While we all know today that air travel requires careful consideration and rational thinking, some trips are unavoidable, especially when it comes to business travel. Here’s some news that will interest frequent business travelers.
On June 20th, the World Airline Awards took place at the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace in Paris, honoring the crème de la crème of airlines. These awards are given out annually by a panel of travelers. This year, participants responded to an online survey between September 2022 and May 2023. According to a press release, more than 100 nationalities of customers participated in the 2022/2023 survey, and over 325 airlines are included in the final results.
Qatar Airways Wins Best Business Class in the World for the Tenth Time
For the tenth time in its history, Qatar Airways has been named the best airline in the world for traveling in business class. His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, the CEO of Qatar Airways Group, stated, “Qatar Airways is delighted to win the Best Business Class in the World award at this year’s Skytrax World Airline Awards. This is a testament to the collective effort of the company, allowing us to provide our customers with an unparalleled experience. The three additional awards for Best Airline in the Middle East, Best Business Class Lounge in the World, and Best Business Class Catering Service showcase Qatar Airways’ leadership in the industry, as well as its level of innovation and commitment.”
Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax, the international air transport rating organization, added, “Qatar Airways is one of the customers’ favorite airlines, and winning these awards in 2023 shows that its business class, both onboard flights and in airports, stands out significantly from its competitors. Qatar Airways achieved a very close second place in the overall ranking, which allowed them to win the Best Airline in the Middle East award for the 11th time in 2023.”
Business Class and First Class: What are the differences?
On paper, business class and first class offer similar advantages: more comfort, less noise, and more legroom compared to economy class. No more long queues, as you have priority boarding and check-in. However, there are some slight differences in the meals offered in first class, which are even more refined and gastronomic than in business class. Michelin-starred chefs have even provided their services on first-class flights. In 2021, the French three-star chef Arnaud Donckele from Cheval Blanc establishments in Saint-Tropez and Paris delighted Air France’s first-class passengers with his cuisine.
Some airlines also offer individual suites with private bathrooms and a relaxation area. It’s an XXL comfort that comes with a (very hefty) price tag. The travel comparison website Kayak states that a first-class ticket is five times more expensive than a business-class ticket.