Air France La Première First Class Review: A Memorable 2018
A reviewer recalls a December 2018 Air France 777-300ER flight from Los Angeles to Paris in the previous-generation La Première first class cabin
A travel reviewer has revisited a December 2018 Air France flight from Los Angeles to Paris, describing the carrier's previous-generation La Première first class cabin as one of the finest experiences of his life. The flight, operated on a Boeing 777-300ER, featured an intimate four-seat cabin with high levels of privacy and personalized service.
The Cabin and In-Flight Experience
The cabin contained only four seats, each surrounded by curtains for remarkable privacy. After a multi-course dinner service, the seat was converted into what the reviewer called an extremely comfortable bed. He reported sleeping for nearly seven hours before waking for breakfast prior to arrival in Paris.
The meal service began with Krug Champagne. It included soup, caviar, beef, salad, cheese, and dessert. The reviewer specifically praised the service from his flight attendant, Maurice, describing it as polished and highly personal throughout the journey.
The Ground Service and Transfers
According to the reviewer, the ground experience truly distinguished La Première from other first class products. In Los Angeles, Air France staff escorted him from check-in through security and to the lounge, then accompanied him to the aircraft.
Upon arrival at Paris Charles de Gaulle, an agent met him directly at the aircraft door. The agent then drove him across the apron in a private vehicle to the dedicated La Première Lounge. For his connecting flight to Basel, he was driven directly from the lounge to his next aircraft.
The reviewer stated this seamless end-to-end service demonstrated that La Première was about far more than just a large seat, caviar, and expensive Champagne. He suggested this focus on the complete journey is why Air France captures strong premium revenue.
Legacy and Evolution
The reviewer noted that Air France has since introduced a new La Première suite, which he is eager to try. However, he concluded that this 2018 flight illustrates why the carrier's first class product was already considered one of the best in the world. The full, detailed review and a separate examination of the ground experience in Los Angeles, Paris, and Basel are available on the reviewer's website.
