If you talk to any frequent traveler, they’ll probably all tell you the same thing. They prefer to be in the front of the plane rather than crammed in the back, fighting for armrest space. Unfortunately, first class seats are not getting any cheaper and most are only available to the richest 1%.
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Read on to learn more about the world’s most expensive airlines, their costs and what you can expect on board.
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Etihad Airways airline
If you’re looking for one of the most luxurious first class cabins, look no further than Etihad Airways. “The Residence” class, which includes private apartments, is limited to A380 aircraft. Each apartment is a three-bedroom suite that includes a spacious living area with leather sofa, separate sleeping area with double bed and private shower. And that’s not all. A dedicated butler will be at your service throughout the flight.
“Flying at The Residence offers…ultra-luxurious amenities and unparalleled privacy,” said Arsen Misakyan, co-founder and CEO of LAXcar. “When booking through the Etihad website in December for a mid-May flight from New York to Abu Dhabi, the cost of first class rooms ranged between approximately $9,000 and $10,000 each way. For The Residence, an additional $3,000 per leg was added, bringing the total to about $24,000.”
Misakyan also said that as of March 2021, Etihad Airways held the record for the most expensive air ticket, with a one-way ticket from New York to Mumbai costing $38,000.
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Emirates
For many people, sleeping on a plane can be a challenge. However, this is not the case when flying on an Emirates A380 aircraft. This Dubai-based airline has private suites with electronic sliding doors instead of the curtains that many airlines have. Plus, to help you feel refreshed when you arrive at your destination, you’ll receive hydrating pajamas.
“Passengers can enjoy gourmet culinary options prepared by onboard chefs, along with a selection of fine wines and champagne,” said Tony Abrams, founder of Four Hundred Travel. “Emirates is known for its luxurious in-flight showers in first class on select aircraft, giving passengers the unique experience of freshening up during a long flight.”
According to The Luxury Travel Expert, the price of a round-trip Emirates first class ticket can range from $5,000 to $25,000.
Singapore airlines
Another airline that offers the opportunity to fly in luxury if you can afford the price is Singapore Airlines. Booking your first class suites on an A380 aircraft will cost you a few dollars, but you’ll feel like you have the plane to yourself.
Your spacious suite will include not only a leather swivel chair but also a separate twin bed. If you are traveling with a significant other, you can book as a couple, and the divider will be removed, forming a double bed. Unfortunately, Singapore Airlines suites don’t include private showers like Emirates, but each suite has a vanity that will allow you to freshen up before landing.
“Singapore Airlines offers one of the most opulent first class experiences in the world with its suites, which feature individual cabins with sliding doors, freestanding beds, leather chairs and gourmet dining service,” said Misakyan. “Rates for these suites can start as low as US$15,000 for routes from Singapore to New York, highlighting the airline’s focus on supreme comfort, exquisite personalized service and culinary excellence.”
Cathay Pacific
Next on the list is Cathay Pacific, where first class flights can cost $30,000 or more depending on the route and time of year. Other airlines close doors entirely which help isolate you from other travelers. Although Cathay Pacific doesn’t offer this, the experience is almost as grand. There are just six lie-flat seats in first class, and each one comes with 600-thread-count Bamford sheets. Additionally, you will receive Bamford pajamas, slippers and skincare products.
Cathay Pacific is also known for its onboard food options. In addition, it has a great selection of wines well above what other airlines offer.
Lufthansa
Lufthansa completes the list of the most expensive airlines in the world. In the fall of 2024, it is expected to launch its latest first-class product Allegris, which will rival some of the other airlines on this list. You can choose between “Suite” or “Suite Plus”.
The suites will be equipped with a fully closed door and an extra-wide seat that converts into a bed. They will also have a 32-inch 4K TV and a personal wardrobe to store their belongings.
Booking a Plus Suite is ideal for a couple traveling together. It has two extra-wide seats that can be transformed into a double bed. You’ll also get a 43-inch 4K TV and wireless charging for your electronics.
Although exact prices for Lufthansa Suite and Suite Plus flights have not been released, they are expected to be some of the most expensive flights in the world.
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This article was originally published on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Most Expensive Airlines in the World
