7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - JAL's New A350 First Class Suite With Three Person Dining Space

Japan Airlines has unveiled a new first-class experience on its Airbus A350-1000, featuring a suite designed for three. The standout feature is the generous space, including a large ottoman that can be used for extra seating. This makes it suitable for traveling companions to share the experience, though it's not a proper lie-flat bed. Each suite is well-equipped with various power outlets, including USB and universal plugs, making sure devices stay charged.

The cabin is set up in a 1-1-1 configuration across two rows. While it's currently available on routes like Tokyo to New York, they're planning to expand to other destinations. This new cabin, which was developed with Safran Seats GB, aims to redefine luxury travel. Reviews are very positive, hailing the product as a strong step forward in the world of international first class. Although the "buddy seat" is a non-recliner, the overall experience and space are considered a significant improvement compared to the usual first-class options. While it might not be a perfect first-class, the initial reviews and innovations are showing that JAL might have produced a true contender in the premium travel market.

Japan Airlines (JAL) has recently introduced a novel first-class suite on its Airbus A350-1000, a development that's piqued the interest of aviation enthusiasts and discerning travelers alike. One standout feature is the ability to comfortably seat three individuals within the suite, creating a truly unique dining experience that's rarely found in commercial airlines, more akin to the luxurious environment of a private jet.

The suites themselves are remarkably spacious, incorporating a large ottoman that can double as extra seating. It's a thoughtful design, especially for passengers who might want to share their travel experience with a companion. In addition, each suite is conveniently equipped with various power outlets, including USB-A, USB-C, and standard universal plugs, located strategically on either side of the seat, ensuring electronic devices stay powered throughout the journey.

Interestingly, the first-class cabin is configured in a two-row layout, with a 1-1-1 arrangement. This design choice aims to maximize the sense of privacy and spaciousness for each passenger. Currently, JAL is operating this first-class service on daily routes between Tokyo Haneda (HND) and New York JFK, with a clear intention to expand this offering to other destinations in the future.

While the 'buddy seat' doesn't convert into a full-fledged bed component, the overall amount of personal space offered in these suites is truly exceptional when compared to other first-class offerings. It appears that a lot of design effort has been dedicated to ensuring individual comfort and privacy. Safran Seats GB from the UK collaborated with JAL to engineer this impressive product, which highlights the airline's commitment to innovation in passenger experience.

Early reactions to this first-class product have been remarkably positive, with many commentators considering it a potential benchmark for the future of international first-class travel. It has the potential to really redefine the luxurious travel experience at 30,000 feet. It's noteworthy that the A350-1000 incorporating this new first-class suite is already in service, indicating that JAL has taken a significant leap forward in terms of its premium service offerings. This undoubtedly represents a promising development for future long-haul journeys on JAL.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - JAL's New A350 First Class Suite With Three Person Dining Space
2. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Emirates Game Changing 777 First Class Available with 85k Emirates Miles
3. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Qatar Airways A380 First Class Bookable with 70k AA Miles
4. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Singapore Airlines 777 First Class Sweet Spot Using Alaska Miles
5. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - ANA First Class Square Suite Now Bookable Through Virgin Atlantic
6. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - EVA Air 787 First Class Launch on Taipei Toronto Route
7. 7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Lufthansa A350 Allegris First Class Starting Frankfurt Los Angeles May 2024

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Emirates Game Changing 777 First Class Available with 85k Emirates Miles

Emirates' 777 First Class, often referred to as the "Game Changer," presents a compelling opportunity for travelers seeking a luxurious experience using miles. At a relatively accessible 85,000 Emirates Skywards miles, you can access a truly exclusive cabin found only on select Boeing 777-300ERs. The cabin’s design, with just six fully enclosed suites, delivers a level of privacy rarely seen on commercial flights. Each suite is equipped with floor-to-ceiling doors, ensuring a sense of seclusion and tranquility.

Inspired by the elegance of Mercedes-Benz, the suites feel more like a sophisticated hotel room than an airplane cabin, enhancing the sense of luxury. The spacious 1-1-1 configuration provides a welcome sense of openness and comfort. You'll appreciate the individual control over the lighting and temperature within your suite. For those who prefer a less ambitious mileage redemption, a business class to first-class upgrade is also possible, using a lower number of miles.

