I flew business class with Air France. Many parts of my flight were incredible, but the older aircraft left me wanting more.
29.01.2025 - 18:25
/ insider.com
Two years ago, I had an incredible time in KLM's business class and was eager to treat myself to another upgraded experience. However,flying business class can be pricey, so I always considered it a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
So, when I found out I could fly from Tbilisi, Georgia, to New York in Air France's business-class cabin for about $300 after using points and a monthly promotion from the airline, I knew I had to take advantage of the deal.
Because KLM and Air France are owned by the same parent company, I had high expectations for my flight.
I took the flight in two legs, and was was most excited about my trip from Paris to New York. Here's what my experience during this part of the journey was like.
During my layover in Paris, I visited the Air France lounge at the Charles de Gaulle Airport, which I was able to access as a business-class passenger.
Although it was a decent-sized lounge, finding a secluded place to sit was a little difficult. However, I was traveling during the busy summer season, so the crowds made sense.
Once I found a cushioned seat, I enjoyed the natural lighting while filling up on pastries from the buffet.
I enjoyed complimentary beverages and clean bathroom facilities, and the time passed fairly quickly, given the comfort of not having to wait at the gate.
For this flight, I was able to board early as a business-class passenger, which was a nice perk.
Once seated, I admired the lie-flat seat and looked through my goodie bag, which included an eye mask, socks, a toothbrush, moisturizers, and headphones.
However, I did notice the aircraft was a little older — the seats were a bit worn, and the TV and headphones seemed outdated.
That said, at the time of my flight, Air France was still in the process of reconfiguring its older aircrafts with updated, more comfortable seats, new TV screens, and Bluetooth technology. So, I must have been on a plane that hadn't been updated yet.
For my first course, I received a summer salad, a shrimp dish seasoned with orange-and-honey vinaigrette, and a butternut-squash-and-carrot salad.
The food was delicious, and I felt so fancy using real silverware and a tablecloth in the air. This part of the meal wasn't just good for plane food — I genuinely enjoyed each dish.
Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed by my chicken entrée, which came with zucchini and couscous. I thought the taste was similar to the dishes I get when flying economy, both in terms of flavor and presentation.
However, the real stars of the show came later in the flight — a plate of French cheeses as a snack, and a delicious coconut-lime-mango pastry.
After eating too much, it was time for the best part of the flight: pulling out the TV screen and reclining to a