First class and business class are not created equal. Whether you're using points or paying with cash, it's important to know what you're in for – and whether it'll be worth the extra expense. Let’s walk down the differences between first-class and business class.
Here are some key takeaways when comparing first class vs business class just to give you a little taste of what you can expect:
There is a difference between first class flights to Bangkok (say) and business class, which not as obvious as those between economy and first class, can be vastly different based on where you're flying from or to and on which airline.
Passengers can expect multi-course, restaurant-plated meals on both flight services – but on airlines that offer each cabin service, they save the absolute best for first-class flights to Delhi (for example), including the best meals, the best service, and even the top-shelf liquor.
Both first and business-class get blankets and pillows for long-haul flights – but first class flights to Hong Kong (say) often comes with a mattress pad.
Business class will have more legroom. But first-class might have a seat that converts into a bed or even their own private apartment.
Business class and first class also differ when it comes to lounges, boarding, the food & drinks available, and other amenities.
The best way to compare international first class to business class is that the business fare is meant to be very elevated yet sensible. Alternatively, first class flights to Brisbane from UK (for ex.) is designed to be extravagant and over-the-top, with somewhat ostentatious benefits that are often more to promote sophistication and luxury than substance. First class is better than business class in more ways than one when it comes to luxury – including first-class seats, restaurant-level meals, and top-shelf drinks, private lounges, and flight service – you name it, you get it.