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What Flying First Class Is Really Like and How to Decide If It's Worth It

Here's what to expect if you're flying in first class on Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Every time you board a plane, there they are: the flight's first-class passengers. While you were at the gate waiting for your group number to be called (and likely stressing about nabbing space in the overhead compartment ), they were getting settled into their extra-large seats with dedicated carry-on space. And as you sulk past them toward your narrow seat in the back of the plane, they snuggle in under a complimentary blanket and sip Champagne .

That, you tell yourself, is what flying should be like.

But is the extra space and next-level service worth the pricey ticket ? To explore that very question, we've pulled together what it looks like to fly in first class on various U.S. airlines, how flying in first class is different from traveling in business class and economy, and how the benefits change — in some cases, dramatically — when you book first class on a long-haul international flight versus a domestic one.

Benefits of Flying in First Class

First-class passengers enjoy several benefits before they even board the plane. For starters, they don't have to wait in the long economy check-in line, they get free checked bags, and they have an easier time going through security , as that first-class ticket may mean access to a different TSA line.

From there, they get to board the plane first, so they have time to stow their bags and settle in without a line of passengers crowding around. And, of course, on board, they often get extra legroom, a wider seat with a more exaggerated recline, a blanket and a pillow, a plush amenity kit, beverage service that includes alcohol, and better food (and more of it).

Flying First Class on Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has six onboard experiences: Delta One, Premium Select, First Class, Comfort+, Main Cabin, and Basic Economy, but some offerings and cabins are only available on certain routes. For example, the ultra-luxe Delta One cabin — which has lie-flat seats, lip balm and hand cream by Grown Alchemist, and sleep amenities like an oversized duvet and a comfy down-alternative pillow — is only available on long-haul international flights and select long-haul domestic flights.

Pre-flight Service: Those flying in first class with Delta get Sky Priority service from the moment they enter the airport. That translates to accelerated check-in, security, and baggage handling, plus early boarding.

Baggage: Up to two free checked bags.

Seating: Up to eight inches of extra legroom and up to 5.4 inches of seat recline.

In-flight Service: A dedicated first-class cabin flight attendant and complimentary drinks and a snack. Those flying more than 900 miles can expect to receive a first-class meal box; passengers traveling between 900 and 2,399 miles receive a chef-curated meal and snacks, while flights over 2,300 miles include a full meal service with snacks and several entrées to choose from.

Flying First Class on United Airlines

On flights within the U.S., United Airlines' highest level of service is United First, but on flights from the U.S. to Latin America or the Caribbean (and some U.S. transcontinental flights) United Business is the first-class equivalent. Meanwhile, United Polaris provides the airline's ultimate flight experience — think lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and slippers.

Pre-flight Service: With United, first-class passengers can use the quicker, shorter Premier Access lines to speed up the check-in, security, and boarding processes.

Baggage: Up to two free checked bags with priority baggage handling, meaning your suitcases get special attention and will be among the first to arrive at baggage claim.

Seating: In United's first-class cabin, expect the most legroom possible, and with United Polaris, get ready for fully reclining seats that convert to a flat six-foot, six-inch bed.

In-flight Service: Beer, wine, and spirits (including a rotating craft beer selection) and access to DirecTV and United Private Screening, for all the latest movies and TV shows.

Flying First Class on American Airlines

Like on United, on American Airlines, the first-class designation marks the highest level on flights around the U.S., while business class is the highest level on shorter international routes, including Bermuda and Canada. On some long-distance flights (both domestic and international), passengers have the option to book seats in Flagship First or Flagship Business classes, which make up the brand's most luxurious product — think lie-flat seats, access to the Flagship Lounge, and a sleep amenity set from Casper.

Pre-flight Service: Those booking a first-class ticket with American will be granted priority access through the airport's most congested areas, from check-in to security to the gate.

Baggage: Up to three free checked bags, depending on the flight.

Seating: In American's first-class cabins, seats are wider and recline farther, although the exact increase varies by flight and aircraft layout.

In-flight Service: In first class, passengers will enjoy menus curated by premier chefs — such as chef and registered dietitian nutritionist Ellie Krieger, who focuses on healthy dishes, and Sam Choy, creator of Pacific Rim cuisine — thanks to the airline's partnership with the James Beard Foundation, along with extra snacks and a beverage service that includes alcohol.

Flying First Class Versus Business Class

On some airlines, like United and American, first-class fares offer the highest level of service on flights across the U.S., while business class provides the highest level of service on shorter-distance international routes (such as those heading to the Caribbean). If a plane has both cabin types, flying business class is typically a step down from flying first class.

Keep in mind that some airlines have a premium economy category (think Delta's Delta Comfort+), which tends to fall between economy and business or first class. A premium economy booking may have extra legroom, better meal service, and an increased bag allowance, but the perks can vary.

Flying First Class on Long-haul International Flights

Want the ultimate first-class experience? Save up and book a first-class ticket on a long-haul international flight (or in some cases, a U.S. transcontinental flight). It's on these long routes that you'll find that dreamy elevated flight experience.

While almost all airlines offer lie-flat seats and thoughtful sleep amenities, some of them truly excel at taking things to the next level. First class on Emirates' A380 and Boeing 777 planes, for instance, means flying in a fully enclosed suite with a full bed, an onboard shower, and a first-class bar and lounge. Meanwhile, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways , Etihad Airways, and Air France are all known for their respective first-class service and amenities.

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Enjoy Each Mile

For amenities and superior service you won’t find just anywhere, choose First Class for your next Delta flight. You’ll enjoy a wider, more spacious seat, the flexibility to change or cancel your ticket without change fees (for flights originating in the United States and Canada), Sky Priority® service and a thoughtful travel experience from start to finish. The benefits don’t stop there, either.

Fly and enjoy first class service and amenities.

Space to Work or Relax

Personal service, productivity, a first class journey, check-in and security, first class food, made fresh, medium - long flights, longer flights.

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When it’s time to plan your next trip, why not allow yourself to relax before your flight even gets underway? Imagine priority boarding; a cozy, reclinable seat; a drink waiting for you; and most importantly: plenty of legroom. When you purchase a cheap first class flight, you’re invited to experience luxury travel at its finest, complete with premium menus, cocktail service, and added privacy. You’ll deplane feeling fresh faced and well rested, like the ultimate A-lister. And who knows? You could even score a celebrity as your seatmate! But just because you want to tap into the VIP-travel style doesn’t mean you have to fork over a fortune to afford your tickets. When you browse our airfare here at Expedia.com, you can scoop up the cheapest first class flights and still have money to spare.

While flying first class introduces you to the glamorous side of traveling, forget about playing the lotto in order to cover the cost of airfare. At Expedia.com, it’s more affordable than ever to fly in the fancy section, because we offer all kinds of cheap first class tickets for both long and short flights. You deserve the utmost comfort during your flight, so browse through our selection of the cheapest first class tickets to find one that matches your price range and itinerary. Once you find the perfect airfare, it’s time to get into vacation mode—pack up your belongings, stretch out in your luxury seat, and toast to the finer things ahead.

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CABIN FEATURES

First Class

Emirates a380 first class, as close as it comes to your own private jet.

Close the privacy doors and you are in a world of your own. With fine dining at any time, an onboard shower spa, and the ultimate lounge bar just a short walk away.

See why this isn’t just flying. It’s the Emirates A380.

Boeing 777 First Class

Introducing the fully enclosed first class suite.

Experience true luxury with your own private hotel room in the sky. Game-changing technology includes temperature controls and mood lighting, an industry first with virtual windows, and soft leather seating reminiscent of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

This is our game changer.

TRIPADVISOR

World’s Best First Class 2020

Whether you’re flying on the Emirates A380 or our game-changing Boeing 777, you’ll experience the World’s Best First Class 2020. Discover why our customers voted for us in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards.

• The Emirates Experience
• Cabin Features
• Emirates First Class cabin features

First is our most luxurious way to experience flight. From your own stylish suite, to exclusive access to lounges, fast-track security, and excellent service, it’s the finest way to travel.

The finest experience

• Exceptional, elegant British service
• Your own private, spacious suite
• A fully flat bed with luxurious bedding
• Delicious, indulgent fine dining
• Temperley London loungewear, amenity bag and slippers
• Seven-piece luxury skin and body care collection from Elemis
• Access to luxurious lounges
• Exclusive and dedicated service
• Priority boarding, straight from our exclusive First lounge

Your own personal suite

Your luxury travel experience starts here. Cross the world’s skies comfortably, enjoying excellent food and entertainment in your own spacious suite on our first class flights. Here, British heritage meets contemporary design, letting you work in peace, watch a film, or stretch out and fall asleep.

