We receive numerous inquiries regarding the top-tier first-class airlines. Although it’s impossible to provide an answer that satisfies all travelers objectively, compiling a list of our favorites is valuable.
This catalog of the finest international first-class airlines provides inspiration for your future aspirations of purchasing a first-class flight using points and miles.
Please note that the selection includes first-class offerings that we consider superior based on our own encounters, extensive industry research, and the viewpoints of fellow travelers.
What Makes an International First Class Airline Great?
First-class flights possess numerous elements that contribute to their exceptional nature.
Many airlines excel at delivering a remarkable first-class experience even before you arrive at the airport. Some offer chauffeur services and exclusive access to breathtaking first-class lounges for their passengers.
However, this guide goes beyond merely showcasing first-class flights available for booking with points. It also features flights like SWISS Air’s first class, which typically cannot be reserved using points.
Our rankings took into account the following aspects of a first-class flight:
- Ground experience (including ground transportation, lounge amenities, and immigration or customs assistance)
- Hard product (encompassing seat dimensions, comfort level, amenities, in-flight entertainment, cabin layout, privacy, and more)
- Soft product (covering food and beverage options, amenity kits, and the attentiveness of the service staff)
- Award pricing and availability
We’ve thoroughly evaluated these factors to curate this comprehensive guide.
The 21 Best International First Class Airlines and Cabins
Let’s look into our selection of the finest international first-class airlines and cabins immediately. While we strive for objectivity in this ranking, please remember that it reflects our opinion.
In each ranking, we will summarize the flagship product, highlight the optimal methods (if available) to book using points, and elucidate the reasons behind its deserving position.
1. Etihad Residence on the A380
The Etihad Residence offers an unparalleled commercial flight experience. This exclusive offering grants you three distinct rooms on the A380: a living room, bedroom, and shower room.
The bedroom features a generous 6’10” double bed, while the living room boasts a leather double-seat sofa and a 32″ in-flight monitor. Your private oasis awaits in the bathroom, complete with a full-height shower and vanity.
A private butler will also be provided for you; to say that you will be pampered would be an understatement.
Prepare to indulge in many luxuries, including pre-arranged customized meals, a chauffeur service, and the freedom to request almost anything within legal limits! This product is undeniably extraordinary but is exclusively available on the A380, which Etihad operates on the New York City (JFK) – Abu Dhabi (AUH) route.
Fortunately, you can also experience the Residence on other routes serviced by the A380:
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – London (LHR)
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Paris (CDG)
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Sydney (SYD)
Contrary to popular belief, you can actually redeem Etihad Guest miles for the Etihad Residence. However, be prepared to spend approximately 1-3 million miles each way.
On the bright side, award availability is generally favorable, likely due to the high entry barrier of accumulating such a substantial number of points. This ensures that the luxurious experience remains within the reach of a select few.
2. Air France La Premiere on the 777-300ER
Air France refers to its long-haul first class as “La Première.” While it operates on both the A380 and 777-300ER, it is advisable to avoid the A380 due to its inferior premium cabin offerings.
However, Air France’s business and first-class products on the 777-300ER are truly sensational.
La Première provides an exceptional ground experience, including luxury tarmac transfers and access to a stunning lounge in Paris. It is one of the few flights that feature separate seats with curtains, and your personal area is equipped with a desk lamp for reading when the lights are dimmed.
Indulge in exquisite French dining, accompanied by an atmosphere of exclusivity and privacy that is simply unmatched.
Booking La Première requires elite status with Air France/KLM Flying Blue. It’s worth noting that even passengers holding the lowest-tier status, Flying Blue Silver, can secure La Première (albeit at a steep cost).
If you are determined to book La Première using points and have achieved Flying Blue Silver status, anticipate a minimum of 200,000 Flying Blue miles for one-way flights between the U.S. and Europe.
Below are the routes to/from the U.S. where you can experience La Première on the 777-300ER:
- Washington, D.C. (IAD) – Paris (CDG)
- Houston (IAH) – Paris (CDG)
- Miami (MIA) – Paris (CDG)
- San Francisco (SFO) – Paris (CDG)
- Los Angeles (LAX) – Paris (CDG)
- New York City (JFK) – Paris (CDG)
There are captivating routes featuring La Première on the 777-300ER, including flights to/from São Paulo (GRU) and Luanda (LAD). Overall, booking La Première with points is exceptionally challenging, but occasional promotional prices offer more affordable options.