Emirates’ innovation in first class has resulted in numerous awards, including accolades from TripAdvisor for offering one of the best first-class experiences. Their unique approach to luxury has helped solidify the 777 First Class as one of the top-tier choices for premium flyers.

Emirates' "Game Changing" 777 First Class, found exclusively on select Boeing 777-300ERs, stands out with its unique design and luxurious amenities. This cabin, with just six seats in a 1-1-1 configuration, provides a remarkable level of privacy, thanks to fully enclosed suites that feature floor-to-ceiling doors. It's almost like a private hotel room in the sky, taking inspiration from Mercedes-Benz design principles.


Each suite is a marvel of engineering, boasting individual controls for lighting and temperature, ensuring the perfect environment for every passenger. They introduced these suites back in 2017, and they were quickly recognized as a game-changer in first-class travel, even earning the title of World’s Best First Class at the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. It's not surprising it's consistently ranked among the top three first-class experiences.


Interestingly, Emirates has integrated a system that lets passengers automatically upgrade to first class if seats become available, provided they have enough Skywards miles. You can also upgrade from business class using a set number of miles, offering a path to a premium experience for those who've already booked a business-class ticket. For example, on some routes, you can access a first-class experience with 39,000 Skywards miles.


Emirates clearly aimed for a luxurious, high-tech experience, which is noticeable in the thoughtfully designed cabin and intuitive in-flight entertainment system. They've leveraged innovative engineering in multiple areas, from soundproofing to lighting systems, creating an ambiance optimized for passenger well-being and a truly refined travel experience. Whether it's their partnerships with top chefs for onboard dining or the meticulously trained cabin crew, everything feels geared towards exceeding the expectations of a first-class passenger.

While the initial investment in miles or cash might be substantial, the "Game Changing" 777 First Class experience is a compelling option for those seeking a truly exceptional journey. Particularly if you can find a route that makes good use of Emirates' mileage program, it offers an incredible value proposition.

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Qatar Airways A380 First Class Bookable with 70k AA Miles

Qatar Airways' Airbus A380 First Class offers an intriguing possibility for those seeking a premium travel experience without emptying their wallets. Using just 70,000 American Airlines miles, you can book a seat in this luxurious cabin. The upper deck features eight seats arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, delivering a comfortable journey. However, a notable drawback is the absence of privacy doors, which may lessen the exclusive feel often associated with first-class travel.

Even without the doors, this cabin compensates with lavish amenities such as a well-stocked lavatory containing Diptyque products and various toiletries. This, coupled with the consistently lauded Qatar Airways service, contributes to a positive travel experience on long-haul routes like Doha to Sydney or Bangkok. While a cash ticket for this class of service can easily exceed $9,000, utilizing miles provides a fantastic opportunity to maximize value and enjoy a high-quality journey without the typical hefty cost. Ultimately, Qatar Airways' A380 First Class, though lacking the absolute privacy of some competitors, offers a considerable value proposition for savvy mile redeemers seeking a luxurious long-haul experience.

Qatar Airways' A380 first class can be accessed with 70,000 American Airlines miles, presenting a potentially appealing option for those seeking a premium experience without breaking the bank. The A380's first-class cabin is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration across eight seats located on the upper deck, offering a decent level of comfort. However, the absence of privacy doors for each seat might be a drawback for those who value maximum seclusion compared to other high-end offerings.

The cabin does offer a collection of amenities, such as Diptyque toiletries and a comprehensive dental kit, reflecting a reasonable level of care and attention to detail. Routes like Doha to Sydney and Bangkok seem to be highlighted for showcasing the A380's first-class experience, likely due to their duration, allowing a more comprehensive feel for the service.

For comparison, purchasing a full fare for first class on Qatar can cost around AUD 12,900 (USD 9,367), highlighting the substantial cost savings that come from using frequent flyer miles. Passenger feedback indicates that despite the lack of privacy doors, the service and comfort levels generally receive positive reviews. Some reports even suggest that entire first-class cabins are sometimes available for exclusive use, which could significantly improve the overall travel experience for certain passengers.

These routes, typically around 13 to 15 hours in duration for places like Sydney, allow ample time to experience the full range of services available in the cabin, from dining to in-flight entertainment. Overall, while some aspects might not reach the exclusivity standards of other airlines, Qatar's A380 first class offers good value, particularly when considering the cost of redemption using accumulated miles. It appears to be a reasonable option for those who seek a comfortable and well-appointed travel experience without necessarily needing the ultimate seclusion.

