Inside Air France's New La Première Airport Lounge in Paris

28.05.2024 - 18:21 / skift.com / Alain Ducasse / Paris Olympics / Corinne Menegaux / Air France / Gordon Smith

As the world’s most visited country, France is no stranger to welcoming tourists. But even by its own busy standards, 2023 was an absolute record-breaker. However, the dynamic will be slightly different this summer. 

Speaking to Skift earlier this month, Corinne Menegaux, Paris’ tourism chief acknowledged that “the Olympics is not a driver for tourism,” with only 30% of those attending the Games coming from abroad. 

Evidence from previous events suggests regular tourists may stay away as athletes from around the world gather in and around the French capital. As a result, it’s more likely to be sporting records that are toppled, rather than international visitor records, as Paris hosts the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.

For those that are making the trip – and wanting to do so in style – Air France is putting the finishing touches to an ultra-exclusive airport experience quite unlike any other. 

Described as a “completely private and confidential customer journey, from airport arrival to boarding the aircraft,” it could set a new benchmark for first class commercial air travel. 

The concept of a dedicated airport check-in zone for top-tier passengers is nothing new. Virgin Atlantic, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines are among the big names that offer a more exclusive service for premium guests. However, Air France is pushing even these boundaries with its new ultra-luxe offering.  

The airline says the experience will begin from the moment the passenger arrives at its Paris Charles de Gaulle hub. Upon enetering the La Première check-in lobby, a concierge will immediately attend to their luggage.

Once pre-departure check-in formalities are concluded, guests will be escorted to the La Première lounge via a private passage featuring a dedicated security checkpoint. The pathway is decorated with a series of images portraying the airline’s winged seahorse motif.

Upon arrival at the lounge, guests can look forward to a menu curated by chef Alain Ducasse and his team. There’s also a spa operated by French beauty brand Sisley. 

Air France describes the space as “embodying French elegance and sophistication.” It has been developed by the airline in collaboration with design agency SGK Paris. 

Despite the lounge spanning more than 10,000 square feet, it has just 15 seats. The idea is to offer a level of comfort and privacy unthinkable in the main terminal. 

However, for the most discerning passengers, an even more exclusive option is available – three completely private suites.

Each spans almost 500 square feet and is located adjacent to the ‘main’ La Première lounge. For larger groups or families, two of the three suites can be connected to create an even larger space. 

Each has a living area, double bedroom,