3. Emirates New First Class Suites on the 777-300ER
Emirates Airlines is renowned for its opulent and extravagant first-class offerings. Faced with fierce competition from Singapore Airlines and Etihad, Emirates has continuously pushed the boundaries of luxury and innovation.
Their latest introduction is the new 777-300ER First Class Suites, which have caused a sensation among frequent flyers. With a configuration of 6 suites per aircraft, arranged in 2 rows in a 1-1-1 layout, these suites boast a groundbreaking feature: fully-enclosed seats with floor-to-ceiling walls, ensuring absolute privacy.
In addition to this, passengers can indulge in the classic Emirates luxury experience, complete with Bvlgari amenities, Emirati fine-dining, virtual windows (for middle seats), personal climate controls, on-demand dining via a personal tablet, and exquisite cabin finishes crafted in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz.
You can find Emirates’ new First Class Suites on the 777-300ER aircraft operating the following routes:
- Dubai (DXB) – Frankfurt (FRA)
- Dubai (DXB) – Hamburg (HAM)
- Dubai (DXB) – Geneva (GVA)
- Dubai (DXB) – Brussels (BRU)
- Dubai (DXB) – London-Stansted (STN)
- Dubai (DXB) – Tokyo-Haneda (HND)
- Dubai (DXB) – Vienna (VIE)
Regrettably, the flights to or from the U.S. do not feature the new first-class suites. The current 777s serving these routes lack these upgraded products. To confirm the presence of the new First Class Suites, refer to the seat map on ExpertFlyer.
Finding cheap airfare, generally along a route like Colombo (CMB) – Geneva (GVA), is the ideal method to reserve one of these suites. Take a look at this itinerary, which you can take for a laughably low price of $3,400 roundtrip for 22 hours in an Emirates First Class Suite.
4. Singapore Airlines’ New First Class Suites on the A380Image
We have a deep appreciation for flying with Singapore Airlines. While the ground experience may not match Air France’s La Première in refinement, passengers do enjoy access to The Private Room at Changi Airport (SIN), featuring exquisite à-la-carte dining.
Singapore’s new A380 First Class Suites offer a private seat and a separate bed that can be transformed into a double bed using two seats. Control lighting and request service using a personal tablet.
With a configuration of 3 rows and 2 seats, totaling 6 suites, these A380 First Class Suites offer exceptional exclusivity. While not fully enclosed with floor-to-ceiling doors like Emirates’ 777 First Class Suites, you can swivel, recline your chair, and slide the door closed for increased privacy.
The luxurious Lalique amenities and 32″ television monitors make this a must-experience for all travelers. And don’t forget to indulge in unlimited Krug or Taittinger Champagne! Singapore Airlines tends to release award seats consistently, but please note that the new A380 is only deployed on selected routes originating from Singapore.
These fresh A380 suites are now operated on 5 trips.
- Singapore (SIN) – Hong Kong (HKG)
- Singapore (SIN) – London-Heathrow (LHR)
- Singapore (SIN) – Zurich (ZRH)
- Singapore (SIN) – Sydney (SYD)
- Singapore (SIN) – Shanghai (PVG)
You can go on both the older A380 suites (which we’ll discuss later) and the newer A380 suites on the same route if you’re willing and can find award availability. Here is a sample flight path that Alex took:
- New York City (JFK) – Frankfurt (FRA)
- Frankfurt (FRA) – Singapore (SIN)
- Singapore (SIN) – Sydney (SYD)
5. Lufthansa First Class
Lufthansa undoubtedly catches attention with its first-class offerings. While the business class lacks universal direct-aisle access, the first-class experience is truly exceptional.
Although the hard product may not be remarkably unique, the soft product sets Lufthansa apart. Expect outstanding cuisine, a sophisticated First Class Lounge with a cigar bar, and an unforgettable ground experience with Porsche tarmac transfers.