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Singapore Airlines 777 First Class Sweet Spot Using Alaska Miles

Singapore Airlines' Boeing 777-300ER first class offers a compelling experience for those seeking premium travel without the usual hefty price tag. With a 1-2-1 seat configuration, the cabin is designed for privacy and offers a sense of spaciousness, especially notable on shorter routes. While often seen as a longer-haul cabin, the experience on these shorter flights still offers the expected standard of food and drink that one would find on a longer flight.

One way to unlock this first class cabin experience without breaking the bank is via the Alaska Mileage Plan. A particularly attractive option exists with a redemptions from Tokyo to Singapore. Although technically a business class redemption, it comes at a very reasonable 30,000 miles, which represents a fantastic value for first class travel on this route. This route also highlights that despite the shorter flight duration, Singapore Airlines doesn't compromise the quality of service and food in first class. It's worth mentioning that the current mileage charts show increases in other routes, particularly to and from Tokyo, from Singapore, but this sweet spot may be here for some time.

Furthermore, the Singapore Airlines first-class experience often extends to exclusive airport lounge access, such as The Private Room and the First Class Lounge at Changi Airport, enhancing the premium travel experience from the very beginning. While miles required for other routes might differ, and some might not be as sweet a spot, this route represents a solid option for anyone considering enjoying the Singapore Airlines first-class cabin for less.

Singapore Airlines' Boeing 777-300ER first class, when booked with Alaska miles, offers a potentially attractive way to experience luxury air travel without necessarily spending a fortune. The Alaska Mileage Plan's award chart has some sweet spots, especially for routes originating in Japan and heading to Singapore. Business class on this route can be snagged for 30,000 miles, which is a relatively low price for a long-haul flight.


This particular cabin, found on the Boeing 777-300ER, has a 1-2-1 seating configuration in first class, giving everyone direct access to the aisle, which is a step up compared to a more traditional 1-1-1 configuration. Surprisingly, award seats are more accessible on Singapore Airlines compared to some of its peers, especially when you book outside of peak travel times.



The onboard experience does not appear to be negatively impacted by shorter flights compared to longer ones. The food portions and the beverage options are comparable, and they keep the service standard high. One observer noted a first-class cabin on a San Francisco to Singapore route with only two other passengers and three crew members providing service, which can be both positive and negative depending on your perspective. It highlights the service that you can expect from a rather empty cabin, but also hints towards potential lower usage on certain routes, which could be important when planning your travel.


The cabin itself is quite wide and while the seats don't have fully enclosed walls, they do offer a reasonable level of privacy for a more peaceful experience. Passengers can also enjoy access to the Singapore Airlines lounge network which includes The Private Room and the First Class Lounge in Singapore.


Alaska Miles can be a very attractive option to use on specific routes, such as routes from the US west coast to Singapore. There's some evidence that while some routes, like Tokyo to Singapore, have seen mileage increases, others, particularly within Asia, seem to have seen less dramatic changes. A one-way ticket within the US west coast using Alaska miles for economy class can be as low as 8,500 miles, offering a sense of scale to the mileage program. This particular combination of program features makes it a good candidate for those who want to experience the famed Singapore Airlines cabin.


While it's an option to explore and a strong candidate for value, you might want to consider the airline's overall network and routing strategies in your planning process. The potential value is clear, and this combination might become more important if and when Alaska changes their frequent flyer programs.

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - ANA First Class Square Suite Now Bookable Through Virgin Atlantic

ANA, a prominent Japanese airline, has recently opened up bookings for its highly regarded First Class Square Suite through Virgin Atlantic's Flying Club program. This development presents an interesting opportunity for frequent flyers who might be looking for a luxurious long-haul flight. ANA's First Class Square Suite is lauded for its design that emphasizes privacy, each seat featuring a fully enclosed door. It's a product that delivers a sense of seclusion and comfort, a key aspect for many premium travelers.

To secure a seat in this exclusive cabin, you'll need to use Virgin Atlantic Flying Club miles, with redemption rates at 122,777 miles, but potentially as low as 60,000 miles if you’re flexible with dates and routes. While Virgin Atlantic's mileage program has experienced some devaluations, securing ANA's first-class experience remains a potentially appealing proposition for those with accumulated miles. ANA's focus on routes from the West Coast of the United States to Tokyo, in conjunction with their impressive service and luxurious amenities like high-quality amenity kits, make this new booking option an appealing way to potentially score a bargain on a first-class experience. While other first-class offerings exist, the ANA First Class Square Suite remains a very desirable hidden gem for premium travelers who want to explore diverse options when using miles in 2024.

