Experience The Real Cloud Nine With These Business-Class Airlines

Economy seats vs business-class—experiences so wildly at odds, they’re basically unrecognizable to each other. While there’s nothing wrong with saving (quite a few) pennies by flying economy, for that long haul—and the sake of your spine—business-class seems rather appealing. Well, good news: airlines use their business-classes as a way of showcasing their finest services; for an extra zero (or two) on your ticket price, you’ll experience flying like never before. And trust us, it’s addictive. 

Of course, rummaging that deep in your pocket isn’t easy, even for the most affluent of travelers—you’re going to want your money’s worth. Thankfully, there are plenty of business-class airlines that transcend expectations, resulting in that rosy, cash-well-spent glow—not to mention daisy-fresh energy upon arrival. So, from Michelin-level dining paired with the finest Champagne to full lie-back seats to organic wine lists, plus cabin crew who genuinely seem thrilled to serve you, the best business-class airlines go the extra (air) mile. 

Psssst: Business class isn’t sufficiently private for you? Check our selection of the best private jet companies in the world.

1. Qatar Airways, Qsuites 

Envision this: stepping out at your destination after a long-haul flight feeling fresh, not fatigued. Qatar Airways Qsuites are just the ticket—literally. Relax in total privacy (with actual doors, OMG), lie-flat beds, and even a Do Not Disturb indicator for when you need some uninterrupted shut-eye. 

You‘ll be lounging in gorgeous sleepwear from none other than luxe brand, The White Company. And it gets better: the Diptyque amenity kit genuinely transforms that long haul into something resembling a spa experience. Indeed, the only finger you’ll need to lift is for the ambient lighting switch—and it’s totally worth the effort.

2. Emirates

Those vacation feels should start long before you check into your hotel. Dubai-based carrier Emirates gets it. That’s why their business-class seats immerse you in pure luxury from the word ‘go’. Swap stories with fellow travelers in the A380 Onboard Lounge over a canapé or two, and when you’re all talked-out, head back to your soft leather-clad seat for a bite of something gourmet. Fall into slumber on a mattress that gives the clouds a run for their money, and snooze until touchdown.

3. Singapore Airlines

Whether you’re taking to the skies in the Boeing 777 or the A380, you’ll be treated to a lap of luxury with Singapore Airlines. Tune out the world with noise-canceling headphones and a HD blockbuster, or wind down your personal divider to have a soul-nourishing tête-à-tête with your neighbor. 

We love the double lie-flat beds, providing space to cozy up with your partner—just like home. And, a little less like home (unless you have an in-house chef—lucky you), the airline serves up their unique Book the Cook program; choose from a fine-dining menu curated by their world-class chefs. We’ll have the caviar, then.

4. Etihad Airways, Business Studios

We’ve come to expect opulence from Etihad. But this time, they’ve outdone themselves. Collaborating with Giorgio Armani, their business studios have had a shiny new upgrade—just like your plane ticket. Channeling inspiration from the lavish tastes of their native land, the UAE, this Emirati airline serves up splendor on a silver platter. From your chauffeur-driven ride to the gate to thoughtful details like the Acqua di Parma amenity kit, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.

5. ANA All Nippon Airways, ANA ‘The Room’

Get gone of the long-haul flight dread by treating yourself to an ANA business-class ticket. The Japanese airline’s business-class is known as ‘The Room’ —and honestly, we’ve seen hotel suites smaller than these seats.

Dine from a menu curated by world-class chefs, create your own sanctuary with the privacy partitions, and freshen up before disembarking with your complementary skincare kit. We’re so there for the 1-2-1/1-1 seating arrangements, too, giving you no-fuss access to the aisle (read: the bathroom).

6. Delta Air Lines, Delta One Suites

Airlines take note: Delta One Suites go above and beyond when it comes to privacy—and personalization. In fact, their seat-high doors are an industry-first. Once you’re nestled in your secluded nook, you can adjust the mood lighting to your taste, order a single-malt, or simply sit back and observe the skies through your window. And you can wave goodbye to standard airline-issue gray (or worse, beige) color schemes—Delta One Suites are clean, bright, and pleasingly white. Mmm.

7. Oman Air

If the budget doesn’t quite stretch to first class, Oman Air’s got your back. Their business-class cabins are toe-to-toe with other airlines’ first, offering plentiful space to stretch your legs plus extravagant amenities to boot. Drown out the plane’s hum with the award-winning Touch Personal Media Unit, get your nose into a good book with the reading light, or wile away your flight with top-class cuisine from the impeccable menu. Dare we say it, you might wish you’d booked a longer flight.

8. Air France

Designed with archetypal French flair, Air France exceeds expectations with its business-class seats—emphasis on the ‘class’. Packed into this neat petite space is a desk, a chair(slash bed), and a HD home cinema. Sip distinguished French wines while watching Amelie, dine on Michelin-approved dishes, and when your destination is near, glow-up with your beauty kit, presented in a chic bag—the icing on the mille feuille. 

9. Virgin Atlantic

Fancy flying upper-class, darling? Well, you’ll need to head over to Virgin Atlantic, the only airline offering this ritzy business-and-first-class hybrid. Lean back in your cushty leather seat, Champagne flute in hand, and let your vacation (or, well, work trip) commence. If you’re crossing the pond, be sure to snap up seats 1D or 1G. These coveted “Retreat Seats” offer more space, a setup for dinner à deux, and a jumbo-sized (well, for a plane) entertainment screen. Mr Branson knows upscale living better than most—you’ll get a four-course fine-dining menu, plus access to social areas: The Retreat and The Loft, to compare notes with other passengers.

10. La Compagnie

You’re familiar with boutique hotels. But what about boutique airlines? La Compagnie is a French all-business-class airline, decked with just 76 seats for a uniquely calm atmosphere. With regular transatlantic flights, you can cross the pond in style. 

Get your admin done with the unlimited Wi-Fi and when the hunger pangs kick in, indulge in some (you guessed it) French gastronomy, including a cheese plate and an elegant dessert. They’ve even partnered with Petit Bambou, offering in-flight guided meditation to add some zen to your journey.