Imagine sinking into a plush seat that feels like a cloud, sipping champagne as the world disappears beneath you. That’s the magic of first-class flying. It’s an adventure in luxury that begins the moment you step on board. But which airlines truly soar above the rest?
We’ve scoured the skies to bring you the ultimate guide to first-class excellence. From secret cocktail bars in the air to suites that’ll make you forget you’re on a plane, we’re giving you a list of the best of the best.
10 Best First-Class Airlines
Flying first class transforms air travel into a luxurious experience. Top airlines offer exceptional comfort, personalized service, and exquisite dining. Here, we rank the best first-class airlines worldwide, highlighting what makes each unique.
10. Etihad Airways – The Sky’s Personal Penthouse
Etihad Airways’ first-class apartments redefine flying in style. Each suite feels like a mini-hotel room with a reclining leather chair, a separate fully flat bed, and generous storage. The in-flight dining is another standout, offering à la carte dishes tailored by an onboard chef. Guests also enjoy access to an exclusive first-class lounge, complete with spa services and fine dining.
- Approximate Cost: Around $7,000 USD for a one-way trip from London to Abu Dhabi.
- Why You’ll Love It: The space. The privacy. The food. It’s like flying in your own tiny apartment.
- Where It Could Improve: The experience is only available on the Airbus A380, so your route options are limited.
Why It’s Ranked Here
While Etihad’s first-class apartments are iconic, the offerings haven’t evolved as much compared to others on this list. It remains a stellar choice for luxury, but newer competitors outshine it with innovations and upgrades.
9. Cathay Pacific – A Suite Escape
Cathay Pacific’s First Class on their 777-300ER is all about creating a peaceful cocoon. Each suite features a wide, fully flat bed, luxurious bedding, and mood lighting. The dining menu showcases Asian and Western gourmet dishes, complemented by fine wines and champagnes. Lounge access adds to the premium experience.
- Approximate Cost: Roughly $7,800 USD from London to Hong Kong.
- Why You’ll Love It: It’s simple, sleek, and incredibly relaxing. Perfect for anyone who wants to float through the skies in zen mode.
- Where It Could Improve: It lacks fully enclosed suites, and not every route offers First Class.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Cathay Pacific is a solid contender for first-class luxury, but the limited availability and competition from airlines offering more innovative features place it lower on the list.
8. Saudia – Middle Eastern Elegance in the Air
Saudia blends modern luxury with a touch of Arabian hospitality. Their first-class suites feature fully flat beds and a sleek, contemporary design. Dining onboard is a cultural treat, with Middle Eastern dishes alongside international options. On the ground, first-class passengers enjoy exclusive lounges with dedicated service.
- Approximate Cost: Pricing can vary, but think $6,000–$8,000 USD for long-haul routes.
- Why You’ll Love It: The regional flair in the food and design is charming, and the service feels warm and personal.
- Where It Could Improve: Some aircraft feel a bit dated, and service can be hit or miss depending on the crew.
Why It’s Ranked Here
While Saudia excels in its cultural flair and service, it doesn’t quite match the innovation or wow factor of its competitors who are higher on the list.
7. Japan Airlines – Serenity Meets Style
Japan Airlines’ first-class suites exude Japanese elegance and efficiency. Each suite has a wide, comfortable seat that transforms into a flat bed, paired with soft bedding. The in-flight dining rivals top restaurants, offering Japanese kaiseki meals alongside international options.
- Approximate Cost: First-class tickets for long-haul flights on Japan Airlines usually cost $8,000 USD and can go higher depending on the route and timing.
- Why You’ll Love It: The food is exquisite, and the cabin is as quiet as a zen garden.
- Where It Could Improve: The entertainment system feels a little outdated, and First Class is available on limited routes.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Japan Airlines delivers a sophisticated and peaceful experience, but its lack of cutting-edge innovation keeps it at number seven.
6. Lufthansa – Dependable Luxury
Lufthansa’s First Class cabins provide spacious seats that convert into fully flat beds with high-quality bedding. The dining experience focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine list. First Class lounges offer exclusive amenities, including personal assistants and luxury spa treatments.
- Approximate Cost: Expect to pay $7,500–$9,000 USD for a premium experience.
- Why You’ll Love It: Reliable, polished service every time, with no frills or fuss.
- Where It Could Improve: The cabin lacks the privacy of enclosed suites offered by competitors.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Lufthansa is a trusted choice for luxury travelers, but it falls short of the top spots due to its traditional, less innovative approach to first-class design.
