TRAVEL | Like a Flying Suite: Air France's New First Class
AIR FRANCE
A Suite Room That Flies
Air France Unveils New First Class "La Première"
Air France has announced its new first-class cabin, "La Première." The suite-like cabins will be progressively introduced on 19 Boeing B777-300 long-haul aircraft starting in September 2014.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Cuisine by Renowned Chefs Including Joël Robuchon
Air France is pouring its efforts into the new first-class "La Première," which it describes as "expressing the pinnacle of French travel aesthetics." This space, meaning 'the best' in French, offers a relaxing environment akin to staying at a luxury hotel, yet with the comfort of one's own private room.
Each aircraft will feature four "La Première" suites. Each seat is equipped with thick curtains and a retractable partition on the aisle side, allowing for a fully or partially private space according to preference – a unique and bold concept.
The space consists of a seat and an ottoman, which can instantly transform into a spacious bed over 2 meters long and 77 centimeters wide when one feels like sleeping. Furthermore, upon request, cabin crew will provide a mattress for a comfortable sleep, along with a large, plush pillow and duvet, ensuring a restful night. For dining, the ottoman can be used as a seat, allowing guests to invite others for a meal.
The cuisine and tableware, infused with French esprit, are also noteworthy. Menus were conceived by a stellar lineup of chefs: Joël Robuchon, renowned as a three-Michelin-star chef; Régis Marcon, a key figure in France's regional gastronomy; and Anne-Sophie Pic, the first female three-Michelin-star chef. Desserts can be enjoyed from Lenôtre, a prestigious Parisian patisserie known for its high-end catering.
The luxurious tableware was designed by Jean-Marie Massaud, a globally active French designer. He was responsible for the design of all 40 items, including delicate ceramics from Bernardaud and cutlery from Christofle, expressing an elegant and light aesthetic.
Air France is also hosting events titled "Air France, France is in the air" in Shanghai, New York, and Paris to showcase the concept of the new "La Première." The event in Paris, held on Saturday, September 20th, and Sunday, September 21st, will be open to the public, featuring valuable archival exhibits and various immersive experiences, both real and virtual, of the new travel concept.
"La Première," the epitome of refinement and the ultimate in in-flight comfort, is poised to become a sky-high oasis for jet-setters.



