Difference between business and first class british airways

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Ever wondered what the difference is between business class and first class when flying internationally? Whether you're using miles or cash, a first-class ticket usually costs significantly more than business class, which leaves you wondering: Is first class worth the price tag?

If you value luxury, then first class can be worth the extra expense. First class differentiates itself the moment you arrive at the airport, starting with a ground experience that often includes dedicated queues, personalized assistance and separate first-class lounges.

First class passengers also receive the highest priority boarding, the seats are nicer and more private, and the onboard service more attentive. A truly gourmet, chef-created menu and top-shelf champagne take the experience to the next level.

This isn't to knock business class. We've noticed a marked improvement in the business-class experience as many airlines have ditched their first-class cabin. You can still find first class on a number of excellent airlines, though, where this pinnacle of flight experiences is now characterized by over-the-top luxury. We'll walk through the key differences between business class and first class to help you decide if the premium is worth it for first class next time you fly.

Table of contents

Business class vs. first class: At a glance

The differences between first class and business class

The experience in first versus business class is highly dependent on the airline. Some of the ground experience will be the same for both, but the differences between business and first become clear the moment you board the aircraft. For a higher price tag, first class generally offers a much better on-board experience.

If the cost of a business class is a substantial step up from coach, first class is yet another major jump. Personalized service and a top-notch flight experience come with a sky-high price tag.

The price difference varies by origin, destination and airline, but you can expect to pay 2-5X more than economy for business class, and 5-10X more than economy for first class.

• As an example, the cheapest nonstop business class round-trip between Los Angeles and Paris Charles de Gaulle on Air France costs $2,995 at time of writing.
• Contrast this with a ticket in La Premiere, Air France's prestigious first-class product, which will set you back $11,222.

Sometimes the price difference between business class and first class is better when using airline miles. With the American AAdvantage program, a business-class ticket between the U.S. and London will set you back a minimum of 57,500 miles while first class commands at least 85,000 miles. First class in this case is just over 50% more than business class.

Business-class and first-class passengers nearly always receive a baggage allowance greater than that of economy passengers.

Policies vary among airlines, but you can generally expect two free checked bags when flying business and three free bags when flying first class.

Premium-cabin bags are usually tagged as priority, so they will be sent to baggage claim first when you arrive.

The queue to check bags may be shorter for first-class passengers if the airline offers a dedicated first-class check-in counter, which can save you additional time.

Most airlines offer lounge access when you fly in a premium cabin. Sometimes there are different business-class and first-class lounges for passengers, with first class offering nicer amenities. Emirates, for example, offers a first-class lounge at its Dubai hub that is strictly for first-class passengers. Here is a short list of dedicated first-class lounges in major airports:

• Air France La Première lounge at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
• British Airways Concorde Room at London Heathrow (LHR)
• Emirates First Class Lounge Dubai (DXB)
• Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt (FRA)
• Qantas Los Angeles International First Lounge (LAX)
• Qatar Al Safwa First Lounge, Doha (DOH)

In some cases, the lounge access granted by a business- or first-class ticket will be the same. This is especially true for smaller, non-hub airports where a dedicated first-class lounge can't be justified. In rare cases, you won't have any lounge access. If lounge access is important to you, make sure you do your research before booking to see what is offered by a particular airline.

Some of the best first-class airline lounges offer a la carte dining, top-shelf liquor, spa treatments and private relaxation rooms. Business-class lounges typically offer buffet dining and a nice bar selection, although some go out of their way to distinguish themselves, such as the Whisky Club at the Zurich Senator Lounge.

First-class passengers are the first to be invited to board the plane and the first to deplane upon arrival. Business-class boarding typically follows first class.

The exact boarding process varies by airline (though most board by group or zone). For example, Emirates allows premium-cabin passengers to board at their leisure, in case passengers wish to avoid the crowd at the gate and enjoy the lounge a little longer.

The primary differences between business-class and first-class seats tend to be the overall spaciousness of the seat, the length of the lie-flat bed, the amount of privacy, and the size of the in-flight entertainment screen. Business-class seats offer less space and usually have a shorter bed. If you're of above-average height, the bed may feel cramped. Many first-class products offer fully-enclosed suites that provide maximum privacy.

Overwhelmingly, international first class and business class both offer lie-flat seats these days on intercontinental flights. Unless your trip is short or on a budget airline, you can expect plenty of legroom. On many carriers, the business-class seat holds its own against first class of previous decades.

