Flying business class is always an sweeeet experience, and Air France offers a unique take on premium travel. This review covers an 8-hour flight between Papeete, Tahiti, and Los Angeles, breaking down every aspect of the journey. Plus, learn how to book this flight for a fraction of the cost using miles and points (this is Daily Drop, after all!).
Booking with Miles and Points
A ticket in Air France business class can cost over $5,000, but with the right travel strategy, it can be booked for just $270 in taxes. Air France’s Flying Blue loyalty program is a transfer partner with major credit card programs, making it one of the easiest business-class redemptions available.
The airline also frequently offers Flying Blue promo awards, allowing you to book transatlantic flights for as little as 12,000 points in economy and significantly fewer miles in business class.
Lounge Access: A Quick Stop
While business class travelers typically have lounge access, this experience was brief due to limited time before boarding. The lounge offered free food, drinks, and a quiet space, but there wasn’t enough time to fully enjoy the amenities. Check out the video above for the full review!
Seat and Cabin Experience
Air France’s business class on this route is on an older aircraft, and it shows. While the seat itself is comfortable, the design and in-flight entertainment system feel outdated. The privacy factor is a major upgrade compared to some airlines, with seats arranged in a way that minimizes direct eye contact with other passengers. However, some seat components, like the privacy screen, showed wear and tear.
Seat Highlights (according to Kara and Nate 😊):
Lie-flat functionality
Large entertainment screen with touchscreen capabilities
Ample storage cubbies
Soft pillow and blanket for added comfort
In-Flight Dining and Service
Air France has a strong reputation for onboard dining, and it seems this flight delivered. Lunch was served instead of breakfast, aligning with Los Angeles time rather than Tahiti time—an appreciated touch. The meal began with appetizers, including fresh greens, a baguette, and seafood starters. The main course featured spinach cannelloni with truffle tomato sauce, plated beautifully and packed with flavor.
Key Takeaways:
Food Quality: Above average for airline dining
Wine & Champagne: Classic French selections, including high-quality sparkling wine
Service: Attentive, though not overly warm
Self-Serve Drink Bar: A standout feature allowing passengers to grab drinks at their leisure
Entertainment and Amenities
According to Kara and Nate, the in-flight entertainment system felt a little dated, reminiscent of older operating systems. The Wi-Fi was free for texting but required payment for browsing, which felt like an unnecessary restriction for a business-class cabin. The amenity kit was solid but not groundbreaking, with essentials like an eye mask, socks, and skincare products.
Final Rating and Verdict
Using a custom 100-point ranking system, Air France business class scored 63 out of 100 based on the following factors:
Check-in: 2/10 (slow and unremarkable)
Lounge Experience: 7/10 (functional but rushed)
Seat Comfort: 7/10 (privacy is great, but aging seats lower the score)
Bed Comfort: 8/10 (sufficient for a short nap, though no additional mattress pad)
Food: 8/10 (delicious and well-presented)
Drinks: 9/10 (fantastic champagne and coffee options)
Amenity Kit: 6/10 (lacking slippers and some premium touches)
Service: 7/10 (efficient but lacked personal warmth)
Bathroom: 6/10 (clean but basic)
Entertainment: 4/10 (outdated selection and paid Wi-Fi)
Should You Book Air France Business Class?
Despite scoring 63/100, they said this overall experience was comfortable and enjoyable, especially given the price paid using miles and points. The food, drinks, and seat privacy make it a great choice for those looking to fly long-haul in business class. However, those who prioritize modern cabin features and free high-speed Wi-Fi might find other carriers more appealing.
For those looking to book this flight, transferring credit card points to Air France Flying Blue is one of the best ways to secure a deal. With frequent promo awards and easy redemption options, it’s an excellent program for premium travel at a fraction of the cost.
Would this business class experience be worth $5,000? Probably not. But for $270 in taxes and a strategic points redemption, it’s a steal!