Partner award availability is typically released around 15 days before departure.
6. Cathay Pacific First Class
Cathay Pacific holds a special place in my heart as a Hong Konger, and their first-class luxury is truly remarkable. With an industry-leading seat width of 36 inches, the 777 cabin features a 2-row configuration in a 1-1-1 layout. These spacious seats can comfortably accommodate up to three people.
Indulge in one of the most comfortable lie-flat beds in the sky, along with delights such as caviar, champagne, and an increasingly rare service level.
You can book this experience using American Airlines miles, Alaska miles, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, and British Airways Avios. If you’re interested in routes to/from the U.S., be sure to check out our Definitive Guide to Cathay Pacific U.S. Routes.
7. Japan Airlines First Class
Japan Airlines is an airline that people always look forward to flying. Their first-class product has a charming retro aesthetic, extending from the lounges to the brown leather armchairs.
The culinary experience is outstanding, highlighted by the presence of the discontinued and highly valued Hibiki 17 whisky. Long-haul first-class passengers are treated to Bose noise-cancellation headphones, multi-course meals resembling kaiseki cuisine, Shiseido wellness kits alongside amenity kits, Cristal champagne (on U.S. routes), and exceptionally comfortable pajamas.
Japan Airlines is known for releasing close-in award availability, often making all unoccupied seats available a day or two before departure. They also consistently release award seats well in advance.
To book Japan Airlines first class, excellent options include using American Airlines, Japan Airlines, and Alaska Miles.
8. ANA First Class
ANA’s first-class experience is exquisite, resembling a private pod with exceptional privacy. Indulge in diverse food and beverage options while the seat impresses with ample storage and clever engineering. However, window seats have only one window, unlike the two or three in other airlines’ first-class offerings.
The downside of this seating configuration is the heightened level of privacy, making conversation challenging when traveling with a companion. On the bright side, ANA provides Samsonite amenity kits, making delightful collectible items.
ANA consistently releases many award seats well in advance, as they prefer not to release seats last-minute, opting to fly with empty seats instead. To secure the best availability, it is recommended to book well in advance.
Booking ANA first class can be done in various methods, each with advantages and disadvantages.
- Booking directly with ANA offers optimal award availability and competitive rates, but only for round-trip tickets.
- Virgin Atlantic provides significantly lower first-class award prices.
- Alternatively, you can book through Air Canada Aeroplan, United MileagePlus, or Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer.
9. Emirates First Class Suites on the A380
The Emirates A380 First Class Suites have fascinated frequent flyers for years, revolutionizing the first-class experience with their iconic inflight shower spa. These suites boast opulent features like gold and wooden finishes, Bvlgari amenities, a private mini-bar, and more. Enjoy unlimited caviar, Dom Perignon champagne, a spacious seat, a renowned shower spa, and exceptional onboard entertainment.
However, there are a couple of drawbacks: the seats are relatively narrow at 23 inches, and the food quality can be inconsistent. Nevertheless, this extravagant product creates unforgettable memories.
Emirates no longer provides a chauffeur service, even for award bookings made with Emirates miles. Award availability is generally good, particularly when booking well in advance, though close-in availability can be less reliable.
To book Emirates, first class, without surcharges, Alaska miles offer the best option, albeit at a high cost. Other options with surcharges include Emirates Skywards, Japan Airlines miles, and Korean Air.
10. Etihad First Class Apartments
The Etihad First Class Apartments epitomize the timeless allure of Middle Eastern luxury, despite the airline’s ongoing financial challenges. For now, it is still possible to experience this remarkable product.
Like Singapore Airlines’ new A380 suites, the Etihad First Class Apartments offer a separate armchair and a 6’10” bed. Some beds can be connected to create a double bed, though a dividing wall separates the two individuals.
Passengers can enjoy onboard amenities such as a shower, bar, meeting room/lounge, and en-suite vanity. The Apartments feature Acqua di Parma amenity kits, known for their exceptional skincare line.
Etihad consistently provides reliable award availability for up to two passengers in the First Class Apartments. However, the only U.S. route offering this product is from New York City (JFK) to Abu Dhabi (AUH), mirroring the Etihad Residence (mentioned earlier).