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Some carriers' first-class seats offer an unrivaled experience, such as Singapore Airlines' iconic Suites product, where your bed is entirely separate from your seat. Middle-seat pairs can even be converted to a double bed if you're traveling with a spouse.

Business-class vs. first-class seats (Emirates A380)

Both business class and first class typically offer multicourse meals, although service on some carriers has been scaled back during the COVID-19 pandemic. In business class, you'll typically have a choice for the starter, main and dessert, with one to three options for each course. The catering offered depends on the carrier, but you can expect it to include food unique to the airline's home country. Some airlines allow you to preselect your meal in business class, which is a major plus if you need special accommodation or have food allergies.

The food choices in first class will typically be an elevated experience, with more options, chef-created menus, a la carte dining and often caviar.

Air France has called in Michelin-starred chefs to prepare their first-class menu. Expect a full bar service in business class with multiple wine options. The liquor selection in first class tends to be even nicer, with many airlines serving either Dom Perignon or Krug Grande Cuvée, or other top-notch champagnes.

First class typically offers a nicer set of amenities than business class on a given carrier. A blanket and pillow are standard in business class, plus a toiletry kit and a set of headphones that may or may not be noise-canceling. First class may offer nicer bedding that includes a mattress pad. American Airlines offers a full set of Casper bedding and amenities on their long-haul flights, including a mattress pad, pillow, duvet, day blanket, lumbar pillow, pajamas and slippers. Slippers are commonly offered in business class. Business-class pajamas depend entirely on the carrier.

Some airlines offer a chauffeur drive to the airport or valet parking service upon arrival, even of rental cars, for first-class passengers. Lufthansa offers limo transfer to the plane as part of their first-class experience at Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Geneva and Vienna airports.

Some first-class products offer amenities that go beyond any flight experience you may have ever imagined. If you ever fly Emirates or Etihad first class on their A380 aircraft, make sure you enjoy an in-flight shower.

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While premium-cabin service tends to be worlds better than what you get in economy, there is a marked difference between business-class and first-class service. Much of this has to do with the cabin size. The first-class cabin tends to be very small, allowing flight attendants to provide very personal, attentive service. Not that business-class service doesn't hold its own on many carriers. Some crew go out of their way to address you by name in business class.

Business-class service typically begins with a welcome drink followed by a menu and warm towel. Service timing varies by carrier, but you can expect the first meal service to begin shortly after takeoff. First class on many carriers offers a la carte dining service so you can eat whenever you please.

Business class vs. first class on top airlines

American Airlines

• Business class: American Airlines offers its Flagship business-class product on its long-haul fleet of Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft, plus on select domestic routes operated by specially-configured Airbus A321T (T stands for transcontinental) aircraft. A ticket in Flagship business grants you access to any of five Flagship lounges located at Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), and New York-Kennedy (JFK). All Flagship business-class seats are lie-flat, even on the domestic routes. American even lets you pre-select one of their "chef-inspired" meals ahead of your business-class flight. Business-class passengers also enjoy two free bags and priority check-in and boarding.
• First class: American is the only U.S. airline to still operate an international first-class product. Their "Flagship First" product can be found on their flagship Boeing 777-300ER aircraft as well as their A321T planes. Flagship First passengers enjoy business lounge access as well, plus complimentary Flagship First dining offered at DFW, LAX, MIA, and JFK. On international routes expect multi-course meals, Casper bedding and pajamas, and to whisk quickly through priority check-in and boarding.

The best credit card for an American Airlines business- or first- class flight

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Sign Up Bonus

Earn 80,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening

APR

19.74% - 28.74% (Variable)

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® offers an excellent sign-up bonus where you can Earn 80,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

This is most of the miles you need for a one-way business-class award flight between the U.S. and Europe, which start at 57,500 AAdvantage miles. You can also enjoy access to any of American Airlines' 50 Admirals Club locations when not flying on a Flagship business- or first-class ticket. The card also provides a TSA Precheck or Global Entry fee credit and doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.

