Behind the Scenes: Inside the Best First Class Cabins

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to fly First Class? Or are you a First Class regular, naturally turning left whenever you set foot on a British Airways’ A380? Wherever you’re at with First Class travel, here Kat Townsend will take you behind the scenes for a look at the very best First Class cabins:

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways’ pioneering spirit coupled with its traditions of Abu Dhabian hospitality has resulted in the creation of a contemporary flying experience. Accompanied by unparalleled comfort and service, the airline's new A380 high-end luxury product is out of this world.

Described as the world’s most luxurious living space in the sky, Etihad Airways' aircraft provide some of the most exquisite premium cabins around, coupled with an exceptional onboard service.

The only three-room suite in the sky, including a lounge, bathroom with shower and double bedroom, The Residence offers an unparalleled luxury in-flight experience. It includes an ultra-modern and personalised VIP service with a dedicated onboard butler and chef, as well as a travel concierge and chauffeur transfers on the ground. This remarkable service is available on A380 flights from London to Abu Dhabi.

The First Suite (on the B787 Dreamliner) or First Apartment (on the A380), offer a private cabin for one with closing doors, space to dine with a companion, a wardrobe, a leather seat that converts to a fully-flat bed with mattress and duvet, plus state-of-the-art, on-demand entertainment.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore’s national carrier, Singapore Airlines is an award-winning airline with innovation, design and comfort at the forefront of everything it does. It has invested heavily in updating its already incredible First Class cabins and is progressively rolling these out across its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

The new First Class cabins feature an extra-wide seat, in your own private space, with ambient lights that complement your mood.

'Book the Cook', a benefit exclusive to Singapore Airlines customers, is a service in which you can reserve your main course up to 24 hours before you fly, browse the menu and take time to choose exactly what you fancy. Onboard you will enjoy a restaurant setting with full table service, and wines to match the food and altitude!

The iconic ‘Singapore Girl’ is behind its timeless, effortless and incredible service. Its goal is to make each and every one of its customers feel at home.

Air France

In my opinion, Air France offers one of the best First Class cabins out there; it’s recently been revamped and is just incredible. This new offering is only available on certain flights on the B777-300 aircraft and to a growing number of destinations – this is one to keep an eye out for.

Once onboard, you are personally introduced to the crew and enjoy a tailored service throughout your flight. Decorated and upholstered in neutral tones, you get a feeling of instant relaxation upon boarding your flight and finding your luxurious seat. With ample storage for your things and even a bedside lamp, you'll feel right at home in the La Premiere cabin. Travelling with a companion? There is plenty of space for you both to relax at your large table as they take a seat on an elegant and comfortable ottoman.

If you're feeling sleepy after enjoying a signature dish onboard – or if you’re flying from certain US airports to Paris until 2017 and are stuffed full of dishes created by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud – you can sleep soundly whilst cosying into your 2m-long bed with futon mattress, large pillow and fluffy duvet.

British Airways

British by brand and British at heart, our national carrier oozes luxury and knows how to do swish. Start your First Class British Airways’ experience in its signature, elegant airport lounge. It's stocked with fine wines, refreshments and business facilities if you need to catch up on any work. You’re also invited to access the Concorde Room, exclusive to Heathrow Terminal 5 and New York JFK Terminal 7. This area boasts discreet booths, a full waiter service, private cabanas and a state-of-the-art business suite.

You’d be forgiven for whiling away the time in the lounge and be eternally grateful for that final call, you’ve just had your Elemis Spa treatment and are primed, relaxed and ready for the First Class experience onboard. Here you will enjoy your own private suite, a fully-flat bed with sumptuous bedding, and BA's world-famous exclusive and attentive service.

And as you dine on food from some of the world’s top chefs, you’ll soon start to think you’re at a top London restaurant – you can even indulge in a classic English afternoon tea!

To finish the service off, British Airways offers an exclusive, complimentary concierge service to advise on everything from exclusive restaurant bookings to what events are happening whilst you’re away. This service is available whenever you travel through London Heathrow Terminal 5 or New York JFK.

If you want to experience the pure luxury of First Class, why not make an appointment with one of our First and Business Travel Experts? All four of these airlines really top the charts when it comes to exclusivity and elegance, and our Experts can help you find out which one is the best option for your premium flying experience. Go on, treat yourself!