Air France first announced its new business class back in 2014, but it took until this year to roll it out across its fleet as part of a €500 million (Dh2.04 billion) investment.
This year, 18 aircraft are being refitted, bringing the number of 777s with the new product to 42 out of 62. The new look includes improved reverse herringbone, or Cirrus, seats that offer aisle access to every passenger, as well as a fully flat bed.
It’s far removed from the carrier’s previous angle lie-flat seats and small entertainment screens.
During a recent flight from Paris’s Charles De Gaulle airport to South America, I sampled the Cirrus seats, similar to those on Cathay Pacific and American Airlines, offering more space and privacy than before.
The best bit, it reclines from fully upright into a 78-inch-long bed, with a 16-inch widescreen offering the carrier's latest, easy to use in-flight entertainment system. From the range of blockbuster films, TV series and classic Hollywood hits – I took in a couple of Marvel movies and episodes of Game of Thrones and 2 Broke Girls.
The level of comfort, coupled with the airline’s already-commendable food and service, lift Air France’s business cabin to world leader status. Before I’d even sat down, my coat was taken and hung in a wardrobe, a drink offered and amenity kits, slippers and menus handed out.
After an on-time departure, service began, which consisted of an aperitif accompanied by a tasty Muse en Bouche of scallops and crispy greens.
There were two food services. For the first I enjoyed duck foie gras terrine and shrimp Clafouti and before landing, there was a beef and shrimp starter followed by another choice from the main courses, which included sushi and a vegetarian pasta, all followed by a caramelised pineapple dessert.
Sleep wise, the bed was very comfortable; it comes with a fleecy blanket and thick pillow, and the noise-cancelling headsets cut out the aircraft noise.
One negative though, if the aircraft is swapped because of maintenance, there is a chance of flying on a plane with the less impressive angle lie-flat seats.
q&a unwind before you board
Jonny Clark expands on the new Air France business class offering:
Is the new business service available from the UAE?
Air France offers a daily service to Dubai on its newly refitted 777-300ER with the new business class. A return to Paris will set you back Dh14,995.
What was in the amenity kit?
Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, shoehorn, comb, eye mask, ear plugs, lip balm and a Clarins moisturising lotion.
Was it easy to work on board?
There are USB and power sockets for your personal devices and while there’s no in-flight Wi-Fi, there’s space for a laptop or to spread out documents.
Does Air France offer good connections through Charles de Gaulle airport?
The carrier operates from Terminal 2, which is separated out into various halls. The airport is expansive, and there can be a lot of walking between gates.
What lounges are on offer for Air France passengers?
There are seven including one first class lounge and an arrivals lounge. The most impressive is The Park. It offers a vast space to relax and unwind, and includes a hot buffet and a Clarins spa with complimentary treatments. Beware though, it closes at 2pm as it’s only open for morning flights.
What air miles earning opportunities are there?
Air France is part of SkyTeam, and as such has earning potential across a wide selection of international airlines such as Delta, KLM, Saudia and Jet Airways.
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