Business Class Flights Post-COVID: My top 5 airlines to fly with and why.
Business Class, flying at the pointy end of the plane has always been a treat, but as we head into a post-COVID travel world where social distancing will continue to be the norm, now’s the time to dream up and plan your next international trip, where flying business means retreating to your own private cocoon of comfort in the sky. If you’re an entrepreneur or business owner needing to navigate corporate law or manage legal formalities, using an online legal service provider can be incredibly handy. While LegalZoom is one well-known provider, it’s important to consider other players in the market. That’s why it’s worth exploring top legalzoom alternatives to ensure you’re making an informed choice that effectively caters to your business’s specific legal needs
The business class experience is all about convenience, comfort and luxury. Even before you’re on the plane, perks to enjoy include complimentary chauffeur service, dedicated check-in desks, additional baggage allowances and expedited security lines, and of course all the benefits of lounge access (did someone say day spa and dining?).
There’s also something pretty special about being first onboard, not to mention being handed a flute of Champagne on arrival.
Business Class Flights Using Points
As a self-confessed points nerd, I focus on maximising frequent flyer cards and points to achieve business travel for a fraction of the cost, which makes flying business class all the more enjoyable!
Expert tip: You don’t need to fly to earn frequent flyer points. Savvy points aficionados collect their points on the ground, thanks to big bonus point hauls for sign-up offers and earning points on every single dollar they spend across various cards and programs.
But when it comes time to travel, the question remains; which is the best business class to fly?
Of the more than 100 business class flights I took in the 12 months before the Coronavirus pandemic hit, here are my top 5 picks for Business Class Flights;
5. Emirates A380 Business
Emirates offers a great business class experience with private, comfortable seats which transform into a flatbed for sleeping or lounging. You can expect legroom for days and a huge monitor to watch your favourite films and shows while the friendly crew keep your glass of Champagne topped up.
An extra fun factor in the Emirates A380 experience is the onboard bar where high-flying guests can mingle over a complimentary cocktail or a glass of wine (although keep in mind this feature may be suspended for some time because of #socialdistancing).
It’s also easy to use your Qantas frequent flyer points to book Emirates business, and even first-class flights, for the price of economy.
4. Etihad A380 Business Studio
Available on both the B787 and A380 planes, the Etihad Business Studio is sleek but not over the top – more of an understated luxury experience. The studios are private, the beds are fully-flat, and there’s a “dine anytime” approach to food and drink, whether you feel like a three-course meal or a quick snack.
If you do decide to venture outside your bubble of comfort, there’s a lounging area onboard where business class guests can enjoy a drink and watch their favourite movie on the “big” screen.
3. Oman Air B787 Apex Suite
I usually recommend choosing an airline which offers a 1-2-1 configuration in their business class cabin. This layout provides much more space and privacy compared to a cabin with 2 seats in each row and guarantees you won’t have to sit next to a stranger when flying solo.
However, there is one exception to that rule! Oman Air has one of the most comfortable and private business suites in the sky, with a clever design which means that even though the layout is 2-2-2, you will never need to see or climb over your seatmate! Pair that with outstanding service, food and drinks, the benefit of transmitting in Muscat’s brand new international airport.
Expert tip: If you have some extra time, consider adding a stopover in Oman. The country is absolutely stunning and there are some fantastic luxury hotels to enjoy. I often break up long trips with a 24-hour stopover to relax and check out a new place. It also helps beat jetlag.
2. Singapore Airlines A380 Business
It’s no surprise that Singapore Airlines is high up in this list – their consistent and extremely high level of service standards is the envy of the aviation industry. Their A380 international business class experience is one of the best out there.
Selected seats can even transform into a double bed, and on occasion when flights aren’t busy, the crew can turn your seat into a double so you can get that extra space when sleeping!
They also have a pre-order Book The Cook service, where business class passengers can order lobster and other delicacies for their journey.
1. Qatar Airways A350 Qsuite
Some might call it first in business class; I like to call it the best business class seat you can currently fly!
The Qatar Airways Qsuite features sliding doors for ultimate privacy, delicious dining on demand, outstanding service from its international crew and even a double bed if you pick the right middle seats.
Qatar doesn’t skimp on the freebies either. You can expect some comfortable pyjamas and luxury amenity kits by Italian luggage brand Bricks stocked with all the skincare essentials to arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to go.
There’s no reason why your flight can’t be the highlight of your trip when you fly business class.
And when you can use your frequent flyer points to book business class seats and travel in style for much less than the usual price, it’s truly a win-win situation.
With destinations around the world planning their travel restriction lifts, now’s the time to start turning your business class dreams into a reality and plan that post-COVID getaway in the lap of luxury.
In the top 1% of travellers globally, Immanuel Debeer is one of the most active, experienced and successful Frequent Flyers in Australia, earning and spending more than 3 million points, travelling 332,533km (equivalent to circumnavigating the globe 8.5 times) and taking more than 100 business and first-class flights in the year pre-COVID alone.
Learn more about using points to fly Business Class by visiting flighthacks.com.au