Buzz
Regrettably, free upgrades aren't an option on these exclusive first-class cabins. By browsing the airline websites or calling directly, you can unlock a world of travel that only the ultra-wealthy have access to. Now, imagine yourself as a billionaire (jetting off between June 20 and 28).
11. China Southern Airlines: $11,000+ for a Beijing to Amsterdam flight (via OneWorld.com)
Flying first class with China Southern means a choice of gourmet Western or Chinese meals, served on exquisite china and paired with top-tier wines. Relax in a plush chair that transforms into a 77-inch bed, and show off to your mom using the satellite phone. Take a moment to look around—yep, you're one of only four first-class passengers living large in the sky.
10. Qantas Airlines: $13,000+ from L.A. to Melbourne (via Qantas.com.au)
Forget about the cramped economy-class footrest—this luxurious suite comes with a fully flat, extra-wide sheepskin mattress, down pillows, and a duvet. If you prefer to sit upright, your bed transforms into a comfortable chair with an ottoman. The dining experience offers either an exquisite eight-course tasting menu or an à la carte menu, with a sommelier available to recommend wine pairings. After your meal and nap, indulge in hours of entertainment with TV shows, movies, and interactive games on your 17-inch touch screen monitor (available only on A380 planes), all with noise-cancelling headphones and on-demand controls.
9. Singapore Airlines: $15,000+ from New York JFK to Singapore (via Singapore Airline Reservation Line)
On their A380 aircraft, Singapore Airlines has added a select number of spacious double-sized beds to their first-class suites. (Alternatively, you can opt for an armchair with a pull-out bed if you wish.) You’ll enjoy a choice of over 60 dishes served on opulent Givenchy tableware, perfectly paired with some of the finest wines and champagnes. Plus, their Book the Cook service lets you pre-order your gourmet main course, which will be specially prepared just for you.
8. Swiss International Air Lines: $17,000+ from NYC JFK to Singapore, with a stopover in Zurich (via Swiss Air's PR Department)
In 2009, Swiss upped the ante with a new first-class experience on their A330 aircraft. These partitioned suites feature widescreen TVs and plush armchairs that convert into luxurious 80-inch full-length beds. To pamper passengers further, the airline provides high-end amenities like La Prairie hand cream, moisturizing body lotion, facial sprays, plus cozy pajamas and slippers from Switzerland's Zimmerli.
7. Virgin Atlantic: $21,000+ (with chauffeur service) from JFK to Singapore (via Virgin Atlantic PR)
First-class on Virgin Atlantic is all about having fun. That tray at your seat isn’t for work; it’s actually a flip-down “cocktail table.” Snap photos of the plane and text them to your friends from your complimentary mobile phone, visit the 8-foot bar for a drink and socializing, or head back to your seat, where you can stretch out on a full-length leather chair that transforms into an 87-inch flat bed, surrounded by Swarovski crystals and a 12-inch touchscreen monitor.
6. Etihad Airways: $23,000 from San Francisco to Abu Dhabi (via Etihad.com)
While a personal chef prepares your choice of Mezoon Grille or Taste of Arabia dish, you can unwind watching your 23-inch widescreen TV or change into loungewear in the private changing room. Need a desk? Just pull out the mini-desk to enjoy some card games. If your 6-foot+ chair-bed is too stiff, activate the massage settings and relax with a bottle from your personal mini-bar—this is an experience you’ll want to fully enjoy.
5. Japan Airlines: $24,000+ from LAX to Paris (via OneWorld.com)
Japan Airlines’ latest first-class suites, available on Boeing 777 and A380 planes, are designed with classic wood paneling to give you a homely feel. Each suite includes a 23-inch TV screen, a choice between Western or Asian cuisine, and a Tempur 26-inch-wide armchair that folds out into a 6-foot+ full-length bed. If you need a leg massage, they can provide a portable air massager, and if you forgot your laptop charger, no worries—they’ll lend you one. The airline also offers pain relievers and nasal sprays for your comfort.
4. Cathay Pacific: $25,000+ from Hong Kong to JFK (via CathayPacific.com)
Introduced just last June, Cathay Pacific’s updated first-class pods on the B777 provide a plush armchair that converts into a bed, plus an amenity kit from Ermenegildo Zegna for men and Trussardi for women, featuring Aesop skincare, Shanghai Tang shoe bags and pajamas, and Bose noise-cancelling headphones. You’ll also find a new 4.3” LCD touchscreen controller to keep you entertained for hours.
3. Korean Air: $27,000+ from NYC JFK to Beijing (via KoreanAir.com)
These 26.5-inch Korean Air Kosmo seamless seats transform into beds within their own private, wood-trimmed suites, which feature the largest LCD screens in the sky—23 inches—and Bose noise-isolating headsets.
2. Lufthansa: $27,000+ from JFK to Hong Kong (via Lufthansa.com)
Germany’s flagship carrier offers both a bed and armchair in its first-class suites—no need to choose. While Lufthansa’s A380 suites aren’t as enclosed as others, offering less privacy, they make up for it with air humidifiers pumping moisturizing oxygen to keep your skin hydrated throughout the flight. You’ll also enjoy a cozy duvet, an amenity kit, and fine dining with dishes like curried reindeer, making the experience truly unforgettable.
1. Emirates: $30,000+ from L.A. to Dubai (via Emirates.com/us)
At the top of the list is the extravagant Emirates A380 suite. Featuring private three-wall suites with closeable doors and two lounges, Emirates goes above and beyond by offering the most luxurious shower experience with state-of-the-art walnut and marble shower systems, complete with kits and fine linens. Additional perks include soothing chair massages and mini-bar parties for their highest-paying customers.
