Air France La Première: A New Ground Experience at Paris Charles de Gaulle

Air France is elevating its La Première experience, the pinnacle of its service offering As part of this enhancement, the airline will unveil a new airport journey featuring a bespoke vestibule and expansive suites. This initiative aims to deliver a seamless and discreet experience for travelers, commencing in July 2024 to coincide with the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where Air France is an official partner.

Exclusive Vestibule for La Première Clients

Upon arriving at the airport, La Première clients will be greeted by a porter who will immediately take care of their luggage. They will then be escorted to a new 570 m² vestibule, the first step of their exclusive journey. This area is dedicated to handling departure formalities and includes fifteen seating places and two private lounges for added privacy. Additionally, it will cater to arriving passengers, offering facilities for dining, showering, and baggage collection.

This elegant vestibule, a sanctuary of comfort away from the bustle of the airport, embodies French refinement and elegance. Designed by Air France and the SGK Brandimage agency, the space features luminous shades of white and grey with accents of red, natural light, and furnishings by renowned French designers such as Pierre Paulin and Christophe Pillet. The interior design will highlight meticulous craftsmanship with detailed finishes, giving the space a haute couture feel.

After completing formalities, clients will be escorted via a private pathway to the La Première lounge, ensuring security checks are conducted discreetly. Throughout this exclusive journey, the historical emblem of Air France, the winged seahorse, will subtly adorn the space, enhancing the La Première ambiance.

New Private Suites Adjoining the Lounge

For ultimate privacy before a flight or during a layover, La Première clients can opt to reserve one of three 450 sqft suites adjacent to the lounge. Two of these suites can be interconnected upon request. Each suite features a living room, a bedroom with a double bed, a bathroom, and a private patio. These suites, designed as luxurious cocoons, offer the comfort of a high-end hotel with amenities such as fine dining options from Alain Ducasse’s menu and access to the Sisley spa.

The suites, harmoniously designed to complement the vestibule and lounge, showcase iconic French design pieces and personalized decor. Each suite will also feature an artwork by a French artist, adding to its unique character. These suites are available as an option starting at 800 euros.

A New La Première Cabin on the Horizon

Following the launch of the new ground experience, Air France will introduce a completely redesigned La Première cabin in the winter of 2024-25. This cabin will be the longest on the market, featuring five windows and offering up to three modular and private living spaces: a seat, a daybed, and a fully flat bed. The new cabin will be rolled out across more aircraft than the current configuration.

Comparative Overview: British Airways and Lufthansa First Class Products

British Airways First Class

British Airways offers a distinguished First Class experience, featuring dedicated check-in counters and exclusive lounges like the Concorde Room at London Heathrow. The lounges offer fine dining, private cabanas, and a quintessentially British atmosphere. Onboard, British Airways provides private suites with fully flat beds, high-quality bedding, and a range of dining options curated by top chefs. While British Airways focuses on a luxurious yet distinctly British experience, it does not yet offer the same level of on-ground exclusivity and privacy as Air France’s newly introduced vestibule and private suites.

Lufthansa First Class

Lufthansa’s First Class product is renowned for its First Class Terminal in Frankfurt, offering a dedicated check-in, security, and passport control process. Guests enjoy a luxurious lounge with à la carte dining, private office spaces, and even a cigar lounge. Onboard, Lufthansa provides spacious First Class suites with fully flat beds, premium amenities, and fine dining options tailored to passengers’ preferences. Similar to Air France, Lufthansa emphasizes exclusivity and a seamless journey, though the scale and personalized elements of Air France’s new vestibule and private suites offer an elevated level of privacy and customization.

In summary, while British Airways and Lufthansa provide excellent First Class experiences with distinct features, Air France’s new La Première ground services at Paris-Charles de Gaulle set a new benchmark in exclusivity, privacy, and personalized luxury.