Space to relax:  When you want some rest we'll turn your seat into a 198cm (6ft 6in) fully flat bed with a luxurious quilted mattress, crisp white cotton duvet and pillow. Meanwhile, you can slip into our Temperley London loungewear.

Exclusively designed travel essentials:  Cleanse, revive, and hydrate during your luxury first class flight. In collaboration with Temperley London, our sophisticated his and hers amenity bags are designed seasonally and filled with products from high-end British skincare brand, Elemis, including products from their Ultra Smart pro-collagen range.

Your own charging point:  Your first class suite includes a personal power supply for laptops and electronic devices.

Blankets recycled from plastic water bottles

Our First-Class duvets have been created  from recycled plastic bottles. This is one of the many changes we're making across our organisation to become more sustainable.

Fine dining and delicious treats

Create your own dining experience with our a la carte ‘Dine Anytime’ menu featuring signature dishes made with quality British ingredients, delivered with impeccable service. Our crockery, cutlery and glassware is made by the finest British designers, from William Edwards, Studio William to Dartington, designed exclusively for British Airways. Alongside your meal, we offer snacks and beverages including cocktails, mocktails, Champagne, spirits and wines.

In-flight entertainment

When you fly First with us, you’ll have everything you need to sit back, relax and be entertained in style.

• A personal 15-inch screen and ports to connect your own devices
• Noise-cancelling headphones for minimal disturbance
• Access to hundreds of the latest films and shows including  Paramount+

As a First customer, you can stream music, films and box sets, browse the internet, email and message from the comfort of your seat, and it's free for the entire flight*.

It couldn’t be easier to take advantage of your reward. Connect to the on-board 'BAWi-Fi' network and click the 'Free Wi-Fi' banner. Then, simply verify you're a First customer with your name and seat number or booking reference.

* Terms and conditions apply

Space to prepare and relax

Take time out in our elegant departure lounges and wait comfortably before flying First. Modern and luxurious spaces offer quality wines, drinks and food, plus a range of business facilities for when you need to work.

On arrival into London Heathrow, stop by the Arrivals lounge to freshen up and get ready for whatever you’ve got planned. The Arrivals lounge is located in Terminal 5 on Level 1. To access the lounge from Terminal 3 please use the free interterminal transfer train.

Temporary changes : Please note, the routes to our London Heathrow Terminal 5 lounges have temporarily changed. Find out more

The Concorde Room

You're also invited to the Concorde Room – our most luxurious first class lounge. It’s exclusive to London Heathrow Terminal 5, with discreet booths, full waiter service, private cabanas and a state-of-the-art business suite.

The Chelsea lounge

Located at New York JFK airport, Terminal 8, this elegant lounge is exclusively for customers in First on British Airways and American Airlines flights. Enjoy the circular champagne bar, fireside cocktails and a la carte dining.

Seamless check-in and boarding

Flying First lets you skip the queues, with dedicated check-in desks and fast-track security at various airports.

• Dedicated check-in desks at most airports
• Priority boarding
• Fast Track security at London Heathrow, London Gatwick and New York JFK

The First Wing

Available in London Heathrow Terminal 5, our exclusive First Wing gets you through the airport quickly and smoothly. It’s a dedicated space for First, Executive Club Gold, and one world Emerald flyers. You'll have a private check-in area, two exclusive security lanes, and a direct walkway into the Galleries First Lounge and Concorde Room.

Freedom to pack what you like

Generous baggage allowance.

There’s no need to compromise when packing, with a generous number of bags included in First. Bring both a cabin bag and laptop or handbag on board, as well as up to three bags in the hold.

Doorstep baggage pick-up & check-in

AirPortr can collect your baggage from your doorstep, securely transport it to the airport and check it in for your flight for you. This means that you can travel to the airport luggage-free and head straight to security when you arrive. This service is only available for flights departing from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Geneva, Zurich and Vienna.

Dedicated to You First

We’re here to help, whenever you need us. That’s why we have You First, a dedicated helpdesk for First customers.

Aircraft variations

Wherever and whenever you fly First you can expect the same top quality food, drink and first class service by our attentive crew. A few of the cabin design elements may vary by aircraft.

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The Most and Least Affordable Airlines for Flying First Class [2023 Data Study]

Alex Miller

Founder & CEO

296 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 34 U.S. States Visited: 29

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3260 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

The cost of first class vs. economy seats by airline, the cost of first class vs. economy seats by route, the cheapest airline to fly first class across the busiest routes, methodology, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Extra legroom, preflight service, and complimentary beer and wine are just a few of the enticing reasons why travelers are willing to splurge on first class tickets. Although flying first class may initially appear to be a significant strain on your budget, the undeniable benefits of a more luxurious flight experience with added amenities cannot be overlooked. So whether you’re flying to Los Angeles or New York, first class may be worth it after all.

To find out, we found the average airfare for economy and first class seats across 4 major U.S. airlines and 12 of the busiest domestic flight routes. Keep reading to see if you should splurge on a first class ticket the next time you travel.

When it comes to booking your flight, it can be challenging to determine which airline offers the best deal for your desired seat. Using Google Flights data, we analyzed average one-way ticket prices for both economy and first class seats across 4 major airlines that offer consistent first class seating options –– Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines –– to determine the airlines where you’ll pay the highest and lowest premiums flying first class. 

We found that on average, passengers traveling within the U.S. can expect to pay a premium of $262.97 per flight (one-way) or over $525 (round-trip) when opting for a first class ticket . 

While Alaska Airlines has the highest average first class ticket price, Delta Air Lines stands out as having the highest premiums for first class tickets. Passengers flying with Delta Air Lines can expect to pay an average of $419.62 for a one-way first class ticket and $135.07 for a one-way economy ticket. This translates to a significant price difference of $284.55. 

Luxury doesn’t come cheap, as Delta Air Lines recently unveiled new first class seats with privacy partitions, adjustable neck cushions, and additional storage space to compete with other legacy airlines. 

Alaska Airlines ($281.25) and United Airlines ($250.25) also demonstrate notable price differences between their first class and economy seats. 

Alaska Airlines is unique in that the airline serves food in its first class cabins on flights as short as 550 miles while most other legacy airlines serve food on flights longer than 900 miles.

On the opposite end, American Airlines is the airline with the lowest premiums for a first class ticket. On average, American Airlines passengers will pay $134.58 for a one-way economy ticket and $370.43 for a one-way first class ticket, resulting in a $235.85 price difference . 

Whether you find yourself traveling frequently for work or embarking on the same vacation route annually, we wanted to provide you with a complete picture of ticket prices for the top 12 busiest domestic routes in the U.S. 

On the New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX) route, the average one-way economy ticket is $188.29, while the one-way first class ticket averaged $846, resulting in a price difference of $657.71 . For frequent flyers, this price discrepancy can accumulate rapidly over time and can go a long way toward a downpayment on a home, repayment on student loans, or other financial goals.

Similarly, the Los Angeles (LAX) to Maui (OGG) route exhibited a significant price discrepancy between economy and first class tickets. The average one-way economy ticket for this route is $194.29, while the average one-way first class ticket is $745.29, resulting in a price difference of $551 . These price disparities align with the trend seen in LAX, which experienced a notable 42% increase in the average domestic airfare in 2022.

Several routes also had high price differences between first class and economy seats, such as Los Angeles (LAX) to Chicago (ORD) ($327.55) and Newark (EWR) to Orlando (MCO) ($252.83) . 

On the flipside, certain routes such as Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO) featured a comparatively smaller price difference between economy and first class tickets. With an average one-way economy ticket price of $94.73 and an average one-way first class ticket price of $187.45, the price difference amounts to only $92.71 . While you may want to pocket $100 and skip the first class seat, there are other ways to upgrade to first class on your next flight. 

If you’re on the hunt for the cheapest first class airlines then look no further! We found the cheapest airlines for first class tickets across the busiest domestic flight routes. This way, you can filter your routes by the airline the next time you purchase plane tickets using Google Flights. 

Alaska Airlines stands out as the most economical option for popular routes such as Los Angeles ( LAX) to San Francisco (SFO) and Las Vegas (LAS) to Los Angeles (LAX) with one-way first class tickets priced at $159 and $164.71 , respectively. First class seating on Alaska Airlines allows you to check in 2 complimentary bags, enjoy free alcoholic drinks, and relax in seats with generous recline and outlets.

American Airlines offers the cheapest first class flights for routes like Los Angeles (LAX) to Maui (OGG) ($650), New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX) ($684), New York (LGA) to Chicago (ORD) ($240.71), and Atlanta (ATL) to New York (LGA) ($210.57) . 

