Airways
On the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350, Qatar offers the Qsuite, a very premium business class product. This in-flight suite is designed to make the traveler feel more like they are flying in a first class cabin! An afternoon tea with a glass of Pommery, à-la-carte dining throughout the flight with again a matching glass of wine. A private HD screen and a bed that can go completely flat, the trip can't be long enough, according to experience experts! Colleague Linda, previously wrote about next level travel in Qatar Airways' Qsuite!
Source: Qatar Airways
Qantas
This airline has especially taken the time to make their beds as fine as possible. Sleeping in business and first class can be completely horizontal (fully flat) on a memory foam mattress with down comforter and ditto pillows. Arriving rested is thus guaranteed! The delicious à-la-carte meals are inspired by the cooking skills of TV chef Neil Perry, who, by the way, is employed by Qantas!
Source: Qantas
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines has also committed to fully flat beds in both business and first class. In business class, luxury meals can be reserved in advance through Book the Cook. First class passengers can also opt for the Suite on Singapore Airlines. This can be booked for 1 person, but there is also a Double Suite with double bed. The leather seats can be adjusted to any position. The sliding doors have blinds: at the push of a button, the traveler has complete privacy. Singapore Airlines offers only the best quality equipment, such as Bang & Olufsen headphones and an entertainment system that remembers your playlist and preferences for next time. The flight can't be long enough this way!
Source: Singapore Airlines
Air France & Cathay Pacific
Air France and Cathay Pacific are also examples of airlines that pay extra attention to menus and entertainment systems, for example. For example, Air France employs chefs with a Michelin star in their pocket and Cathay Pacific offers a full LCD system that makes you feel the trip is over in no time.
Source: Air France
All in all, every airline has something exclusive to offer. At an additional cost, of course. Good and luxurious food, fine beds, massage chairs, a minibar and a private driver? It's all possible! Arriving at the destination rested and less affected by jet lag is an added benefit. An investment, but one that pays off through a better mental and physical condition!
Would you also like to experience five-star treatment in business or first class on your next business trip, including luxury transfer from your front door to the airport to the arrival of the accommodation address?
We are happy to search and book the best opportunities for you!
Travel Well!
Louise Altena,
Business Travel Consultant
Sources:
- Etihad.com
- Singaporeair.com
- Emirates.com
- AirFrance.com
- Cathaypacific.com
- Qantas.com
- KLM.com
- Qatarairways.com
