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The Best First Class Seats You Can Fly Right Now

By Gilbert Ott and Ramsey Qubein

It's said that the 1960s were the Golden Age of travel . In the 2020s—with all the improvements in the first-class cabins, at least—we could call our present era the Diamond Age. In the front of the plane, gone are the cigarettes and La-Z-Boy-style seats; in their place are massive suites with doors, lie-flat beds, showers in the clouds, and caviar collections fit for a king. Don't forget the bone china for in-flight afternoon tea or the bespoke bedding for a long nap too.

And these days, even business class cabins on some airlines have amenities once reserved only for first class like privacy doors that fully close for maximum privacy or dine-on-demand meals. Demand for premium travel is sky-high, and many people are willing to pay for the privileges that come along with sitting in front of the curtain. But not all premium cabins are created equally.

While many airlines have folded their first class into business entirely, making biz the most premium cabin you can fly on their planes, other carriers have pushed their first-class suites to soaring new heights to differentiate themselves from the pack and attract those willing to pay those sky-high fares (or cash in their miles) for them. If you’re looking for the best in the sky, these first-class airplane seats are everything and more.

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Singapore Airlines First Class Suites on the Airbus A380

Singapore Airlines has doubled down in recent years to create what's widely regarded as the single finest commercial flying experience. That's not just hyperbole—at 50 square feet, its Suites on the A380 win by measurement as well, giving first-class passengers more space than any other airline. Even though its double-decker planes are not currently flying to US runways, you will currently find them on flights from Singapore to London, Paris, Sydney, and Mumbai.

The fact that the flight experience out of Singapore starts with a trip to a lounge formally known as The Private Room doesn’t hurt either. The airline recently invested more than $36 million into its Terminal 3 lounges at Changi International Airport , and this includes where the luckiest first class flyers get to rest before their flights. Here, drink selections like Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2007 or the signature SilverKris Sling (a spin on the hometown Singapore Sling) flow like water, and the lounge feels downright serene.

On board, you’re in a true suite, with a reclining swivel chair capable of facing out toward the windows or inward to the cabin for dining; there's also a desktop for work, and a separate bed. A tablet controls everything from dimming lights to changing their colors. You can also carry it with you throughout the suite and use it, whether you’re in your chair or lounging on the bed. And then there’s the 32-inch television, which wouldn’t look out of place in most living rooms. Singapore also went one step further for traveling duos: Select suites can be combined to form a 100-square-foot apartment in the sky.

The airline’s book-the-cook service allows you to choose from more than a dozen meals before departure, including dishes like lobster Thermidor and filet mignon, although the airline says its Hainanese chicken rice is one of the most ordered advance selections. A new partnership with Golden Door Spa is bringing its wellness-focused menus to flights too. The airline sources much of its produce from sustainable vertical aeroponic farms .

Cathay Pacific First Class on the Boeing 777

Cathay Pacific's first-class suite lacks many of the bolted-down features you'd expect on a list of the world's top cabins. No, it doesn't have a door, nor does it have a separate seat and bed. But if you ever wished a lie-flat seat could be your actual bed, it would be this one, and it is angled away from the aisle for more privacy.

Booking into Cathay Pacific first class means you're never let down at any point in your journey. Cathay's The Pier, its first class lounge in Hong Kong , rivals many of the finest five-star hotels in decor—and arguably in spa amenities too. There are also private sleeping rooms, complimentary spa treatments, and an a la carte restaurant to seal the deal.

On board, it's impossible not to revel in the handwritten welcome notes given to passengers, before the question of “Would you like a glass of Krug Grand Cuvée 2004?” is proposed. A companion can sit on the ottoman opposite the suite's seat for an intimate dinner for two, with a table set like the most superb restaurants in Hong Kong and a menu featuring recipes from some of the city’s top Michelin-starred chefs. From the finest cuts of meat to an authentic claypot rice or dim sum basket, no one will go hungry. And when it comes time to hit the hay, the crew arranges each pillow, duvet, and mattress topper like a concerto from a grandmaster.

If that’s not good enough, there are rumors of a new first class product to arrive in 2025 with both privacy doors and higher walls, but also the same top-notch service for which the Hong Kong airline has earned its fame. While the exact details remain top-secret, this should be rolling out on the carrier's new Boeing 777-9 aircraft in the coming years.

Air France La Première Class on the Boeing 777-300ER

There are first-class cabins with larger footprints and plenty more glitz, but Air France's first class is the epitome of sophistication. There's high-thread-count bedding, a crew who could pass most sommelier exams, and teams on the ground tasked with ensuring that every step of the journey is flawless. One example? Each passenger enjoys a private sedan from the lounge directly to their plane, bypassing the woes of the terminal entirely.

This is an experience where 24-hour fasting beforehand should almost be mandatory too, as the exquisite on-board tasting menu, complete with polished silver cloche for dramatic service effect, was designed by a rotating group of the world’s finest chefs , with the most recent dishes conceived by three Michelin-starred Régis Marcon, who whipped up a delectable menu with entrée selections like pigeon filet, sea bass, and prawns bouillabaisse. In fact, Air France works with more than a dozen culinary stars and Michelin-starred chefs, keeping the reputation for French cuisine as elevated as possible. There are also Clarins massage and beauty skincare partnerships in the lounge.

For those who've experienced the other end of the plane, the first thing to marvel at on board is the fact that you've got four windows all to yourself. Your seat—if you insist on degrading it by simply calling it “a seat”—is the ultimate relaxation chamber. Because doors are boring, Air France introduced thick, floor-to-ceiling curtains, which only intensify the feeling that you're in a chic Parisian bedroom, rather than a plane. It comes as no surprise that the airline who once operated the Concorde would have such a chic first-class product both on the ground and in the air. In fact, the truly indulgent can even reserve all four suites in the first-class cabin for private use, creating a long-haul private-jet experience at a fraction of the cost.

Emirates First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER

With virtual reality, zero-gravity seats, and fabrics inspired by Mercedes-Benz interiors, the latest first-class suites on Emirates are completely over the top. Perhaps what makes this experience so unique is the sheer notion that the middle seat is actually the best seat. For the new Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates offers two rows with three suites across, rather than the traditional four. To make sure that the middle seat passengers weren't missing out, Emirates created virtual reality "windows," which show the scenes going on outside in HD clarity. After a few glasses from the airline's $500-million wine cellar, including cult favorites like Château Mouton Rothschild 2004, no one would hold it against you for believing you're in an actual window seat.

Emirates also commissioned top space engineers to create a zero-gravity position in the first-class seat, so you can feel as if you're floating through the skies. And with a seat that comfortable, who wants to get up to flag down a refill? Emirates created a FaceTime-style setup, where you can video chat with the crew to make any requests.

Passengers can adjust their personal lighting according to their mood and even control the temperature within the suite. They've also upgraded the TVs to 32-inch HD monitors, while also introducing the only floor-to-ceiling privacy doors found in the sky. Resting comes easy with a flat bed and goodies like leather-bound journals, Byredo eye cream, chamomile sleep oil, pillow mist, and an ensuite (non-alcoholic) minibar with soft drinks, mints, and snacks. In fact, there are so many gifts for first-class fliers that flight attendants present amenities like pajamas designed to prevent skin dehydration thanks to shea butter and Argan oil within the fabric, slippers, and deluxe amenity kits in a keepsake bag.

The only things missing on the Boeing 777 are the famous in-flight showers, bar, and lounge available on the A380. Luckily, Emirates's first-class lounge in Dubai makes up for it with its dedicated Moët and Chandon bar, lavish shower suites, and an a la carte menu that includes a growing number of vegan and gluten-free selections. More decadent choices include chargrilled Wagyu burgers, 72-hour braised beef short ribs, and foie gras terrine. Even better, the airline has beefed up the amount of top-shelf Champagne and caviar it brings onboard for first class passengers to allow them to have second and even third helpings, should they wish.

