LuxeBook September 2022

The unmatched comfort of first-class travel Comfort and privacy are factors driving the rise in first-class passengers post-pandemic BY SCHENELLE DSOUZA A irlines around the world have transformed the concept of flying in style, offering the best comforts and amenities on board. As of 2022, first-class tickets have seen quite a boom, given the Covid pandemic. According to IATA’s (International Air Transport Association, Canada) Director General, Willie Walsh International travel in the first quarter of this year stood at 48% of 2019 levels, with the percentage of business and first-class tickets rising up to 65-70 per cent of 2019 levels according to IAG (International Airlines Group, France). And so, people across the globe have been willing to spend the extra buck for their safety with the bonus of a luxury travel experience. This Qatar Airways A350 Air France - La Première Air France has been credited for being one of the most luxurious airlines for the longest time now. Among their best offerings is the very luxurious La Première first class cabin introduced back in 2014. The La Premiere cabin is fitted onto the carrier’s long-haul Boeing 777 aircraft, and offers an exclusive and personalised first-class service that resembles true French hospitality. Spread across 32-square-feet, La Premiere reinvents the fully enclosed suites that are defined by a minimalist chic ambience. The space is designed with materials like soft leather, suede, and textile fabrics with a tweed trim, along with very subtle wood and metallic finishes. While leather is used predominantly includes having your own personal space as though it were a luxury hotel. The most popular comfort in 2022 is the private suite experience on business and first-class flights, which gives passengers an entire section to themselves with a seat that transforms into a bed. Who doesn’t want to stretch their legs for a long-haul flight? Additionally, some airlines have taken it up a notch, creating a luxury suite in the air, which is quite literally the size of a hotel room, with a double bed, a spacious shower, dining and living areas, and more. The question of whether one should travel on a first or business class flight is subjective. While it is ideal for long-haul flights, travelling by first class benefits flyers taking a shorter flight just as much. While many look solely at the amenities on- board, flying first class benefits flyers from the moment they arrive at the airport. These include avoiding long lines at check-in, baggage counters and even security check. Plus, you get to board first, which means you have more than enough time to settle in, and enjoy a welcome drink onboard. The on-board benefits are known, from wider legroom and much more comfortable seating to great food with plenty of options, quality liquor, and other amenities that make your journey a pleasant one. If you love flying first-class, here are some of the best and most luxurious first-class cabins that are ideal for your next vacation. Air France La Premiere First Class 20| L U X E B O O K | S E P T E MB E R 2 0 2 2 S E P T E MB E R 2 0 2 2 | L U X E B O O K | 21 FLYING F IRST