If you’re flying coast to coast, investing in a first class ticket can help you get cozy in your seat, recline, and maybe even fall asleep. Plus, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a glass of red wine 35,000 feet in the air?

If you’re a fan of United Airlines , enjoy some of the cheapest first class flights from Denver (DEN) to Las Vegas (LAS) ($246.50) or Phoenix (PHX) ($246.50), Los Angeles (LAX) to Chicago (ORD) ($483.21), and Newark (EWR) to Orlando (MCO) ($343.36). 

Learn how to upgrade to first class on Alaska Airlines , American Airlines , Delta Air Lines , and United Airlines in our detailed guides!

To identify the cheapest first class airlines, we obtained ticket price data from Google Flights , focusing on the 12 busiest domestic flight routes within the U.S., according to OAG . 

For each of the 12 routes, we collected data on the cheapest available one-way ticket for both economy and first class seating across 4 U.S. airlines for 7 days. This data collection was conducted for both peak and non-peak departure dates, ensuring a comprehensive representation of pricing trends. The collected prices were then averaged together to get an average one-way ticket price for both economy and first class seating. We excluded certain U.S. airlines from our analysis for the following reasons:

• Hawaiian Airlines: While Hawaiian Airlines does offer first class seating, its flights are primarily limited to travel in and out of Hawaii; therefore, we did not have enough price data for this airline across the 12 busiest domestic routes analyzed in the study.
• JetBlue: While JetBlue does offer first class options with its Mint service, Mint fares are only available on select cross-country and international flights; therefore, we did not have enough price data for this airline across the 12 busiest domestic routes analyzed in the study.
• Southwest: While Southwest does offer Business Select seat options, they are not equivalent to true first class accommodations offered by other airlines.
• Spirit and Frontier: These budget airlines were not included as they do not offer first class seating options.

The data for this study was collected in June 2023.

Flying first class is a luxurious experience unlike any other, but it can come at a hefty price tag. On average, one-way first class tickets cost roughly $260. Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines charge some of the most expensive prices for first class tickets. On the other, hand, American Airlines is one of the cheapest first class airlines and is perfect for popular routes like New York (JFK) to Los Angeles (LAX). Keep our list of the cheapest first class flights handy when you book your next work trip or domestic getaway!

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About Alex Miller

Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.

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The Best First Class Seats You Can Fly Right Now

By Gilbert Ott and Ramsey Qubein

It's said that the 1960s were the Golden Age of travel . In the 2020s—with all the improvements in the first-class cabins, at least—we could call our present era the Diamond Age. In the front of the plane, gone are the cigarettes and La-Z-Boy-style seats; in their place are massive suites with doors, lie-flat beds, showers in the clouds, and caviar collections fit for a king. Don't forget the bone china for in-flight afternoon tea or the bespoke bedding for a long nap too.

And these days, even business class cabins on some airlines have amenities once reserved only for first class like privacy doors that fully close for maximum privacy or dine-on-demand meals. Demand for premium travel is sky-high, and many people are willing to pay for the privileges that come along with sitting in front of the curtain. But not all premium cabins are created equally.

While many airlines have folded their first class into business entirely, making biz the most premium cabin you can fly on their planes, other carriers have pushed their first-class suites to soaring new heights to differentiate themselves from the pack and attract those willing to pay those sky-high fares (or cash in their miles) for them. If you’re looking for the best in the sky, these first-class airplane seats are everything and more.

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Singapore Airlines First Class Suites on the Airbus A380

Singapore Airlines has doubled down in recent years to create what's widely regarded as the single finest commercial flying experience. That's not just hyperbole—at 50 square feet, its Suites on the A380 win by measurement as well, giving first-class passengers more space than any other airline. Even though its double-decker planes are not currently flying to US runways, you will currently find them on flights from Singapore to London, Paris, Sydney, and Mumbai.

The fact that the flight experience out of Singapore starts with a trip to a lounge formally known as The Private Room doesn’t hurt either. The airline recently invested more than $36 million into its Terminal 3 lounges at Changi International Airport , and this includes where the luckiest first class flyers get to rest before their flights. Here, drink selections like Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2007 or the signature SilverKris Sling (a spin on the hometown Singapore Sling) flow like water, and the lounge feels downright serene.

On board, you’re in a true suite, with a reclining swivel chair capable of facing out toward the windows or inward to the cabin for dining; there's also a desktop for work, and a separate bed. A tablet controls everything from dimming lights to changing their colors. You can also carry it with you throughout the suite and use it, whether you’re in your chair or lounging on the bed. And then there’s the 32-inch television, which wouldn’t look out of place in most living rooms. Singapore also went one step further for traveling duos: Select suites can be combined to form a 100-square-foot apartment in the sky.

The airline’s book-the-cook service allows you to choose from more than a dozen meals before departure, including dishes like lobster Thermidor and filet mignon, although the airline says its Hainanese chicken rice is one of the most ordered advance selections. A new partnership with Golden Door Spa is bringing its wellness-focused menus to flights too. The airline sources much of its produce from sustainable vertical aeroponic farms .

Cathay Pacific First Class on the Boeing 777

Cathay Pacific's first-class suite lacks many of the bolted-down features you'd expect on a list of the world's top cabins. No, it doesn't have a door, nor does it have a separate seat and bed. But if you ever wished a lie-flat seat could be your actual bed, it would be this one, and it is angled away from the aisle for more privacy.

Booking into Cathay Pacific first class means you're never let down at any point in your journey. Cathay's The Pier, its first class lounge in Hong Kong , rivals many of the finest five-star hotels in decor—and arguably in spa amenities too. There are also private sleeping rooms, complimentary spa treatments, and an a la carte restaurant to seal the deal.

On board, it's impossible not to revel in the handwritten welcome notes given to passengers, before the question of “Would you like a glass of Krug Grand Cuvée 2004?” is proposed. A companion can sit on the ottoman opposite the suite's seat for an intimate dinner for two, with a table set like the most superb restaurants in Hong Kong and a menu featuring recipes from some of the city’s top Michelin-starred chefs. From the finest cuts of meat to an authentic claypot rice or dim sum basket, no one will go hungry. And when it comes time to hit the hay, the crew arranges each pillow, duvet, and mattress topper like a concerto from a grandmaster.

If that’s not good enough, there are rumors of a new first class product to arrive in 2025 with both privacy doors and higher walls, but also the same top-notch service for which the Hong Kong airline has earned its fame. While the exact details remain top-secret, this should be rolling out on the carrier's new Boeing 777-9 aircraft in the coming years.

Air France La Première Class on the Boeing 777-300ER

There are first-class cabins with larger footprints and plenty more glitz, but Air France's first class is the epitome of sophistication. There's high-thread-count bedding, a crew who could pass most sommelier exams, and teams on the ground tasked with ensuring that every step of the journey is flawless. One example? Each passenger enjoys a private sedan from the lounge directly to their plane, bypassing the woes of the terminal entirely.

This is an experience where 24-hour fasting beforehand should almost be mandatory too, as the exquisite on-board tasting menu, complete with polished silver cloche for dramatic service effect, was designed by a rotating group of the world’s finest chefs , with the most recent dishes conceived by three Michelin-starred Régis Marcon, who whipped up a delectable menu with entrée selections like pigeon filet, sea bass, and prawns bouillabaisse. In fact, Air France works with more than a dozen culinary stars and Michelin-starred chefs, keeping the reputation for French cuisine as elevated as possible. There are also Clarins massage and beauty skincare partnerships in the lounge.

For those who've experienced the other end of the plane, the first thing to marvel at on board is the fact that you've got four windows all to yourself. Your seat—if you insist on degrading it by simply calling it “a seat”—is the ultimate relaxation chamber. Because doors are boring, Air France introduced thick, floor-to-ceiling curtains, which only intensify the feeling that you're in a chic Parisian bedroom, rather than a plane. It comes as no surprise that the airline who once operated the Concorde would have such a chic first-class product both on the ground and in the air. In fact, the truly indulgent can even reserve all four suites in the first-class cabin for private use, creating a long-haul private-jet experience at a fraction of the cost.

Emirates First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER

With virtual reality, zero-gravity seats, and fabrics inspired by Mercedes-Benz interiors, the latest first-class suites on Emirates are completely over the top. Perhaps what makes this experience so unique is the sheer notion that the middle seat is actually the best seat. For the new Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates offers two rows with three suites across, rather than the traditional four. To make sure that the middle seat passengers weren't missing out, Emirates created virtual reality "windows," which show the scenes going on outside in HD clarity. After a few glasses from the airline's $500-million wine cellar, including cult favorites like Château Mouton Rothschild 2004, no one would hold it against you for believing you're in an actual window seat.