Jessica Puckett

María Casbas

CNT Editors

All Nippon Airways First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER

ANA’s first-class airplane seats, dubbed The Suites, feature fully-closing doors and perhaps the widest entertainment screens flying today at 42 inches. Japanese hospitality is on full display with top-ups of high-caliber Champagne setting the tone for the flight. There’s also a lengthy list of sakes, shōchū, and plum wine to choose from too. Need something from a flight attendant? You won’t wait more than 15 seconds after ringing the call bell, and it will be delivered with traditional precision the carrier is known for. Japanese omakase or Western menus allow fliers to mix and match their above-the-clouds meals, and a companion can join using the ottoman as a second seat.

Everything is designed for easy access, like an individual coat closet should you need to reach for something mid-flight, and electronic window blinds that close at the touch of a button. There’s another noteworthy seat aboard, too: The aircraft features bidet toilets in the lavatory. Free internet is the cherry on top because, these days, who can afford being disconnected while crisscrossing the globe?

Lufthansa First Class on the Boeing 747-8

Sleek cabins, ever-efficient German service, and luxury car transfers to the plane earn Lufthansa top marks for first class. But it’s the little details that make Lufthansa so special, such as an elegant fresh rose at each seat, plush pajamas tied with a ribbon, designer amenity kits stuffed with cologne, automatically controlled window blinds, and private storage closets for carry-on and garment bags.

Excellent bedding assures a comfortable rest, but for those that want to work, free internet is a welcome perk. Dining is a multi-course affair with some courses plated at your seat like heaping helpings of caviar and a lovely after-dinner cheese cart.

There are no privacy doors guarding each seat, but the airline installed special carpeting to dampen the sound of foot traffic (there’s hardly any in first class anyway). Slightly delayed, but coming in 2024 is a new first class product aboard the Airbus A350 that will feature sliding doors and walls that stretch to the ceiling.

In its Frankfurt hub, first-class fliers may never set foot in the main airport terminal either. Instead, a private building with a restaurant, napping rooms, shower suites, a cigar bar, and even dedicated security and immigration await. It feels more like flying private, and that’s extra special on one of the last few airlines to fly the 747 jumbo-jet , a.k.a. the queen of the skies.

Qantas First Class on the Airbus A380

The return of the double-decker Airbus A380 for Qantas flights between Australia and other parts of the globe highlights the tremendous demand for post-pandemic flights Down Under. This includes seats in its celebrated first-class cabin, which wins customer accolades for its airport lounge experiences with restaurant and complimentary spa services, onboard dining (including numerous plant-based options), and comfortable bed with companion seat for dining.

However, there is room for improvement: The airline could add onboard Wi-Fi to the A380 and create more privacy between seats with a door). Luckily, this is all in the works for its new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft on the way by the end of 2025. These will have both a lie-flat bed and a separate seat in a private cabin with a door, plus onboard Wi-Fi. The airline plans to use these planes on its Project Sunrise flights (ultra-long-haul, nonstop services between Australia and places like New York and London). With enough time to eat, sleep, and be entertained, the privacy and service will give Qantas an edge that is hard to beat.

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What Flying First Class Is Really Like and How to Decide If It's Worth It

Here's what to expect if you're flying in first class on Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Every time you board a plane, there they are: the flight's first-class passengers. While you were at the gate waiting for your group number to be called (and likely stressing about nabbing space in the overhead compartment ), they were getting settled into their extra-large seats with dedicated carry-on space. And as you sulk past them toward your narrow seat in the back of the plane, they snuggle in under a complimentary blanket and sip Champagne .

That, you tell yourself, is what flying should be like.

But is the extra space and next-level service worth the pricey ticket ? To explore that very question, we've pulled together what it looks like to fly in first class on various U.S. airlines, how flying in first class is different from traveling in business class and economy, and how the benefits change — in some cases, dramatically — when you book first class on a long-haul international flight versus a domestic one.

Benefits of Flying in First Class

First-class passengers enjoy several benefits before they even board the plane. For starters, they don't have to wait in the long economy check-in line, they get free checked bags, and they have an easier time going through security , as that first-class ticket may mean access to a different TSA line.

From there, they get to board the plane first, so they have time to stow their bags and settle in without a line of passengers crowding around. And, of course, on board, they often get extra legroom, a wider seat with a more exaggerated recline, a blanket and a pillow, a plush amenity kit, beverage service that includes alcohol, and better food (and more of it).

Flying First Class on Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has six onboard experiences : Delta One, Premium Select, First Class, Comfort+, Main Cabin, and Basic Economy, but some offerings and cabins are only available on certain routes. For example, the ultra-luxe Delta One cabin — which has lie-flat seats, lip balm and hand cream by Grown Alchemist, and sleep amenities like an oversized duvet and a comfy down-alternative pillow — is only available on long-haul international flights and select long-haul domestic flights.

Pre-flight Service: Those flying in first class with Delta get Sky Priority service from the moment they enter the airport. That translates to accelerated check-in, security, and baggage handling, plus early boarding.

Baggage: Up to two free checked bags.

Seating: Up to eight inches of extra legroom and up to 5.4 inches of seat recline.

In-flight Service: A dedicated first-class cabin flight attendant and complimentary drinks and a snack. Those flying more than 900 miles can expect to receive a first-class meal box; passengers traveling between 900 and 2,399 miles receive a chef-curated meal and snacks, while flights over 2,300 miles include a full meal service with snacks and several entrées to choose from.

Flying First Class on United Airlines

On flights within the U.S., United Airlines' highest level of service is United First , but on flights from the U.S. to Latin America or the Caribbean (and some U.S. transcontinental flights) United Business is the first-class equivalent. Meanwhile, United Polaris provides the airline's ultimate flight experience — think lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and slippers.

Pre-flight Service: With United, first-class passengers can use the quicker, shorter Premier Access lines to speed up the check-in, security, and boarding processes.

Baggage: Up to two free checked bags with priority baggage handling, meaning your suitcases get special attention and will be among the first to arrive at baggage claim.

Seating: In United's first-class cabin, expect the most legroom possible, and with United Polaris, get ready for fully reclining seats that convert to a flat six-foot, six-inch bed.

In-flight Service: Beer, wine, and spirits (including a rotating craft beer selection) and access to DirecTV and United Private Screening, for all the latest movies and TV shows.

Flying First Class on American Airlines

Like on United, on American Airlines, the first-class designation marks the highest level on flights around the U.S., while business class is the highest level on shorter international routes, including Bermuda and Canada. On some long-distance flights (both domestic and international), passengers have the option to book seats in Flagship First or Flagship Business classes, which make up the brand's most luxurious product — think lie-flat seats, access to the Flagship Lounge, and a sleep amenity set from Casper.

Pre-flight Service: Those booking a first-class ticket with American will be granted priority access through the airport's most congested areas, from check-in to security to the gate.

Baggage: Up to three free checked bags, depending on the flight.

Seating: In American's first-class cabins, seats are wider and recline farther, although the exact increase varies by flight and aircraft layout.

In-flight Service: In first class, passengers will enjoy menus curated by premier chefs — such as chef and registered dietitian nutritionist Ellie Krieger, who focuses on healthy dishes, and Sam Choy, creator of Pacific Rim cuisine — thanks to the airline's partnership with the James Beard Foundation, along with extra snacks and a beverage service that includes alcohol.

Flying First Class Versus Business Class

On some airlines, like United and American, first-class fares offer the highest level of service on flights across the U.S., while business class provides the highest level of service on shorter-distance international routes (such as those heading to the Caribbean). If a plane has both cabin types, flying business class is typically a step down from flying first class.

Keep in mind that some airlines have a premium economy category (think Delta's Delta Comfort+ ), which tends to fall between economy and business or first class. A premium economy booking may have extra legroom, better meal service, and an increased bag allowance, but the perks can vary.

Flying First Class on Long-haul International Flights

Want the ultimate first-class experience? Save up and book a first-class ticket on a long-haul international flight (or in some cases, a U.S. transcontinental flight). It's on these long routes that you'll find that dreamy elevated flight experience.

While almost all airlines offer lie-flat seats and thoughtful sleep amenities, some of them truly excel at taking things to the next level. First class on Emirates' A380 and Boeing 777 planes , for instance, means flying in a fully enclosed suite with a full bed, an onboard shower, and a first-class bar and lounge. Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways , Etihad Airways, and Air France are all known for their respective first-class service and amenities.

