While no seasoned traveller will deny the benefits of flying business class in the 2020s with features like spacious seating, direct aisle access, and lay-flat beds. Next-level luxury and sophistication experienced by First Class is surprisingly within reach for many business class travellers. With this in mind, we take a closer look at the best first-class suites flying from Australia and how much you can expect to pay.
While each airline and aircraft offer passengers numerous add-ons and incentives through transport and airport lounges, we will focus purely on the onboard first-class experience and the great deals that can make flying first class more affordable than you think.
The First Class Experience
For those of you who have never flown First Class, First Class offers an experience of luxury and refinement so unmistakably superior that it genuinely defines opulence. From the moment you step into a first-class cabin, you will be astonished by the personalised service, spacious seating, and a host of amenities designed to cater to your every need.
Whether it’s the privacy of enclosed suites, sumptuous bedding, the gourmet dining options curated by top chefs paired with fine wines and spirits, or the exclusive access to onboard lounges and showers, First Class transcends the ordinary.
Stay with us while we take a closer look at the airlines that fly the international routes from Australian skies, what makes First Class worth those extra dollars, and what makes each airline and aircraft unique in their particular way.
Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 Suites
The latest generation of Singapore Airlines Airbus A380 Suites offers the best first-class experience on flights leaving Australia due to their commitment to detail, suite size and creature comforts. Singapore Airlines provides six indulgent suites on the upper deck, separated by a single aisle down the aircraft’s centre.
Indulge your senses
Each suite is a private sanctuary, with sliding doors and window shades, that features a reclinable, full-grain leather seat by Poltrona Frau for optimal relaxation from take-off to touchdown. For onboard entertainment, a 32" HD touchscreen monitor, Bang & Olufsen noise-cancelling headphones, and KrisWorld entertainment system. For those who prefer to make their trip more productive, complimentary internet connectivity is available throughout your journey.
Every detail exudes comfort and sophistication, from the spacious ensuite wardrobe for storing your belongings to luxurious Lalique toiletries so you can freshen up before arrival. Dine in style with bone china tableware from Wedgwood, complemented by a sumptuous inflight menu and much more.
And, finally, for those travelling with a companion, double suites feature a centre divider that transforms into a luxurious double bed. Passenger comfort is the centre of the experience, which is not only luxurious but also includes all the comforts of home.
Booking Options: Flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Singapore
Best Times to Book: Book Early
Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 First Class
For travellers after a roomier cabin, Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 is an indisputable winner for comfort with space enough for two, designed for one—so there is plenty of room to stretch out and relax.
When you’re ready to nap, the seat lays flat to make a bed; let the crew make up your bed when you’re prepared to get some shut-eye. The lay-flat position is also a more comfortable way of sitting upright and lounging through the trip. Dining on the Boeing 777 is comparable with all first-class dining in suites on other Singapore Airlines flights.
Boeing 777 First Class flights are typically more accessible through KrisFlyer’s Saver rate, which offers better value. On the other hand, Airbus A380 Suites are frequently available primarily at the KrisFlyer Advantage rate, which typically demands a higher mileage for booking.
Booking Options: Flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Singapore
Best Times to Book: Book Early
Emirates’ Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 Game Change First Class Suite
Due to Emirates’ limited first-class offerings out of Australia, travellers will enjoy a different experience from Singapore Airlines. While not as spacious as its counterpart, it’s packed with features, including privacy doors, something you won’t find on competitors other than Singapore Airlines.
The experience is nothing short of what you would expect on a private jet; onboard the Boeing 777 Game Changer Suite. As the name suggests it’s a real game changer in terms of luxury, not unlike what you would expect on a private jet—all thanks to Emirates. This fully-enclosed suite with ceiling-to-floor walls, delivers total privacy, enabling you to control the mood with personal lighting and temperature control.
But, that’s not all, there’s also a zero-gravity seat and for those staying in the middle suite, virtual windows. Relax and immerse yourself in luxurious comfort with ample room to dine, sleep and keep entertained. Available on routes Dubai to Tokyo, Brussels, Geneva, Zurich and London.
