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Forget business or top-tier economics. If you’re looking for congratulations, then the only way to fly is first class. But with tickets sometimes costing more than 10 times the price of economy class seats, how do you justify the outlay, even on a long-haul flight?
For those who turn left on the plane, the difference in experience is significant: access to lounges on the ground and in the sky, better food, service and comfort.
Last week, British Airways unveiled the design of its new first class cabin, which includes an extra-wide seat (naturally reclining to a completely flat bed), plenty of storage space and touchscreen controls. It is scheduled to debut on their Airbus A380s starting in 2026.
But how will it measure up to what other airlines are doing? We compare the first class services available on major airlines to see what you get for your money.
Frequent Flyer Favorite: Singapore Airlines
Among the variety of travel experts and top-notch frequent travelers I spoke to, their preferred choice was clear: Singapore Airlines.
On their Boeing 777s, there are the wide, hand-stitched leather seats, divided for privacy; and the “book the cook” service, which allows you to order your food, from a broader menu than what would be served on board, up to 24 hours before the flight.
But it’s the little details that regular travelers told me they liked: the mood lighting, the entertainment systems, and the attentive service.
Someone told me the only downside was the rise of influencers on board “who forget that we are paying for both privacy and service.
“The constant selfies in the lounge and onboard clips are attempts, to say the least, although the staff manage them discreetly and effectively.”
A first class flight from London Heathrow to Singapore costs around £7,694 if booked three months in advance.
And if you want to go all out this year, take the last extra step and book a suite. The Airbus A380 options take you to a new level of luxury.
For privacy: Emirates
The national airline of the UAE is popular for the suites it offers to first class passengers on their A380s: essentially sliding doors that close your seat to a small room.
Also on board you will find a suite with a shower and a lounge bar for socializing.
A first class flight from London Heathrow to Dubai International Airport costs around £7,769 if booked three months in advance.
To relax: Cathay Pacific
Sometimes there is a limited amount of champagne you can drink. So if you want to have a good rest on an airline, then Cathay Pacific It is the choice of the connoisseur.
The airline’s famous reclining seat converts into a very spacious, completely flat flight bed, complete with a thick mattress, bedding and comfortable pillows.
A first class flight from London Heathrow to Hong Kong costs around £6,211 if booked three months in advance.
But what do you think? If you frequently travel first class, or can’t stand the thought of paying so much for extra luxuries, let us know in the comments below.