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The 21 Best International First Class Airlines in the World

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What Makes an International First Class Airline Great?

1. etihad residence on the a380, 2. air france la premiere on the 777-300er, 3. emirates new first class suites on the 777-300er, 4. singapore airlines’ new first class suites on the a380, 5. lufthansa first class, 6. cathay pacific first class, 7. japan airlines first class, 8. ana first class, 9. emirates first class suites on the a380, 10. etihad first class apartments, 11. thai airways first class, 12. garuda indonesia first class on the 777-300er, 13. singapore airlines a380 “old” first class suites, 14. qantas first class, 15. swiss air first class on the 777-300er, 16. singapore airlines first class on the 777-300er, 17. korean air kosmo suites 2.0, 18. asiana airlines first class on the a380, 19. oman air first class, 20. qatar airways first class on the a380, 21. china eastern airlines first class, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

At Upgraded Points, we get a lot of questions about which are the “best” first class airlines. While there’s no objective answer that will please all travelers, we believe it’s worthwhile to create a list of our favorites.

This list of the best international first class airlines will serve as a guide for you to start dreaming about your next first class flight purchase with points and miles.

Keep in mind that we listed first class products that we personally think are the best based on our own experiences, industry research, and opinions of fellow travelers.

There are many different aspects that make first class flights special.

For many of these airlines, the first class experience starts on the ground before you even get to the airport! Some airlines provide first class passengers with chauffeur service to the airport and access to magnificent first class lounges.

That being said, this guide is not limited only to first class flights that are bookable with points. As you will find out, we include flights like the SWISS Air first class, which cannot ordinarily be booked with points.

We considered the following aspects of a first class flight when determining each ranking:

• Ground experience (ground transportation, lounge experience, and immigration or customs escort)
• Hard product (seat size, comfort level, amenities, inflight monitor, cabin configuration, privacy, and more)
• Soft product (food and beverage, amenity kit, and attentiveness of service staff)
• Award pricing and availability

Hot Tip: Want to access more than  1,200 airport lounges across 130 countries (without flying Business or First Class?) The Platinum Card ® from American Express  is the #1 card for lounge access .

The 21 Best International First Class Airlines and Cabins

Without further ado, let’s get into our list of the best international first class airlines and cabins. Remember that while we attempted to make this ranking as objective as possible, this list is still our opinion.

We’ll provide an overview of the flagship product mentioned in each ranking, explain the best ways (if applicable) to book with points, and describe why we believe it deserves its ranking.

The Etihad Residence is without a doubt the most phenomenal commercial flight experience you can have . When you reserve the Etihad Residence, you get 3 separate rooms aboard the A380: a living room, bedroom, and shower room.

Your double bed is 6′ 10″ long, your living room (actual seat) has a leather double seat sofa plus a 32″ inflight monitor, and your bathroom is your own private oasis with a full-height shower and vanity.

You’ll also have a private butler — to call this pampering is a complete understatement.

You’ll be able to request customized food ahead of time, utilize a luxurious chauffeur, and pretty much request anything (legal) you want!

This product is absolutely nuts. Unfortunately, you can only find it on the A380, of which Etihad flies 1 to the U.S. on the New York City (JFK) – Abu Dhabi (AUH) route.

Here are the other routes you can take that are serviced by the Residence-equipped A380:

• Abu Dhabi (AUH) – London (LHR)
• Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Paris (CDG)
• Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Sydney (SYD)

Contrary to popular belief, you can actually fly on the Etihad Residence with points — you’d just need around 1-3 million Etihad Guest miles each way .

Psst… award availability is very good! I guess it has something to do with the fact that 1-3 million miles present a high barrier to entry, so most people don’t have enough points to be able to afford this luxurious experience.

Air France calls its long-haul first class “ La Première .” It’s operated on the A380 and 777-300ER, but you should never fly on Air France in the A380, as its premium cabin products are not near as nice.

On the other hand, Air France’s 777-300ER business and first class products are quite sensational.

La Première includes one of the best ground experiences, including tarmac transfers in luxury cars and access to a beautiful lounge in Paris. It’s also one of the only flights that separate seats with curtains, and your area comes with a desk lamp for reading after the lights are dimmed.

You’ll enjoy exquisite and phenomenal French dining along with ridiculous exclusivity and privacy.

To even book La Première, you have to hold elite status with Air France/KLM Flying Blue . Keep in mind that holding the lowest-tier, Flying Blue Silver, will also enable passengers to book La Première (albeit at an exorbitant price).

If you’ve got your heart dead-set on booking La Première with points and also have secured Flying Blue Silver, at minimum you can expect to pay 200,000 Flying Blue miles one-way on flights between the U.S. and Europe.

Here are the routes to/from the U.S. where you can fly La Première on the 777-300ER:

• Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Paris (CDG)
• Houston (IAH) – Paris (CDG)
• Miami (MIA) – Paris (CDG)
• San Francisco (SFO) – Paris (CDG)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Paris (CDG)
• New York City (JFK) – Paris (CDG)

There are also some very intriguing routes that operate La Première on the 777-300ER, such as to/from São Paulo (GRU) and Luanda (LAD).

All in all, it’s extremely difficult to book La Première with points, but there are periodically promotional prices that discount this product to a more manageable price.

Emirates is known for having more glitzy and over-the-top first class products. With stiff competition from Singapore Airlines and Etihad, they’ve been tasked with continuously innovating more luxurious experiences.

They have therefore rolled out the new 777-300ER First Class Suites. With 6 suites per aircraft in 2 rows configured in a 1-1-1 arrangement, these suites have caught the frequent flyer world by storm.

These First Class Suites are the first seats that feature a fully-enclosed seat with floor-to-ceiling walls , which means 1 thing: total privacy.

On top of this, you’ll enjoy classic Emirates luxury including Bvlgari amenities, Emirati fine-dining, virtual windows (on middle seats), personal climate controls, on-demand dining via your personal tablet, and beautiful cabin finishes thanks to Mercedes-Benz.

Find Emirates’ new First Class Suites on 777-300ER’s flying these routes:

• Dubai (DXB) – Frankfurt (FRA)
• Dubai (DXB) – Hamburg (HAM)
• Dubai (DXB) – Geneva (GVA)
• Dubai (DXB) – Brussels (BRU)
• Dubai (DXB) – London-Stansted (STN)
• Dubai (DXB) – Tokyo-Haneda (HND)
• Dubai (DXB) – Vienna (VIE)

Unfortunately, there are no planes with the new first class suites on flights to or from the U.S. — the 777s flying to the U.S. don’t have these products yet.

To be sure that the flight you’re booking is actually equipped with the new First Class Suites, here’s what the seat map will look like on ExpertFlyer :

The best way to book these suites is to find a cheap flight, typically through a routing like Colombo (CMB) – Geneva (GVA). Check out this itinerary, which is ridiculously cheap at $3,400 round-trip for 22 hours in Emirates’ new First Class Suites.

Hot Tip: Need help booking? See our guide on the best ways to book Emirates First Class using points.

Flying on Singapore Airlines is something that the Upgraded Points team is very familiar with — we’ve flown both the new and old A380 suites.

Needless to say, we love flying on Singapore Airlines. Though the ground experience isn’t as refined as Air France’s La Première, you do get access to The Private Room at Changi Airport (SIN), which features a-la-carte dining.

Singapore’s new A380 First Class Suites features your own private seat, along with a separate bed that which you can turn into a double bed with 2 seats. You can utilize a personal tablet to control lighting, request service, and more.

Arranged in 3 rows of 2 seats for 6 suites total, these A380 First Class Suites are very exclusive. You can swivel and recline your chair and slide a door closed to make your suite super private (though not fully enclosed with floor-to-ceiling doors like Emirates’ 777 new First Class Suites).

The luxurious Lalique amenities along with the 32″ television monitors make this a must-experience for everyone. Don’t forget to sip on unlimited Krug or Taittinger Champagne!