Emirates also commissioned top space engineers to create a zero-gravity position in the first-class seat, so you can feel as if you're floating through the skies. And with a seat that comfortable, who wants to get up to flag down a refill? Emirates created a FaceTime-style setup, where you can video chat with the crew to make any requests.

Passengers can adjust their personal lighting according to their mood and even control the temperature within the suite. They've also upgraded the TVs to 32-inch HD monitors, while also introducing the only floor-to-ceiling privacy doors found in the sky. Resting comes easy with a flat bed and goodies like leather-bound journals, Byredo eye cream, chamomile sleep oil, pillow mist, and an ensuite (non-alcoholic) minibar with soft drinks, mints, and snacks. In fact, there are so many gifts for first-class fliers that flight attendants present amenities like pajamas designed to prevent skin dehydration thanks to shea butter and Argan oil within the fabric, slippers, and deluxe amenity kits in a keepsake bag.

The only things missing on the Boeing 777 are the famous in-flight showers, bar, and lounge available on the A380. Luckily, Emirates's first-class lounge in Dubai makes up for it with its dedicated Moët and Chandon bar, lavish shower suites, and an a la carte menu that includes a growing number of vegan and gluten-free selections. More decadent choices include chargrilled Wagyu burgers, 72-hour braised beef short ribs, and foie gras terrine. Even better, the airline has beefed up the amount of top-shelf Champagne and caviar it brings onboard for first class passengers to allow them to have second and even third helpings, should they wish.

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

All Nippon Airways First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER

ANA’s first-class airplane seats, dubbed The Suites, feature fully-closing doors and perhaps the widest entertainment screens flying today at 42 inches. Japanese hospitality is on full display with top-ups of high-caliber Champagne setting the tone for the flight. There’s also a lengthy list of sakes, shōchū, and plum wine to choose from too. Need something from a flight attendant? You won’t wait more than 15 seconds after ringing the call bell, and it will be delivered with traditional precision the carrier is known for. Japanese omakase or Western menus allow fliers to mix and match their above-the-clouds meals, and a companion can join using the ottoman as a second seat.

Everything is designed for easy access, like an individual coat closet should you need to reach for something mid-flight, and electronic window blinds that close at the touch of a button. There’s another noteworthy seat aboard, too: The aircraft features bidet toilets in the lavatory. Free internet is the cherry on top because, these days, who can afford being disconnected while crisscrossing the globe?

Lufthansa First Class on the Boeing 747-8

Sleek cabins, ever-efficient German service, and luxury car transfers to the plane earn Lufthansa top marks for first class. But it’s the little details that make Lufthansa so special, such as an elegant fresh rose at each seat, plush pajamas tied with a ribbon, designer amenity kits stuffed with cologne, automatically controlled window blinds, and private storage closets for carry-on and garment bags.

Excellent bedding assures a comfortable rest, but for those that want to work, free internet is a welcome perk. Dining is a multi-course affair with some courses plated at your seat like heaping helpings of caviar and a lovely after-dinner cheese cart.

There are no privacy doors guarding each seat, but the airline installed special carpeting to dampen the sound of foot traffic (there’s hardly any in first class anyway). Slightly delayed, but coming in 2024 is a new first class product aboard the Airbus A350 that will feature sliding doors and walls that stretch to the ceiling.

In its Frankfurt hub, first-class fliers may never set foot in the main airport terminal either. Instead, a private building with a restaurant, napping rooms, shower suites, a cigar bar, and even dedicated security and immigration await. It feels more like flying private, and that’s extra special on one of the last few airlines to fly the 747 jumbo-jet , a.k.a. the queen of the skies.

Qantas First Class on the Airbus A380

The return of the double-decker Airbus A380 for Qantas flights between Australia and other parts of the globe highlights the tremendous demand for post-pandemic flights Down Under. This includes seats in its celebrated first-class cabin, which wins customer accolades for its airport lounge experiences with restaurant and complimentary spa services, onboard dining (including numerous plant-based options), and comfortable bed with companion seat for dining.

However, there is room for improvement: The airline could add onboard Wi-Fi to the A380 and create more privacy between seats with a door). Luckily, this is all in the works for its new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft on the way by the end of 2025. These will have both a lie-flat bed and a separate seat in a private cabin with a door, plus onboard Wi-Fi. The airline plans to use these planes on its Project Sunrise flights (ultra-long-haul, nonstop services between Australia and places like New York and London). With enough time to eat, sleep, and be entertained, the privacy and service will give Qantas an edge that is hard to beat.

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Best domestic first class airline: Delta, United or American?

There is often a lively discussion among travelers about which U.S. airline — American, Delta or United — offers the best first-class experience. To determine the answer, I recently flew with all three carriers to put them to the test and see how each matched up to the others.

While each airline has both strengths and areas for improvement, one clear winner emerged from my experiences.

First-class comparison methodology

To ensure a fair comparison of similar seats and services, I chose to book discounted first-class tickets on a version of the Airbus A320 in each airline's fleet.

It is important to note that the overall experience would have been enhanced if I had opted for United's Polaris business-class seats on a transcontinental flight or American's A321T premium transcontinental first class or Delta One on a transcontinental flight.

Conversely, the first-class experience would have been compromised had I chosen to fly first class on a smaller regional jet on any of the airlines. For that reason and to maintain fairness, this assessment focuses solely on each carrier's first-class experience on a type of jet they all fly.

Additionally, I selected flights that were generally around three hours in length and included meal service. Catering plays a significant role in the first-class experience, as it involves additional interactions with the crew and, ideally, a satisfying repast.

Here are the flights I booked:

• American Airlines Airbus A321neo : Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to San Francisco International Airport (SFO) for 24,000 AAdvantage miles (worth $360 at TPG's valuations ) plus $5.60 in taxes and fees
• Delta Air Lines Airbus A321neo : Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) for $274
• United Airlines Airbus A320 : SEA to LAX for $254

Now, let me share my impressions of flying with American, Delta and United in their domestic first-class cabins.

Comparing American, Delta and United's first class

As mentioned, I selected flights on a version of each carrier's Airbus A320. The American and Delta aircraft were recently delivered planes (A321neos); while the United plane I flew was around 25 years old (A320), the interior had been updated recently.

United has new recliner seats and seatback entertainment on its Airbus A321neo, but the airline hadn't taken delivery of this aircraft at the time of my travel. However, they are flying now and we'll update this comparison soon with a flight on the new aircraft.

In the meantime, here's a quick overview of how the seats, cabins and amenities in each airline's first-class cabin compare to one another.

Which U.S. airline has the best first-class ground experience?

All three airlines let you check in for your flight 24 hours before departure on their apps to skip the airport check-in lines. All three also let you track the status of your inbound flight to stay apprised of potential delays. Most notably, none of the three carriers offers access to their lounges with standard domestic first-class tickets (i.e. non-transcontinental flights).

American Airlines

American had a priority check-in line, and plenty of agents were available to assist priority customers despite its also being accessible to AAdvantage elite members , Oneworld Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald members and primary Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees ) cardholders.

The gate area was cramped and excessively cold, but since the plane was only two-thirds full, there were plenty of seats with power outlets. Boarding began on time, and as a Group 1 passenger, I was among the first to board.

Delta Air Lines

Delta first-class passengers can use the airline's SkyPriority counters and self-service kiosks, and customer service lines were short. SkyPriority is also available to those in Premium Select , Delta Medallion members , SkyTeam Elite members as well as select LATAM and WestJet elite members.

The gate area for my Seattle flight seemed crowded due to narrow boarding lanes, but there were plentiful seats as the plane wasn't full. The gate agents demonstrated remarkable professionalism and remained composed while addressing passengers' numerous inquiries. There were television monitors that displayed flight information. Despite a slight delay caused by two flight attendants arriving late, the boarding process proceeded smoothly, allowing us to depart punctually. First-class passengers boarded in Zone 1.

United Airlines

United provides a dedicated priority check-in area for those with Premier Access. That includes all Premier status elites and Star Alliance Gold members as well as primary United Club Infinite Card cardholders. The lines for both self-service kiosks and customer service were minimal, and the signage was clear.

The gate area had tons of seating options, and the terminal had high ceilings and large windows with lots of natural light. Certain seats near the gate were equipped with power outlets for convenience.

The two friendly gate agents efficiently managed the boarding process, maintaining good organization. Furthermore, the television monitors near the gate were easy to read and understand, adding to the overall positive experience.

Best ground experience: United Airlines, for a quick check-in process and ample power outlets in the spacious gate area with highly efficient gate agents who kept boarding calm and well-organized

Which airline has the most comfortable first class?

On my flights, each carrier-operated recliner armchairs were arranged in a 2-2 configuration. Now, let's compare their comfort levels and see how they measure up against each other.

