04/03/2024
Review of Air France's business class:
First, there are a lot of comparisons between Air France's and United Polaris' business class products. We're really into points travel, and snagged these flights at a very deep discount during an Air France points sale (Flying Blue). We've also done a Polaris trip on points. It's a huge savings ($4,000 each round trip versus $750 round trip), so if you love to travel and not using a credit card that allows you to choose from several top carriers for points, you're costing yourself money.
The first two legs of the journey (on Delta) were in economy class because they were short jaunts of 1-2 hours each. In my middle seat I felt miserable and cramped. This business class flight was definitely a huge level up. When you're talking an 8 hour flight, having lay flat seats and room is a game changer.
Air France's business class compartment is very similar to Polaris, but I think the bed itself is smaller. Not by much, but I'm just 5'2" and slept with bent knees. Tom said he was cramped. Still, I slept most of the flight, which helped tremendously to combat the 7 hour time difference from home. This was the first trip I didn't feel jet lagged upon arrival.
I have read reviews about staff rudeness and mediocre food on Air France's business product, but we experienced superb, friendly service from start to finish. The cabin stewards couldn't have been more accommodating!
As to the food, from reading previous reviews I was prepared for the worst, and snacked ahead of time. BAD IDEA. My chef prepared dinner was absolutely wonderful. I ate Every. Bite. I accidentally even ate some goat cheese, which I can't stand. lol
That was dinner. Breakfast, sadly, was another story. Granted, I eat farm fresh eggs on the daily, and really loathe reconstituted egg-like substances. These were bad, even for those. The potato and mushrooms were a weird, microwaved texture. The only thing I ate was the grilled tomato. Luckily, I was still plenty full from my dinner 4-5 hours before.
The amenity kit was "meh." Polaris definitely has a better kit, including a Saks Fifth Avenue down comforter they allow you to keep. Still, that toothbrush came in handy.
The plane was great. The camera on the tail is amazing to watch.
Overall, the service and dinner were superb, and I am very spoiled on business class overseas flights. It would be tough to be crammed in a smaller space for an overseas flight ever again.
I hope this review helps someone considering Air France's business class. It's well worth the point splurge!
A family owned independent travel agency hosted by Nexion. We primarily assist clients with cruises.
