Top 10 best First Class airlines: On my travel site, I rank the top 10 airlines worldwide for first class flights every year. As more and more airlines ditch their most opulent cabin for the more competitive and better Business Class, First Class is sadly becoming extinct. These days, First Class is only available on a handful of “high-yield” routes—like Singapore to Paris or New York to London—that have a large number of paying customers and a lot of business travelers. Notable features of First Class include first-rate dinner service (complete with premium champagne and caviar), lie-flat seats (with exceptional linen), and first-rate ground service (including limo transfers and dedicated lounges).
Top 10 best First Class airlines
10. SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES
Swiss International Air Lines, the pride of Switzerland, presents a premier experience with its First Class suites on both the Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A330 aircraft. Nestled at the forefront of these planes, passengers are treated to eight spacious, fully enclosed suites. The interior palette boasts warm browns, greys, and accents of European oak wood, creating an inviting ambiance. Noise dampening features such as soft walls, woven fabric bulkheads, and curtain screens ensure a serene journey. Passengers can control electric-mechanical window blinds across all three windows in their suite simultaneously, adding to the comfort and privacy. On the Boeing 777, each passenger enjoys a personal wardrobe and a sliding door, enhancing privacy further. Entertainment reaches new heights with a 32-inch video screen, ensuring an enjoyable flight experience.
9. LUFTHANSA
Lufthansa, a stalwart in the aviation industry, offers a First Class experience that stands the test of time. With generously sized and individually adjustable seats on most long-haul aircraft, passengers can recline in comfort. The seats feature independently adjustable backrests and footrests, along with movable ottomans, ensuring maximum relaxation. Upon request, flight attendants transform the seat into a cozy bed complete with a mattress topper and temperature-regulating duvet. Despite newer competitors, Lufthansa’s First Class remains highly sought-after due to its impeccable service, delectable cuisine, luxurious bedding, and exceptional lounges at Frankfurt and Munich hubs.
8. QATAR AIRWAYS
Qatar Airways elevates luxury with its First Class cabin on the A380 subfleet. Featuring ultra-wide seats adorned in soft fabric and signature design elements, the cabin offers unparalleled comfort. Privacy is paramount, thanks to central and aisle dividers that can be adjusted according to passenger preference. The flexible space allows for seamless transformation into a fully flat-bed or an elegant dining area for two. Passengers are pampered with sleeper suits, flight slippers, and world-class amenities, complemented by Qatar Airways’ renowned onboard service.
7. GARUDA INDONESIA
Garuda Indonesia invites passengers to experience unparalleled luxury aboard its flagship Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. Eight luxurious private suites await First Class travelers, each designed for ultimate comfort and tranquility. Equipped with an ottoman, ergonomic seats, and full-flat beds complete with mattress, duvet, and pillows, the suites provide a peaceful sanctuary above the clouds. Culinary delights await, curated by onboard chefs and sourced from renowned restaurants. Despite limited routes, Garuda Indonesia’s First Class experience remains unmatched.
6. JAPAN AIRLINES
Japan Airlines epitomizes hospitality with its new First Class product onboard the A350 aircraft. Featuring just six suites with privacy doors, the cabin offers an exclusive environment for discerning travelers. Stress-free travel is ensured with ample wardrobe and storage space within the suite, along with innovative amenities such as the world’s first headphone-free stereo. Dining reaches new heights with tempting menus featuring both Western and Japanese cuisine, setting a standard of excellence in the sky.
5. AIR FRANCE
Air France’s La Première cabin sets a new standard of luxury aboard its long-haul Boeing 777-300ER fleet. With four individual suites in a 1-2-1 layout, passengers enjoy unparalleled privacy and comfort. Each suite features a spacious bed, ottoman, and personal 24-inch HD touch screen, ensuring a premium inflight experience. Rumors abound of a new First Class cabin, promising even more opulence from Air France.
4. ETIHAD AIRWAYS
Etihad Airways redefines luxury with its ‘First Apartments’ concept onboard the Airbus A380 superjumbos. More than just a seat, these apartments offer a spacious leather armchair, separate bed, and ample room to move about. Interconnecting apartments cater to companions, while exclusive amenities and an energizing shower enhance the journey. Etihad’s commitment to luxury knows no bounds, setting a new standard in First Class travel.
3. CATHAY PACIFIC
Cathay Pacific’s sophisticated First Class suite reflects the airline’s commitment to excellence. With a sleek design and luxurious materials, the suite transforms seamlessly into a fully flat-bed, ensuring a restful journey. High-quality fabrics and impeccable service further enhance the inflight experience, making Cathay Pacific a top choice for discerning travelers.
2. EMIRATES
Emirates sets a new benchmark for luxury with its First Class suites on the Boeing 777 aircraft. Inspired by the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, these suites feature floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and innovative design elements. Passengers can recline into a fully flat bed or experience a ‘zero-gravity’ position for ultimate relaxation. Virtual windows provide stunning views, while discreet service windows ensure uninterrupted indulgence.
1. SINGAPORE AIRLINES
Singapore Airlines raises the bar with its new First Class suites on the A380 aircraft. With six exclusive suites on the upper deck, passengers enjoy unparalleled luxury and intimacy. Each suite features a separate full-flat bed, adjustable recline, and plush leather chair, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the journey. Couples can convert adjacent suites into a double bed, further enhancing the experience. Exquisite craftsmanship and thoughtful amenities make Singapore Airlines the epitome of luxury in the sky.
Finally, when it comes to first-class air travel, there is a wide range of opulent options available, with several airlines competing for the title of most luxurious in terms of privacy, comfort, and service. Passengers are pampered on every leg of their journey, from the wide suites of Swiss International Air Lines to the cutting-edge ‘First Apartments’ of Etihad Airways. Every airline on our list offers the height of air travel luxury, from the understated sophistication of Cathay Pacific to the cutting-edge innovation of Emirates. The guest can embark on an amazing voyage aboard these top-tier First Class cabins, each offering its own distinct blend of comfort, food, and convenience.