Booking Etihad First Class with points is possible through American Airlines, Etihad, and Asiana miles, offering enticing deals. For more award availability, consider flying the Apartments on non-U.S. international flights.
The following A380 routes still provide the Apartments:
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Sydney (SYD)
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – London (LHR)
- Abu Dhabi (AUH) – Paris (CDG)
11. THAI Airways First Class
Regarding Asian carriers, first-class hard products may not boast the same cutting-edge or extravagant features as Middle Eastern carriers. However, the soft product and services they offer are truly unparalleled.
THAI Airways, for instance, operates various aircraft with first-class cabins, including 747s, 777s, and A380s. While the first-class hard product is generally similar, A380 seats tend to be slightly larger (unlike in business class). The 747 offers more private seats, although they may be slightly smaller. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences.
Notably, THAI Airways stands out by providing Rimowa amenity kits, which people normally find absolutely delightful (yes, it’s a peculiar obsession).
THAI Airways’ first-class experience can be summarized as a royal treatment. Enjoy buggy transport, complimentary 60-minute massages, unlimited Dom Perignon, and excellent inflight amenities, including those coveted Rimowa kits!
However, it’s worth noting that the inflight Wi-Fi is not complimentary and comes at a high cost. THAI Airways does not operate flights from the U.S., so we highly recommend departing from Bangkok (BKK) to fully experience the First Class Lounge and massage.
12. Garuda Indonesia First Class on the 777-300ER
Garuda Indonesia, the national airline of Indonesia, features its flagship first-class product on a limited number of 777-300ER aircraft.
Booking Garuda’s first-class product can be notoriously challenging. SkyTeam’s first-class flights are generally difficult to book, and Garuda is no exception. In fact, it tends to be even more challenging compared to other SkyTeam airlines.
If you are fortunate enough to secure a first-class flight, you can anticipate chauffeur service, exceptional customer service throughout your journey, an excellent hard product, and a delightful onboard dining experience.
Interestingly, Garuda Indonesia is a transfer partner with Citi ThankYou Rewards and has previously offered a remarkable 90% discount on first-class award bookings, which is truly exceptional. However, regular one-way first-class award prices are extraordinarily high, such as 190,000 miles for a one-way journey from Jakarta to London.
Garuda Indonesia exclusively offers this product on a select few flights:
- Jakarta (CGK) – London (LHR)
- Jakarta (CGK) – Amsterdam (AMS)
- Jakarta (CGK) – Jeddah (JED)
- Bali-Denpasar (DPS) – Tokyo-Narita (NRT)
- Jakarta (CGK) – Tokyo-Haneda (HND)
13. Singapore Airlines A380 “Old” First Class Suites
Singapore Airlines offers two variations of their First Class Suites. While we discussed the new A380 First Class Suites earlier, the “old” ones on the remaining A380 routes still provide a phenomenal experience.
The suites are arranged in four rows, with rows 2 and 3 in a 1-2-1 configuration and rows 1 and 4 in a 1-1 configuration on the sides of the aircraft. Remember that the middle seats can be converted into a double bed, so consider this when selecting your seat(s).
Singapore Airlines excels at the crucial aspects, making it hard to find fault. There may be occasional issues with Wi-Fi connectivity or a slightly “dated” product, but these are minor in the grand scheme of things.
Typically, Singapore Suites offer Lalique amenities, a 23″ inflight monitor, a choice between Krug and Dom champagne, and the renowned pre-booked service called Book The Cook (featuring dishes like lobster thermidor).
Overall, this product is excellent. However, saver availability on the New York City (JFK) – Frankfurt (FRA) route can be limited. While finding one seat in advance is generally possible, securing two seats can be challenging.
For a comprehensive experience, consider flying from Singapore to enjoy Singapore Suites and the exclusive Private Room lounge.
