Explaining the Differences Between Flying Business Class vs First Class

Breaking Down Business Class

Business Class cabins - while offering an incredible experience for leisure travellers - are very much set up with a business traveller in mind. They offer a private cabin that is quiet and spacious with seats that have large desks, in-seat power supplies and flat beds so you can get some sleep.

On the ground, Business Class lounges encompasses a similar experience. Lounges are a quiet place to relax or work, there are office spaces set up with computers and printers, and hot meals and showers so you can freshen up before the flight. 

First Class is a New Level

Where Business Class is designed with the business traveller in mind, First Class is designed to be the ultimate experience in the sky. As a result, the biggest differences come down to space, service, privacy and of course price.  

Service in particular is hugely different in First Class. For example some airlines offer a private chauffer service in luxury cars from your home to the airport, where you’ll then be dropped off outside the a dedicated First Class check-in counter.

From there you will enjoy a private and speedy security and immigration area, which will often lead directly into the First Class lounge – so you never have to face the crowds and bustle of the airport. Dedicated First Class Lounges are also less about business and more about the full experience with everything from spa treatments to Champagne rooms and restaurant-style dining. 

Exclusive Features with First Class

From the lounge, you’ll then board the plane first via a private entrance just for First Class passengers, where you will be welcomed by the crew who will ask you about how and when you want to dine throughout the flight.

In Business Class you are typically served a three course meal which you can choose off a menu, along with premium drinks and champagne upon arrival. In First Class though, some airlines will cook and prepare you whatever you want. 

British Airways have recently honed in the idea of choosing what you want before you fly, so you can pre-select your meals in advance by booking them online, allowing you to get your first choice of food. It’s also generally freshly prepared for you and served on china alongside fine wine you would find in a 5 star restaurant.

For the New York to London night flight with British Airways, the staff will even offer you the dinner service at the airport, so you can get on the plane and enjoy 6 hours sleep without the staff disturbing you. It’s that attention to detail that really sets First Class apart from Business Class.  

Business Class Can Vary

The other thing to note is that while Business Class services can greatly vary, First Class cabins generally enjoy the same industry standards. As a result, airlines are constantly working to innovate their service and differentiate themselves from their competitors:

• Emirates has showers on board their A380 as well as First Class Suites where you’re space has a door you can close for full privacy.
• Singapore Airlines also offers similar suites as well. 
• Etihad offers ‘The Residence’, which essentially is a private jet onboard a plane with three private rooms; a bedroom, lounge and bathroom. The apartment also comes with a butler.

Business Class vs. First Class: The Flight Centre Difference

Anyone can book a premium airfare online, but if you’re looking to get the best value for money, that’s where we can help. At First and Business, we not only have the relationship with the airlines to enable us to get the best airfares, but we also have the expertise and exposure of experiencing First and Business Class cabins first hand. So we can find you the best in-flight experience for the best-value price.