Top 10 Best First Class Airlines in the World, No.8 Will Surprise You

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The world’s best first-class airlines offer unparalleled luxury, from spacious suites to gourmet dining, redefining air travel in 2024.

Ranking first class airlines requires a balance of hard metrics and subjective excellence. Key factors include seat comfort, dining quality, service attentiveness, lounge access, and overall consistency.

However, intangible elements like personalized touches and emotional resonance also play a crucial role.

Top 10 Best First Class Airlines

This article ranks the top 10 best first-class airlines for 2024, showcasing carriers like Emirates (EK) and Japan Airlines (JL) that redefine luxury travel.

Rank Airline Name Aircraft Key Services

1	Emirates (EK)	Boeing 777-300ER	Fully enclosed suites, onboard showers (A380), Dom Perignon, dine-on-demand, caviar, personal climate control
2	Japan Airlines (JL)	Airbus A350-1000	Huge suite for two, 43″ 4K TV, Bluetooth, tail camera, Wi-Fi, Japanese cuisine and service
3	Air France (AF)	Boeing 777-300ER	Huge suite for two, 43″ 4K TV, Bluetooth, tail camera, Wi-Fi, Japanese cuisine, and service
4	Singapore Airlines (SQ)	Airbus A380	Seat + bed combo, double suite option, “Book the Cook”, 3 champagnes, elegant design
5	Etihad Airways (EY)	Airbus A380	Apartment suites, onboard shower, dine-on-demand, stylish but less functional bed
6	All Nippon Airways (NH)	Boeing 777-300ER	Privacy doors, huge TV, Krug champagne, complimentary Wi-Fi, excellent Japanese service
7	Cathay Pacific (CX)	Boeing 777-300ER	1-1-1 layout, spacious bed, companion dining, great catering, attentive service
8	Garuda Indonesia (GA)	Boeing 777-300ER	Suite with doors, onboard chef, top-rated crew, Wi-Fi, excellent presentation
9	SWISS (LX)	Boeing 777-300ER	1-2-1 layout, premium food, plush bedding, good service, elegant European design
10	Korean Air (KE)	Boeing 747-8	Nose cabin layout, spacious suite, good amenities, solid food, no Wi-Fi

1. Emirates (EK)

Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Key Services: Fully enclosed suite, Dine-on-demand with unlimited caviar, Personalized climate control

Emirates offers arguably the most luxurious first class product in the world on select Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

Its revolutionary fully enclosed suites provide floor-to-ceiling privacy, making them feel more like hotel rooms than airplane seats.

Each suite includes a large HD screen, personal mini-bar, customizable lighting and temperature controls, and a bed that’s both spacious and exceptionally comfortable.

Passengers enjoy top-tier amenities like Dom Perignon champagne and a dine-on-demand menu, featuring options such as unlimited caviar.

While the Airbus A380s offer extras like onboard showers and a bar, the Boeing 777-300ER’s new suite is a step ahead in design and exclusivity.

However, these suites are only available on a limited number of aircraft—just nine in total—making them a rare luxury.

Emirates plans to include this design in future Boeing 777X aircraft, expected to join the fleet starting in 2025.

2. Japan Airlines (JL)

Aircraft: Airbus A350-1000
Key Services: 43″ 4K screen, Bluetooth audio with headrest speakers, Complimentary Wi-Fi

Japan Airlines’ (JL) first class on its new Airbus A350-1000 is a true leap forward in aviation luxury. The cabin includes just six spacious suites in a 1-1-1 configuration, offering exceptional privacy and room.

Each suite is wide enough to seat two people on a couch and comes with a separate ottoman, creating an elegant and flexible space.

High-end tech features include a stunning 43-inch 4K display, Bluetooth audio, and even a tail camera for in-flight views.

The airline also provides firm or soft mattress pads for ultimate comfort. Japan Airlines’ renowned hospitality shines through in its impeccable service and cuisine, blending traditional Japanese dishes with fine international offerings.

