Photo by Qantas Airlines.
When it comes to international long-haul travel, the difference between a good flight and a truly exceptional one often lies in the airline’s business class. Choosing the right airline can transform your journey from merely tolerable to unforgettable, ensuring unparalleled comfort, gourmet dining, and personalized service that leaves you refreshed and ready to take on your destination.
But how do you determine which airlines truly deliver the best experience in the sky? At Above9, we’ve compiled a list of the best business class airlines based on expert insights, trusted reviews, and real client feedback. This combination ensures a comprehensive guide to the world’s most luxurious business class offerings.
While our findings are subjective, they reflect a blend of professional expertise and real-world experiences. Whether you’re flying to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, or beyond, these airlines stand out for their ability to make long-haul travel an extraordinary experience.
Qatar Airways business class. Photo by Qatar Airways.
Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways is renowned for redefining the business class experience with its focus on innovation and comfort. Operating from its hub in Doha (DOH), it connects the US to over 150 destinations worldwide, offering a seamless and premium travel experience tailored for international long-haul flights.
Why Is It the Best?
The Qatar Airways Qsuite elevates business class to a level that rivals long-haul first-class offerings on many other airlines. Its privacy, flexibility in configurations for individuals or groups, and high-tech amenities make it a favorite among travelers. Additionally, Qatar Airways’ inflight dining features chef-curated menus and an extensive wine selection. Combined with impeccable service and luxurious ground facilities, the airline consistently earns accolades as the world’s best.
Key Destinations
Perfect for routes from the US to the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. Key destinations include Johannesburg, Tokyo, Bangkok, and Sydney via its Doha hub.
Check out our Qatar Business Class Review.
Singapore Airlines business class. Photo by Singapore Airlines.
Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines has long been synonymous with luxury and exceptional service, making it a standout choice for discerning travelers. Based out of Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), the airline is a gateway to Southeast Asia, Australia, and beyond. Its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has earned it a reputation as one of the best business class airlines in the world.
Why Is It the Best?
Singapore Airlines sets itself apart with its spacious business class cabins featuring lie-flat seats and direct aisle access, available even on select regional flights. Known for its impeccable cabin crew, the airline delivers highly personalized service. Its inflight dining experience, offering both international and regionally inspired dishes, is second to none. Additionally, its KrisFlyer lounges at Changi Airport provide a serene pre-flight experience.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Key destinations include Bali, Sydney, Melbourne, Bangkok, and Manila, all accessible via its Singapore hub.
Check out our Singapore Airlines Business Class Review.
ANA (All Nippon Airways)
ANA, also known as All Nippon Airways, is Japan’s largest airline and a leader in delivering exceptional business class service and comfort. With its primary hubs at Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) airports, ANA is a gateway to Asia and beyond, offering seamless travel experiences for business and leisure passengers alike.
Why Is It the Best?
ANA’s business class features “The Room,” a revolutionary suite offering one of the widest business class seats in the industry. The cabins provide ultimate privacy and comfort, complemented by elegant Japanese-inspired design. ANA is also known for its exquisite inflight dining, featuring seasonal Japanese menus and an extensive drink selection, ensuring a refined experience at 30,000 feet.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to Japan and other parts of Asia. Key destinations include Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, and Singapore via its Tokyo hubs.
Emirates business class.
Emirates
Emirates is synonymous with luxury air travel, offering the best business class airline experience that combines comfort, innovation, and style. Based in Dubai (DXB), Emirates serves as a gateway to Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania, connecting US travelers to over 140 destinations globally. The airline is well-known for its state-of-the-art fleet, including the iconic Airbus A380.
Why Is It the Best?
Emirates business class features lie-flat seats, direct aisle access, and exclusive perks like an onboard lounge and bar on the A380. The airline’s award-winning inflight entertainment system, ICE, provides a vast selection of movies, TV shows, and music. Combined with exceptional dining options and attentive service, Emirates ensures a luxurious journey for every passenger.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Key destinations include Dubai, London, Mumbai, Bangkok, and Sydney, all accessed through its Dubai hub.
Check out our Emirate Business Class Review.
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific, based in Hong Kong (HKG), is a leading airline renowned for its premium service and extensive network across Asia and beyond. With a strong emphasis on comfort and customer care, it has earned a reputation as one of the top airlines for business class travelers.
Why Is It the Best?
Cathay Pacific’s business class cabins are designed for maximum comfort, featuring lie-flat seats, ample storage, and direct aisle access. The airline is celebrated for its attentive cabin crew and a diverse inflight dining menu that caters to global tastes. Cathay Pacific’s premium lounges in Hong Kong further enhance the travel experience, providing a relaxing environment with exceptional amenities.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to Asia and Australia. Key destinations include Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bangkok, Sydney, and Melbourne, with seamless connections through its Hong Kong hub.