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Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"\",\"hideBenefitsBox\":false,\"hideTitle\":false,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/5025.png\",\"isExpandable\":true,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/866?url=_travel_business-class-vs-first-class\",\"name\":\"Citi\\u003Csup\\u003E\\u00ae\\u003C\\\/sup\\u003E \\\/ AAdvantage\\u003Csup\\u003E\\u00ae\\u003C\\\/sup\\u003E Executive World Elite Mastercard\\u003Csup\\u003E\\u00ae\\u003C\\\/sup\\u003E\",\"showBannerDespiteUnpaid\":false,\"showGenericArt\":false,\"signUpBonus\":\"Earn 80,000 American Airlines AAdvantage\\u00ae bonus miles after spending $5,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Sign Up Bonus\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"Citi\u00ae \/ AAdvantage\u00ae Executive World Elite MasterCard\u00ae Review: Is It Worth It?\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/citi-executive-aadvantage-world-elite-mastercard\"\u003ECiti\u003Csup\u003E\u00ae\u003C\/sup\u003E \/ AAdvantage\u003Csup\u003E\u00ae\u003C\/sup\u003E Executive World Elite Mastercard\u003Csup\u003E\u00ae\u003C\/sup\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E offers an excellent sign-up bonus where you can Earn 80,000 American Airlines AAdvantage\u00ae bonus miles after spending $5,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThis is most of the miles you need for a one-way business-class award flight between the U.S. and Europe, which start at 57,500 AAdvantage miles. You can also enjoy access to any of American Airlines' 50 Admirals Club locations when not flying on a Flagship business- or first-class ticket. The card also provides a \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"8 Best Credit Cards for Free Global Entry and TSA Precheck for 2022\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/best-credit-cards-for-free-global-entry\"\u003ETSA Precheck or Global Entry\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E fee credit and doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

British Airways

• Business class: Branded as "Club World," the British Airways business-class experience depends substantially on which aircraft type you fly, at least in terms of the seat it offers. British Airways pioneered the lie-flat business-class seat, but the product is now outdated on their older fleet. You'll find a newer, nicer "Club Suite" business-class product installed in its Boeing 787-10 and Airbus A350 aircraft, which offers more room and greater privacy. Some Boeing 777 planes have been retrofitted with the product, which will hopefully be completed on aircraft types by the end of 2022. Enjoy priority check-in and boarding, lounge access, and bedding and amenity kits designed by The White Company once onboard.
• First class: British Airways First Class offers might be the most luxurious way to fly nonstop between London and New York. Enjoy dining in the Concorde Room at either JFK or Heathrow before flying in your own personal suite across the Atlantic. The onboard first-class experience includes an a la carte "Dine Anytime" menu, champagne, plus free Wi-Fi and noise-canceling headphones.

The best credit card for a British Airways business- or first-class flight

The British Airways Visa Signature® Card is one of the best ways to score an inexpensive business- or first-class flight. Issued by Chase, the card currently offers 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 within the first three months, plus 25,000 Avios after you spend $20,000 within the first 12 months. This is enough for a one-way first-class flight between the U.S. West Coast and London.

The downside to British Airways award bookings are the steep taxes and fees, which run about $730 on a one-way ticket departing the U.S. The card does offer a rebate of $200 off these fees when you book business or first, up to $600 per year. You can also enjoy 10% off British Airways flights with your card and earn a companion ticket when you spend $30,000 on your card in a calendar year. The British Airways Visa Signature® Card carries a $95 annual fee.

{"backgroundColor":"butter","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EThe best credit card for a British Airways business- or first-class flight\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"British Airways Visa Signature\u00ae Card Review: High Rewards and Travel Together Ticket\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/british-airways-visa-credit-card\"\u003EBritish Airways Visa Signature\u00ae Card\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E is one of the best ways to score an inexpensive business- or first-class flight. Issued by Chase, the card currently offers 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 within the first three months, plus 25,000 Avios after you spend $20,000 within the first 12 months. This is enough for a one-way first-class flight between the U.S. West Coast and London.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe downside to British Airways award bookings are the steep taxes and fees, which run about $730 on a one-way ticket departing the U.S. The card does offer a rebate of $200 off these fees when you book business or first, up to $600 per year. You can also enjoy 10% off British Airways flights with your card and earn a \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"15 Best Credit Cards with Companion Tickets in 2022\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/best-credit-cards-with-companion-fare-tickets\"\u003Ecompanion ticket\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E when you spend $30,000 on your card in a calendar year. The British Airways Visa Signature\u00ae Card carries a $95 annual fee.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

Emirates Airlines

• Business class: The Emirates business-class experience starts with their chauffeur drive, a service that is offered at select destinations served by the carrier, as well as their Dubai hub. Once at the airport, you can enjoy priority check-in, lounge access and priority boarding. The onboard business-class experience is better on their A380 aircraft, as you can enjoy both a better seat and an onboard bar and lounge.
• First class: If you're deciding between business versus first class on Emirates, know that first elevates the experience substantially. Departing Dubai you can enjoy access to the Emirates First Class lounge. Aboard the aircraft you'll enjoy privacy in a fully-enclosed suite, on demand dining, a Byredo skincare set and top-notch service. Traveling in first class on Emirates' flagship A380 aircraft adds two other features: a personal minibar and the ability to shower in the sky.