All Nippon Airways (ANA) has made their "The Suite" first-class cabin bookable through Virgin Atlantic, which is interesting from a frequent flyer perspective. This means that Virgin Atlantic Flying Club members can now use their miles to experience ANA's flagship first-class product. While not exactly straightforward, requiring either 122,777 Virgin Atlantic points for a standard redemption or a bit more planning to land a 60,000 point redemption, it still presents a possibility for those with Virgin Atlantic points.


ANA currently has 13 Boeing 777-300ERs in their fleet, ten of which are equipped with this new first-class cabin. A key feature is that every seat has its own door, offering a decent degree of privacy—not as isolating as some other first-class suites, but certainly better than some alternatives. In terms of point value, Virgin Atlantic's redemption options for ANA first and business class still provide some value even after some recent changes.


Previously, one could potentially book a flight from the West Coast to Tokyo in ANA first class with just 55,000 Virgin Atlantic points. Interestingly, the amenity kits provided in ANA's first class change based on departure and destination. Samsonite kits are provided for departures from Tokyo, whereas Rimowa kits are given to passengers traveling from elsewhere to Tokyo. It shows the level of attention to detail they have implemented in these cabins.


From what I can gather, there's some slight confusion between "The Suite" and "Square Suite" variations of ANA's first class. Passengers have noted varying experiences and preferences related to these versions of the first-class cabins, highlighting that it's not a completely uniform product across their fleet.



Ultimately, ANA's First Class Square Suite is just one of several examples of first class cabins that represent interesting redemption options for miles. One can see a theme here – more and more airlines are putting effort into creating unique and luxurious first-class products. Many times these are far more accessible via miles than with a standard cash purchase. This makes a lot of sense from a passenger perspective, as it offers an opportunity to unlock what would otherwise be a very expensive travel experience.

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - EVA Air 787 First Class Launch on Taipei Toronto Route

EVA Air has decided to introduce a First Class service on their Taipei-Toronto route, utilizing their Boeing 787 aircraft. This signifies their aim to improve their long-haul services, especially those connecting to North America. The Boeing 787's Royal Laurel Class, with its 1-2-1 staggered seating, offers a modern design and convenient access to the aisle for every passenger. This is important, as it ensures a smoother experience for those who value privacy and convenience. It is apparent that they want to increase their appeal to high-end travelers in a very competitive market by delivering an exceptional experience with a strong emphasis on comfort and individualized attention. It's part of a wider trend in the industry where airlines are re-thinking their premium services and making them more accessible. This development, along with other new initiatives, could lead to better value for money for anyone who values luxurious travel, but who perhaps doesn't want to pay astronomical prices.

EVA Air's recent decision to introduce a First Class service on the Taipei-Toronto route using their Boeing 787 aircraft is intriguing. It seems like a calculated move to capitalize on the growing demand for travel between Asia and North America, with Toronto emerging as a major gateway for many travelers. The use of the 787, with its fuel-efficient design and advanced materials, makes sense for such a long-haul route. It's a clever approach to reduce operating costs.

The choice of a 1-2-1 staggered seating configuration within the Royal Laurel Class on this aircraft is notable. This arrangement provides every passenger with direct aisle access, which is a plus compared to traditional first-class configurations. This seems to be a trend across many carriers as passenger expectations are shifting towards more personalized comfort and privacy during long journeys.

EVA Air has been recognized for its service quality, consistently earning a place among the top airlines in Skytrax rankings. It's clear they are striving to maintain this reputation in the new first-class cabin. The airline is emphasizing the gourmet dining experience on this route, having collaborated with Taiwanese chefs to create an exclusive menu. This might be a way to elevate the service and distinguish itself from other premium carriers on this route.

It's interesting that they have chosen to focus on business and first class instead of offering a premium economy section on the 787. This implies a targeted strategy that centers on higher-end clientele and the willingness to pay for a luxury travel experience. The potential redemption rates for miles with different programs appear reasonable, making it an interesting option for anyone looking to experience a first-class flight using a mileage program.

