DEPARTURE

CDG is a maddening airport, whether you are in transit or joining. The first class lounge was a joke -- a small loft sitting atop the regular business class lounge. Scanty food, no restrooms, uncomfortable seating, a single tv showing the news. Reminded me of what business class lounges used to look like twenty years ago.


CABIN

Clean and comfortable, but the seats are already showing signs of wear. Toilets were very basic and didn't feel fresh.


SEATING

Nice seat with duvet and mattress provided even for daytime flights. The enormous fold-out table takes good muscle strength to pull out as does the IFE unit.


CATERING

Same as business class meals, but they add an amuse-bouche along with your drink. Nuts and breads are served cold. I liked the full dessert/fruit trolley at the end of the meal. Overall, copious quantities of food, but quality and presentation not quite first class.


CABIN STAFF SERVICE

Attentive service during mealtimes.


FLIGHT ARRIVAL

No priority deplaning for first class. LAX airport was quite empty upon arrival, so immigration and baggage was smooth. Transfer counters available at terminal 2 for domestic connections.


CUSTOMER VERDICT

Overall, Air France's first class product is nowhere as refined or exclusive as that of Lufthansa or British Airways. They are trying to catch up with their european competitors as can be seen from the hastily (and poorly) made first class lounge at paris airport. Limo service is provided to the plane, but does not feel exclusive as you are herded together in a single car with other passengers.


CUSTOMER RANKING