Air travel has become increasingly uncomfortable, with the gap between coach and first-class ever widening, more travellers are preferring to splurge on their next trip. Carriers on international flights are offering everything from private suites for first-class passengers to Michelin-star meals and luxury amenity kits.
With so much competition, these first-class suites are just as good as premium hotel rooms. So, which first-class suites should you consider for your next vacation? Scroll below to learn more about the airlines with the best in-flight comforts.
Singapore Airlines
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Singapore Airlines provides an unparalleled first-class experience. The airline recently modified its first-class suites in its A380 fleet, becoming the first and only commercial airline to offer a double bed in the sky. Designed by French luxury yacht designer Jean-Jacques Coste, the 50 square feet space has a customizable armchair, a 32-inch HD touchscreen TV, sliding doors for privacy, and a comfortable bed.
Once you board, you are welcomed by champagne or a drink of your choice. You are also provided with pyjamas, slippers, and state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen noise-canceling headphones. Each seat has an amenity kit for men and women and a wardrobe to store your suit or coat. Once you are in the air, you can preview your in-flight food and beverages on the digital inflight menu. You can reserve your main course and select your chef 24 hours before your flight.
Emirates
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Emirates has redefined the first-class experience by offering private suites, flat-bed seats, and onboard showers on their A380 aircrafts. Onboard you are treated to a personal minibar stacked with various beverages, a vanity mirror table, and electronically sliding doors for exquisite privacy. The seat converts into a fully flat bed; simply ask the crew to make up the sheets for a restful night’s sleep.
Passengers travelling in first class are treated to a 32-inch TV screen with live TV and over 6,500 channels of the latest movies, boxsets, music playlists, and games. First-class passengers can also access a large bathroom onboard the airline’s A380 fleet equipped with a shower, toilet, and vanity. While the suite itself is beyond comfortable, flyers have other perks, which include an onboard lounge and bar with an exquisite selection of drinks.
SWISS
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Flying first on Swiss International is a delightful experience. The airline offers the largest TV screen in the industry. Versatile and elegant, the spacious first-class compartment gives you plenty of room to work or stretch. The veneered oak table allows you to work and is ideal for spreading a newspaper to read or dine comfortably. The ottoman can be changed into a seat for an additional guest to join you for a meal or a quick chat.
Each seat on Swiss First is adaptable and converts to a fully flat bed. Once onboard, the cabin crew will provide you with reading materials, amenity kits, and custom-made designer pyjamas from Zimmerli of Switzerland. Guests on Swiss First can choose their menus with an exclusive selection of starters, main courses, desserts, and wines. The service is styled after a restaurant experience; you decide when you want to dine.
Etihad
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Etihad refers to its first-class experience onboard its A380 fleet as the Residence. Designed for up to two guests, the Residence features an ensuite shower room, a private bedroom with a double bed, and a separate living area. Each apartment has a private butler and a dedicated team to cater to your needs.
An onboard chef will prepare your choice of meals and serve them when you want to dine. Once you are in the air, follow the hallway from your living room to your bedroom and sink into a double bed furnished with luxury fine cotton sheets. When you wake up, head to the shower for a warm, soothing bath equipped with luxurious toiletries, amenities, bath linens, and robes. The residence is available in popular destinations like London and New York.
Aaron Levinson | Staff Writer