5. ANA (All Nippon Airways) – Japanese Perfection in the Sky
ANA’s “The Suite” is a Japanese minimalism and luxury masterpiece. The suites are spacious and private, featuring a wide seat that transforms into a bed, a large entertainment screen, and plenty of storage. The dining experience is equally impressive, with fresh sushi and gourmet international cuisine.
- Approximate Cost: Around $9,000–$10,000 USD for long-haul routes.
- Why You’ll Love It: Sleek, serene, and sealed with thoughtful touches.
- Where It Could Improve: Limited availability and less flashy amenities compared to others on the list.
Why It’s Ranked Here
ANA’s combination of comfort and precision earns it a spot in the top five. Its limited availability, however, prevents it from ranking higher.
4. SWISS – European Class at Its Best
WISS keeps it classy with First Class cabins that are spacious, chic, and ridiculously comfortable. Enjoy dishes inspired by Swiss cuisine and an incredible wine selection. Their lounges, especially in Zurich, are next-level fancy.
- Approximate Cost: A one-way ticket from Zurich to New York will set you back about $6,500–$7,500 USD.
- Why You’ll Love It: It’s all about refinement and consistency, perfect for travelers who want quiet luxury without the bling.
- Where It Could Improve: It lacks the wow-factor of enclosed suites and groundbreaking tech.
The Price to Play: A one-way ticket from Zurich to New York will set you back about $6,500–$7,500 USD.
Why It’s Ranked Here
SWISS offers a reliable and refined luxury experience, perfect for travelers who value subtle sophistication over showy features. It lands at number four due to its dependable but less innovative approach.
3. Emirates – Where Flying Gets Flashy
Emirates pulls out all the stops with fully enclosed suites, a personal minibar, and—wait for it—an onboard shower spa on their A380. Dining is top-notch, with a dine-on-demand menu featuring gourmet dishes and premium wines.
- Approximate Cost: A first-class ticket from Dubai to London typically ranges between $8,000 and $10,000 USD
- Why You’ll Love It: It’s unapologetically extravagant. You’ll feel like royalty as you freshen up mid-flight or sip champagne in your private suite.
- Where It Could Improve: The design might feel a little too flashy for some, and service can sometimes feel less personal.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Emirates earns its spot in the top three for pushing the boundaries of luxury and innovation. However, its flashy style and occasional inconsistencies prevent it from taking the very top spots.
2. Air France
Air France’s La Première is a showcase of understated French elegance. Each suite offers a private, spacious setup with a fully flat bed and top-quality bedding. Dining is a highlight, with menus crafted by Michelin-starred chefs and paired with an exclusive selection of wines and champagnes. Passengers enjoy seamless service from the ground to the air, including access to the exceptional La Première lounge in Paris, which features private dining and personalized assistance.
- The Price to Pay: Around $10,000–$12,000 USD for a flight from Paris to New York.
- Why You’ll Love It: Impeccable service, exquisite dining, and the perfect blend of comfort and elegance.
- Where It Could Improve: It’s only available on select routes, making it hard to experience unless you plan carefully.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Air France combines sophistication, impeccable service, and world-class dining, earning its place as number two. If La Première were more accessible, it could challenge for the top spot.
1. Singapore Airlines – The Gold Standard
Singapore Airlines’ suites are in a league of their own. Each suite includes a private cabin with a standalone bed and a leather armchair. The dining is Michelin-inspired, and the service is meticulously personalized. Everything from the amenities to the entertainment is designed with excellence in mind.
- Approximate Cost: $12,500–$15,000 USD for a one-way ticket from Singapore to London.
- Why You’ll Love It: The privacy, the elegance, the food—everything is next-level. It’s not just a flight; it’s an experience.
- Where It Could Improve: Honestly? Just the price.
Why It’s Ranked Here
Singapore Airlines takes the top spot for consistently delivering the most luxurious and innovative first-class experience in the world. Its attention to detail, combined with exceptional service, sets a benchmark that other airlines aspire to reach.
Experience Sky-High Luxury
The best first-class airlines offer amazing experiences in the sky. From comfy beds to tasty meals, these airlines go all out to make flying special. Sure, it costs a lot, but you get treated like royalty. Singapore Airlines tops our list with its private suites, while others like Emirates and Air France aren’t far behind.
Each airline has its own style, whether it’s super fancy or quietly elegant. No matter which you choose, you’re in for a treat. As airlines keep trying to outdo each other, first-class travel just keeps getting better. So next time you want to splurge on a flight, pick one of these top airlines and enjoy the ride – it might be as fun as your actual trip!