American Airlines' A321neo dark-gray leather first-class recliners are sleek and streamlined, and look even sharper thanks to dramatic blue mood lighting. A cabin divider behind the last row of first class is emblazoned with the distinctive American Airlines logo, marking the transition to the economy section.

While lacking built-in seatback entertainment screens, these seats offer an expandable personal device holder for tablets or phones. A seatback USB-A port is conveniently located next to the device holder, which limits cord entanglement. Each seat provides a universal AC power outlet for inflight charging in the center armrest.

The seat control is a single metal button for reclining. You can also adjust the headrest up and down and curl it for neck support. However, your space may be limited by the recline of the passenger in front of you, so watch those electronics!

The foldable metal tray table, which pulls out from the non-center armrest, includes a personal device stand when partially unfolded. It offers ample workspace when fully extended, even for larger devices like a 16-inch MacBook Pro.

First-class passengers and pilots share the lavatory behind the cockpit, which is stocked with upscale D.S. & Durga soap. The lavatory needed attention and remained unserviced during the second half of my flight. The sinks and toilets on the airplane required physical touch for use rather than newer versions that have touchless flush and faucet controls.

Delta has meticulously designed its A321neo domestic first-class seats , placing utmost importance on privacy. Designed with winged shields and with privacy dividers between each pair of seats, there is an intimate and secluded ambience to the cabin.

The adjustable headrest and supportive neck cradle enhance sleeping comfort on long flights. However, the footwell is less comfortable due to limited space caused by the entertainment and power box in the seat-support column.

Unlike the other two airlines, Delta's seats feature 13-inch seatback monitors with a wide selection of movies, TV shows and music. Users can filter movies by duration for convenience. What's more, passengers can pair their personal Bluetooth headphones with the entertainment system, providing a higher-quality viewing experience.

The seat control is a single metal button on the center armrest, allowing recline adjustments. However, there is no forward-cradling feature. Also, while not a common feature on domestic first-class flights, there were no leg or footrests, which reduces ergonomic comfort. The center armrest houses a universal power outlet, USB-A port and cupholder for each passenger.

The foldable tray table that deploys from the center armrest provides a large workspace and accommodates bigger devices. However, sudden adjustments may be needed when the passenger in front reclines to avoid damage to personal devices.

A single lavatory, exclusively for first-class passengers, is behind the cockpit. Grown Alchemist soap and hand cream add a high-end feel. Like on American, the sinks and toilets require physical touch for use.

United's A320 first-class experience lacked the welcoming ambience of the other two carriers, with no mood lighting, which is understandable since this was an older plane.

However, United's seats stood out with their generous legroom, surpassing the personal space of American and Delta by two inches. The extra space was immediately noticeable, and the adjustable headrest added comfort for my neck, allowing me to nap more comfortably.

Despite the absence of built-in seatback entertainment, passengers could conveniently utilize personal devices by placing them on the fold-out tray table stand located within the center armrest. When fully extended, the tray table provides a generous workspace, capable of accommodating larger laptops.

The seat control button on the center armrest smoothly reclined the seatback and slid the seat cushion forward. The center armrest held a power outlet and a phone tray. However, I encountered some challenges with charging my phone as the plug needed to be held in place. The outlets for U.S. plugs may show signs of wear due to frequent use. Fortunately, I had a European-pronged power adapter that allowed my phone to charge without issues.

Each seat had a spacious foldable tray table, providing surface area for larger devices. The window-side laptop holder was especially convenient during meal service.

On the downside, the lavatory lacked updates and exuded a dilapidated 1980s office vibe, and there weren't any no-touch sinks or flush controls.

Most comfortable first class: Delta Air Lines, for thoughtful, privacy-focused seat design and high-end bathroom amenities

Which airline has the best first-class amenities?

Soft amenities were somewhat limited on all three carriers, as no pillows, blankets, amenity kits or paper menus were provided. However, there were some things to note.

American Airlines provides various inflight entertainment options through the AA Inflight streaming portal. Passengers can enjoy 12 stations of live TV, a vast collection of TV shows and movies, including popular titles like "Crazy Rich Asians" and "Carmen," access to Apple Music, Apple TV+ and even Rosetta Stone language classes. While I didn't count how many movies American offered, it was nowhere near as many as Delta.

Additionally, I purchased full-flight Wi-Fi for $29. Although the speeds were not fast enough for uploading photos, I could comfortably send emails and Slack messages throughout the flight.

SkyMiles members receive complimentary Wi-Fi on Delta, enabling smooth switching between laptops and phones without noticeable delays. While the internet speeds were sufficient for tasks like email and Slack, downloading photos proved challenging.

Delta provided basic, wired earbuds to passengers during boarding, but hearing the inflight entertainment system, even at maximum volume, was difficult. It is recommended to bring your own headphones, whether wired or wirelessly connected via Bluetooth, to enjoy the entertainment.

I was very impressed by Delta's selection of 648 movies.

United offers passengers a variety of inflight entertainment options through the United app, and even if the Wi-Fi signal's internet connection is unavailable, as it was on my flight, you can still stream. The app featured 207 movies, TV shows and podcasts, including popular titles like "Avatar" and "The Departed." United didn't have nearly as many movies as Delta.

Unfortunately, the internet remained down for the entire duration of the flight. No announcements were made regarding this issue during the boarding process, leaving me unaware and unprepared without any offline work downloaded.

Furthermore, the lack of internet meant there was no way to track the flight's progress, and the flight deck provided minimal announcements about our journey until the descent.

Best first-class amenities: Delta Air Lines, for offering complimentary Wi-Fi and earbuds as well as its excellent entertainment selection

Which airline has the best first-class food?

On my flights, the three carriers served a hot full meal. American and United let me preorder first-class meals, while Delta took my order on board (the airline is working to expand its preorder options).

American Airlines offers preordered meals on eligible routes, including Philadelphia to San Francisco. After boarding but before takeoff, the flight attendant confirmed my preordered golden roasted chicken with roasted tomato chutney, salted smashed potatoes and haricot verts. The entree was created by James Beard Award-winning author and nutritionist Ellie Krieger with a focus on wellness.

Dinner service on my evening flight started about 20 minutes after takeoff with a hot towel, beverage and mixed nuts. Dinner was served 10 minutes later on one tray with a shrimp appetizer, green salad, warm bread roll, olive oil and butter.

The chicken dish had a bright, citrusy flavor, and the portion size was decent, but the shrimp appetizer tasted more like mayonnaise than seafood.

Complimentary beverages were available, but the lack of a menu made it challenging to know all the options.

After the dinner trays were collected, and about an hour later, a choice of hot fudge sundae, lava cake or fruit and cheese plate was offered. I selected the sundae, which you could customize to your liking with fudge, caramel, nuts, fruit and whipped cream. I went for the classic — hot fudge with nuts, whipped cream and cherries and it hit the spot.

The flight attendants were available for drink requests throughout the flight, and a snack service was offered about an hour before landing with options like Uglies kettle potato chips, honey-roasted pistachios, Stellar mini pretzel braids and sea salt Love corn nuts.

Delta has been working on implementing preordered meals for first-class flights over 900 miles. However, on my flight, I was unable to preorder a meal. Once we reached an altitude of 10,000 feet, a flight attendant started taking meal orders from the back of the cabin. Passengers in the front rows missed out on their preferred choices. Across from me, I noticed a dissatisfied passenger who was disappointed with the remaining lunch options. To compensate for the inconvenience, the flight attendant used a mobile device to offer them bonus miles or a future flight credit.

Approximately 20 minutes after takeoff, the lunch service began with a snack basket and drinks being served. I selected the chicken salad, which surpassed my expectations with a delicious combination of cranberries, walnuts and goat cheese. The portion size was satisfying, and the fruit plate offered ripe selections.

A wide range of complimentary beverages was available, including beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks. Choices included Bacardí Superior rum, Buffalo Trace Distillery bourbon, Bombay Sapphire gin and Miller Lite. Passengers could also select between a Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay or sparkling wine. Those connected to Delta Wi-Fi could access the full menu using a QR code displayed on the seatback monitors.

For dessert, which was also presented on the single meal tray, the prepackaged Bell's triple chocolate chunk cookie from Seattle was soft and chewy. Its touch of sea salt made it the perfect post-lunch treat.

After the meal service, the flight attendants mostly allowed the passengers to enjoy their time, but they remained available to fulfill drink requests.

United's inflight catering still requires significant improvements , as evident on my recent flight.

United Airlines offers preorder meal service for eligible flights over 800 miles during meal times. Passengers can reserve meals up to five days before the flight until 24 hours before departure. Special meals for dietary preferences are also available.

