Mile-high Dom Perignon, double beds and showers come at a price – but the cost of first class airfare perks, as we recently found out, is falling. Airfare discounting has reached the first class cabins, with airlines offering heavily reduced premium fares to lure travellers to the front of the plane.
Travel Associates general manager David Lovelock recently said in a press release that travellers planning to take off to the United Kingdom or Europe next year were being offered earlybird first class fares that were up to 20% cheaper than normal.
“The earlybird fares that are currently available are some of the best first class offers that we have seen from premium carriers in recent memory,” Mr Lovelock said.
So with the cost declining, what exactly are the benefits of First Class? Here we break it down:
Arrival: Skip the queues and head to the priority or dedicated first check-in area to check-in to your flight. Most airlines will offer this service and allow you to check in more luggage and at a later time than other cabin classes.
Waiting: Once you’ve checked in, head to your airline’s departure lounge. Lounge facilities vary between airlines and can include anything from complementary dining to showers, sleep rooms and even spa treatments.
Boarding: From the lounge, your airline may offer complimentary transfers to the gate. In some cases airlines offer limo transfers. Priority boarding and champagne on arrival is also common.
Make yourself comfortable: Once onboard, stretch out on your convertible sleeper bed or flat bed. Some airlines also offer luxurious first class suites as well as other added benefits such as in-seat massage functions, personal storage, privacy and ottomans. Blankets, pillows, bedding and amenity kits are also often provided.
During your flight: To help while away the hours, airlines today regularly offer audio on demand entertainment systems, allowing you to choose from a range of movies, programs, games and music on your personal LCD screen. In-flight dining is also a high point for First Class travel with most airlines offering any-time dining, gourmet menus designed by celebrity chefs and premiums beverages, allowing you the freedom to choose what you want, when you want.
Once you’ve landed: Enjoy priority dismemberment and access to the airline’s arrivals lounge where you can enjoy a shower and relax before your next journey. Some lounges also offer a concierge service where airport transfers can be arranged for you.
For more information on first class cabins, take a look at our airline guide. Please note earlybird airfares are available for a limited time and must be booked in conjunction with land arrangements.
- Travel Associates