Singapore Airlines is pretty consistent about releasing award seats , but unfortunately the new A380 is only flown to select destinations from Singapore .

Currently, these new A380 suites are flown on 5 routes.

• Singapore (SIN) – Hong Kong (HKG) 
• Singapore (SIN) – London-Heathrow (LHR)
• Singapore (SIN) – Zurich (ZRH)
• Singapore (SIN) – Sydney (SYD)
• Singapore (SIN) – Shanghai (PVG)

If you’re willing and you find award availability, you can fly on the old A380 suites (which we’ll get to later) and the new A380 suites in a single itinerary. Here’s an example route that Alex flew:

• New York City (JFK) – Frankfurt (FRA)
• Frankfurt (FRA) – Singapore (SIN)
• Singapore (SIN) – Sydney (SYD) 

Bottom Line:  Singapore Airlines’ ultra-luxe new A380 First Class Suites are a great way to fly on flagship routes to Hong Kong (HKG). Unfortunately, partner award availability is nonexistent, so you’ll need to use their own mileage system. Luckily, they are an American Express transfer partner , Chase transfer partner , Citi transfer partner , and Marriott transfer partner .

Update: Lufthansa has decided to retire half of its Airbus A380 fleet, and the remaining 7 A380’s will not return to service until 2022. When brought back, the A380’s will only serve the Munich hub and not the Frankfurt hub.

Rightfully, Lufthansa is an airline that turns heads with its first class . Though its business class (which doesn’t feature direct-aisle access for all seats) leaves much to be desired, the first class is certainly top-notch.

Lufthansa’s hard product isn’t anything terribly special; it’s the soft product that makes all the difference here.

You can expect some fantastic food, a polished First Class Lounge featuring a cigar bar, and an unforgettable ground experience featuring Porsche tarmac transfers.

Award availability isn’t released to partners until around 15 days before departure date.

Hot Tip: Need help booking? See our guide on the best ways to book Lufthansa First Class using points.

Cathay Pacific is an airline that holds a special place in my heart as a Hong Konger, and the luxury afforded by Cathay Pacific in first class is fantastic.

They’ve got industry-leading seat width at 36” wide , and a 2-row cabin on the 777 with a 1-1-1 configuration. These seats are massive and can fit up to 3 people comfortably .

You’ll enjoy one of the most comfortable lie-flat beds in the sky, plus caviar, champagne, and a level of service that’s far too rare nowadays.

You can book this with American Airlines miles ,  Alaska miles , Cathay Pacific Asia Miles , and British Airways Avios . And if you’re interested in routes to/from the U.S., don’t miss our Definitive Guide to Cathay Pacific U.S. Routes .

Hot Tip: Also, make sure to check out our guide on the best ways to book Cathay Pacific first class . 

Japan Airlines is an airline that I will never be opposed to flying. They’ve got a retro look on their first class product , ranging from the lounges to the brown leather armchair.

Their food and beverage are top-notch, featuring the discontinued (and very expensive) Hibiki 17 whisky.

All first class passengers on long-haul flights receive Bose noise-cancellation headphones , multi-course (almost like kaiseki) meals, Shiseido wellness kits in addition to amenity kits, Cristal champagne (on U.S. routes), and super comfy pajamas.

Japan Airlines is excellent about releasing close-in award availability — they release pretty much all of their unoccupied seats a day or 2 before departure . They’re also excellent about releasing consistent award seats farther in advance.

Some of the best ways you can book Japan Airlines first class are with American Airlines miles, Japan Airlines miles, and Alaska miles.

Hot Tip: Not sure which rewards card is best for you? Read our expert opinions on the best travel rewards credit cards in our deep-dive post!

ANA’s first class is similarly exquisite — almost like a pod with an inordinate amount of privacy.

You’ll enjoy a great variety of food and beverage when flying ANA’s first class; the seat itself has tons of storage and features some great engineering. The sacrifice in having all this storage and handy compartments is that window seats only have 1 window, as opposed to the 2 or 3 windows in other airlines’ first class seats.

One drawback in this seating configuration is that the seats are actually a little too private — to the point that if you’re traveling with someone else, talking to them might be difficult . On the plus side, they offer Samsonite amenity kits, which is a nice collectible item.

ANA releases plenty of award availability far in advance, since their general philosophy is not to release award seats right before departure — they’d rather fly the seats empty. As a result, your best bet is to book far in advance .

There are many ways to book ANA first class , and each has benefits and drawbacks.

• Booking directly with ANA gives the best award availability and great award rates. Unfortunately, you can only book round-trip tickets.
• Virgin Atlantic gives the best first class award prices, by far.
• You can also book with Air Canada Aeroplan , United MileagePlus , or Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer .

Hot Tip: Check out our review of ANA’s inaugural Airbus A380 “Flying Honu” flight in first class and our review of ANA’s The Suite first class on a Boeing 777-300ER .

The Emirates A380 First Class Suites have captivated the frequent flyer world for many years. When it first came out, it was a game changer for first class flights — especially with the inflight shower spa.

These suites are equipped with gold and wooden finishes, Bvlgari amenities, your own private mini-bar, and more. Emirates offers bottomless caviar and Dom Perignon champagne, a very long seat, the famous inflight shower spa, and fantastic onboard entertainment.

The only drawback to these First Class Suites is that the seats are actually not that wide at 23”. Also, the food can be hit-or-miss. Overall, though, this is a very blingy product that will certainly make for special memories.

Emirates also historically offered a chauffeur service, though that’s no longer the case, even for award bookings made with Emirates miles.

Generally, Emirates is very good about award availability, especially far in advance. Close-in award availability is less consistent, but still possible.

The best way to book Emirates first class without paying surcharges is with Alaska miles , which is still ridiculously expensive. Some other ways to book with surcharges include Emirates Skywards , Japan Airlines miles , and Korean Air .

Hot Tip: Consider also going to a destination that prohibits fuel surcharges, such as Australia or New Zealand.

The Etihad First Class Apartments are a classic version of Middle Eastern luxury. Though the airline is struggling to make ends meet, it’s still possible to fly this product…for now.

These Apartments are pretty similar to Singapore Airlines’ new A380 suites (see #4 above), except that your Apartments seat doesn’t swivel like the one in the Singapore product.

In the Etihad First Class Apartments, you’ll find a separate armchair and 6’10” bed. There are beds that connect with each other so you can make it a sort of double bed — though there will still be a wall halfway through that separates the 2 people.

You can also enjoy the shower and bar aboard the flight, as well as a meeting room/lounge and en-suite vanity. Acqua di Parma is typical for the Apartments amenity kit (a legitimately fantastic skincare line).

Etihad is very reliable when it comes to award availability for up to 2 passengers in the First Class Apartments. Unfortunately, the only route you can find it on in the U.S. is from New York City ( JFK ) to Abu Dhabi (AUH) , just like on the Etihad Residence (see #1 above).

Though there are many ways to book Etihad First Class with points — you can use American Airlines miles , Etihad miles , and Asiana miles for some great deals.

If you’re flying internationally, try out the Apartments on a non-U.S. flight to get access to more award availability.

Here are the remaining A380 routes that feature the Apartments:

Here’s the thing about Asian carriers: the hard products on first class may not be as cutting-edge or “blingy” as on the Middle East carriers, but the soft product and service are almost unbeatable.

This is the case for a carrier like THAI Airways, which operates a bunch of planes that have a first class product: 747s , 777s, A380s, etc.

The hard product in first class is pretty similar, though the A380 seats are actually a bit larger (definitely not the case for business class). The 747 has more private seats, but they’re a tad smaller. It all depends on your personal preferences.

THAI Airways is also one of the few airlines that provide Rimowa amenity kits, which I go nuts for (it’s a strange obsession, I know).

The best way to summarize THAI Airways first class is that you’ll be treated like royalty . Say hello to buggy transport in the airport, complimentary 60-minute massages, free flow of Dom Perignon, and great inflight amenities (like those Rimowa kits!).

The only problem is that their inflight Wi-Fi isn’t free — and it’s not cheap either.

THAI Airways doesn’t operate any flights from the U.S.; we would highly suggest departing from Bangkok (BKK) to experience the First Class Lounge (and massage).

