Here’s a refreshing change of pace for your travel plans…
Air France HOP’s Upcoming Business Class Overhaul: What to Expect by October 2025
Back in May 2024, Air France decided to shake things up a bit. They announced some exciting changes for their Embraer E190 jets flown by the HOP regional subsidiary. Your in-flight experience is about to get a high-tech makeover, folks! We’re talking smartphone holders, a cozy cup holder, USB-A and USB-C outlets for all that essential gadgetry, and adjustable headrests. So, the new cabin promises to be more up to date and even more comfortable. But hold onto your carry-ons, because there’s one little catch in this plan.
As these jets get a facelift, they’re also getting a tighter fit—going from 100 to 110 seats. They’re squeezing in a few more people, sure, but don’t worry, there’s a silver lining here. Historically, HOP’s business passengers had to endure having a seat mate, much like in economy class — not the luxurious experience you’d expect from Europe’s finest. But, come October 1, 2025, that awkward armrest wrestling is about to end.
Starting then, HOP is blocking aisle seats in business class on these Embraer bad boys. So no more rubbing elbows—each lucky traveler will cozy up in a duo of seats. This change will apply across the board for both Embraer E170s and E190s, regardless of whether the flight is sporting the new cabins or the classic ones. This is one small victory for frequent fliers!
For curious minds, if you had a peek at the business class seat map before, you’d notice this layout…
…and as of the magical date in October 2025, here’s the new magic carpet layout you’ll find aboard.
For now, the updated seat arrangements only extend to the end of March 28, 2026. Don’t panic; Air France isn’t going to revert on March 29. They’re just following the IATA winter schedule, so we should see updates for the IATA summer season soon enough.
Why This Changes the Game for Air France Customers
Let’s be honest. Flying business class within Europe is usually as thrilling as watching paint dry. The typical selling point is getting an empty seat beside you, offering that precious bubble of personal space.
Thankfully, the era of seat mates on regional jets is nearing its end, heralding a more seamless experience regardless of aircraft size. Passengers can book without concern for whether they’re boarding a regional jet or a mainline aircraft since the fares—and now the standards—are consistent. This shift reflects a step toward common sense in business class service.
The situation with 2-2 layout planes across Europe has been all over the place. Blocking seats in business class is more costly for airlines with these configurations because every business customer gets a full extra seat to themselves, unlike the less butt-to-seat-room ratio in a 3-3 layout. The major airlines in Europe stand divided like this:
- Lufthansa’s approach is bold as brass—they always block seats next to business class passengers. That’s true across Austrian, Lufthansa, and SWISS, maintaining customer space bliss.
- On the flip side, IAG doesn’t bother blocking seats at all, letting passengers on British Airways and Iberia cozy up whether they like it or not.
- And smack dab in the middle, there’s Air France-KLM. Air France plans to block those pesky adjacent seats starting this fall, about time! KLM, however, is not joining this space revolution.
This update sets Air France HOP apart, bringing their service more in line with big names, upping the ante in Europe’s competitive skies. As competition soars and travelers have more choices, making these smart decisions is how top-tier airlines fly above the rest. Not to mention, when folks are heading to the stunning Val Seny ski resort or other delightful European destinations, they seek out airlines that promise the comfort they crave.
Bottom Line on Air France’s Move
October 2025 is when the magic begins. Air France HOP will block adjacent business class seats on Embraer E170 and E190 flights—as promised back when they revealed the cabin upgrades plan with added seats.
I’m pleased to see Air France finally addressing this overdue policy shift, which should enhance what’s considered by many (including yours truly) a top-notch experience brewed up by Europe’s luxury air giant.
So, what are your thoughts on Air France’s new regional jet strategy?