Our Air France Business Class review explores the new long-haul cabins, focusing on the refined dining, privacy doors, and quintessential French charm.
Air France has undergone a significant transformation in its business class offerings over the past few years. The airline has moved away from its older high-density configurations in favor of contemporary, privacy-focused suites. This shift represents more than just a new seat; it is a repositioning of the airline as a premier choice for the aesthetically-minded professional. Our team evaluated the latest lie-flat product on the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 to see how it fares against both domestic and international rivals.
There is a distinct logic to the design of the new Air France business class cabins. The color palette is a sophisticated blend of navy blue, white, and red accents—a nod to the French flag, but executed with subtlety. In the newest iterations, the airline has added sliding privacy doors, a feature that has quickly become the standard for 'Business Plus' experiences. We found the materials to be of high quality, with soft-touch plastics and wool-blend fabrics that feel durable yet luxurious. The 1-2-1 configuration ensures that every passenger has direct aisle access, eliminating the 'climb-over' maneuver common in older layouts.
If there is one area where Air France consistently outshines its competitors, it is gastronomy. Even in business class, the commitment to French culinary tradition is evident. The menu is regularly updated with signatures from Michelin-starred chefs. On our recent flight, the braised beef cheek was remarkably tender—a feat rarely achieved in a pressurized cabin. The cheese course, served before dessert, is a proper trolley service that reminds one of a Parisian brasserie. The wine list, selected by Paolo Basso (voted the world's best sommelier in 2013), features a range of French regions that pair beautifully with the meals.
For the business traveler, the seat is as much an office as it is a place of rest. The new suites feature large 4K high-definition screens and intuitive touch-panel controls. Bluetooth connectivity allows for the use of personal noise-canceling headphones, and the Wi-Fi speeds were sufficient for handling email and moderate browsing. We particularly appreciated the ample storage compartments for laptops and tablets, which are often overlooked in cabin design. The large, sturdy tray table provides a stable surface for work, and the multiple power outlets are conveniently placed.
The service on Air France can vary based on the crew, but our experience was marked by a sense of pride and professional warmth. The 'chic' nature of the service is reflected in everything from the way the table is set to the greeting at the aircraft door. While perhaps not as overtly subservient as some Middle Eastern carriers, the Air France staff provides a service that feels sophisticated and egalitarian. There is a sense of being a guest in a well-appointed home.
Air France Business Class is a compelling choice for those crossing the Atlantic or heading to Asia. It offers a balanced experience that excels in dining and design. While it may not provide the total isolation of a first-class cabin, the new suites with doors provide more than enough privacy for the modern traveler. For the price, particularly when booked as part of a multi-city European itinerary, it offers excellent value. It is the ideal choice for those who believe the journey should be as pleasurable as the destination.
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