The best card for an Emirates Airlines business- or first-class flight

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The best card for an Emirate business- or first-class flight is The Platinum Card® from American Express. The current welcome offer allows you to Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

This is enough for a first-class flight on one of Emirates "fifth freedom" routes between New York-JFK and Milan or Newark and Athens. It's also enough to fly first class on the Middle East carrier between London and Dubai. The Platinum Card® from American Express is a great all-around luxury travel card, offering access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide (including exclusive Centurion lounges), travel insurance protections, and a host of monthly or annual credits with various merchants.

{"backgroundColor":"butter","content":"\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Ch3\u003EThe best card for an Emirates Airlines business- or first-class flight\u003C\/h3\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-BenefitsBox\" data-component-name=\"BenefitsBox\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--root \"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--inner\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--content\"\u003E\u003Ch3 class=\"BenefitsBox--title\"\u003EThe Platinum Card\u003Csup\u003E\u00ae\u003C\/sup\u003E from American Express\u003C\/h3\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-container\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-affiliate-banner \"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--root AffiliateBanner--align-center AffiliateBanner--fluid AffiliateBanner--context-credit-card-nested\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--inner\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--wrapper\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--image\"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root AffiliateBanner--image-link \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/54?url=_travel_business-class-vs-first-class\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"The Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> from American Express\"\u003E\u003Cimg alt=\"The Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> from American Express\" class=\"Image--root lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.comparecards.com\/uploads\/images\/items\/4577.png\"\/\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateBanner--button\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateButtonV2--root \"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"Link--root Button--root Button--primary Button--fluid \" href=\"\/credit-cards\/redirect\/54?url=_travel_business-class-vs-first-class\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Apply Now\"\u003EApply Now\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--lock\" color=\"inherit\" name=\"lock\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003E\u003Ca class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/platinum-card\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\" rel=\"nofollow\" title=\"Rates And Fees\"\u003ESee Rates & Fees.\u003C\/a\u003E Terms Apply. \u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"AffiliateDisclaimer--item\"\u003EOn American Express' Secure Website \u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--fields-bottom\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAnnual Fee\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E$695\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EAPR\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003ESee Pay Over Time APR\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003ECredit Needed\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cp class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E660 - 850\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-label\"\u003EEditor's Rating\u003Cdiv class=\"DynamicTooltip--root\"\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"DynamicTooltip--label\"\u003E?\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--field-content-value\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"ReactComponent--root\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E\n \u003Cdiv class=\"RootWrapper-sc-pllhks kygIZB\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"RatingWrapper-sc-1sn0bij VGiQR\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"StarRating-sc-8gcsy2 hccymf\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-fill\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\" color=\"yellow\" name=\"star-empty\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"StarRating\"\u003E{\"label\":\"\",\"labelColor\":\"inherit\",\"rating\":80,\"stars\":5,\"tooltipContent\":\"\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-hidden\"\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--details-content\"\u003E\u003Cul\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGet $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EAmerican Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EGet up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003EBreeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Learn more.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003E$695 annual fee.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003Cli\u003ETerms Apply.