Free onboard Wi-Fi adds convenience for business or entertainment. Overall, this product rivals Emirates in comfort and tech, making it a top-tier choice for discerning travelers seeking both innovation and service.

3. Air France (AF)

Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Key Services: World-class lounge at CDG, Draw-curtain privacy, Michelin-quality dining

Air France (AF) offers one of the most refined and balanced first class experiences in the sky. The La Première cabin on the Boeing 777-300ER features only four seats in a 1-2-1 layout, designed with minimalist elegance.

Instead of doors, each seat has floor-to-ceiling curtains, allowing for both openness and privacy. The onboard service is where Air France truly excels, with gourmet cuisine inspired by French culinary traditions and an exceptional wine list.

When it’s time to rest, the bedding is among the most comfortable available, ensuring a restful flight.

Passengers also benefit from exclusive access to the La Première lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, widely considered the best first class ground experience in the world.

With an upcoming upgrade to the La Première cabin expected in the next year, Air France is well-positioned to continue setting the standard for luxury travel.

4. Singapore Airlines (SQ)

Aircraft: Airbus A380
Key Services: Double suite option, Separate bed and seat, “Book the Cook” dining

Singapore Airlines’ (SQ) Suites on the Airbus A380 offer unmatched luxury for solo travelers and couples alike. With only six Suites on the upper deck, the 1-1 configuration ensures maximum privacy.

Each suite includes a leather armchair and a separate lie-flat bed—an extremely rare feature in the skies.

For passengers traveling together, two adjacent suites can be converted into a double room, complete with a double bed. Dining is another highlight, with the “Book the Cook” service allowing pre-selection from a gourmet menu far beyond standard in-flight fare.

The champagne selection includes multiple top-tier labels, adding another layer of indulgence. While the space is generous, the bed could be more plush considering the cabin’s size.

Nonetheless, this remains one of the most elite experiences available, particularly strong in service and meal quality. The Suites are ideal for those who value spacious design and top-class Asian hospitality.

5. Etihad Airways (EY)

Aircraft: Airbus A380
Key Services: First Class Apartments, Onboard shower, Dine-on-demand with customization

Etihad Airways’ (EY) First Class Apartments on the Airbus A380 offer a singular luxury travel experience.

Designed as single-aisle suites along the sides of the aircraft, each apartment includes a separate reclining chair and a fold-down bed, maximizing personal space and comfort.

An onboard shower adds to the opulence, allowing passengers to freshen up mid-flight. The dine-on-demand menu includes custom dishes and upscale presentations.

However, the seat doesn’t recline much when in upright mode, and the bed, while separate, is not as spacious as it could be. Despite these minor limitations, the ambiance, decor, and service make this a remarkable product.

The Etihad A380 currently flies only on select routes, such as London and New York, making the experience rare and exclusive.

Although the airline has scaled back somewhat in recent years, the First Class Apartments remain a flagship product in global aviation.

6. All Nippon Airways (NH)

Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Key Services: Privacy doors, Krug champagne, Complimentary Wi-Fi

All Nippon Airways (ANA) offers a top-tier first class experience aboard select Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

The hard product features enclosed suites with sliding privacy doors, oversized 4K monitors, and well-thought-out seat ergonomics.

ANA’s true strength, however, lies in its soft product. From warm, respectful service to gourmet Japanese and Western meals, every detail is executed with care. ANA also serves Krug champagne, a mark of its premium positioning.

First class passengers benefit from free Wi-Fi and amenities like plush pajamas and skincare kits. While the seat and suite are excellent, it’s the overall sense of Japanese hospitality that sets ANA apart.

The attention to detail, whether in presentation or timeliness, elevates the entire journey. This is a superb choice for travelers who appreciate refined luxury, exceptional service, and a relaxing flight experience that showcases the best of Japan.

7. Cathay Pacific (CX)

Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Key Services: Face-to-face dining, Wide bed with premium bedding, Attentive cabin service

Cathay Pacific’s (CX) first class, available exclusively on its Boeing 777-300ER fleet, offers six spacious seats arranged in a 1-1-1 configuration.