You can use Avianca LifeMiles or United miles to book THAI Airways first class. There’s some phenomenal value to be had here, particularly between Bangkok and Australia/New Zealand or Tokyo.

Garuda Indonesia is the flag carrier of Indonesia, and they equip a select number of 777-300ER’s with their flagship first class product.

It is notoriously difficult to book this Garuda first class product . Actually, it’s difficult to book SkyTeam first class flights in general, so Garuda isn’t alone here. Still, it’s especially difficult even compared to other SkyTeam Airlines .

If you do manage to snag a first class flight, you can expect chauffeur service, perfect customer service at every point of your trip, a fantastic hard product, and an onboard feast.

Interestingly, Garuda Indonesia is a transfer partner with Citi ThankYou Rewards , and they have in the past offered 90% off first class award bookings , which is frankly ridiculous. Be warned, though — the normal one-way first class award prices are off-the-wall expensive. Like, 190,000 miles one-way from Jakarta to London expensive.

Garuda Indonesia only operates this product on a few flights:

• Jakarta (CGK) – London (LHR)
• Jakarta (CGK) – Amsterdam (AMS)
• Jakarta (CGK) – Jeddah (JED) 
• Bali-Denpasar (DPS) – Tokyo-Narita (NRT)
• Jakarta (CGK) – Tokyo-Haneda (HND)

Singapore Airlines has 2 variants of their First Class Suites. We talked above about the new First Class Suites on the A380 (see #4 above), but the “old” First Class Suites on the remaining A380 routes are still phenomenal.

There are 4 rows of suites, with rows 2 and 3 in a 1-2-1 configuration and rows 1 and 4 in a 1-1 configuration on the sides of the aircraft. The middle seats are the ones that can be converted into a double bed , so consider that when choosing your seat(s).

It’s honestly difficult to complain because Singapore Airlines executes the big things extremely well. You may experience poor Wi-Fi connectivity or a slightly “dated” product, but seriously? These are insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

The Singapore Suites amenities are typically Lalique, the inflight monitor measures at 23”, both Krug and Dom champagne are offered, and a glorious pre-booked service called Book The Cook is customary (hello, lobster thermidor!).

All in all, this product is excellent. But the saver availability on the New York City (JFK) – Frankfurt (FRA) route is pretty sparse. You can generally find 1 seat far in advance, though finding 2 seats in advance is pretty challenging.

If you’re willing, you can fly from Singapore and experience Singapore Suites as well as try the Private Room, which is a super exclusive lounge.

Find these suites on the old A380s, which are operated basically anywhere the new A380s are not. I know that’s not a great answer — but here are some of the routes:

• New York City (JFK) – Frankfurt (FRA) – Singapore (SIN) 
• Auckland (AKL) – Singapore (SIN)
• Beijing (PEK) – Singapore (SIN)
• Delhi (DEL) – Singapore (SIN)
• Mumbai (BOM) – Singapore (SIN)
• Melbourne (MEL) – Singapore (SIN)
• Osaka (KIX) – Singapore (SIN)

Want the scoop on flying Singapore Airlines U.S. based routes? Check out our guide on every Singapore Airlines route to/from the U.S. (including plane types).

Qantas is one of the hottest airlines, and for good reason. Between their impeccable safety record and dominant position as a leading airline, there’s no secret that flying to Australia and flying on Qantas go hand in hand.

The best way to get there? Qantas first class, of course.

Qantas has SK-II amenities, a swiveling first class seat in a private 1-1-1 configuration, Martin Grant pajamas, and one of the most comfortable beds in the sky.

This can’t be emphasized enough: if there’s one flight you can bet you’ll definitely sleep on, it’s most likely Qantas first class. On top of the long flight times, this makes for a cozy experience in your seat.

Additionally, the Qantas First Class Lounge, (particularly the Los Angeles (LAX) location), is one of the best first class lounges in the world. If flying on these few select routes, you may also be eligible for a chauffeur service:

• Sydney (SYD) – London (LHR)
• Melbourne (MEL) – London (LHR)
• Perth (PER) – London (LHR)

Unfortunately, it’s becoming exceedingly difficult to find award availability on Qantas first class from the U.S., especially for more than 1 passenger.

Hot Tip: You can utilize Alaska miles, American Airlines miles, Japan Airlines miles, and Asia Miles as the best ways to book Qantas first class .

Lufthansa deserves a ton of credit for being the dominant player in first class to Europe. However, not far behind is SWISS International Airlines, which is also owned by Lufthansa Group, the parent company of Lufthansa Airlines.

We discussed earlier that Lufthansa’s partner award inventory is released only a maximum of 15 days before departure, so it’s generally impossible to plan far ahead. Still, it’s very possible and probable to book Lufthansa first class if you’re flexible.

But this isn’t the case with SWISS International Airlines. You can’t book SWISS first class unless you possess top-tier Senator or HON Circle elite status with their frequent flyer program, Miles & More .

So for most of us, it’s completely out of reach. Still, it’s great to talk about one of the fanciest first class products out there.

SWISS International Airlines operates the A340, A330, and 777 with first class. Their flagship product (read: best product) is on the 777-300ER

The ground experience in Zurich is spectacular, featuring transportation in Mercedes-Benz cars, a private passport control, and a stunning First Class Lounge filled with amazing a-la-carte dining

Unfortunately (!), they don’t drive you to the tarmac to board your flight, but the distance is just a few hundred feet anyway 😉

Once onboard, you’ll have a large and elegant armchair welcoming you as your new abode on your long-haul flight. Seats are arranged in 2 rows in a 1-2-1 configuration, featuring a 22” width (which increases when you use the lie-flat setting) and 80” of bed length.

You’ll be afforded a generous amenity kit featuring La Prairie amenities, Zimmerli pajamas, a selection of caviar, and other excellent cuisines.

SWISS International Airlines first class features sliding doors, which is an advantage over Lufthansa first class — you’ll get a ton more privacy in your first class flight.

Both Singapore Airlines’ old and new A380 Suites are a huge crowd pleaser, but Singapore Airlines also operates the 777-300ER on a select few routes to and from America.

It may not be as private as the first class suites on the A380, but the 777-300ER first class is extraordinarily luxurious in its own right. There’s only 1 row in a 1-2-1 configuration, making this cabin extremely private with a total of 4 seats .

Seats measure out to a massive 35” wide and 81” long when turned into a bed. This width is just 1” short of Cathay Pacific, which holds the record for widest first class seats.

Expect Salvatore Ferragamo amenities, comfy pajamas, excellent inflight entertainment, Bose noise-canceling headphones, Dom Perignon champagne, and Singapore’s signature Book The Cook service.

Award availability for this first class product is generally pretty good, since much of the attention is drawn to the A380 First Class Suites.

Here are the routes you can take to/from the U.S.:

• San Francisco (SFO) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Singapore (SIN)
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Tokyo-Narita (NRT) – Singapore (SIN)

Hot Tip: Need help booking? See our guide on the best ways to book Singapore Airlines First Class using points.

Korean Air flies a whole slew of planes to America: the 747, 787, 777, and A380. They also have Kosmo Suites and Kosmo Suites 2.0 — these are fantastic, and in first class on all planes except the 787 Dreamliner.

Kosmo Suites 2.0 have sliding doors that enclose each individual seat, unlike the regular Kosmo Suites on the A380. As a result, you really want to fly on Kosmo Suites 2.0 when you can (offered on the 747 and some 777s).

Here’s the best way to describe Korean Air first class: completely satisfying in the air but somewhat disappointing on the ground. The lounge experience when flying Korean Air first class is generally poor, and special transport is nonexistent.

But it’s a whole different ball game as soon as you step onto the plane. Here’s what to expect onboard:

• 2006 Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Rosé Champagne , which is not only delicious but also ~$350 per bottle
• Delicious caviar
• DAVI by Mondavi amenities and ridiculously comfy pajamas (they might be the best in the sky)
• A diverse food and beverage selection that will make you drool
• Fantastic service

Seriously — Korean Air’s first class would be a contender for one of the best first class products in the world if it would improve its ground experience.