I ordered chicken meatballs, and the flight attendant confirmed my choice shortly after boarding. Lunch began with warm almonds and cashews served about 20 minutes after takeoff, followed by the main course, which was served on one meal tray about 30 minutes later.

However, the chicken meatballs were rubbery and overly salty, and the polenta was overcooked and grainy. Most passengers didn't eat much of their meals either. Some of the other lunch entrees included a cheeseburger and Thai beef salad. All passengers were served the same crumble cake on their trays, which lacked flavor. Complimentary beverages were available, but no menu was provided. The flight attendant fulfilled requests efficiently, but the service lacked a personal touch.

Best first-class food: American Airlines, for James Beard-inspired delicious meals that you can preorder, ensuring you get your top choice

Which U.S. airline has the best domestic first-class product?

Delta offers the latest seats, top-notch, extensive entertainment and a variety of meal choices, even if you can't preorder. Additionally, they provide complimentary Wi-Fi, making it a hard combination to beat.

However, it's important to note that redeeming mileage with Delta can be costly, and recent changes to the SkyMiles program are bound to have a negative impact on many flyers.

Ultimately, determining the best domestic first-class experience depends on personal preference. For most travelers, convenience plays a major role in choosing an airline. If you reside in a major hub city like Houston, Atlanta or Miami, your preferred airline is likely predetermined. Conversely, travelers in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago and New York have a broader range of options.

In the past, I consistently chose United Airlines for my travels. However, due to their perpetual upgrade waitlists, unreliable Wi-Fi, underwhelming food and significant decrease in mileage value , I wouldn't hesitate to fly Delta instead in the future.

Top 5 First-Class Airlines You Need to Experience

① middle eastern airlines first class.

E tihad Airways is the second-largest airline in the United Arab Emirates . Their first class is famous for being ranked “world number one.” The first-class experience begins with an Etihad chauffeur’s pick-up service. After checking in, you can relax and enjoy a meal in the first-class lounge.

Seats are private suites where you can spend a comfortable time. The cabin crew will help you convert your seat into a full-flat bed. A variety of menus and a wine list are available, so you can choose when and how you want to dine.

You can watch movies using noise-canceling headphones and use the internet through free Wi-Fi and unlimited data. Passengers are provided with an exclusive Acqua di Parma amenity kit. On the A380, you can use “The Residence,” which is designed for two passengers. It has a shower room, a private bedroom with a double bed, and a separate living room.

Emirates is the largest airline in the Middle East. Its first-class allows you to feel the comfort of using a private jet. It was selected as the world’s best first class in 2020, and they are famous as a “Hotel Room In The Sky.”

Emirates is the first airline to introduce a private enclosed space in first class. When using first class, a private chauffeur service is provided, and you can fly in a private suite seat. When the door is closed, a perfect private space is created.

A personalized dining service is provided, and you can enjoy meals at any time. In-flight showers, premium lounge bars, and luxury amenities are also provided.

② The world’s top-ranked airline, Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines ranked first in the world airline rankings last year, and its first class is also known as “6-star In The Sky.” The A380 Suite, offered on the Airbus A380, is a suite seat equipped with a bed. It can be considered a hotel rather than a cabin.

The suite is equipped with a sliding door for private use. It’s twice the size of the existing first class and has a bed, recliner chair, portable wireless tablet, and wardrobe. The double suite can be used as a luxurious double bed by removing the curtain installed in the middle of the existing suite. It’s a suite room that two people can comfortably use.

In-flight meals can be enjoyed as fine dining and amenities provided by Lalique are also available.

Passengers can use the in-flight internet for free.

Singapore Airlines’ “A380 Suite” is priced at 10 times the economy class. Each passenger plane has six rooms, which are very popular despite the high price.

③ An airline is known as a world-class

Cathay Pacific is a British-based airline based in Hong Kong and is consistently named among the world’s top airlines.

First-class seats comprise a thick mattress, 600-thread count bedding, soft pillows, and a calming pillow mist. It can be used as a bed that can be fully reclined. In-flight meals are served as fine dining and are provided at your preferred time. The in-flight cellar has the world’s top wines, famous vintage wines, and premium spirits.

Natural skincare from the organic brand Bamford and pajamas are also provided. Among the first-class lounges, The Pier First Class Lounge and The Wing First Class Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport are particularly popular. They are famous for their top-notch facilities.

Air France is a French national airline and was selected as the “Best Airline in Western Europe” for three consecutive years at the World Airline Awards last year. Airport services are provided when using Air France’s first class, “La Première Class.”

A streamlined boarding process and dedicated accompanying staff services are provided. After landing, you can be the first to disembark from the plane, and a waiting staff member will guide you to the lounge during transfers. At the lounge at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, you can also use facial and body care services. The seat can be used privately and converted into a bed over 78.7 inches long and 30.3 inches wide. Mattresses, pillows, and duvets are provided at the level of a luxury hotel.

Sisley face and body care products, sleep masks, and earplugs are provided. Pajamas, slippers, and socks are also provided to keep you comfortable during the flight.

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The Best First Class Airline in the U.S.

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Table of Contents

Factors we considered when picking the best first class airline in the U.S.

Airline amenities, first class airplane seats, ability to earn and use points, route network, so, which airline has the best first class in america.

Picture this: You’re in row 1A, sipping a glass of champagne as the masses file past. In a few short minutes, you’ll be reclining your seat, popping on a pair of headphones and enjoying a steak with pomme frites.

No, this isn’t some absurdly glamorous Middle Eastern airline . You’re in the U.S., flying a U.S. airline — and things are about to get luxurious. From lie-flat seats to enclosed suites, let’s find out which is the best first class airline in the U.S.

The U.S. has several major airlines, but we zeroed in on just three for our analysis: United , Delta and American Airlines . There are others, of course (including Alaska Airlines , JetBlue , Frontier , Spirit and Southwest ). However, each of these excluded airlines suffer from serious limitations when it comes to deciding the best first class. For example:

Southwest doesn’t operate a business class or first class cabin.

JetBlue has only just started its transatlantic flights.

Alaska doesn’t offer any lie-flat seating.

Frontier and Spirit are both budget airlines that strip down their fares to the basics.

This leaves the “Big 3” as the major contenders when it comes to the best airline to fly first class.

So how do we decide which is best?

Amenities: Often called the soft product, amenities are things such as bedding, food, service and drinks on your flight.

Seats: Each airline uses a different configuration for its seating, with top contenders featuring lie-flat beds and suites with closing doors.

Ability to earn and use points: Unless you’ve got money to spare, the ability to redeem your points for first class seats is going to make a huge impact on your airline choice.

Route network: This is how many destinations each airline serves.

Lounges: Not all airline lounges are equal; each airline uses these differently to woo and delight their highest paying customers.

Winner: Delta

Airlines have upped their game in recent years as the fight for your loyalty rages on.

The experience varies depending on whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, but each airline offers its own premium option. Delta features Delta One , American Airlines has its Flagship First Class and United boasts the Polaris experience .

Each airline offers chef-curated food and luxurious bedding on board, as well as premium spirits. Both United and American Airlines offer pajamas on select international flights, while Delta doesn’t.

When it comes to customer service, however, Delta is a clear winner. According to the monthly Air Travel Consumer Report issued by the Department of Transportation, Delta had a total of 106 customer complaints across all categories during June 2021. Compare this to United’s 303 complaints and American’s 421 complaints, and Delta comes out miles ahead.

Each airline has a competitive soft product with high-end touches, but Delta far outstrips the rest when it comes to customer service, netting it a win for amenities.

Airlines often offer passengers different types of first class seats depending on where they're flying. Most domestic routes will feature wide seats that recline. These are comfortable, but nowhere near as nice as the seats on premium transcontinental routes and long-haul international flights. On these routes, you’ll find American Airlines, Delta and United have installed beds that lay-flat — so you can arrive to your destination well rested.

So, which airline has the best first class seats?

United has done away with its distinction between first and business class on long-haul international flights, and has instead launched its Polaris-branded product. Updated Polaris seats feature a 1 x 2 x 1 configuration, which offer excellent privacy in a pod formation. Be aware, however, that United also operates an older Polaris product in a 2 x 2 x 2 configuration. You’ll be able to see this on United’s seat map when you’re booking your flights.

American Airlines offers both Flagship First Class seats as well as Flagship Business Class seats. Its business class product is similar to United’s updated Polaris product, with a 1 x 2 x1 formation that offers excellent privacy. Its Flagship First Class seats, meanwhile, have a much smaller cabin with as few as eight seats — but they lack high wall dividers, which leaves you pretty open to other passengers.