Everything you need a touch away
Your chair, made from high-quality leather, is designed using the latest NASA technology with a zero-gravity position, which makes you feel you are floating—control at your fingertips from your chair’s armrest or touchpad. When you’re ready to sleep, ask our crew to convert your seat to prepare your bed for a restful night’s sleep.
Feel a little hungry? Select from a range of snacks or drinks from your bar, or just video call using the dial-on-demand attendant, and choose from a range of sumptuous à la carte cuisine, snacks or even prepare meals when your mood dictates.
Want to freshen up? Your suite has a selection of Byredo products and a Bvlgari amenities kit, so you stay refreshed throughout your trip. Entertainment, Emirates has you covered. With a 32-inch HDTV, you control your private cinema with second-to-none entertainment.
The A380 experience goes beyond the 777 with an onboard shower spa and amenity kit, or select from a range of premium beverages and canapés served at the lounge bar just a short distance away.
Emirates is your hotel room in the sky.
Booking Options: Flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Singapore
Best Times to Book: Book Early
Qatar Airways Airbus A380 First Class
Qatar Airways first class scores well for superior design and feel, which sets it apart from its rivals; impressively stylish while maintaining an elegant subtlety—Qatar achieves this through its attention to detail, which shows magnificently.
What makes their first class so unique? It’s in the finer details; by avoiding being pretentious, Qatar focuses on refined details like textured enclosures, intricately worked metals, quality tanner leather, subtle wood grain patterns, and the tasteful use of its regal, iconic purple. These features set Qatar apart from its competitors, delivering a first-class experience that challenges its competitors in so many ways—so why is Qatar appearing last on this short-list of premium airlines; let’s take a deeper look.
Stylish without being pretentious
While Qatar Airways has done a magnificent job on presentation, it’s the lack of advanced features that let the side down. Those advanced features surprisingly appear on Qatar Airways business class seats; the features like closing doors for a start, the ability to combine suites, double beds and a unique ‘quad’ layout for group travel, it’s no wonder Qatar Airways was ranked the best Business Class seat from Australia.
One might wonder why these incredible features are represented in business class and lacking in first class, and the answer is that Qatar intends to phase out first class over the next few years slowly. So, while still the most comfortable first-class travel experience, you must plan to experience it soon before it’s phased out.
Booking Options: Flights from Sydney and Perth to Doha
Best Times to Book: Book Early
Qantas’ Airbus A380 First
The Qantas A380 first-class lacks the privacy of Singapore and Emirates; however, it boasts one of the largest first-class cabins in the world, opting to approach the first-class concept differently.
Opting for a more open first-class offering, while less private, resonates spaciousness, achieving the feel of privacy by a unique, two-aisle offset centre seating layout. Seats to the right of the centre aisle are offset to the right with a partition on the right and vice-versa on the centre left aisle. During take-off and landing, seats swivel forward-facing and to the left when watching TV, eating or sleeping.
Every creature comfort imaginable
Everything you need is easily accessible with armrest controls to adjust your seat, in-seat massage, window shades, lighting and inflight entertainment. And, if you decide to grab a nap, the bedding down service will transform your seat into a comfortable, lay flat bed with Sheridan bedding and 100% cotton woven throw and a memory foam mattress that delivers a restful night’s sleep.
Dining onboard the A380 is nothing short of expansive; the food and beverage selection, dish presentation and taste are top-notch. One area lacking was the dining atmosphere, which was not quite comparable to Singapore Airlines or Emirates but equal, if not better, in every other respect. For those travelling with a companion, there is enough room for two to share a meal.
The amenities are fantastic, and every creature comforts you at home, with an amenity kit, pyjamas and slippers provided. Qantas is big on entertainment and the latest technologies, with a massive range of movies that will keep you entertained, power access, a USB port, a touch screen and noise-cancelling headphones.
Booking Options: Flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Singapore
Best Times to Book: When premium fares are on sale, typically every couple of months
Japan Airlines Boeing 777-300ER First Class
Japan Airlines has announced it will be upgrading its aircraft serving Sydney to Tokyo from 1 June 2024, and along with it, the reintroduction of First Class on this route. Announcing it will begin flying its larger Boeing 777-300ER aircraft on the Sydney to Haneda route will be welcome amongst First Class passengers, many of whom have enjoyed JAL offerings on other routes. The 777-300ER will replace its current Boeing 78709s aircraft serving the same route.
