In many regards, Air France is one of the best First Class experiences currently in the skies. Whilst the seats might not have all the bells and whistles of other more complete suites, the hard product is effortless and when paired with the soft touches, ground product and service, it’s no surprise when anyone mentions Air France’s La Premiere an eyebrow might raise from those who know. However, although we’ve known about an impending upgrade to the aircraft suite, we are pleasantly surprised to see Air France have continued to invest across their hub experience in preparation for the arrival of the new cabins, flying later this year.
Starting this summer, guests will be guided to a newly established exclusive check-in lobby, marking the initial step in their personalised journey through the airport. Here, an attentive Air France team will manage all departure-related procedures, encompassing check-in and luggage assistance.
Air France already has a first class check in zone, but this newly refurbished lobby elevates the experience entirely. It will be furnished with 15 seats and two private lounges, ensures enhanced privacy for guests. The check-in lobby will also cater to La Première passengers arriving at the airport from a long-haul flight. Customers will have the option to relax post-flight, avail themselves of shower facilities if desired, and retrieve their checked baggage.
Acting as a tranquil haven amidst the bustling airport environment, this lobby embodies French elegance and sophistication. Meticulously crafted by Air France experts in collaboration with the SGK Brandimage agency, its design seamlessly combines individualised spaces while preserving an overall sense of expansiveness. Decorated in a palette of white and grey accented with touches of red, the lobby boasts abundant natural light and showcases exquisite furnishings from renowned French designers such as Pierre Paulin and Christophe Pillet. Every detail, from the precise stitching to the luxurious upholstery, exudes an “aura of haute couture,” according to the press release.
Once formalities are concluded, each guest will be escorted to the La Première lounge via an exclusive private passage featuring a dedicated security checkpoint. Along this pathway, a series of images portraying the airline’s iconic winged seahorse will immerse guests in the distinctive world of La Première, serving as a captivating accompaniment throughout their journey.
While it’s not stated that there will be any changes to the First Class lounge itself, there’s very little need. Crafted by architect Didier Lefort, the Air France La Première lounge spans more than 10,000 square feet. The lounge is famous for its gastronomy, featuring a meticulously curated menu and wine selection crafted by Alain Ducasse and his esteemed team. Nestled at the heart of the lounge is a luxurious and mind bogglingly stunning spa with beauty treatments by Sisley, the pioneering French brand renowned for its plant-based cosmetology.
What is new however, is a range of new private rooms, akin to those found in Chase’s new lounge in New York or PS Terminals. For an additional charge, La Première passengers now have the additional option to reserve exclusive suites spanning nearly 45 square meters each, conveniently located adjacent to the La Première lounge. Three suites will be available, with the option to adjoin two of them upon request.
Upon arrival in these serene havens, guests will be personally guided through the suite options and amenities by a dedicated butler. Each suite will feature a spacious living area, a bedroom with a double bed, a well-appointed bathroom, and a comfortable outdoor patio. Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a specially curated menu crafted by Alain Ducasse and his team for the La Première lounge, as well as access the renowned Sisley spa. Adorned with fresh flowers, luxurious linens, and haute-couture finishes, the aim is to create a regal atmosphere within Air France’s Paris-Charles de Gaulle hub.
In alignment with the architectural style of the check-in lobby and La Première lounge, the suites will embody a variation of privacy pods. Each suite will boast its own distinct character, meticulously curated through thoughtfully designed decor. Air France has meticulously selected iconic examples of French design, including Charlotte Perriand’s writing table, Pierre Paulin’s Ribbon chair, and Philippe Starck’s Privé sofa. Additionally, each suite will feature a unique artwork by a French artist, adding a touch of cultural richness to the luxurious surroundings.
The airline also continues regarding its new inflight product. “Following the implementation of Air France’s new exclusive airport experience, the airline will shift its focus towards introducing its extensively redesigned La Première cabin in winter 2024-25. Setting a new standard in length, this cabin will boast the longest configuration on the market, offering five windows to passengers. Moreover, it will showcase up to three modular and entirely private living spaces, enhancing the journey with a truly exceptional travel experience: a seat, a chaise lounge, and a flat bed.”
As of summer 2024, Air France will have 19 Boeing 777-300ERs outfitted with La Première suites, flying to Abidjan, Dubai, Los Angeles, Miami, New York-JFK, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Singapore, Tokyo-Haneda and Washington.
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