The cost of business class seats can vary widely by airline, route, and date. Even planes from the same airline can have differing configurations. Some business-class seats can range between £5,000 and £10,000 for a roundtrip ticket, therefore it’s understandable that discerning travellers want an experience worth the splurge.
With a little advance homework, finding the best business class seats becomes easier when you know which routes to choose. For instance, the best seats are typically available on busy routes to major cities.
For many travellers, there are multiple benefits to business class, including privacy and the ability to work, relax, or rest in a fully flat bed. However, not all seats are created equally, and comfort can sometimes come in surprising forms. Finnair’s new business-class seats have gained attention for their innovative design that doesn’t recline yet provides comfort similar to a sofa at home.
Qatar Airways Qsuites
Regarded as one of the finest business class offerings in the air, Qatar Airways provides Qsuites on most of its long-haul aircraft. These suites feature private spaces behind sliding doors, with seating that alternates between forward and backward-facing. A notable advantage is the option to combine suites for a larger dining area, accommodating either two or four passengers.
Passengers can enjoy dine-on-demand meals, including delightful options like afternoon tea and homemade cuisine. Additional perks feature Diptyque amenity kits along with comfortable pajamas and slippers. Consequently, Qatar’s Qsuites offer a first-class feel at a business class price.
ANA “The Room” Business Class
This spacious business class product is available on select aircraft flying between Japan and the UK. Sliding doors ensure protection from aisle commotion, and the seats resemble first-class seating, boasting ample shoulder room and a sizable entertainment screen. The three-dimensional cushioning is designed to distribute body weight for enhanced comfort.
Seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, and couples can sit together thanks to a sliding panel. Japanese in-flight dining is provided by top Michelin-starred chefs, which has made it a preferred choice for repeat passengers.
Singapore Airlines Business Class
If seeking one of the widest business class seats in the sky, Singapore Airlines’ Airbus A380s are an excellent choice. After enjoying Michelin star-worthy meals, passengers can request a flight attendant to convert their seat into a comfortable bed. In some seat pairs, couples can even create a double bed.
The B777-300ERs and A350-900s offer similarly spacious accommodations on nonstop routes from the UK to Singapore, along with a range of luxurious dining options.
Emirates Business Class
Emirates boasts multiple variations of business class, with refurbished Airbus A380s featuring leather seats and wood grain surfaces. Although these may lack privacy doors, they come equipped with personal non-alcoholic minibars at each seat.
While meals aren’t offered on-demand, passengers can indulge in snacks and beverages at a private bar and lounge located at the back of the plane. These onboard lounges offer social spaces for relaxation, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Delta One Suites
Delta fans will be pleased with Delta One Suites, although it’s essential to know which planes and routes feature these luxurious designs. Delta stands out as the only U.S. carrier to offer business-class seats with doors, available only on select aircraft.
Delta One Suites offer restaurant-quality meals, often crafted by renowned chefs at various destinations, along with memory-foam cushion seats converting into lie-flat beds. Upon closing the door, it creates a private room feel for passengers.