Fly them from places like Atlanta (ATL), San Francisco (SFO), Chicago (ORD), New York City (JFK), and Las Vegas (LAS).

Hot Tip: You can book Korean Air first class primarily with Korean Air SKYPASS miles . Rates are generally reasonable if you don’t book during peak season.

Asiana Airlines is one of the biggest competitors of Korean Air — they share a common hub airport and fly to a lot of the same destinations. So it’s actually best to compare Asiana first class with Korean Air first class.

First, Asiana offers fewer routes, as it’s a smaller airline. They fly the A380 to just 2 cities: Los Angeles (LAX) and New York City (JFK).

There are 3 rows of 4 seats each in a 1-2-1 configuration with sliding doors, allowing you to have a very private experience. The seats are very large, measuring 25.2” wide and 81” long in bed mode.

You’ll enjoy caviar, solid dining options, a large seat, lots of privacy, and unpolished luxury with Asiana Airlines’ A380 first class product .

Asiana Airlines first class also offers a ridiculous amount of award availability, and it’s an unpretentious way to fly first class comfortably. The amenities aren’t as luxurious as Korean Air’s, but it’s dramatically easier to book.

Oman Air, which is one of the undeservedly forgotten Middle Eastern carriers, recently revealed their new 787-900 Dreamliner, which features a first class suite that looks ultra chic.

There are 2 rows with 8 seats total in a 1-2-1 configuration, each with a sliding door you can use for the utmost privacy. The food is amazing and the ground experience (in Muscat, Oman) is reputed to be stunning.

Just like Japan Airlines, Oman Air serves Cristal and Grand Siecle, which is fantastic. Of course, caviar is a given in this first class.

You get your own mini-bar beside your seat, but the main storage is in shared lockers, which is interesting. Cabin finishes are sensational, with marble even being used at the side table next to the seat.

Some of the drawbacks include poor Wi-Fi (OnAir), lackluster bedding and headphones, and limited route options.

Hot Tip: Check out our guide to using Etihad Guest miles , which is a partner with Oman Air, to book Oman Air first class.

Although Qatar Airways is world-renowned for their new QSuites business class (which could actually qualify as a first class product), it’s their A380 first class that’s one of the most underrated flights out there.

We did a review on the Sydney (SYD) to Doha (DOH) route , where you can read more details and get a better idea of what it’s like to fly this product.

The A380 is a ridiculously fun plane to fly on – Qatar decorates their cabins super well, includes great amenities, and has a beautiful first class lounge in Doha.

They also have a super fun bar onboard. Best of all, there’s tons and tons of award availability!

The very last product is one that has significantly improved over the years, especially when it comes to the soft product. It’s one of the few airlines to feature double beds in first class .

China Eastern’s hard product was already fantastic, with the double beds enclosed in suites that have sliding doors (which is the best of any Chinese airline).

The seat itself is actually quite large at 26.5” wide and 79” long. There are 6 seats across 1 row in a 1-1 configuration on the sides, a bar in the center, and 1 row in a 1-2-1 configuration.

Passengers receive Salvatore Ferragamo amenity kits…but the soft product pretty much maxes out there. The first class service seems to be very inconsistent, though it’s going to be the most comfortable way to fly first class to China and a great way to use your China Eastern miles.

Overall, there’s a ton of variation among first class across the world’s major airlines. We’ve analyzed the major first class products and put together a list of the best first class products here.

Remember that a different plane can have a completely different first class , even if it’s on the same airline.

Now you know which of the most aspirational first class airlines to book your award travel on!

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best first class cabin in the world.

Our vote would have to go to the Etihad Residence on the A380, which is without a doubt the most phenomenal commercial flight experience you can have . When you reserve the Etihad Residence, you get 3 separate rooms aboard the A380: a living room, bedroom, and shower room.

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Stephen is an established voice in the credit card space, with over 70 to his name. His work has been in publications like The Washington Post, and his Au Points and Awards Consulting Services is used by hundreds of clients.

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For amenities and superior service you won’t find just anywhere, choose First Class for your next Delta flight. You’ll enjoy a wider, more spacious seat, the flexibility to change or cancel your ticket without change fees (for flights originating in the United States and Canada), Sky Priority® service and a thoughtful travel experience from start to finish. The benefits don’t stop there, either.

Fly and enjoy first class service and amenities.

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First is our most luxurious way to experience flight. From your own stylish suite, to exclusive access to lounges, fast-track security, and excellent service, it’s the finest way to travel.

The finest experience

• Exceptional, elegant British service
• Your own private, spacious suite
• A fully flat bed with luxurious bedding
• Delicious, indulgent fine dining
• Temperley London loungewear, amenity bag and slippers
• Seven-piece luxury skin and body care collection from Elemis
• Access to luxurious lounges
• Exclusive and dedicated service
• Priority boarding, straight from our exclusive First lounge

Your own personal suite

Your luxury travel experience starts here. Cross the world’s skies comfortably, enjoying excellent food and entertainment in your own spacious suite on our first class flights. Here, British heritage meets contemporary design, letting you work in peace, watch a film, or stretch out and fall asleep.

Space to relax:  When you want some rest we'll turn your seat into a 198cm (6ft 6in) fully flat bed with a luxurious quilted mattress, crisp white cotton duvet and pillow. Meanwhile, you can slip into our Temperley London loungewear.

Exclusively designed travel essentials:  Cleanse, revive, and hydrate during your luxury first class flight. In collaboration with Temperley London, our sophisticated his and hers amenity bags are designed seasonally and filled with products from high-end British skincare brand, Elemis, including products from their Ultra Smart pro-collagen range.

Your own charging point:  Your first class suite includes a personal power supply for laptops and electronic devices.

Blankets recycled from plastic water bottles

Our First-Class duvets have been created  from recycled plastic bottles. This is one of the many changes we're making across our organisation to become more sustainable.

Fine dining and delicious treats

Create your own dining experience with our a la carte ‘Dine Anytime’ menu featuring signature dishes made with quality British ingredients, delivered with impeccable service. Our crockery, cutlery and glassware is made by the finest British designers, from William Edwards, Studio William to Dartington, designed exclusively for British Airways. Alongside your meal, we offer snacks and beverages including cocktails, mocktails, Champagne, spirits and wines.

In-flight entertainment

When you fly First with us, you’ll have everything you need to sit back, relax and be entertained in style.

• A personal 15-inch screen and ports to connect your own devices
• Noise-cancelling headphones for minimal disturbance
• Access to hundreds of the latest films and shows including  Paramount+

As a First customer, you can stream music, films and box sets, browse the internet, email and message from the comfort of your seat, and it's free for the entire flight*.

It couldn’t be easier to take advantage of your reward. Connect to the on-board 'BAWi-Fi' network and click the 'Free Wi-Fi' banner. Then, simply verify you're a First customer with your name and seat number or booking reference.

* Terms and conditions apply

Space to prepare and relax

Take time out in our elegant departure lounges and wait comfortably before flying First. Modern and luxurious spaces offer quality wines, drinks and food, plus a range of business facilities for when you need to work.

On arrival into London Heathrow, stop by the Arrivals lounge to freshen up and get ready for whatever you’ve got planned. The Arrivals lounge is located in Terminal 5 on Level 1. To access the lounge from Terminal 3 please use the free interterminal transfer train.

Temporary changes : Please note, the routes to our London Heathrow Terminal 5 lounges have temporarily changed. Find out more

The Concorde Room

You're also invited to the Concorde Room – our most luxurious first class lounge. It’s exclusive to London Heathrow Terminal 5, with discreet booths, full waiter service, private cabanas and a state-of-the-art business suite.

The Chelsea lounge

Located at New York JFK airport, Terminal 8, this elegant lounge is exclusively for customers in First on British Airways and American Airlines flights. Enjoy the circular champagne bar, fireside cocktails and a la carte dining.

Seamless check-in and boarding

Flying First lets you skip the queues, with dedicated check-in desks and fast-track security at various airports.

