Business Class Seats: Which are the Best Airlines?

Business Class Seats: Which are the Best Airlines? Written by Mark Smith. Published on 14th December, 2018. Category: Airline Reviews

Flying business class is the goal for many long haul travellers each year, whether taking a special trip, getting the elusive upgrade, or having the company pay for it. And although which business class seats are available for you to experience will be decided by many factors such as destination, airline, type of aircraft, and price, there are definitely some that you should prioritise over others.

From innovative designs providing space and comfort, fantastic in-flight entertainment, and the ability to get those all important hours of sleep, airlines are moving away from the “one size fits all” concept with their business class seats in previous years which saw little to no difference between carriers. This is distinctly evident in the 2018 Skytrax ratings that are compiled from thousands of real customer reviews showing that passengers are undeniably liking this approach.

Although the top 10 airlines with the best business class seats all have similarities such as fully lie-flat beds, here are the top 3 that go above and beyond for their business class passengers.

Qatar Airways Qsuite

With the launch of the Qatar Airways new business class seats in 2017 on their Boeing 777-300 and Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000, they have once again topped the list, and WOW… what an amazing product this is! The 1-2-1 configuration giving direct aisle access to every seat may not be new, but the innovative design has some clear advantages. The Qsuite has drawn inspiration from several first class cabins, providing passengers with the utmost of privacy as they are secluded in their suite behind their privacy screen. With an attention to detail in their design, the Qsuite even comes with a Do Not Disturb button so as to alert the crew that you wish to be uninterrupted.

Those looking to remain sociable with their travelling companions have the ability to make the most of the revolutionary middle business class seats. With the two seats closest together being able to convert into a fully flat double bed, making these perfect for couples or parents and children travelling together. For larger groups, business colleagues, and families, the opposite middle seats can also be selected and the dividers opened to allow 4 business class seats to converse and dine together.

Labelled as First in Business Class, the Qsuite by Qatar Airways also ranks in the top 3 airlines for in-flight entertainment systems, business class amenities, business class lounge facilities, and onboard dining, making it easy to see why it has been voted the best business class 2 years in a row.

Singapore Airlines Business Class Seats

Please note: only the first 13 seconds applies to business class. The final portion of the video is the Singapore Airlines First Class Suite.

Singapore Airlines has always been one of the front-runners in quality and comfort in the world, but with the launch of their new business class seats on the Airbus A380 at the end of 2017 they have taken further steps forward. The upper deck of the A380 fleet is currently being redesigned, still in a 1-2-1 configuration with all seats forward facing, but to allow passengers in the middle seats to lower the divider fully and create a fully flat double bed.

Made of handstitched full grain leather by Poltrona Frau, the luxurious feel is enhanced by the 18 inch in-flight entertainment system, one of the largest for business class seats in the sky, and the ample space to stretch out and relax. The unique Book the Cook experience offering passengers the ability to pre-book meals such as lobster thermidor or a rack of lamb before departure gives the airline a point of difference that many highly enjoy.

Couple all this with top 5 rankings for business class lounges, onboard dining, and in-flight entertainment, and the Singapore Airlines business class seat easily earns its place as second on the list.

Etihad Airways Business Class Seats

A stalwart of quality, comfort, and style, Etihad Airways business class seats have ranked highly for several years and continue the tradition in 2018. The seat itself, known as a Business Studio on the A380 and B787 Dreamliner, is instrumental in this with a massage function and the ability to adjust the firmness level through the passenger controls allowing for a cushioned or more firm setting. This is particularly of interest when reclined into the fully flat bed, making it easy for passengers to have a comfortable night’s sleep.

With varying cabin layouts across its fleet, Etihad Airways is consistent with a 1-2-1 configuration but has several aircraft that have both forward and rear-facing business class seats. Unlike many airlines that operate as such, each seat retains its direct aisle access and the sculpted surrounds offer a level of privacy while still providing personal space and a sense of freedom.

Along with these highly comfortable business class seats, the airline has achieved a top 10 ranking for its onboard dining, lounges, and amenity kits, as well as a second place for its in-flight entertainment.

Other Notable Mentions…

With the above three airlines leading the charge for passenger comfort and convenience, it would be remiss to not mention that many other airlines provide fantastic business class options. Several Asian airlines including Japan Airlines, China Airlines, and Korean Air all make the top 10 for business class seats, though fall just outside the top 10 in total business class experience.

A similar story for Cathay Pacific who comes in at 9th for the quality of their business class seats and gets a nod for their in-flight entertainment, and Delta Air Lines at 10th.

One Final Word

Interestingly, these top 3 airlines are all also ranked 5 stars, an honour that is only extended to 11 airlines in the world. Along with Japan Airlines, Korean Air, ANA, and Cathay Pacific, it is easy to see that innovation and attention to detail is a sure fire way to keep passengers happy no matter what class they travel in.

Here at Just Fly Business we only settle for the best for our clients in service and professionalism. For an amazing business class experience from before you even depart, contact us today on 0208 417 1366 or enquire online.