The Best Business Class Airlines in the World: A Comprehensive Guide

            If you’re thinking about upgrading to business class on your next flight, but aren’t sure which airline to choose, we’ve got the guide for you! We’ve spent hours researching the best airlines in the world and have found that certain airlines offer better perks than others when it comes to flying business class or first class. Here’s a breakdown of our findings and what you should look out for when flying business class or first class: [...]

1. Air Canada

            In 2018, Air Canada introduced a new fleet of Airbus aircraft that's currently being phased into its existing fleet of Boeing 767s and 777s. The Canadian carrier also unveiled a reconfigured business class product that features direct aisle access, an angled lie-flat seat with footrest, and a universal AC power port. Many other enhancements were made to passenger amenities such as real wood veneer and soft leather on armrests and headrests throughout all cabins. Moreover, business class seats are outfitted with the airline’s signature cradle-shaped headrest providing passengers a better sleep quality during flight time.

2. All Nippon Airways (ANA)

            ANA has a modern fleet of aircraft that fly through major hubs around Asia, North America, and Europe. They offer amenities like private sleeping rooms with plush bedding, slippers, and L’Occitane-branded amenities. ANA is known for having quality service (they consistently top surveys) and strong international partnerships. Some of their partners include Delta Air Lines (North America), Qantas (Australia), Etihad Airways (Middle East/Africa), Singapore Airlines (Asia/Europe). Book with ANA here.

3. American Airlines

            And now for a completely different experience, if you can afford it, you can buy an American Airlines business class seat for about $4,500. Every business class seat comes with a fully-flat bed and has six classes of service to choose from. Every passenger also gets his or her own privacy curtain and full recline to make sure you never have to hear what’s going on around you as you settle into your fully-flat bed. No matter which cabin class you select, passengers get every amenity they could ever want while they’re in flight including fresh towels, shoeshine service, and even leather sleep masks so that no light will disturb your slumber.

4. British Airways

            This long-time business class airline offers a dedicated 2-2 seating configuration that is both flexible and private. Some of its planes feature an old-school (some might say romantic) wood effect on their walls. The company has several innovative perks to distinguish it from other best business class airlines, like free wi-fi, power outlets at every seat, and a frequent flyer program that lets you earn points based on how often you fly. Other high marks? It’s one of only two airlines to offer daily nonstop flights from JFK International Airport to London’s Heathrow Airport—and it happens to be consistently ranked as one of Skytrax’s best airports in Europe.

5. Cathay Pacific

            Fly high, first class. Cathay Pacific is one of Asia’s most recognized airlines, known for its impeccable service and enviable business class experience (if you can book it). As one of few airlines that serves Hong Kong to offer a flat bed, it has become a go-to for those looking to experience first-class luxury at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a relaxing flight with plenty of room to move about and enjoy your surroundings, look no further than Cathay Pacific. There are plenty of good reasons why it's consistently ranked as one of the best business class airlines around—you just have to check out its luxurious offerings to see why.

6. Etihad Airways

            The Best Business Class Airlines in The World 2019: In 2017, Etihad Airways was named Airline of The Year by Skytrax and IAG CEO Willie Walsh commended their exceptional performance. More than a third of its customers have recommended it to others, demonstrating a high level of customer satisfaction. Additionally, more than half of its staff have been with them for five years or more, showing their dedication to having great employees and creating excellent service for their customers. They’re definitely one of our favorites!

8. Hainan Airlines

            This Chinese carrier has a number of flights to and from China, connecting it with destinations throughout Asia, Europe, Africa and North America. Hainan also owns a European low-cost carrier called Hainan Air. Flights are available on Boeing 787 Dreamliners equipped with reverse herringbone seats and wood veneer accents; all-aisle access means that passengers don't have to wait for people to disembark before they can get out. Food is prepared by Michelin-starred chefs and includes Wagyu beef, sea cucumber sautéed in garlic oil, pigeon breast as well as more traditional options like fried chicken or fish ball soup.

9. Japan Airlines (JAL)

            JAL operates a fleet of 319 aircraft, including 15 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners and 30 Airbus A380s. It has 622 international routes and 85 domestic ones to 120 cities. It was named one of the World’s 10 Most Reliable Airlines by Bloomberg Rankings. Tokyo-Narita Airport is JAL’s main hub, but it also serves Hiroshima Airport, where its office is located. The airline became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japan Air System on January 29, 2009, and changed its official company name from Japan Air Lines Co., Ltd. to Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

10. Singapore Airlines

            When it comes to comfort, you won’t find another airline as reliable or high-quality as Swiss International Air Lines. This airline is consistently voted one of Europe’s best airlines, and its business class service rivals that of any international carrier. When you travel on a Swiss flight, you can enjoy amenities like a fully flat bed with a 180-degree recline and a spacious seating area. As far as food goes, not only is there a large selection at every meal but there are also special meals available for passengers who prefer gluten-free options. On top of all that, Swiss has access to some great lounges around Europe and North America. Read More...

11. Swiss International Air Lines

            For our money, Swiss is tops when it comes to business class. The food? Outstanding. The seats? Extra-wide, with around 40 inches of legroom. And (we are told) you can even get a nap during takeoff or landing if you don't have work to do on your laptop. The service is stellar, too; every passenger has his or her own careline that they can call throughout their trip for service. If your favorite airplane site gave out awards for the best business class airline, we'd be shocked if Swiss didn't win. It's that good!