• Dedicated check-in desks at most airports
• Priority boarding
• Fast Track security at London Heathrow, London Gatwick and New York JFK

The First Wing

Available in London Heathrow Terminal 5, our exclusive First Wing gets you through the airport quickly and smoothly. It’s a dedicated space for First, Executive Club Gold, and one world Emerald flyers. You'll have a private check-in area, two exclusive security lanes, and a direct walkway into the Galleries First Lounge and Concorde Room.

Freedom to pack what you like

Generous baggage allowance.

There’s no need to compromise when packing, with a generous number of bags included in First. Bring both a cabin bag and laptop or handbag on board, as well as up to three bags in the hold.

Doorstep baggage pick-up & check-in

AirPortr can collect your baggage from your doorstep, securely transport it to the airport and check it in for your flight for you. This means that you can travel to the airport luggage-free and head straight to security when you arrive. This service is only available for flights departing from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Geneva, Zurich and Vienna.

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We’re here to help, whenever you need us. That’s why we have You First, a dedicated helpdesk for First customers.

Aircraft variations

Wherever and whenever you fly First you can expect the same top quality food, drink and first class service by our attentive crew. A few of the cabin design elements may vary by aircraft.

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Vintage Air Travel Images Through The Years

Posted: March 13, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Air travel milestones through the decades

From the early days of flight and the "golden age of travel," to contemporary budget airlines and COVID restrictions and regulations, air travel has transformed dramatically over the past century.

Click or scroll through this gallery and join us as we take a journey through time to bring you the biggest milestones in commercial aviation history, including plans for air travel to become net zero by 2050 recently announced.

1920s: passengers wait to board a plane in 1929

The story of commercial air travel begins before the 1920s, in 1914, when the world's first scheduled passenger service set off between Tampa and St Petersburg, piloted by Tony Jannus. Though commercial aviation did not take off quickly, more and more companies tried to build on this milestone through the 1920s, with varying degrees of success. Here, passengers wait at Croydon Airport, UK to board a Handley Page W.9 aircraft, a model used by early airlines Imperial Airways and Sabena.

1920s: a Western Air Express airliner in 1928

1920s: Lady Heath pilots a plane for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

1920s: passengers are served drinks on a French Air Union plane in 1929

1920s: an early in-flight movie in 1925

In-flight entertainment systems looked rather different too. Today airplane entertainment is a solitary, hi-tech affair but, in the early days of flight, passengers would typically gather around a single screen if they wanted to catch a movie. One of the earliest films to be shown up high was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's The Lost World in 1925 with Imperial Airways. Here, passengers on a German airliner also enjoy a movie in the year 1925.

1930s: a woman hands over an airmail parcel to Western Air Express staff circa 1930

The early 1930s continued in a similar fashion to the 1920s, with airlines offering airmail delivery services and also carrying passengers. Flying was still extremely expensive and fairly uncomfortable but, according to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum , the number of airline passengers grew from 6,000 in 1930 to 450,000 in 1934. Here, a woman passes on her mail to the crew of a Fokker F-10 monoplane operated by Western Air Express.

1930s: passengers listen to a broadcast aboard a flight in 1931

1930s: an early Anglo-Australian airliner in 1934

1930s: Eastern Air Lines stewards in the 1930s

In the 1920s and into the early 1930s, the role of flight attendant was one mostly reserved for men, who were usually referred to as "cabin boys." This was soon flipped on its head, though. The first female flight attendant, a nurse named Ellen Church, was employed in 1930 and by the middle of the decade most of these jobs went to women. The women were often trained nurses and there were also strict rules as to their age, height and weight. Before this change, this photo shows an all-male team of air stewards posing before an Eastern Air Lines plane in the early 1930s.

1930s: an Imperial Airways cabin in 1935

1930s: a Douglas DC-3 in flight

1930s: Pan American Airways flies across the Atlantic in 1939

1940s: Pan American World Airways' 'Flying Cloud' clipper

The onset of the Second World War meant developments in commercial aviation were put on the back burner, and all resources were plunged into the war effort. However, by the end of the decade, the industry was recovering, especially since the war had given rise to new runways and military aircraft were able to be converted and put to commercial use. This 1949 shot shows Pan Am's 'Flying Cloud' clipper, the first of a group of planes to begin a service between New York and London in the 1940s. 

1940s: passengers aboard a Pan Am Boeing 307 aircraft circa 1945

1940s: poster advertising TWA

As competition increased towards the end of this decade, the major airlines ramped up their advertising. This TWA poster advertises the Boeing 307 Stratoliner, and promises a smooth ride as the aircraft glides above the clouds. The 1940s was ultimately the decade that preceded the so-called "golden age of travel."

1950s: crowds wave off the world's first jet airliner service

1950s: a passenger enjoying lunch on the world's first commercial jet airliner service

1950s: a test flight for the Boeing 707 jet airliner with Pan Am

1950s: the Queen arrives in Bermuda on a BOAC flight in 1953

1950s: an air hostess attends to passengers on a National Airways Corporation flight in 1959

1950s: a movie projector on a United Airlines flight circa 1950

1960s: lunch service on a Lufthansa flight in 1967

The golden age of travel reigned on through the 1960s and, partly since there wasn't much else to do, dinner was a grand affair. Menus often included multiple courses, bread baskets and dishes such as steak or even lobster. In this 1967 snap, passengers are being served food onboard a Lufthansa flight. 

1960s: dinner aboard a SAS aircraft in 1969

1960s: The Beatles arrive in London on a Pan Am flight in 1964

1960s: flight attendants line up before a model of Concorde in the 1960s

1970s: the first Concorde flight from London Heathrow to Bahrain in 1976

1970s: the Queen on a Concorde aircraft in 1977

Concorde got the royal seal of approval (the Queen is pictured here onboard a Concorde aircraft in 1977), with its ability to cross the Atlantic in just 3.5 hours. But only a privileged few could afford to ride aboard the Concorde and it ultimately didn't shake up commercial air travel in the way it had been hoped. Cancelled routes, economic setbacks and a devastating crash meant the Concorde was out of service by 2003. 

1970s: Laker Airways founder Freddie Laker celebrates the airline's success

1970s: Laker and passengers aboard Laker Airways' Skytrain

Laker Airways' Skytrain offered a lower fare service between London Gatwick and New York's JFK, which began on 26 September 1977. Like many budget airlines today, the "no frills" service meant passengers had to purchase meals onboard and weren't subject to the usual luxuries of air travel in the era. Laker also came up with ways to reduce fuel consumption and engine wear to enable the lower costs. He's pictured here celebrating with passengers aboard the Skytrain in 1979. 

1970s: the first scheduled Pan Am Boeing 747 flight

1970s: passengers in the cabin of a Boeing 747

This was the first time that air travel was truly opening up to the masses. Since planes were larger, airlines were able to hold more passengers and therefore sell more tickets at a reduced price. Though flying still wasn't cheap, it was no longer only reserved for the super-rich. This 1970s shot shows the spacious cabin of a BOAC Boeing 747, filled with families, couples and other holidaymakers. 

1970s: passengers are served Champagne on a Pan Am 747 flight

1970s: lunch is served aboard a Boeing 747

1970s: a lounge on SAS's Boeing 747-B "Huge Viking"

1980s: Laker celebrates further fare cuts in 1980

1980s: passengers are stranded as Laker Airways collapses in 1982

Laker Airways collapsed in 1982, saddling debts amounting to $374 million. More than 6,000 passengers were left stranded in airports around the world. Here, exasperated travelers and dismayed Laker staff feel the brunt of the collapse on 5 February 1982. 

1980s: a Ryanair aircraft in 1988

1980s: Richard Branson celebrates the launch of his new airline, Virgin Atlantic Airways in 1984

1980s: a flight attendant serves dinner on a SAS flight circa 1980s

1980s: ashtrays on a commercial flight

1990s: easyJet boss Stelios Haji-Ioannou in 1995

1990s: Ryanair's chief executive promotes low-fare flights

The introduction of Ryanair and easyJet (and also Norwegian in 1993) meant pressure was put on traditional carriers, fares were pushed down and air travel became increasingly more accessible. As travelers also began booking holidays online, competitive pricing became more important than ever.