Although Japan Airlines will begin flying the new aircraft on the Sydney to Haneda as early as April 2024, First Class seats will be available on 1 June 2024. What makes the launch even more enticing is the reward availability in First Class, enabling you to book flights using points or miles with any Oneworld airline.
Next-level comfort that’s overwhelming
For those yet to fly, JALs are in for a treat; here’s what makes flying with them so unique and why passengers choose to fly Japan Airlines. While the Boeing 777 lacks the spaciousness of the A350, its layout is private and comfortable with its staggered 1-2-1 aisle design.
In contrast, the suite lacks privacy doors and has a retractable privacy partition. Spaciousness and comfort are what JAL’s First Class is all about—starting with the armchair, which is very stately, reminiscent of something you would expect to see in a boardroom, private study, or lounge. The seat, which is 58 cm wide, quickly and effortlessly transforms into a fully flat bed, a generous 199 cm in length. The bedding, while not as elegant as that offered by Singapore or Emirates Airlines, is nonetheless comfortable, and you will have no problem getting some well-earned sleep.
JAL’s touchscreen is smaller than its competitors at just 23" for entertainment, but the entertainment is truly first-class. Universal power plugs, Bose noise-cancelling headphones, and unlimited Wi-Fi for the entire flight are provided, delivering an immersive experience.
Mealtime is always a fusion of flavours with JALs; every dish is beautifully presented and flavoursome, and you can choose between traditional Japanese or Western-style menus.
Booking Options: Flights from Sydney and Haneda
Best Times to Book: Book Early
The Value of First Class: What Separates the Classes
Let’s face it: we can talk about features, onboard experiences, incredible cuisine and lie-flat beds; regardless of the airline you choose, these are the benefits. For those who travel regularly, value comfort and convenience, and arrive at their destination refreshed, first class is not an option; it’s necessary.
From a feature perspective, Business Class satisfies the senses; the value of First Class is in the finer details. First Class delivers value-added services, with greater comfort and privacy, exclusive amenities, personalised service and a dedicated cabin crew unavailable to business travellers. While Business Class elevates your comfort, enabling you to arrive refreshed; First Class does the same with unparalleled luxury.
Take a look at our latest First Class specials.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of First Class flights can vary significantly based on the airline, destination, and time of booking. For international flights from Australia, First Class tickets typically range from $8,000 to $20,000 AUD or more for long-haul routes, depending on the class of service and flexibility of the fare. While seasonal promotions and airline loyalty points can reduce prices, comparing airline pricing and booking in advance yields best results.
In Australia, most domestic airlines do not offer a traditional First Class cabin. However, Qantas and Virgin Australia offer Business Class on select domestic routes, providing a premium experience with added comfort, priority services, and gourmet dining. To enjoy a First Class luxury experience, travellers generally need to book an international flight with a major airline. For a first class experience on long-haul routes check out Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Japan Airlines or Emirates.
While booking First Class flights can be done directly through the airline’s website or through an experienced travel agent. For those looking to maximise points, booking through frequent flyer programs can be a great option. Compare airlines and deals to find the best fare or consider using a travel agent to secure exclusive offers and added perks like lounge access and upgrades.
Refund policies for First Class tickets depend on the fare type and airline. For example, fully flexible First Class fares generally allow refunds with minimal or no cancellation fees, while discounted or promotional fares may have stricter terms, such as cancellation fees or no refunds. In short, review the terms and conditions when booking or inquire directly with the airline or your travel agent for detailed refund policies.
Passengers flying in First Class suites enjoy a range of exclusive perks, including private suites or lie-flat seats, personalised service, gourmet dining, luxury amenity kits, premium wine and champagne, and access to First Class lounges with spa services and fine dining. Furthermore, many airlines also offer priority check-in, security, and boarding, ensuring a seamless, luxurious travel experience from start to finish.
Booking First Class flights as early as possible, typically three to six months in advance, can secure the best prices and availability. However, for flexible travellers, last-minute deals or upgrades using frequent flyer points may also provide savings. Websites like Points Advisor, keep an eye on promotions and alerts from airlines to catch discounts on First Class fares.
