Review: Air France Business Class, CDG-LHR

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Air France Business Class, like most European carriers is simply an economy class with the middle seat blocked out. Nonetheless, if you don’t have airline status, you’re also provided with lounge access, and also priority boarding.

Prior to heading to the gate, I checked out the Air France lounge, which was spacious with plenty of seating. There were food offerings, a champagne bar, and also free WiFi — just what I needed.

Boarding began at gate K32 with SkyPriority and Business Class passengers. Entering the plane, there was a rack of complimentary newspapers, though unfortunately, they were all in French.

I was seated in 1C, the bulkhead aisle seat on the left side. I like the seat because you’re able to get some additional legroom if you stretch your legs outside of the wall. You also get served first during the meal service, and have access to great views of the galley and the flight deck.

My seat mate in the window seat kept getting up and down during the flight, I think to go talk to her family in the back of the plane. There was some sort of friendly argument as they were boarding as to who was going to get the business class seat, and I guess she wanted to tell her family about her experience. Unfortunately, she decided to ruin my experience by constantly getting up and down, forcing me to move my legs.

I was surprised there was a meal service for the short 1 hour long flight. I don’t know if the economy passengers got the same offerings, but there appeared to be two different choices in dishes. Unfortunately, the attendant forced whatever tray he had in front of me, and said something in French which I didn’t understand. I think the meal was some sort of salmon, but I wasn’t entirely sure. It wasn’t my most memorable meal, and could have done without it to be honest. I also ordered a Diet Coke, but wasn’t offered any refills.

Overall, it was an unmemorable trip. If you’re able to fly in Business Class for free, or on a mileage ticket, go ahead and book it. If not, don’t bother paying whatever the extra fee is. Most of the benefits you’ll end up getting anyways if you have elite status on Delta, or another SkyTeam partner.