First Class

True first class in 2026 offers a private suite with a closing door (not just a curtain or partition), a separate full-size bed (not a converting seat), a dedicated first class lounge (materially different from business lounges), champagne cellared and served by the glass, chauffeur transfer at select airlines, and a significantly more attentive staff ratio.

At cash prices (£5,000–£12,000 one-way), first class is difficult to justify purely on practicality. Many travellers access it via points redemptions (where the value can be 15–20p per point versus the 1p face value) or on special occasions. The experience is genuinely unlike anything else in commercial aviation.

Singapore Airlines Suites on the A380 is universally considered the gold standard. Emirates First with the Shower Spa is a compelling alternative. ANA First Class is the best-value redemption in the world. Lufthansa First Class at the Frankfurt First Class Terminal is the finest ground experience.

Yes — the best redemptions are ANA First Class via Virgin Flying Club (110,000 points return to Tokyo), Singapore Suites via KrisFlyer (110,000 miles one-way) and Emirates First via Avios (85,000 one-way to Dubai). First class award space is limited and best booked on the day availability opens (typically 355 days out).

The Shower Spa on the Emirates A380 is a private bathroom within the first class cabin, equipped with a hot shower, Bulgari toiletries and terry cloth towels. Each first class passenger receives one 5-minute hot water allocation. It is bookable via the crew and is one of the most extraordinary features in commercial aviation.

Emirates includes a chauffeur service (within a set radius) for first class passengers on many routes. Some other airlines offer chauffeur pickup as a paid upgrade or loyalty perk. British Airways offers chauffeur drive for Concorde Room members and qualifying bookings.

For those who can access it via KrisFlyer or partner miles, Singapore Airlines Suites is universally regarded as worth every point. The experience of a private double room at 38,000 feet with exceptional service and Book the Cook dining is genuinely transcendent. Cash price is approximately £9,500 one-way from London.

Lufthansa operates a separate First Class Terminal at Frankfurt (FRA) — a private facility reached by car from the street with a restaurant, spa and cigars. Emirates has a separate first class check-in area at DXB T3 with a dedicated immigration fast-track. BA has the Concorde Room (within T5) as its first class haven.