Air France business class cabin. Photo by Air France.
Air France
Air France is a symbol of French elegance and sophistication in the skies, offering a business class experience that reflects the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Operating from its main hub at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Air France connects US travelers to Europe, Africa, and beyond with seamless connections.
Why Is It the Best?
Air France’s business class combines style and comfort, featuring lie-flat seats, luxurious bedding, and privacy screens for an elevated experience. The airline is celebrated for its gourmet dining, inspired by French cuisine, and paired with an extensive wine list. Its premium lounges in Paris provide travelers with a tranquil and refined space to relax before their business class flight.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to Europe and Africa. Key destinations include Paris, Amsterdam, Casablanca, Rome, and Nairobi via its Paris hub.
Check out our Air France Business Class Review.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines is a leading US carrier, offering a premium business class experience under its Delta One cabin. With hubs across the United States, including Atlanta (ATL) and New York (JFK), Delta connects travelers to destinations around the globe, focusing on comfort, convenience, and quality service.
Why Is It the Best?
Delta One provides lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, offering privacy and comfort on long-haul flights. The airline is known for its exceptional onboard dining, featuring regionally inspired menus and premium beverage options. Additionally, Delta’s Sky Clubs at major US airports provide a relaxing pre-flight experience with exclusive amenities and personalized service.
Key Destinations
Perfect for routes from the US to Europe, Asia, and South America. Key destinations include London, Tokyo, Paris, São Paulo, and Seoul, offering seamless travel experiences for both business and leisure travelers.
EVA Air
EVA Air, based in Taiwan, is known for its commitment to comfort, safety, and premium service. Operating from its hub at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), EVA Air connects the US to various destinations across Asia and Oceania, making it a top business class airline for travelers.
Why Is It the Best?
EVA Air’s Royal Laurel Class offers lie-flat seats, excellent privacy, and state-of-the-art amenities for a relaxing journey. The airline is celebrated for its exceptional inflight dining, featuring both Western and Asian cuisine, and its meticulous attention to detail. EVA Air also offers exclusive lounges at TPE, ensuring a seamless and luxurious travel experience.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. Key destinations include Taipei, Bangkok, Brisbane, Manila, and Sydney via its Taipei hub.
Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines, based in Istanbul (IST), is a global leader in connecting continents, offering exceptional business class services with an emphasis on comfort and hospitality. With one of the world’s most comprehensive route networks, Turkish Airlines bridges the US with Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Why Is It the Best?
Turkish Airlines is renowned for its exceptional onboard catering, including a “Flying Chef” service that crafts gourmet meals at 30,000 feet. The airline’s business class features spacious lie-flat seats, excellent inflight entertainment, and access to the luxurious Istanbul Lounge, providing a world-class travel experience from start to finish.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to Europe, Asia, and Africa. Key destinations include Istanbul, London, Nairobi, Bangkok, and Cape Town, with seamless connections through its Istanbul hub.
Hainan Airlines
Hainan Airlines, based in Haikou, China, is one of the few Chinese carriers with a 5-star Skytrax rating, known for its commitment to premium service and attention to detail. Operating from key hubs like Beijing (PEK) and Haikou (HAK), the airline connects the US to major cities across China and beyond.
Why Is It the Best?
Hainan Airlines offers an excellent business class experience, featuring lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, high-quality inflight dining, and an emphasis on personalized service. The airline stands out for its refined cabin design and amenities, which include noise-canceling headphones, premium bedding, and curated entertainment options. Additionally, its VIP lounges at major hubs provide a relaxing pre-flight environment.
Key Destinations
Ideal for routes from the US to China and Asia. Key destinations include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi’an, offering seamless connections to other parts of Asia through its Chinese hubs.
Get More Value from Your Business Class Trip
Booking a business class ticket doesn’t have to break the bank. With Above9, you can enjoy the luxurious experience of business class travel while saving up to 35% on your ticket. Our clients benefit from exclusive unpublished deals and discounts, making flying business class more accessible than ever.
At Above9, we specialize in finding the best business class airline deals tailored to your travel needs. Whether you’re planning a long-haul international flight or a shorter trip, we ensure you get the most value for your money. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized service, ensuring your travel experience is smooth and hassle-free and providing a premium experience even during the booking process.
Don’t settle for less when you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of business class at a fraction of the cost. Experience the difference with Above9 and make your next flight a truly memorable one.
Ready to Elevate Your Travel Experience? Book your next business class trip with Above9 today and discover how we can make premium travel affordable for you. Our clients are already enjoying the best flight experience at unmatched prices. Our excellent 5-star rating on Trustpilot reflects our commitment to providing exceptional service and value to our clients.