These suites may be found on the older A380s, which are flown pretty much wherever the newer A380s are not. This is not the best response, but here are some more options:
- New York City (JFK) – Frankfurt (FRA) – Singapore (SIN)
- Auckland (AKL) – Singapore (SIN)
- Beijing (PEK) – Singapore (SIN)
- Delhi (DEL) – Singapore (SIN)
- Mumbai (BOM) – Singapore (SIN)
- Melbourne (MEL) – Singapore (SIN)
- Osaka (KIX) – Singapore (SIN)
14. Qantas First Class
Qantas is a highly regarded airline, and it’s no surprise considering their stellar safety record and prominent position in the industry. When it comes to flying to Australia, Qantas is the go-to choice.
For the ultimate experience, Qantas first class is the way to go. With SK-II amenities, a swiveling seat in a private 1-1-1 configuration, Martin Grant pajamas, and one of the most comfortable beds in the sky, Qantas ensures your journey is truly exceptional.
It cannot be stressed enough: if there’s one flight where you can guarantee a restful sleep, it’s most likely Qantas first class. Combined with the lengthy flight times, this promises a cozy and enjoyable experience in your seat.
One of the top first-class lounges in the world is the Qantas First Class Lounge, particularly the Los Angeles (LAX) facility. You might potentially be qualified for a chauffeur service if you travel on one of these few particular routes:
- Sydney (SYD) – London (LHR)
- Melbourne (MEL) – London (LHR)
- Perth (PER) – London (LHR)
- Singapore (SIN) – Sydney (SYD)
Unfortunately, finding award space on Qantas first-class flights from the US is getting increasingly difficult, especially for groups of more than one traveler.
15. SWISS Air First Class on the 777-300ER
Lufthansa rightfully receives significant recognition as the dominant player in first class to Europe. However, not far behind is SWISS International Airlines, which falls under the Lufthansa Group, the parent company of Lufthansa Airlines.
As mentioned earlier, Lufthansa’s partner award inventory is typically released a maximum of 15 days prior to departure, making it challenging to plan ahead. Nevertheless, booking Lufthansa first class is feasible with flexibility.
However, the same cannot be said for SWISS International Airlines. Unless you hold top-tier Senator or HON Circle elite status with their frequent flyer program, Miles & More, booking SWISS first class is not possible.
For most of us, it remains out of reach. Nonetheless, it’s still worthwhile to discuss one of the most luxurious first-class products available. SWISS International Airlines offers first class on their A340, A330, and 777 aircraft, with their flagship product on the 777-300ER.
The ground experience at Zurich is truly spectacular, featuring transportation in luxurious Mercedes-Benz cars, private passport control, and a stunning First Class Lounge offering delightful a-la-carte dining options.
While they don’t provide transportation to the tarmac for boarding (not that it matters, as it’s just a short distance of a few hundred feet), once onboard, you’ll be greeted by a spacious and elegant armchair that will serve as your comfortable abode throughout the long-haul flight. The seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration across two rows, with a 22″ width (which expands in the lie-flat setting) and a generous 80″ of bed length.
SWISS International Airlines’ first class offers a generous amenity kit featuring La Prairie products, Zimmerli pajamas, caviar, and other exquisite cuisines. Notably, SWISS International Airlines’ first class includes sliding doors, providing an advantage over Lufthansa’s first class and ensuring even greater privacy during your flight.
16. Singapore Airlines First Class on the 777-300ER
Both Singapore Airlines’ older and newer A380 Suites are highly popular among travelers. However, the airline also operates the 777-300ER on select routes to and from America.
Although not as private as the A380 Suites, the 777-300ER first class offers extraordinary luxury in its own right. With only one row in a 1-2-1 configuration, this cabin provides exceptional privacy, accommodating a total of four seats.
The seats are impressively wide, measuring 35″ and stretching to a length of 81″ when transformed into a bed. In fact, they are just 1″ narrower than the widest first-class seats offered by Cathay Pacific.
Passengers can expect Salvatore Ferragamo amenities, cozy pajamas, excellent inflight entertainment, Bose noise-canceling headphones, Dom Perignon champagne, and Singapore Airlines’ renowned Book The Cook service.
Award availability for this first-class product is generally favorable, as most attention is often directed towards the A380 First Class Suites.