The 787's advanced inflight entertainment system and noise-reducing technologies are notable advancements compared to older aircraft. These elements create a more enjoyable travel experience, which is crucial for those traveling for many hours. The addition of this route enhances travel options for those looking to connect to other destinations in North America, Europe, and beyond.

Finally, EVA Air appears to be focusing on the atmospheric aspect of the cabin, beyond just the hardware and layout. The first-class cabin features adjustable lighting, contributing to a calming atmosphere that likely improves passenger well-being during the lengthy journey. This subtle element of cabin design appears to be an increasingly important factor in the luxury travel sector. Overall, the launch of EVA Air's first-class service on the Taipei-Toronto route indicates a wider strategy in the premium airline market, focusing on passenger comfort and enhanced travel experiences for long-haul routes.

7 Hidden First Class Cabins That Actually Deliver Value for Money in 2024 - Lufthansa A350 Allegris First Class Starting Frankfurt Los Angeles May 2024

Lufthansa is introducing its new Allegris first class on the Airbus A350, beginning with the Frankfurt to Los Angeles route in May 2024. This new cabin is part of a major €2.5 billion investment designed to revamp the Lufthansa passenger experience across all cabin classes, with a focus on first class. The Allegris first class boasts fully enclosed suites with closing doors, providing enhanced privacy, a desirable feature for many premium travelers. Lufthansa currently offers first class on a few other aircraft, including the Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A380, but the A350 marks a significant expansion of their first-class offerings. While the rollout is expected to be phased, with further first class A350 routes planned, the new A350 first class for Frankfurt to Los Angeles offers a glimpse of what the airline envisions for its future first-class service, and it's in line with what other airlines are doing, pushing luxury services to compete for high-end travelers. It remains to be seen how the market will react to this new first-class product, but it signifies a strong push by the airline to elevate the overall premium travel experience and improve passenger comfort.

Lufthansa's new Allegris first class, slated to debut on their Airbus A350s in May 2024, marks a significant step in their ongoing service upgrades. This initiative is part of a broader €2.5 billion investment aimed at enhancing the passenger experience across all classes, from check-in to the onboard experience, and even their lounges. Currently, Lufthansa's first class offerings are limited to their Boeing 747-8, Airbus A380, and Airbus A340-600 fleets, so the introduction of this cabin on the A350 expands their reach.

The initial launch of the Allegris first class will focus on select routes, starting with flights from Frankfurt to Los Angeles in May 2024. Interestingly, they will expand it to flights to Bangalore and Mumbai in November 2024. They plan to equip the first six A350s with the new amenities between May and July 2024, and anticipate receiving a new Allegris-equipped A350 every month for the rest of the year, along with the start of 787 deliveries later in the year.

One of the key features of the Allegris first class is the fully enclosed suites, offering a high level of privacy for passengers. The A350 itself incorporates noise-reducing technologies, aiming for a more peaceful cabin experience, a key consideration for long-haul travel. These suites are configured in a 1-1-1 arrangement, prioritizing individual space and comfort. A new "Sky Lounge" is designed as a social area within the cabin, giving first-class travelers an opportunity to mingle or enjoy meals outside of their suites. The Frankfurt to Los Angeles route will also feature locally sourced ingredients in their meal service, emphasizing the quality of the culinary experience.

The A350's cabin pressurization system is optimized for higher humidity, potentially reducing passenger discomfort and dehydration, which can be significant on extended flights. Lufthansa is integrating personalized in-flight entertainment into the Allegris cabin and spa-style amenities in the lavatories. These features, along with the incorporation of well-being-focused adjustable ambient lighting to potentially reduce jet lag, highlight an overall focus on enhancing passenger experience. While the primary cost of first-class tickets is typically significant, there will be an option for partial redemption of the tickets using frequent flyer miles on this route. The A350 also incorporates state-of-the-art air filtration systems, aiming to promote the health and comfort of passengers.

Whether these upgrades in comfort and service will be enough to make the new cabins a standout or just another incremental advancement in the evolving world of first class remains to be seen. It's likely that as passengers and the market become accustomed to some of these features, we'll see a wave of similar innovations across the industry. The success of the Lufthansa Allegris first class on the A350 will undoubtedly depend on if it delivers on the promises of enhanced comfort, privacy, and service at a price point that provides a good balance of value for both miles and cash redemption.