Delta has also eliminated its first and business class distinctions on long-haul international flights in favor of its Delta One product. While not all of its planes feature these, all A350 and A339 planes operate Delta One suites. These suites have full-height walls and sliding doors for complete privacy.

Although both American Airlines and United offer excellent seats in their premium cabins, Delta’s suites outclass the others with ultimate privacy.

You’ll experience the best domestic first class seats on popular transcontinental routes such as New York to Los Angeles or San Francisco. These flights can offer lie-flat seats and premium food similar to their long-haul international brethren.

Winner: United

Most airlines offer a loyalty program, and the Big 3 are no exception. Depending on your airline, you’ve got Delta SkyMiles , American Airlines AAdvantage and United MileagePlus . If you’re looking to redeem rewards for a first class seat, you'll want to know which is the best option.

Each airline will award you with miles when you fly with them, though the amount of reward miles you earn for any given ticket is actually based on the cost of the fare rather than how far you fly. However, this isn’t the only way to earn miles.

United credit cards

United’s MileagePlus program also offers a handful of co-branded credit cards for different types of travelers. United is a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards® at a 1:1 ratio, and the United MileagePlusX app offers an easy way to earn miles at hundreds of different retailers.

on Chase's website

$0 intro for the first year, then $95 .

• 2 miles per $1 on United purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 at restaurants and hotels (when booked directly with hotel).

• 1 mile per $1 on all other purchases.

• 3 miles per $1 on United purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 at restaurants, select streaming services and all other travel.

• 4 miles per $1 on United purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 at restaurants and all other travel purchases.

• First checked bag free for you and one companion on your reservation.

• 2 United Club one-time passes each year.

• Credit of up to $100 every four years for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS .

• Priority boarding .

• No foreign transaction fees.

• First and second checked bag free for you and one companion on your reservation.

• $125 United purchase credit per year (good on airfare).

• Two 5,000-mile award flight credits per anniversary year.

• Access to United Club airport lounges.

• Credit of up to $100 every four years for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS.

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

United, like American and Delta, offers no fixed award chart. However, its redemption rates are pretty reasonable, and it's part of the largest airline alliance — Star Alliance — giving you the most options when it comes time to redeem your points.

More ways to earn miles, reasonable redemption rates and more airline partners means United is the winner here.

Delta credit cards

Delta makes it easy to earn SkyMiles with several different co-branded credit cards. It’s also a transfer partner of American Express Membership Rewards at a 1:1 ratio. Combined, these methods make it very easy to earn SkyMiles for award flights.

Redeeming them, however, is another story. Delta has no fixed award chart and tends to charge a lot when using miles for premium cabin rewards.

on American Express' website

• 2 miles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.

• 1 mile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Terms apply.

Annual fee: $0 .

• 2 miles per $1 on purchases made directly with Delta and at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.).

Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $150 .

• 3 miles per $1 on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on hotel purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.).

Annual fee: $350 .

• 3 miles per $1 on eligible purchases made directly with Delta.

• 1 mile per $1 on other eligible purchases.

Annual fee: $650 .

• First checked bag free.

• Priority boarding.

• Companion certificate (main cabin).

• Airport lounge access.

• Companion certificate (first class, Delta Comfort+ or main cabin).

• Credit for application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

» Learn more: Which Delta Air Lines credit card should you get?

American Airlines credit cards

American Airlines also has a number of co-branded credit cards with which you can earn AAdvantage miles. However, American doesn’t have a permanent partnership with a transferable points currency.

on Citibank's application

$0 intro for the first year, then $99 .

• 2 miles per $1 at grocery stores, including grocery delivery services, and on eligible American Airlines purchases.

• 1 mile per $1 spent on other purchases.

• 1 Loyalty Point per 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases.

• 10 miles per $1 on eligible car rentals and hotels booked through AA.

• 4 miles per $1 on eligible American Airlines purchases, up to $150,000 spent per calendar year (5 miles per $1 spent thereafter for the remainder of the calendar year).

• 1 mile per $1 on everything else.

• 2 miles per $1 on eligible American Airlines purchases.

• Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases when you use your card on American Airlines flights.

• Earn a $125 American Airlines Flight Discount after you spend $20,000 or more in purchases during your card membership year and renew your card

• No Foreign Transaction Fees

• First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling with you on the same reservation

• Preferred boarding on American Airlines flights.

• Admirals Club® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you.

• First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservation.

• Free checked bag and preferred boarding for you and up to four companions.

• Annual companion certificate ($99 plus taxes and fees) after spending $20,000.

• Up to $25 per anniversary year in statement credits for in-flight Wi-Fi purchases.

• 25% off in-flight food and beverage services.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

Winner: American Airlines

Let’s be honest, when it comes down to it, many of us are going to choose the most convenient airline. This can mean the one that is closest to us, one that has the fewest number of connections or one that serves the country to which we are traveling.

Delta and United are close in this regard; Delta serves “up to” 300 destinations worldwide, while United provides flights to “more than” 300 different cities. American Airlines has them beat with 350 destinations across 50 different countries.

Serving a further 50 cities than its competitors, American Airlines can’t be beat when it comes to route networks.

If you’ve already got a travel credit card , you may have experience with airport lounges. These spaces can offer a reprieve within the airport itself and also tend to offer complimentary food and drink. Certain business and first class passengers also have access to these lounges, depending on where they’re flying.

Each airline has their standard lounge products: the United Club , Delta Sky Club , and American Airlines Admirals Club all offer a dedicated space for customers. However, both United and American Airlines offer separate, higher-end lounges for those flying their premium Polaris and Flagship products, respectively.

Delta doesn't feature such a premium option. Plus, Delta’s partnership with American Express means that travelers with The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express can enter Delta lounges when they’re flying the airline, no matter which cabin they’re in. This can lead to overcrowding and an unpleasant experience.

United’s Polaris Club in San Francisco, meanwhile, was awarded the world’s best business class lounge by Skytrax in 2019. This is due in part to the quiet-room daybeds and the gourmet restaurant experience that the lounge offers, among other amenities.

More than 21 million customers voted, and the consensus is that United’s Polaris lounges are best-in-class.

» Learn more: Credit cards that come with airport lounge access

We’ve got two wins for Delta, two wins for United and one win for American Airlines. This looks a lot like a tie between United and Delta. However, not everyone has the same needs, which means that you’re going to have to decide your true first class winner for yourself.

» Learn more: Delta vs. United, which is best for you?

Do you like pleasant flight attendants and tons of privacy? Then Delta is your best first class airline. Do you want an easy way to redeem your points and a fabulous airport lounge? United might be more your speed. No matter which you choose, you’ll have excellent seats, premium food offerings and airport lounges for your journey at the pointy end of the plane.

The information related to AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Find First Class Flights to Moscow

When to book first class flights to moscow, faqs for moscow first class flights, how does kayak find such good deals on first class tickets to moscow.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Moscow for economy class as well as First Class travelers.

Flights to Moscow

Return flight deals:.

Moscow - United States

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 
• United States

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 
• First Class

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Mocked mastermind behind double-decker airplane seats unveils his vision for first and business class

The economy model of the seats attracted widespread criticism, article bookmarked.

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The 25-year-old designer behind the double-decker plane seat which sparked widespread criticism has debuted a first-class model at an aviation show in Germany .

Alejandro Nuñez Vicente, the founder of Chaise Lounge, built the latest invention with his girlfriend and business partner, Clara Service Soto. It differs from the economy class concept by having one seat on the bottom, and two on top. The economy class model has three seats on the top and bottom rows.

Mr Nuñez Vicente calls the new design “elevated class”. The more expensive option is secluded, has a lie-flat bed and lots of legroom.

He showcased the new design at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg this month. It’s the same place where he announced the economy version of the seats last

Mr Nuńez Vicente’s company started as a college project after too many uncomfortable flights, he explained. The founder is 6ft 2in and has struggled to sleep on cramped airplanes.

Speaking to CNN, the innovator said that a handful of big companies are interested in implementing the technology but declined to name them. Any further development of the project will happen behind closed doors, he told the outlet.

“Now that we know economy works, and now that’s moving forward, we thought, ‘Why not go to the other end of the cabin and do a business-class/first-class hybrid?’ he said.

Mr Nuñez Vicente said that his goal with the company is to make flying better for the general public.

“To make more space for more seats in the airplane ,” he said. “But also give the passengers an even better experience than they get today in business or first class .”

The economy versions of the seats went viral in 2022 and were widely ridiculed.

One social media user commented: “As if being on a plane isn’t miserable enough already” with another noting: “fresh hell just dropped.”

But the designer has taken the criticism on the chin. “To be honest, there’s no such thing as bad publicity,” he said at the time.