These are the travel options to and from the United States:
- San Francisco (SFO) – Hong Kong (HKG) – Singapore (SIN)
- Los Angeles (LAX) – Tokyo-Narita (NRT) – Singapore (SIN)
17. Korean Air Kosmo Suites 2.0
Korean Air offers a diverse range of aircraft for flights to America, including the 747, 787, 777, and A380. Their first-class cabins feature the impressive Kosmo Suites and Kosmo Suites 2.0, available on all planes except the 787 Dreamliner.
Kosmo Suites 2.0 provide individual seats with sliding doors, offering enhanced privacy compared to the regular Kosmo Suites found on the A380. Opting for Kosmo Suites 2.0, available on the 747 and select 777s, is highly recommended.
Here’s what to expect onboard:
- 2006 Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Rosé Champagne, which is not only delicious but also ~$350 per bottle
- Delicious caviar
- DAVI by Mondavi amenities and ridiculously comfy pajamas (they might be the best in the sky)
- A diverse food and beverage selection that will make you drool
- Fantastic service
If Korean Air could enhance its ground experience, its first class would be a serious candidate for one of the top first-class goods in the world. Cities like Atlanta (ATL), San Francisco (SFO), Chicago (ORD), New York City (JFK), and Las Vegas (LAS) fly the passengers.
18. Asiana Airlines First Class on the A380
Asiana Airlines, a major competitor of Korean Air, provides an interesting comparison regarding first class. Although Asiana offers fewer routes due to its smaller size, it operates the A380 in just two cities: Los Angeles (LAX) and New York City (JFK).
With three rows of four seats in a 1-2-1 configuration featuring sliding doors, Asiana ensures a highly private experience. The seats are impressively spacious, measuring 25.2″ in width and 81″ in bed mode. Asiana Airlines’ A380 first class delivers caviar, satisfying dining options, ample privacy, a generous seat size, and an understated sense of luxury.
Moreover, Asiana Airlines boasts an impressive availability of award seats, making it a comfortable and accessible way to enjoy the first class. While the amenities may not be as luxurious as Korean Air’s, the ease of booking compensates for the difference.
19. Oman Air First Class
Oman Air, an underrated Middle Eastern carrier, has recently unveiled its sleek new 787-900 Dreamliner featuring an impressive first-class suite.
With two rows housing a total of eight seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, each suite offers a sliding door for ultimate privacy. The culinary offerings are exceptional, and the ground experience at their Muscat hub is renowned for its splendor.
Similar to Japan Airlines, Oman Air serves prestigious Champagnes such as Cristal and Grand Siecle, complementing the indulgent caviar served in first class.
Passengers enjoy a personal mini-bar beside their seat, while main storage is available in shared lockers a unique feature. The cabin boasts sensational finishes, including using marble on the side table next to each seat. Drawbacks include subpar Wi-Fi (OnAir), average bedding and headphones, and limited route options.
20. Qatar Airways First Class on the A380
Qatar Airways is widely acclaimed for their exceptional QSuites business class, which rivals many first-class offerings. However, their A380 first class is an underappreciated gem. We reviewed the Sydney (SYD) to Doha (DOH) route, providing detailed insights into the flying experience.
Qatar Airways showcases delightful cabin decor, excellent amenities, and a stunning first-class lounge in Doha aboard their A380 aircraft. Notably, they feature a lively onboard bar that adds to the enjoyment. Moreover, the best part is the abundance of award availability!
21. China Eastern Airlines First Class
China Eastern’s first-class product has significantly improved, particularly in soft products. It is one of the few airlines offering double beds in this class.
The hard product impresses with enclosed suites featuring sliding doors, setting a new standard among Chinese carriers. The seats themselves are generously sized, measuring 26.5″ wide and 79″ long. The cabin layout consists of six seats in a 1-1 configuration on the sides, a central bar, and one row in a 1-2-1 configuration.
Passengers receive Salvatore Ferragamo amenity kits, but the soft product may not reach the same level of excellence. First-class service has been inconsistent, although it remains a comfortable option for flying to China and an ideal way to utilize China Eastern miles.
Final Thoughts
There is considerable diversity in first-class offerings among major airlines worldwide. Our comprehensive analysis has compiled a list of the top first-class products available. Remember that different aircraft within the same airline can offer distinct first-class experiences. This information lets you confidently plan your award travel on the most desirable first-class airlines.