1990s: a Pan Am aircraft in 1991

2000s: security at Salt Lake City International Airport in 2001

2000s: the door to an aircraft cockpit in 2001

2000s: an easyJet aircraft flying in 2009

Travelers eschewed air travel in the years following 9/11 and, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics , it took until 2004 for air-passenger numbers to reach their pre-9/11 peak. Commercial air travel was recovering by the end of the decade, though, with US air passengers numbering 769.6 million in 2007 – a record high. During this time, it was low-cost carriers that saw the most growth. 

2000s: a traveler books flights online

Another significant change during this decade was the way travelers were choosing to book their flights. According to PhoCusWright , a tourism research company, 2009 was the first year that more than half of all travel-related bookings were made online. This placed even more pressure on airlines to be competitive and offer the best value for money.

2010s: a man works on his laptop during a flight

The internet hasn't just infiltrated the booking process. Nowadays it's commonplace for carriers to offer in-flight Wi-Fi, either as part of the package, or for an extra premium. In a major shift from the golden age of travel, this means that flying today is no longer just about pleasure and relaxation – it's also about catching up with work and keeping in touch with people on the ground. Online check-in and smartphone boarding passes have also revolutionized the airport experience over the years.

2010s: a sign for premium economy class in Hong Kong International Airport

2010s: an American Airlines flight in 2017

The main change in the last decade was the sheer volume of travelers: more and more people were flying than ever before, and the sky-high numbers had previously shown little sign of tailing off. In fact, in 2017, the International Air Transport Association had projected that there could be 7.2 billion air travel passengers by 2035 .

2020s: grounded planes at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport, Germany

The COVID-19 pandemic rocked the travel and aviation industry and both passengers and staff had to adjust to a new (and unpredictable) ‘normal’. Ever-changing international travel restrictions left airlines up in the air (figuratively, not literally), and major players including easyJet, American Airlines and British Airways suffered severe financial losses, resulting in job cuts. This photo from 1 June 2020 shows out-of-service planes at Berlin-Brandenburg Airport.

2020s: a passenger undergoes a temperature check at Heathrow Airport

Towards the end of 2020, civil aviation began to resume at a crawling pace, with the announcement of some 'air bridges' or 'travel corridors'. For passengers choosing to fly, airport experiences looked rather different around the world. Protocols and restrictions varied from airport to airport, and from airline to airline, but typically involved mandatory face coverings, contactless check-ins and fewer open airport facilities. A passenger is seen here in July 2020 receiving a temperature check at a BA desk at London’s Heathrow Airport.

2020s: a masked flight attendant on a Brussels Airlines plane

Passengers had to get used to new onboard experiences too. Depending on the airline – and in efforts to reduce touch points and contact between staff and passengers – changes were extended to a lack of inflight meals or trolley services, and the reduction of little luxuries like in-flight magazines, blankets and the like. Masks were mandatory on most flights too, while some carriers blocked the middle seats to allow passengers more space.

2020s: international air travel gets a slow lift off

The aviation industry continued to feel the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic into 2021, though the International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicted  a 50.4% uptick in demand for flights from 2020 . With vaccine programs being rolled out around the world, international borders finally opened. 

2020s: a passenger holds up an EU 'vaccine passport'

Around the world, testing and vaccines built bridges between destinations in staggered phases. For example, Canada’s borders first opened to double-jabbed Americans, before being unlocked for vaccinated travelers from around the world too. Double-jabbed UK travelers initially could fly to 'amber' European hotspots including France, Spain and Portugal without quarantining on return (though they had to take PCR tests). New Zealand and Australia also formed a 'quarantine-free travel bubble'. EU citizens could download  a vaccine 'passport'  (pictured) allowing them to cross EU borders with minimal restrictions.

2020s: world's first all-electric plane takes to the skies

In late September 2022, the world's first all-electric plane jetted off for an eight-minute flight above the skies of Washington, USA. Alice, the project name that stuck during planning in 2016, is the brainchild of American-based company Eviation , and will be fit for both passenger and cargo use by 2027. The successful maiden flight reached an altitude of 3,500 feet and the zero-emissions plane was powered by two 640-kilowatt electric motors. It is hoped Alice will operate flights ranging from 150 to 250 miles, and will come in three different configurations: a nine-passenger commuter, a six-seater executive cabin and an eCargo version.

2020s: relaxed uniform policies are welcomed

Cabin crew requirements have changed over the decades; as we've seen already, the 1930s followed strict rules regarding age, height and weight, and since then tailored uniforms and specific hairstyles became the norm. But the 2020s have welcomed a more relaxed approach and in September 2022 Virgin Atlantic ditched gender-specific uniforms allowing crew, pilots and ground staff to choose whichever they feel most comfortable in. Earlier in the year staff were also permitted to keep their tattoos visible, marking the first UK airline to do so.

2050: air travel industry set to become carbon neutral

We don't know for sure what the future holds for air travel. But the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)  recently announced its support for a net zero goal for the aviation industry by 2050 . However, environmental campaigners say the plans don't go far enough, believing more measures were needed to ensure the 193 member countries of the ICAO meet the goal and hold airlines accountable. 

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Opulently First Class Architecture at the Kremlin Citadel

There’s so much to see at the Kremlin complex that you could spend every minute there once your first class flight land s. Its mixture of ornate and somber architecture reflects the country’s various historical periods. Here, you’ll find the shining, gold-capped domes of Cathedral of the Dormition and the somber-looking State Kremlin Palace. There are four cathedrals in the complex, including the Cathedral of the Annunciation, which is now a fascinating museum. The Cathedral of the Archangel, the burial site of several medieval leaders, is also within the citadel area. Many of the Kremlin Citadel walls and towers erected in the late 15th century still surround the complex and offer hours of captivating exploration. In spite of the tremendous number of Kremlin squares, cathedrals, churches, towers, palaces and museums open to the public, it’s only a third of the entire citadel.

Experience the Heart of Moscow Society in First Class Red Square

Across from the Kremlin’s Spasskaya Tower is one of Moscow’s most recognizable structures, the colorfully enticing St. Basil’s Cathedral. The cathedral is now a museum, and its colorfully patterned onion domes remind us of the country’s vibrant past. The cathedral museum should be just one stop on your visit to historic Red Square. The square has been the gathering place for generations of Muscovites, from Medieval peddlers and Soviet-era soldiers to present-day concert-goers. Lenin’s Mausoleum is on the square, as are the treasured Kazan Cathedral and the popular GUM department store. The square also bears the tribute statue to Minin and Pozharsky, the leaders of the 1612 militia that warded off Polish invaders.

Fallen Monument Park Is a Unique Way To See First Class Soviet Statues

Fallen Monument Park is actually Muzeon Park. It became a de facto repository of the many Lenin and Stalin statues that populated the region’s Communist countries during the Cold War. The collection of Soviet-era statues grew throughout the 1990s. As time progressed, artists began placing statues commemorating victims of the Soviet Union in the park as well. There’s also a special section of the park honoring the valiant soldiers of World War II, or the Great Patriotic War. The park presents an unexpected and unusual glimpse into the country’s cultural and artistic sensibilities. It’s also a nice chance to stroll through the park-like setting and enjoy the city’s ambiance. 

Get a First Class Lesson in Russian History in Kolomenskoye

There’s a wealth of Russian history and architecture to be found in Kolomenskoye, with artifacts dating back to the Stone Age. The 630-acre site encompasses the remains of the 2,500-year-old Dyakovo Settlement and other important historic sites. In the 14th and 18th centuries, the area was a muster site to important Russian armies, and it became a summer home for the tsars and their families. It was also an instrumental site during the “Time of Troubles.” Today, the village is home to the 16th-century white stone Church of the Ascension, one of the first churches in the country to depart from Byzantine architecture. It also houses St. George the Victorious Bell Tower, the Hunting Pavilion and a 17th-century water tower. In all, there are 17 “architectural monuments” here, many of which were part of the 16th-century tsars’ estates. Four historic wooden structures were moved from other areas of the country to the Kolomenskoye site. 

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