Summary
- First class is luxurious, with private suites, fine dining, and exclusive amenities on airlines like British Airways.
- Business class, like Qatar Airways’ Q-suite, offers social areas and impeccable service with lie-flat beds and personal lighting.
- Key considerations when choosing between first and business class include seating, service level, and airport amenities.
Heading abroad? Why not splurge for business or first class? Many of the world’s travelers are treated to business class, usually on the company dime, and why not? It’s hard to deny the opportunity to fly up front, and while First class has long been believed to be only for the super-rich, both cabins have gone through a flurry of new upgrades and additions to make it the ultimate way to travel. Business class can usually be scored for an upgrade, depending on the miles you may have, where you are liable for the taxes. However, many are still willing to pay the premium for the next trip.
Many airlines have seen a surge in demand for Business class, leading many to eliminate or reduce the size of the first class cabin to provide extra space for additional business class seating. This can be seen with major US carriers such as Delta and United, who have abandoned their first class offering, and American plans to do the same come 2024.
But what is the real difference between First and Business? Let’s examine what this means when traveling long-haul. There are notable improvements between the two products; let’s compare two international heavyweights and compare the products onboard.
British Airways
First class
For travelers to and from London Heathrow, you can opt for ‘the finest experience’ with British Airways, which claims this is the most luxurious way to fly. Passengers are treated to their own private suite, exclusive access to the airline’s lounges, and a fast track through aviation security—and this is even before you get onboard.
Inclusions for BA first class include:
- Your own private suite
- Fully flat bed
- Fine dining
- Temperley London loungewear
- Amenity bag and slippers
- Seven-piece luxury skin care products
- Priority boarding directly from the first class lounge
Onboard, the first class suit includes a seat that will convert to 6ft 6in fully flat. The cabin crew will come along and add a luxurious quilted mattress, white cotton duvet, and pillow while you change into your stylish Temperley London loungewear. Each seat includes your own power supply, and fine dining is made with quality British ingredients, such as crockery and cutlery, by British designers.

Related
British Airways First Class: 5 Things You Only Get With This Premium Ticket
While a first class ticket comes with a hefty price tag, the premium travel experience definitely offers premium benefits.
Qatar Airways
Business class
If you’re looking for an incredible journey, look no further than Qatar Airways. This Oneworld member connects Doha to the world with its ever-growing network. Qatar has a number of different business class layouts and products; however, for the purpose of this article, we will look at Q-suite. Voted as the World’s Best Business Class by Skytrax for 2024, Q-suite connects you with friends, family, or colleagues at 40,000 feet. The design of the cabin allows movable panels that can transform multiple seats into a social area, making it easier to work, dine or socialize many miles into the sky.
Mood lighting, fully lie-flat beds, generous storage, and a bespoke turndown service, complete with pillows, a quilted mattress, and The White Company sleepwear, make the experience impeccable. Do not disturb indicators are on the door, allowing you to catch up on important meeting notes or get that uninterrupted sleep you have been craving. A unique configuration allows up to four seats to face each other, perfect for families or important business meetings. All seats include USB, HDMI, and NFC capabilities to keep you fully charged throughout the flight.
Freshly prepared meals are chosen to meet seasonal requirements, and in business (or first), you can order on demand when you want to dine. With enough spacious area in each seat, you will be able to savor your meal without the need to elbow the neighbor next door. Special meals are available to meet all dietary requirements. If this all sounds great, you can book Qatar Airways from 12 US destinations directly to its hub at Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH):
- Chicago
- Los Angeles
- New York
- Washington D.C
- Dallas-Fort Worth
- Houston
- Boston
- Miami
- San Francisco
- Seattle
- Philadelphia
- Atlanta
What cabin will you choose?
While every airline is different, there can be a big difference between first and business, and it all comes down to personal preference. It could be the size of the seat, the level or service, or the airport experience. Price could also be a major factor depending on your dates, destination, or number of travelers. Here are some key takeaways to consider when booking your next business or first class trip:
- Does your preferred airline offer first class? Many have started to axe the cabin upfront and enhance their business class product offering.
- First-class lounges are the next level of luxury for travelers and are available at selected airports only; check with your airline before booking to see if you will have access.
- First-class passengers sometimes are treated to their own private suites, such as British Airways, Emirates, or the unique ‘The Residence’ by Etihad.
- Business class will offer more legroom than economy but usually doesn’t provide a fully private space.
- Food and drinks are typically restaurant quality for both cabins. However, various airlines have dedicated chefs and menus for their first class passengers.

Related
5 Things You’ll Only Find In The Residence Suite On Etihad’s Airbus A380
With three rooms for one passenger, the Residence feels like its own world.