In true Emirati style, the Emirates A380 is offering arguably what is the most lavish A380 travel experience on the market. It boasts a spacious first class private suite featuring a futuristic electric sliding door, adjustable lighting, wardrobe and mini-bar. The seat, which has a built-in massage system, converts into a flat bed with mattress. The large-screen TV offers up to 1,200 on-demand video and audio channels from Emirates' award-winning entertainment programme. Also unique to Emirates A380 planes are the two onboard shower ‘spas’ for first-class travellers. Finally, an onboard lounge and the ability to order anything you like from the menu, whenever you want, complete this celestial experience.
Qantas
Operating from Sydney to Singapore and London, as well as from Melbourne to LA, Qantas’ A380 first-class cabins were designed by Marc Newson. Stylish rounded shells are home to an amply spacious armchair that transforms itself into a fully flat bed measuring 212cm, which is a record in itself as it’s one of the longest on any plane. Advanced entertainment includes a 17-inch Panasonic touchscreen display with over 1,000 audio and video channels on demand. High-tech functionality is enhanced with wired/wireless internet, USB ports, and AC power outlet. Lastly, controllable lighting and the 5-zone massage option make for a very comfortable trip. A nifty lounge on the same floor only lets in five privileged travellers at one time.
Singapore Airlines
Some unique features grace Singapore Airlines’ A380 first class area. It claims to have the largest seat on any plane in addition to a standalone bed (not converted from a seat) that comes complete with turndown service, fine linen and large pillows designed by Givenchy. Enhanced privacy is achieved via sliding doors and blinds, while a large wardrobe accommodates carry-on luggage. Yacht designer Jean-Jacques Coste conceived the suite’s efficient use of space, and his décor features wood finishes combined with soft leathers. The TV is 23-inchs and there’s a large choice of films and music. Power supply, USB ports and more connectivity are also available.
Air France
The first-class La Premiere area in the Air France A380 might not have the private suites that other A380s boast, but it does have a few other tricks up its sleeve. The seats are made of Climatex, a material that absorbs and releases moisture to ensure supremely comfortable travel. The La Premiere area also features a dressing room for you to discretely change into your pj’s, while a staircase leads to an upstairs art lounge called 'The Gallery', which displays masterpieces from famous museums on large LCD screens. Subsequently, a bar upfront, Clarins beauty products and changing light effects add some Gallic flair to the experience.
Lufthansa
Lufthansa only has eight exclusive first-class seats in the A380, beating even Air France's nine seats. These large seats are part of an open plan, rather than individual suites, a decision the airline made after consulting with its first-class passengers. Still, there are privacy screens between booths and the seats can become beds. Lufthansa has also paid attention to sound insulation and a new air humidification system for a pleasant environment. Interestingly, the lighting adjusts gradually to help mitigate the effects of jet lag. Two huge bathrooms (without shower) and a generously varied entertainment system with 17-inch screens are part of the first-class A380 package.
Korean Air
This year has seen Korean Air launch its first A380 with the entire upper deck allotted to business class. The First Class area, which accommodates 12 people, is decked with so-called Kosmo Suites "designed by overseas professional manufacturers for the first time in Korea" says the company. Each suite has a lie-flat seat that reclines fully within its shell to 208 centimetres in length. This may not be the grand suite of Emirates or Singapore Airlines, but Korean Air's multiple awards in service and comfort promise a very pleasant journey indeed. The company's A380 is initially flying to Tokyo, Hong Kong and Bangkok, to be followed eventually by New York and Los Angeles.