\u003C\/li\u003E\u003C\/ul\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003Cdiv class=\"BenefitsBox--toggle\"\u003E\u003Ca aria-label=\"Toggle Open\/Closed\" class=\"ToggleText--link BenefitsBox--toggle-text link small\"\u003E\u003Cspan\u003E\u003Cspan class=\"ToggleText--label\"\u003E\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl dBUYFD ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--undefined\" color=\"inherit\"\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E+ see card details\u003C\/span\u003E\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E\n \u003C\/div\u003E\n\n \u003Cscript type=\"application\/json\" class=\"js-react-component\" data-component-name=\"BenefitsBox\"\u003E{\"annualFee\":\"$695\",\"apr\":\"See Pay Over Time APR\",\"bannerDisclaimers\":[\"\\u003Ca class=\\\"\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.americanexpress.com\\\/us\\\/credit-cards\\\/card-application\\\/apply\\\/prospect\\\/terms\\\/platinum-card\\\/26129-10-0#offer-terms\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Rates And Fees\\\"\\u003ESee Rates & Fees.\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E Terms Apply.\",\"On American Express' Secure Website\"],\"buttonColor\":\"primary\",\"buttonIcon\":\"lock\",\"buttonText\":\"Apply Now\",\"context\":\" in context: Banner\",\"creditNeeded\":\"660 - 850\",\"creditNeededTooltip\":\"There are various types of credit scores. 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Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EGet $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EAmerican Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EGet up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003EBreeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Learn more.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003E$695 annual fee.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003Cli\\u003ETerms Apply.\\u003C\\\/li\\u003E\\u003C\\\/ul\\u003E\",\"editorRating\":\"\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"ReactComponent--root\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"js-react-component-rendered js-react-component-StarRating\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E\\n \\u003Cdiv class=\\\"RootWrapper-sc-pllhks kygIZB\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"RatingWrapper-sc-1sn0bij VGiQR\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cdiv class=\\\"StarRating-sc-8gcsy2 hccymf\\\"\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-fill\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-fill\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003Cspan aria-hidden=\\\"true\\\" class=\\\"StyledIcon-sc-e7wugl djpcxy ValuePenguinIcon--root ValuePenguinIcon--star-empty\\\" color=\\\"yellow\\\" name=\\\"star-empty\\\"\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n \\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\\n\\n \\u003Cscript type=\\\"application\\\/json\\\" class=\\\"js-react-component\\\" data-component-name=\\\"StarRating\\\"\\u003E{\\\"label\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"labelColor\\\":\\\"inherit\\\",\\\"rating\\\":80,\\\"stars\\\":5,\\\"tooltipContent\\\":\\\"\\\"}\\u003C\\\/script\\u003E\\n\\n\\u003C\\\/div\\u003E\",\"editorRatingTooltip\":\"Our team rates credit cards objectively based on independent research, the features the credit card offers users, and how it compares with other available cards in its category. The ratings are the opinion of our editors, and are not influenced by any outside factors, including any compensation the site may receive from certain advertisers. Learn more on how we \\u003Cspan\\u003E\\u003Ca class=\\\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\\\" rel=\\\"nofollow\\\" title=\\\"Credit Card Methodology\\\" href=\\\"https:\\\/\\\/www.valuepenguin.com\\\/credit-card-methodology\\\"\\u003Ecalculate rewards\\u003C\\\/a\\u003E\\u003C\\\/span\\u003E.\",\"featuredTitle\":\"\",\"hideBenefitsBox\":false,\"hideTitle\":false,\"imageURL\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cdn.comparecards.com\\\/uploads\\\/images\\\/items\\\/4577.png\",\"isExpandable\":true,\"link\":\"\\\/credit-cards\\\/redirect\\\/54?url=_travel_business-class-vs-first-class\",\"name\":\"The Platinum Card\\u003Csup\\u003E\\u00ae\\u003C\\\/sup\\u003E from American Express\",\"showBannerDespiteUnpaid\":false,\"showGenericArt\":false,\"signUpBonus\":\"\",\"signUpBonusTitle\":\"Welcome Offer\"}\u003C\/script\u003E\n\n\u003C\/div\u003E\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThe best card for an Emirate business- or first-class flight is \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express Review: Luxury Travel Benefits\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/american-express-platinum-card\"\u003EThe Platinum Card\u003Csup\u003E\u00ae\u003C\/sup\u003E from American Express\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E. The current welcome offer allows you to Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003EThis is enough for a first-class flight on one of Emirates \"fifth freedom\" routes between New York-JFK and Milan or Newark and Athens. It's also enough to fly first class on the Middle East carrier between London and Dubai. The Platinum Card\u003Csup\u003E\u00ae\u003C\/sup\u003E from American Express is a great all-around luxury travel card, offering access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide (including exclusive \u003Cspan\u003E\u003Ca class=\"ShortcodeLink--root ShortcodeLink--black\" title=\"American Express Centurion Lounges: How to Get Access\" href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/travel\/list-amex-centurion-lounges\"\u003ECenturion lounges\u003C\/a\u003E\u003C\/span\u003E), travel insurance protections, and a host of monthly or annual credits with various merchants.\u003C\/p\u003E\n\n\u003Cp\u003E","padding":"double"}

The information related to British Airways Visa Signature® Card has been independently collected by ValuePenguin and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply to American Express credit card offers. See americanexpress.com for more information.

What is the difference between first and business on British Airways?

Is it better to fly first class or business class?

What's the difference between 1st class and business class?

Does British Airways business class have flat beds?