The Best in Business

Business class has changed dramatically in the last decade. With the pop-up of premium economy and first-class becoming more seldom it’s made many airlines totally re-evaluate their hard and soft product.

Today on long haul flights in business class we expect a fully flatbed so we can be guaranteed a great night sleep, and we want thousands of movies on the IFE, and a good wine selection. And don’t get me started about what we want/need/deserve for in-flight catering.

In general most airlines have greatly improved their hard product which is all very good but the personal service has really gone downhill. THERE I SAID IT.

Business class in most airlines have a large cabins, seating about 40 to 60 people or even many more which means it’s a very quick trolley service for meals. The personal touch has gone out the window.

Most elite flyers now choose a business class flight by the hard product, but here are some airlines that still excel in the south product… service that makes you feel truly welcomed on board.

The first rule of thumb is to look for an airline that does not have a first-class cabin then you’ll be in their top premium cabin.

Most American airlines and most European carriers chave reduced their staff on larger aircraft making a personal service very hard to achieve. Virgin Atlantic however are the only European carrier that really pride themselves on a great service as well as comfort. They would be my number one choice for soft product delivery.

Now when you start getting into the Middle East carriers and Asian airlines they certainly have more crew  than anyone else. Even though Emirates has a first-class cabin, their business class is a fantastic product . It is all about the personal service and the food.

In this way all the Asian airlines are pretty good but Singapore Airlines certainly raises the bar in business class. They also have a first class product but the business class offering is one of the best in the world. Food and wine are a very big focus and personalized service is definitely a hallmark.

Korean Air’s style is to be very professional and almosr aloof. They’re friendly but not overly outgoing. However they do have lots of staff and are very attentive when you need them. Whereas Japan Airlines and all Nippon Airlines fail a little bit in this area.

Thai Airways tends to offer a high level of friendly and genuine service but their hard product is generally lagging so unless you’re on their A380 or new 787 Dreamliner, I think they’re better for regional business class in Asia not long haul to Europe.

When planning a business class flight go to see Seatguru.com and check out the aircraft in service and if possible choose an airline with a smaller cabin for business class. If you’re traveling on a 747, always go for the upper deck. This will only be about 14 to 18 seats you will have 2 to 3 cabin crew members.

And remember not to complain too much. Yes business class service levels may have dropped a bit but you’re still better off than the hundreds of people behind you in premium economy and economy. Life isn’t that bad.

Daniel - Living GreenDaniel Green, the Model Cook is a Celebrity Chef known for his healthy approach to food and living  well. With TV, books, magazines and live appearances, Daniel spends his time helping fans to cook better, feel better and live better. He’s also an avid traveler and a self-confessed Foodie.

To contact Daniel or learn more visit www.themodelcook.com or follow on Twitter @themodelcook.

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