Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com

Air France Launches Lavish La Première First-Class Experience

The allure of France, a country synonymous with style and luxury, is beautifully reflected in Air France’s latest first-class offering. Dubbed La Première, which translates to first, this exquisite cabin is now operational on daily flights connecting Paris and New York, having made its debut on April 8, 2025.

As part of its expansion, Air France plans to introduce this elite service on routes to Los Angeles, Singapore, and Tokyo-Haneda throughout the year. In addition, the airline is undertaking a significant retrofit of select Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, enhancing not only the first-class experience but also upgrading business class, premium economy, and economy sections. The new La Première service features a limited design with just four first-class seats.

The timing of this launch is particularly timely as travelers increasingly seek luxurious and personalized experiences. Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, emphasized the airline’s commitment to catering to evolving consumer preferences. “Our customers are growing more sophisticated and discerning, so we’re evolving the Air France product to meet those demands,” he shared with Condé Nast Traveler.

One standout feature of the La Première suite is its impressive six-foot-five-inch bed, which is among the longest available in commercial aviation. Additionally, these suites boast the most windows of any first-class seat, offering an expansive connection to the outside world, even at cruising altitude.

A recent exclusive event in New York City showcased the new La Première seat, giving attendees a chance to experience a functional version of this cutting-edge product firsthand.

The suite design is striking, nearly ten feet in length with two distinct seating areas: a forward-facing chair and a spacious rear-facing chaise lounge. This configuration encourages comfort whether traveling alone or with a companion. A user-friendly touchscreen tablet manages seating adjustments, lighting, window shades, and the suite’s in-flight entertainment on dual 32-inch 4K screens positioned on either side.

In an effort to create an open, airy atmosphere, the design eliminates overhead storage compartments. Instead, luggage can be conveniently stowed in a sizable side compartment, adequately accommodating a small suitcase alongside personal belongings. Meanwhile, dedicated spaces beneath the chaise and next to the forward seat provide additional storage, featuring a mirror and noise-canceling headphones for passenger convenience. Moreover, Bluetooth connectivity and ample power outlets ensure that guests can easily keep their devices charged throughout the flight.

The aesthetic of La Première is undoubtedly refined, characterized by its chic monochrome palette complemented by red accents. The ambiance evokes the feel of a sophisticated Parisian hotel rather than just an aircraft cabin. This dedication to French craftsmanship extends beyond the visual appeal; plush pajamas designed by Jacquemus and amenity kits filled with luxurious products by Sisley Paris heighten the overall travel experience. Furthermore, the on-board dining options, created by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud, promise to indulge even the most discerning palates.

Source
www.cntraveler.com