Discovering Premium Business Class Options
Let’s talk about the fast-evolving world of air travel. There’s a fancy new kid on the block called “business class plus.” You might’ve caught wind of it—an exclusive realm nestled within the usual business class. While standard business class has undergone its own makeovers, these seats offer a whole new level of luxury.
So, what’s all the fuss about? Let’s dive into who’s offering this premium experience, why they’re doing it, and of course, what it’ll cost you.
Why the New “Premium” Business Class?
Airlines are always on the hunt to optimize space on planes. It’s a bit of a balancing act between cramming in as many seats as possible and offering an irresistible product suite that travelers will shell out extra cash for. Enter: the premium business class.
The idea is simple. In most business class configurations, space efficiency reigns supreme. Seats aim to economize pitch by positioning around the seat in front, which often means small footwells. In the first row, however, space utilization becomes a different beast entirely as there’s no seat in front for a footwell to fit into.
Airlines are now transforming these front-row seats into larger, more lavish spaces, and yes, they’re charging more for them. Sometimes they offer additional perks (known in the industry as soft products), and sometimes they don’t.
Airlines with “Business Class Plus” Offers
Right, let’s get to the juicy stuff—who’s in on this premium game, and what makes their offerings unique? Here’s a sneak peek:
- Why these seats standout in the cabin
- Soft product differentiation
- How to score a seat
We’re focusing on products that are flying high now—no rumors or plans for future rollouts here. Let’s begin, without further ado…
Virgin Atlantic Retreat Suite (A330-900neo)
The Airbus A330-900neos by Virgin Atlantic come with two exclusive business seats dubbed Retreat Suites. These spots shimmer with more space, perfect for couples who fancy dining face-to-face in-flight.
Oozing additional room, these seats sport a grander ottoman, a bigger bed, and high-end entertainment systems. Picking a Retreat Suite typically adds about £300 to your fare, selected easily through the airline’s site ahead of your flight.
JetBlue Mint Studio (A321LR & A321neo)
JetBlue enters the game with its Mint Studios on the Airbus A321LRs and A321neos. Besides extra personal space, there’s a cozy bench for social visits and added storage.
These spacious retreats don’t come cheap, usually at $299 for transatlantic flights. Book between your flight reservation and departure.
American Flagship Suite Preferred (787-9P)
American Airlines debuts the Flagship Suite Preferred on their Boeing 787-9s with more personal and foot space. Soft perks include pajamas and cozy mattress pads.
While free assignments are available for now on a first-come basis, don’t expect the freebie to last long.
Condor Prime Seat (A330-900neo)
Fancy an enormous ottoman and dining with a plus-one? Condor’s A330-900neos have you covered with the Prime Seats.
Prices range from $300 to $600, and you can claim these plush havens as soon as you book to right before you fly.
Lufthansa Allegris Business First Row Suite (A350-900)
Lufthansa’s A350-900s boast an impressive array in their first-row suites. Think of these as first-class experiences without the official badge. Access doors, ample storage—you name it.
Priced between €400 to €600, these seats are worth every cent for those craving absolute comfort.
Air New Zealand Business Premier Luxe (787-9)
Air New Zealand’s luxury niche comes alive with the Boeing 787-9’s Business Premier Luxe seats, featuring seat doors, extra room, and ottoman seating options.
Reserve these for around 250 NZD short-haul, or 820 NZD long-haul, providing chic comfort.
Malaysia Airlines Business Suite (A350-900)
Formerly first-class, now an opulent Business Suite option on Malaysia’s Airbus A350-900s, this cabin comes with true doors and exquisite soft product perks.
A separate booking is essential, preparing you for a top-tier indulgence.
Asiana Airlines Business Suite (A380)
Rebranded from its first-class roots, Asiana’s A380 serves up the Business Suite with vast space, nestled upfront on the lower deck. For those last-minute luxury seekers, check-in offers deals around $500 per long-haul sector.
Oman Air Business Studio (787-9)
Oman Air transitions its first-class allure to Business Studio on select 787-9s. Featuring lavish seating and complimentary Wi-Fi, book directly for a taste of sky-high luxury.
ITA Airways Business Class (A321neo)
ITA Airways’ fleet features premium A321neos with an executive front row that wows with ample legroom. Reserved as an extra space option, these chic seats come with an additional price tag of about $100.
China Eastern Business Class (A350-900)
China Eastern’s spacious front-row A350-900 corner offers upgraded ottomans and entertainment without the chatter around soft offerings.
Listed as “Luxury Business Class,” this choice crowns personal space with starry comfort.
Shanghai Airlines Business Class (787-9)
Mirroring China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines provides an identical “Luxury Business Class” experience on the 787-9. Seat booking brings an elevated journey vibe.
Air France Business Class (A350-900 & 777-300ER)
Air France hasn’t made a formal fuss over their special bulkhead seats on A350-900s and 777-300ERs, but their plush ottomans win hearts without needing extra cash.
These seats often delight frequent flyers’ seating maps and offer unrivaled comfort.
Singapore Airlines Business Class (A350-900 & 777-300ER)
Singapore Airlines mirrors Air France’s exceptional seating, sans marketing hoopla. These spaces promise above-average ottomans perfect for a rest or repast.
Reserved for members within 96 hours of departure, these gems transform aisles of routine into realms of relaxation.
Bottom Line
Upgrades in business class aren’t slowing, and airlines expand luxurious product offerings to cash in on demand for indulgence. While size matters especially at bulkheads, it’s also transforming seats into sumptuous havens. Keep your eyes peeled for emerging seat options—the list grows with time.
Craving a new flying experience or just wanted to see about exploring a Val Seny ski resort? This might be your golden ticket.
Thoughts on these “business class plus” products?