While the suites are not fully enclosed, their angled layout provides ample privacy and openness. The seats convert into one of the widest beds in the sky, and the bedding is of exceptionally high quality.

A standout feature is the ability to dine face-to-face with a travel companion, creating a personalized and intimate experience.

Cathay is also known for its consistently attentive service, crews respond almost instantly when needed and are very proactive during meal services. Caviar and top-shelf champagne enhance the inflight dining experience.

While availability is limited to a few routes and bookings with miles have become more difficult, Cathay is expected to introduce a new first class on its future Boeing 777X aircraft. Until then, this remains one of the most dependable and elegant options in Asia.

8. Garuda Indonesia (GA)

Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Key Services: Onboard chef, Exceptional cabin crew, Free Wi-Fi

Garuda Indonesia (GA) offers an ultra-exclusive first class experience available on just one aircraft—a Boeing 777-300ER flying between Jakarta and Amsterdam.

The suites include doors for added privacy, although the hardware isn’t as cutting-edge as other airlines. What sets Garuda apart is the human touch: the airline’s first class service is lauded for its warmth and attentiveness.

An onboard chef is available to prepare custom meals, enhancing the dining experience with thoughtful presentation and delicious pairings. Free Wi-Fi adds convenience for business travelers.

The cabin crew are widely considered among the best in the industry, often topping customer service rankings.

However, the bedding could be improved and recent cost-cutting measures may slightly affect consistency.

Despite that, Garuda’s first class remains one of the most personal and heartfelt luxury travel experiences available today.

9. SWISS (LX)

Aircraft: Boeing 777-300ER
Key Services: High-end cuisine, Plush bedding, 1-2-1 seating layout

SWISS (LX) offers a refined first class product aboard its Boeing 777-300ERs, aimed at delivering classic European sophistication.

The cabin has eight seats in a 1-2-1 configuration and provides a comfortable balance between privacy and openness.

The food and beverage service is a notch above other European carriers, even though caviar isn’t always included.

The seats convert into fully flat beds with plush, high-quality bedding for excellent rest during long-haul flights. SWISS is also consistent when it comes to service—attentive, polite, and timely.

While it doesn’t feature over-the-top gimmicks, it provides a solid, well-rounded first class experience for travelers who value traditional luxury over novelty. Among Lufthansa Group carriers, SWISS stands out as the clear leader in premium service and passenger comfort.

10. Korean Air (KE)

Aircraft: Boeing 747-8
Key Services: Nose cabin layout, Excellent meals, Top-shelf champagne

Korean Air’s (KE) best first class product can be found in the nose section of its Boeing 747-8, where just six seats are located for maximum privacy and exclusivity.

The seats are spacious and well-padded, transforming into comfortable flat beds ideal for long-haul rest.

The inflight dining is commendable, offering a selection of Western and Korean cuisine with premium presentation. Passengers are served quality champagne, enhancing the overall experience.

However, the airline lags behind in entertainment options and does not offer onboard Wi-Fi, which some travelers may find limiting.

That said, the cabin’s peaceful layout and consistently good service make this a great choice, particularly for routes to and from Asia.

Korean Air plans to operate the 747-8 well into the 2030s, ensuring this first class product will be available for the foreseeable future.

Choosing Your First Class Journey

For Middle East travel, Emirates (EK) or Etihad (EY) from Dubai (DXB) or Abu Dhabi (AUH) dominate. Asian carriers like Japan Airlines (JL) or Singapore Airlines (SQ) excel on trans-Pacific routes from Tokyo (NRT) or Singapore (SIN).

European hubs like Paris (CDG) favor Air France (AF) for dining enthusiasts. Limited availability, like Garuda Indonesia’s (GA) single Jakarta (CGK) to Amsterdam (AMS) route, requires planning.

Booking with miles can ease costs, and exploring lounges at airports like Singapore (SIN) or Paris (CDG) enhances the journey.

Each airline offers a unique blend of luxury, making personal priorities, privacy, dining, or space, key to the perfect flight.

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10 Best Business Class Airlines in the World

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