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27 little travel luxuries to make any trip feel first class

Treat yourself to room service, fuzzy slippers and other simple pleasures that help relieve stress.

Key takeaways

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

• Before travel, pack strategically, including eye mask, magazine, salt, utensils.
• At airport and on plane, take advantage of food, relaxation options, or brew your own caffeine.
• At hotel, use your own slippers, order room service and make the space your own.

Did our AI help? Share your thoughts.

Flying is a grind. The long airport lines, the tight connections, the ever-shrinking legroom, the mystery of lost luggage — at its most chaotic, the experience can feel like being pummeled by a jackhammer.

Your coolest summer

• 7 ways to keep your pets cool
• 28 books for your summer reading list

When you’re facing the draining prospect of redeye flights or multiple layovers, even the smallest acts of self-care take on new importance. These little gifts don’t have to be elaborate or expensive to provide a dash of comfort. They might even fit into your carry-on bag or coat pocket.

In preparation for the hectic summer travel season, we assembled a list of 27 things you can do that promise to improve your mood while you’re away.

Pack better

1. keep a set of toiletries just for travel.

To avoid forgetting a toothbrush and having to brush with your index finger, keep your toiletry bag stocked with its own set of supplies. Replenish it between trips, throwing the products directly into your beauty case, or order the whole kit and caboodle, such as Aesop’ s seven-pack of essentials. Once home, store it away (but don’t unpack).

2. Refresh with essential oils

A drop or two of an essential oil does wonders to revive musty travel clothes or calm your nerves. Try eucalyptus for spa vibes or lavender for a more relaxing aroma, starting at about $5 a bottle .

3. Pack a DIY spa kit

Do you have an extra sheet mask or fancy samples of night cream or foot lotion lying around? Put them in your bag for your next trip, and treat yourself to a DIY spa experience. Bring cozy socks for the full pampering experience.

4. Block out lights with an eye mask

We’ve said it before , and we’ll say it again: Hell is tiny hotel lights you can’t shut off. Save your future self by packing a light-blocking eye mask. We’re partial to models from Manta Sleep . To double down on your fight for total darkness, pack light-blocking stickers for fire alarms, WiFi routers and other blinking pests.

5. Stash fancy salt, spices and hot sauce

It may look tiny, but a little flaky salt goes a long way. Jacobsen Salt Co. sells a perfect container for traveling gourmands for $6. You can add more flavor with Tajin to-go packets, a key chain bottle of Cholula hot sauce , Diaspora Co.'s versatile “Popcorn Masala” or Yellowbird’s handy travel-size hot sauce bottles .

6. Bring a magazine

You scroll on your phone every day, and you need a break. Books are great, but magazines (and, ahem, newspapers) are more mobile: lightweight, as breezy as you require and recyclable when you’re done. If you grab a magazine from a stack at home, you get the added benefit of decluttering.

7. Carry your own utensils

Unlike disposable plastic cutlery, utensils made of such sturdy materials as bamboo, stainless steel or recycled razor blades won’t snap under pressure. (Butter knives are okay with TSA ). In addition to providing a more civilized dining experience, the reusable utensils are eco-friendly. Some cities and countries, such as England, have banned single-use plastic items.

At the airport

8. save up podcasts and audiobooks.

The episode recaps of your favorite show have been piling up. That latest best-selling thriller is burning a hole in your AirPods. Don’t waste them on your daily commute. For road trips , it’s even better to stock up on pods or books that you and your traveling party all enjoy.

9. Buy a baller snack

If the Toblerone bar as long as your arm is calling, it’s your duty to answer. Even if the price of Chex Mix is high, grab a few bags of your favorites off the snack wall at Hudson News. Scout out local bakery outposts if an airport has one, such as Ladurée at Charles de Gaulle in Paris. Vending machines have evolved, with cupcakes and edible cookie dough in Las Vegas and hot ramen at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

10. Or splurge on an airport meal

Yes, airport food is overpriced . Yes, you could meal prep instead. But it’s ultimately a gift to yourself to let someone else serve and prepare your supper — not a sad Starbucks wrap but an actual sit-down situation where you can relax near-ish your gate. Is it going to be the best Caesar salad of your life? Probably not. But you can increase your odds of making it worth your while if you pick a trusted local brand .

11. Shower in between flights

Found in almost every major international airport lounge, the airport shower offers a sudsy sanctuary from other people.

12. Moisturize at Duty Free

The best part of Duty Free isn’t shopping without tax — it’s the access to free samples of high-end products. Hydrate your skin with the latest moisturizer of the moment, or try on a new personality with a spritz of spicy cologne.

On the plane

13. carry your favorite pillow.

Sleeping on a plane can be a disaster for your neck, but a good pillow can help. Some turn to travel options that fit in your bag, like our beloved Trtl or the Cushion Lab Ergonomic Travel Neck Pillow. Others shun minimalism in favor of maximum comfort and bring a full-sized pillow (sorry, neighbor).

14. Brew your own tea

Stash a variety of fancy tea bags in your wallet or in a travel mug, which a flight attendant or food service employee can fill with hot water. Some airports (see: Istanbul) also provide hot water dispensers. Throw in a few honey sticks or straws for a touch of sweetness.

15. Ditto, for coffee

For various gross reasons , we have been warned against drinking coffee on planes. If you desire a good, clean and immediate cup of coffee, there are lots of caffeinators to choose from: frozen capsules by Commeter , gourmet instant coffee from Verve Coffee Roasters or the self-sufficient AeroPress Go , which comes with its own mug and menu of coffee drinks. Prep your coffee in the airport, to avoid the dubious hot water onboard.

16. Carry a cocktail kit

A commercial flight could never stand in for your favorite cocktail bar, but an in-flight cocktail kit can bring you a step closer. There are just-add-booze iterations for many tastes, whether you’re looking for a dirty martini or a Mai Tai .

17. Put on noise-canceling headphones

One of our staff got Sennheiser over-ear headphones for a birthday this year and he wore them on a flight to Florida. Afterward, they learned from their spouse that the 8-year-old sitting behind them had been loudly arguing with his brother the whole flight. They didn’t hear a thing.

18. Rest your feet in a sling

For less than $30, you can turn your ho-hum seat into something more akin to a hammock. The “ Airplane Footrest ” connects to your tray table to create a sling to rest your feet. It helps eliminate the rumbling of the plane floor vibrations, relieving back tension and soothing your entire body — a win-win-win for a long haul.

19. Wear compression socks

Compression socks are a lifesaver on a long-distance flight. One of Amazon’s top-sellers, a moisture-wicking pair from “Physix Gear Sport” ($16), helps reduce swelling and improve blood circulation during sedentary stretches at high altitude.

20. Spritz your face with mist

Face mists — like these travel-size tins from Evian , or this antibacterial one from Tower 28 — are a flight attendant favorite that deliver an instant dose of freshness. Just make sure not to dampen your neighbors.

At the hotel

21. step into your own slippers.

If you have space in your luggage, bring your plush house pair. For a more portable option, consider spa-style slip-ons or thick socks with antiskid soles, like the ones made by Bombas . Your feet will feel toasty and hermetically sealed.

22. Order room service

You could go out, but you’re exhausted. Maybe you’re feeling a little lazy — and a lot hungry. Now is the time to indulge in the convenient luxury of a cheeseburger clad in a cloche.

23. Pay for a hotel movie

Room service and a movie are a perfect duo. There’s an underappreciated comfort in watching a movie from a bed that isn’t your own. Perhaps best enjoyed on a premium channel, while wearing a robe and basking on a bed with extra-fluffy pillows.

24. Or stream your own shows

To keep up with your binge watches, bring your Roku, Fire TV Stick or other streaming device along. Then there’s no need to re-log into apps on another device in an Airbnb or hotel.

25. Give yourself a mini massage

If a full-on massage isn’t in your budget for every trip, you can still work out the knots with a portable massage gun like a Hyperice Hypersphere ($149), the Hypervolt Go 2 ($129) or a Theragun mini ($169).

26. Turn on a white noise machine

Annoying hotel noises are right up there with annoying little lights. The icemaker down the hall, the kids thwarting bedtime next-door and the industrial air conditioner can all keep good sleep at bay. Combat them all with a mini white noise machine. This one is small enough to fit in your pocket but powerful enough to tune out toddlers and traffic.

27. Aromatize your pillow

Signal to your body that it’s time to snooze by applying aromatherapy to your pillow. There are endless options out there, from the budget-friendly Dr. Teal’s lavender sleep spray ($8) to higher-end ones like Jo Malone’s Moonlit Camomile Pillow Mist ($50).

Ryan Bacic contributed to this article.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .