The lady with her feet in the air was cracking me up. Thank God she left her socks on. I'm a HUGE 777 fan and any opportunity I get to fly that beast I take it. Getting to fly business class long haul is just icing on the cake. Bonus for me here is that SFO was my hometown airport for many years. It's my absolute favorite airport in the USA.
Yeah, I'd have to cause a midflight incident if I was the neighbor in front of or around her. No one wishes to smell your foot aroma, ma'am, nor see your hooves. Do that at home...
10:45…I’ve seen every single one of your videos from the last five years…I’ve never clicked off ANY of your videos! You offer such a pleasant experience each time you drop a video, and this one did not disappoint! Thanks, Scott!
Scott I've been missing you! Well, your videos, and by extension you lol. Thanks for taking us along again, I love your blog, but especially love your videos. Cheers!
Thanks man! 👊🏻 Yep, I’m definitely spending more time on the blog these days, so it always feels good to take a break and do a video every once in a while.
Thanks! Yup, I’ve definitely got a love / hate relationship with CDG. It’s easily one of the most beautiful airports in the world, but making tight connections can be a real pain.
What’s worth noting is that the “old seat” is still miles ahead of the… “older” seat. Just a few years ago they still sent the 8 across business between Paris and San Francisco. Now those older seats serve as their premium economy, albeit with some major improvements. I believe some 777s are still fitted with that ancient cabin. 😬
Yeah before this year there were 12 of these 777-300s left with the oldest style seats. As of now there are only three left, and they should hopefully be refitted in the next few months. You have to be very unlucky to get them, but they do seem to be used for equipment swaps now and then.
@@aviation22 No, the overseas territories get the COI configuration now, which has the same seat as United uses for Polaris (though only 14 of them) and AF also puts on A350s (though the A350s delivered from this month (June 2023) onwards will have the reverse-herringbone with doors. The NEV4 2-3-2 configuration (there are 3 left, one of which will be going in for refit with the new product any day now) since June 1 has been seen to: Beirut, Newark, Dakar, Seoul, Shanghai, Los Angeles, Havana, Mumbai, Washington, Atlanta (scrubbed), and Singapore The "regular" rotation seems to prefer using this on routes where one frequency is the La Premiere-equipped 77W (which is what @sanspotter flew; those are unlikely to have business class refits any time soon, since that's the extent of the La Premiere fleet) or at least has a better J and where there's cargo and coach demand.
I just took that same flight/airline a few weeks ago. It was supposed to be a 90 min layover originating from Valencia. But the day before the flight AF had reported a delay crunching my layover window to 30 mins. I WAS RUNNING!!!!!! Luckily with 10 mins to spare.
Thanks Sam! As I was do the final edit, it occurred to me that this rushed walkthrough was probably the most visually informative intro to an airline review that I’ve ever done. 😄
You’re funny, Scott! And, you just made me realize that the AF flight I’ll be taking from SFO-CDG in a few weeks will be on the old Biz seats. Bummer, but I like how you reframed the seat review. I’m still looking forward to it now, thanks to you. I’ll also be transferred to Berlin. Yeah, that transfer seems brutal. Do you know if there is a Business Class or global entry type separate line? I’m thinking no.
Great review Scott. Air France is my airline of choice, despite the fact I live in Edinburgh, Scotland. They have multiple flights to CDG per day which makes it easy to connect worldwide. I’ve also found the food and service to be consistently good. Not flash or gimmicky but low key and classy. Despite the fact your review doesn’t cover the new cabin (which I’m booked to fly on later this month), I think it’s still very valuable as this cabin is fitted to the vast majority of the 777 fleet. I’ve flown this cabin quite a few times and I will say the amount of wear varies. My last trip back from Singapore in January, apart from a few scuffs, everything worked, and I got 8 hours uninterrupted sleep. I will also say, if you ever get an upgrade offer to La Premiere at check in, take it! I did it on the flight out to Singapore and it was so worth it. Hands down the best flight and ground experience I’ve ever had.
You did right by choosing Air France. I have flown SFOCDG by United Polaris recently. The United foot hole wasn’t as spacious as Air France and sadly the food in United wasn’t good
Do flights from SFO to CDG on the 777-300ER have the new business class seats? I read that 80% of the 777 fleet will have the new seat by end of the year or current have them. We are connecting in Paris from SFO in Feb 2024 and were really hoping to ride the new seats!
Thanks for the review of my national airline! This seat is AFs most generous in terms of space despite starting to look a bit « vintage ». Still miles better than the Polaris seat where you put your legs in a tiny box… AF service can be hit or miss but I find it very nice and professional in general. Glad you enjoyed the experience! And sorry about CDG airport and the messy connections especially in the very busy morning departures!
you didn't show welcome drink and by the way do they served you hot towel because you didn't show that either and always please show galley snack choices!
"it's not Broken, it's British" would apply to this plane. That said, the French are also pretty good at doing things 'right, but not perfectly'. This flight proved that. Looks very enjoyable.
Lol I'm not going to lie but when I saw the caption for The Greenland Incident I was scared that you were going to talk about the turbulence. I hate flying over Greenland.
I just don't get why there aren't more airlines packing a pen in the amenity kit.....so useful! Either way, I like your backpack. Any hint on what make/model it is?
Totally agree! The pen is usually the most useful thing, followed by the socks IMHO. And yeah, it’s been a pretty good backpack (Swiss Gear 5902) - I don’t think they make it anymore unfortunately.
Air France has a very decent inflight service on their transatlantic routes in economy class and premium economy. I've never tried their business class but hope to someday.
I'll be flying for the first time ever in Business Class this December. Excited beyond words :) I'll be flying with Air France. I'll be flying Lisbon - Paris - Mexico City. The Paris - Mexico City leg is on the 4-class Air France 777-300 ER. I've selected seat 3A. Hope that's a good seat? Or is the Bulkhead not the best? Great video btw,
that is odd how it is allowed for someone to prop their feet above someone else's head. although an older product, it does look comfortable despite the obvious repairs needed
I really liked this review. I feel like lot of the business class reviews are too much like the people who give 1-star reviews for high-end 5-star hotels on tripadvisor because "there were no benches in the reception area" or "they charged me for toiletries (that anyone in their right mind would bring with them)" despite them having an otherwise stellar experience.
There are 4 different 777-300ER business classes on Air France: * The 2-3-2 ("NEV4" is the internal designation: it's a French acronym of some sort) angle-flat seat, which will stop flying at some point this summer (2023) * The 1-2-1 Polaris config (internally called the "COI" fleet, for Caribbean and Indian Ocean) which is 14 lie-flats in a tight angle/stagger configuration * The 1-2-1 reverse herringbone without doors ("BEST" is the designation; I'm not sure if it's a French/Franglais acronym or just derives from the campaign in the mid-2010s when this was introduced, which was "Best and Beyond") as seen here on the 777-300ERs which also have La Premiere first class; you also see BEST on 777-200s until they go in for refit later this year, and on the 787s. * The 1-2-1 reverse herringbone with doors (for now, just "the new product") which is what the NEV4 fleet is being refit to (as well as the A350s being delivered starting now (the previous 20 or so A350s have the same seats as the COI now have) and the 777-200s will apparently get a similar, though not the exact same, seat) You can tell whether you have BEST or the new product by whether business class is in row 1.
Appreciate your detailed comment! Does anyone know how long the retrofitting is expected to take? Taking this same flight in April and I'm wondering if there's any chance of a retrofit seat.
Transferring in terminal 2F has always been a nightmare. Not sure why they haven’t fixed the bottle neck especially just as you get off the train and the long line to get to security even when you travel business. I transited in Dec 22 from an international flight and my outbound was another international flight. It was chaotic. I also can contrast that with YVR where transferring from business to a domestic flight and we were not forced to go through security a second time.
Scott you are so smart. I could listen to you for hours. Your humour is distinguished AF is fantastic and chic. Now wait for the new FIRST CLASS LA PREMIERE!
You are too kind Claus! Not everyone shares the same appreciation you have of my videos. 😂 Anyway, yes - I’m really looking forward to trying La Premiere!
Love your reviews! I had the unfortunate\fortunate opportunity to fly their La Premiere service from LAX to CDG and CDG to JFK. Unfortunate definition : I am now spoiled and ruined for any other service. Fortunate : The service on the ground and in air was amazing. Ground service saves you time thru passport control etc. as they have a separate line that puts you thru the security check in front of everyone and they have their own passport control. Unfortunate : finding the right price to be someone comfortable with. I purchased my tickets with zero flying blue miles for about half price as the normal ticket, but was still pricey. Fortunate : The La Premiere lounge; only passengers flying La Premiere get access, so it is never crowded and quiet. The food was pretty damn good too. I wish I would have taken video of all this to post, but was so enthralled with the experience, that part went completely out of my head.
Dang it - now I have no excuse not to try La Premiere! 😅 It sounds like an amazing experience (even if it ruins me), so I think I need to figure out a way to make it happen…
A buddy and I who are also SAN flyers had to scramble to get home from Oslo a week ago when the BA/LHR meltdown happened. We are OW Emeralds but with Heathrow out of the picture, we got OSL-CDG-ATL-SAN... not only did we get the AF "business class" intra-europe, but then Delta on their old Business class from CDG-ATL on a beat down 777. Shockingly similar to your experience, but I won't lie I would have flown AF to SFO if they could have interlined to Alaska for a quick SFO-SAN hop!
What a bummer! At least you still got business class (though I can sympathize knowing how bad the old DL business class seats are). CDG-SFO would have been far better!
Everything you said about CDG transfers rings so true. I'm a Delta/SkyTeam guy and every time I have to go through CDG I wince a bit. I only feel comfortable if it's about 2.5 hours or more.
Heck yeah! A new video! I've been looking forward to see your videos. Super video as always Sanspotter 😀 By the way I don't know if you will do it but can you do a long haul flight from San Francisco to Doha? It's one of the longest flights in the world.
Did you have delays due to the ATC strike? I Flew Air France from Zurich to Paris and back so that I could fly the A318 before they were sent to the scrapper, and we delayed both ways about 20 minutes each waiting for a slot. I originally had an hour connection in Paris to a TGV train, and fortunately, we did fly into Terminal F, which is close to where the TGV station, but by the time I left the Terminal, it said I had a 10-minute walk to the station, and my train would leave in 11-minutes, but I somehow made it. On the trip back I was delayed due to all kinds of issues with RER trains, and once again, I was running the whole way but at least I flew back in Business Class and was able to use priority lanes which were empty but then got on the plane and waited again.
Yikes - sounds like you had a stressful trip! I’m glad everything worked out though, as it’s never fun to try to salvage what’s left of an itinerary after delays and cancellations. But I’m not sure if the issue I has this time was related to the ATC strike. They just seemed somewhat understaffed, which made lines long (and slow). Hopefully things get better soon!
Amazing how I haven't been on an AF flight considering I've been (and still am) a SkyTeam Elite Plus flyer. But I'll gladly chow down on whatever they're serving LOL! - Red
The economy section looked like a disaster zone. Yeah been there. Business despite the seat problems and legs in the air person. The food looked amazing. Thanks Scott. Long distance can be tiring for sure. Cheers.
I flew the same AF business class / aircraft from IAD-CDG-IAD back in March and 100% agree with you. The service you get on AF alone elevates the product beyond Polaris, Delta One, etc. despite a seat that's seen better days. However, I will say that the foot well on this seat is top tier - I was actually able to sleep on my side comfortably which I can't do in most Business Class products. The food is better coming from CDG, where I had probably the best meal I've ever had in the sky (duck lasagna with vegetables). AF does it right in the sky, just wish their ground operations were a lot less chaotic. Agree that it's always good to budget at least 3 hours transferring in CDG. Going from 2E to 2F and vice versa is always an experience. I love how CDG hires people to basically tell everyone where to go as the signage is confusing. Great video though, thoroughly enjoyed!
Thanks man! For as frustrating as the transfer process was at CDG, I agree - the ground staff (directing people where to go) were really helpful. It’s just too bad it took so long. Air France is definitely one of the better airlines I’ve flown recently!
@@sanspotter I've only experienced polaris lounges, the star alliance lounge LAX and KAL lounge at ICN since I've only flown KAL and OZ as far as business class goes. Going from CDG definitely Air france would be the best. From SFO I would choose united
AMS might have improved but had horrible queues the last time I passed through it. Maybe go to FRA instead. Oh, hang one, same problems there too. LHR? Erm, no. DUB, no, abysmal. This is what I experienced last year. The best experience I had at a major European airport in 2022 was LGW as it happens. I hope that 2023 is proving better for the big hub airports.
I flew Business on United from London to LA and trust me I kick myself for not buying the ticket with another Airline. Despite the Mold issue, AF wins hands down !!!!!.
I've never been on AirFrance before, but I've been to France when I went on a euro trip (UK, Paris and Italy) when I completed high school in 2012.. and from what I know (from what I overheard by my folks who also went with me on the trip), it stunk like urine, the French hated Americans and my mom got her iPod and headphones pickpocketed by two French girls..
It’s a beautiful airport for sure (especially T2), but there are parts of it that are becoming horribly out of date. AMS is so much easier to connect through IMHO.
11:00 I agree about the latest and greatest. Like why get a new smartphone every time a new version is released? It’s a engineering technological marvel. No matter how you put it, you’re miles above the ground with a scenic view, traveling 500mph, sitting in a chair inside a pressurized tube, that flies! ✈️🌎🍽🥂🎥 imagine going back 100 years and explaining to people how flying works today🕖🧐
I am fine flying dated business class like you said as long as the service is good. Having said that, there is decorum involved in flying business. Feet of any kind should NEVER go above the cubby. The worst for me was Emirates when a woman had her bare feet (really gnarled feet at that) planted on either side of her IFE screen and used her nasty big toe to scroll. She should have been moved to economy and duct taped to the seat rendering her feet useless. Short but decent review.
ok people complaining about my fabulous home airport (lol) I have the EXACT same complaints about every major airport in the US. CDG, Atlanta, JFK, LAX etc are all hubs for international destinations and as a result customs. So it's normal to go through security again although we do have trams that connect you to all the terminals. But here's something else : we have a fast track for business/premium eco passengers and all loyalty++ members AND we have a cut-line first class service. When u go to LAX, u can be paying a 15k first class ticket and wait 1h30 in line just to get out of the airport. JFK let' not even talk about it, I've waited 1H30 in the fast track line to connect and 3H just to get out of the airport to go to the city. So in my opinion, CDG can't be that bad.
It gives me sort of privacy not like the 2-2-2 seating! I rather seat an old seat alone than on a new seat with close to a drinker who wake you up every half hrs.777 is the best
Scott, I like all your reviews. Even when you're forced to be critical, you go about it in a nice way. That said, Air France should be slapped on the wrist for allowing so much wear and tear in a business class cabin. Inexcusable, unprofessional, and more importantly, very un-French! Okay, the inflight service was acceptable, but... P.S. Je suis Français.😜
I didn’t know you were French! 😄 Anyway, thanks for the kind words. It’s definitely hard to be critical without sounding mean, and it’s something I’m still trying to refine.
No fan of CDG airport or Air France in general...maybe that is my Swiss background showing. That said if one is going from their home airport I expect the meal to be top flight...pun intended. It would have to be an exceptionally situation for me to use an U.S. registered airline Internationally. I would like to try JetBlue to the UK. At least you got something akin to chicken rice on the flight. Be well my friend.
Haha, yeah, I was going to make a chicken and rice comment, but decided against it since it’s been so long and I’m not sure how many of the OG subscribers are still here. 🤔 Newer subscribers just wouldn’t get it. 🤣 Anyway, JetBlue is definitely worth trying. They are certainly putting the pressure on a lot of other airlines.
The lady with her legs in the air is, obviously, entitled. Very rude for the passengers in the seat ahead of her. This lady does not think her feet stink! 🦆
If I were paying to be in business class and some idiot was dancing their feet above my head, I would have to ask the FA to tell them to move them before I did it for them - and it would NOT. be. pretty.
The lady with her feet in the air was cracking me up. Thank God she left her socks on. I'm a HUGE 777 fan and any opportunity I get to fly that beast I take it. Getting to fly business class long haul is just icing on the cake. Bonus for me here is that SFO was my hometown airport for many years. It's my absolute favorite airport in the USA.
I agree with you about everything David! Thank God for the socks, long live the 777, business class is awesome, and SFO is indeed one of the best! 👍🏻
Some people should not be allowed to leave home. Such disgusting behavior in an international setting.
@@ThaiDan Yep, "classy"
Yeah, I'd have to cause a midflight incident if I was the neighbor in front of or around her. No one wishes to smell your foot aroma, ma'am, nor see your hooves. Do that at home...
She's a pig. typical how people have no self awareness today. you can't even get away from this behavior in business class.
10:45…I’ve seen every single one of your videos from the last five years…I’ve never clicked off ANY of your videos! You offer such a pleasant experience each time you drop a video, and this one did not disappoint! Thanks, Scott!
You’re very welcome, and thank you! 👊🏻
Air France delivers as always!!! Nice rewiev!!
Thanks Roger!
Scott I've been missing you! Well, your videos, and by extension you lol. Thanks for taking us along again, I love your blog, but especially love your videos. Cheers!
Thanks man! 👊🏻 Yep, I’m definitely spending more time on the blog these days, so it always feels good to take a break and do a video every once in a while.
Love the honest review. Lie flat is lie flat. Who wouldn’t want a lie flat on a long haul fight.
Aw man, I missed saying first! Hope you enjoyed my home airport of SFO!
At least you were here in the first 45 minutes. 🙏🏻😆 But yeah, I always enjoy flying through SFO.
@@sanspotter Good to hear!
Scott, great as always! Still can’t unsee the creepy overhead lights though
Thanks Jo! They’ll always be watching… 👀😅
Your Videos always lighten up the weekend
Thanks Marc - glad you’re enjoying them!
Hahaha TMI... I Can't get that image out of my mind now...
Thanks for the video Scott
That poor hot towel. Hopefully they burned it. 🔥😅
Great review! Despite being an older product, it still looked pretty nice with good service.
Thanks! Yeah, no real complaints from me either (except about the passport control process at CDG 😆).
Even the older AF product, is way better than United. I agree, CDG can be hairy, but you’re in Paris….go figure. Great video too!
Great video Scott. I love your unique style of presentation. They always make me smile or laugh. Dont alter the delivery. Well done😂👍✈
Thanks! My style of video making isn’t for everyone, but I’m glad you’re enjoying it! 👊🏻
I’m glad you back traveling around 🌎
Thanks Junior! 👊🏻
Excellent Flight Review!!! Loved it. A great tip on the CDG airport transfers. BTW we love the K gates at CDG with the curved ceiling and red carpet.
Thanks! Yup, I’ve definitely got a love / hate relationship with CDG. It’s easily one of the most beautiful airports in the world, but making tight connections can be a real pain.
Thanks for your update bro, keep going🎉
You’re very welcome Kevin - thanks!
I will be flying this reverse route SFO-CDG in July. Then onwards to Barcelona via AF A220. Looking forward to AF business class.
What’s worth noting is that the “old seat” is still miles ahead of the… “older” seat. Just a few years ago they still sent the 8 across business between Paris and San Francisco. Now those older seats serve as their premium economy, albeit with some major improvements. I believe some 777s are still fitted with that ancient cabin. 😬
Still?! I guess I should be thankful that I didn’t get one of those aircraft for this flight to San Francisco. 😬
Yeah before this year there were 12 of these 777-300s left with the oldest style seats. As of now there are only three left, and they should hopefully be refitted in the next few months. You have to be very unlucky to get them, but they do seem to be used for equipment swaps now and then.
@@sanspotter You're in the clear, they only seem to be sending them on their 11hour domestic flights to overseas territories.
@@aviation22 No, the overseas territories get the COI configuration now, which has the same seat as United uses for Polaris (though only 14 of them) and AF also puts on A350s (though the A350s delivered from this month (June 2023) onwards will have the reverse-herringbone with doors.
The NEV4 2-3-2 configuration (there are 3 left, one of which will be going in for refit with the new product any day now) since June 1 has been seen to:
Beirut, Newark, Dakar, Seoul, Shanghai, Los Angeles, Havana, Mumbai, Washington, Atlanta (scrubbed), and Singapore
The "regular" rotation seems to prefer using this on routes where one frequency is the La Premiere-equipped 77W (which is what @sanspotter flew; those are unlikely to have business class refits any time soon, since that's the extent of the La Premiere fleet) or at least has a better J and where there's cargo and coach demand.
I enjoy the review of a typical flight experience!
I actually enjoy doing reviews of the normal stuff as well. It’s exhausting trying to make videos of the fancy stuff all the time!
The seats may be old, but at least the seating is 1-2-1. Much better than 2-2-2!
Yeah it wasn’t half bad actually!
Just flew on this line and I was lucky enough to be seated at seat 1L, on the renovated business seat. I had a ottoman the size of a small couch.
Great video as always.
Thanks as always Meeran!
@@sanspotter You're welcome.
I just took that same flight/airline a few weeks ago. It was supposed to be a 90 min layover originating from Valencia. But the day before the flight AF had reported a delay crunching my layover window to 30 mins. I WAS RUNNING!!!!!! Luckily with 10 mins to spare.
Seems to be a common thing for CDG these days. I’ve learned my lesson. 😅
Great video as always, Scott!
Thanks! 👊🏻
Great video as always, actually loved the rushed walk through the gate section of CDG
Thanks Sam! As I was do the final edit, it occurred to me that this rushed walkthrough was probably the most visually informative intro to an airline review that I’ve ever done. 😄
You’re funny, Scott! And, you just made me realize that the AF flight I’ll be taking from SFO-CDG in a few weeks will be on the old Biz seats. Bummer, but I like how you reframed the seat review. I’m still looking forward to it now, thanks to you. I’ll also be transferred to Berlin. Yeah, that transfer seems brutal. Do you know if there is a Business Class or global entry type separate line? I’m thinking no.
yo! i really appreciate your yt videos they are super valuable, when is your next upload?
Great review Scott. Air France is my airline of choice, despite the fact I live in Edinburgh, Scotland. They have multiple flights to CDG per day which makes it easy to connect worldwide. I’ve also found the food and service to be consistently good. Not flash or gimmicky but low key and classy.
Despite the fact your review doesn’t cover the new cabin (which I’m booked to fly on later this month), I think it’s still very valuable as this cabin is fitted to the vast majority of the 777 fleet. I’ve flown this cabin quite a few times and I will say the amount of wear varies. My last trip back from Singapore in January, apart from a few scuffs, everything worked, and I got 8 hours uninterrupted sleep. I will also say, if you ever get an upgrade offer to La Premiere at check in, take it! I did it on the flight out to Singapore and it was so worth it. Hands down the best flight and ground experience I’ve ever had.
Yeah, everyone keeps saying great things about La Premiere. I definitely have to try that. Hopefully your flight with the new seats goes well!
Fantastic trip report as always Scott! NGL, when I saw the title, I was fully expecting this to be there 2-3-2 Angle Flat 777 Cabin lol
Thanks Ryan! NGL, I would’ve been very miffed it it was the 2-3-2 cabin. 😡😄
You did right by choosing Air France. I have flown SFOCDG by United Polaris recently. The United foot hole wasn’t as spacious as Air France and sadly the food in United wasn’t good
Do flights from SFO to CDG on the 777-300ER have the new business class seats? I read that 80% of the 777 fleet will have the new seat by end of the year or current have them. We are connecting in Paris from SFO in Feb 2024 and were really hoping to ride the new seats!
You should try united 777 San Diego to Washington Dulles
How can you find out which business class version your flight will have?
I am flying AirFrance to Paris in May
Great review as always 🙌🙌
Thanks Matthew! 👊🏻
Thanks for the review of my national airline! This seat is AFs most generous in terms of space despite starting to look a bit « vintage ». Still miles better than the Polaris seat where you put your legs in a tiny box… AF service can be hit or miss but I find it very nice and professional in general. Glad you enjoyed the experience! And sorry about CDG airport and the messy connections especially in the very busy morning departures!
I flew business Air France Paris to Tokyo last week. Service and catering was very good but the cabin was scratched and could do with a facelift.
you didn't show welcome drink and by the way do they served you hot towel because you didn't show that either and always please show galley snack choices!
"it's not Broken, it's British" would apply to this plane.
That said, the French are also pretty good at doing things 'right, but not perfectly'. This flight proved that. Looks very enjoyable.
Lol I'm not going to lie but when I saw the caption for The Greenland Incident I was scared that you were going to talk about the turbulence. I hate flying over Greenland.
I just don't get why there aren't more airlines packing a pen in the amenity kit.....so useful! Either way, I like your backpack. Any hint on what make/model it is?
Totally agree! The pen is usually the most useful thing, followed by the socks IMHO. And yeah, it’s been a pretty good backpack (Swiss Gear 5902) - I don’t think they make it anymore unfortunately.
Air France has a very decent inflight service on their transatlantic routes in economy class and premium economy. I've never tried their business class but hope to someday.
I'll be flying for the first time ever in Business Class this December. Excited beyond words :) I'll be flying with Air France. I'll be flying Lisbon - Paris - Mexico City. The Paris - Mexico City leg is on the 4-class Air France 777-300 ER. I've selected seat 3A. Hope that's a good seat? Or is the Bulkhead not the best? Great video btw,
Thanks Brian! Seat 3A will be good - I’d choose that over a bulkhead (since that is where they tend to put families with babies).
that is odd how it is allowed for someone to prop their feet above someone else's head. although an older product, it does look comfortable despite the obvious repairs needed
She stayed in that position for hours 😂 - but I agree that it was odd that nobody said anything to her about it.
@@sanspotter Maybe the passenger in front of her has a thing for feet. Probably made their flight.
Can i ask when your departure time was? We have a 10:30 a.m. out of CDG to US and worried we're going to be on a brunch flight. :-(
I can’t remember exactly what time it was, but it was mid morning. You’ll very likely be served something very similar to what you saw in this video.
I really liked this review. I feel like lot of the business class reviews are too much like the people who give 1-star reviews for high-end 5-star hotels on tripadvisor because "there were no benches in the reception area" or "they charged me for toiletries (that anyone in their right mind would bring with them)" despite them having an otherwise stellar experience.
There are 4 different 777-300ER business classes on Air France:
* The 2-3-2 ("NEV4" is the internal designation: it's a French acronym of some sort) angle-flat seat, which will stop flying at some point this summer (2023)
* The 1-2-1 Polaris config (internally called the "COI" fleet, for Caribbean and Indian Ocean) which is 14 lie-flats in a tight angle/stagger configuration
* The 1-2-1 reverse herringbone without doors ("BEST" is the designation; I'm not sure if it's a French/Franglais acronym or just derives from the campaign in the mid-2010s when this was introduced, which was "Best and Beyond") as seen here on the 777-300ERs which also have La Premiere first class; you also see BEST on 777-200s until they go in for refit later this year, and on the 787s.
* The 1-2-1 reverse herringbone with doors (for now, just "the new product") which is what the NEV4 fleet is being refit to (as well as the A350s being delivered starting now (the previous 20 or so A350s have the same seats as the COI now have) and the 777-200s will apparently get a similar, though not the exact same, seat)
You can tell whether you have BEST or the new product by whether business class is in row 1.
Appreciate your detailed comment! Does anyone know how long the retrofitting is expected to take? Taking this same flight in April and I'm wondering if there's any chance of a retrofit seat.
Ooh, heartburn. I can relate!
I learned it from you!
I have a 1 hour connection to this same flight, inbound from BUD in business class. Doubtful that I will make it.
Transferring in terminal 2F has always been a nightmare. Not sure why they haven’t fixed the bottle neck especially just as you get off the train and the long line to get to security even when you travel business. I transited in Dec 22 from an international flight and my outbound was another international flight. It was chaotic. I also can contrast that with YVR where transferring from business to a domestic flight and we were not forced to go through security a second time.
Scott you are so smart. I could listen to you for hours. Your humour is distinguished AF is fantastic and chic. Now wait for the new FIRST CLASS LA PREMIERE!
You are too kind Claus! Not everyone shares the same appreciation you have of my videos. 😂 Anyway, yes - I’m really looking forward to trying La Premiere!
Love your reviews! I had the unfortunate\fortunate opportunity to fly their La Premiere service from LAX to CDG and CDG to JFK. Unfortunate definition : I am now spoiled and ruined for any other service. Fortunate : The service on the ground and in air was amazing. Ground service saves you time thru passport control etc. as they have a separate line that puts you thru the security check in front of everyone and they have their own passport control. Unfortunate : finding the right price to be someone comfortable with. I purchased my tickets with zero flying blue miles for about half price as the normal ticket, but was still pricey. Fortunate : The La Premiere lounge; only passengers flying La Premiere get access, so it is never crowded and quiet. The food was pretty damn good too. I wish I would have taken video of all this to post, but was so enthralled with the experience, that part went completely out of my head.
Dang it - now I have no excuse not to try La Premiere! 😅 It sounds like an amazing experience (even if it ruins me), so I think I need to figure out a way to make it happen…
9:57 I don’t know why or even have an explanation, but the air vents look like the face of WALL-E but running on Windows95 😂
Exactly! I was thinking ET as well, but WALL-E is more accurate. 👍🏻👍🏻
A buddy and I who are also SAN flyers had to scramble to get home from Oslo a week ago when the BA/LHR meltdown happened. We are OW Emeralds but with Heathrow out of the picture, we got OSL-CDG-ATL-SAN... not only did we get the AF "business class" intra-europe, but then Delta on their old Business class from CDG-ATL on a beat down 777. Shockingly similar to your experience, but I won't lie I would have flown AF to SFO if they could have interlined to Alaska for a quick SFO-SAN hop!
What a bummer! At least you still got business class (though I can sympathize knowing how bad the old DL business class seats are). CDG-SFO would have been far better!
Hi there, do you perhaps have plan to go to China again and fly on the new C919？ Keep up the great work.
Nope, no plans as of yet. Sounds fun though!
Everything you said about CDG transfers rings so true. I'm a Delta/SkyTeam guy and every time I have to go through CDG I wince a bit. I only feel comfortable if it's about 2.5 hours or more.
Heck yeah! A new video! I've been looking forward to see your videos. Super video as always Sanspotter 😀
By the way I don't know if you will do it but can you do a long haul flight from San Francisco to Doha? It's one of the longest flights in the world.
Thanks Justin! San Francisco to Doha sounds amazing - maybe if I can find a good deal… 🤔
You do great videos. Air France partners with KLM
You’re not kidding. CDG is a nightmare to connect through- though I’ve only used the Air France/delta terminals. Holy cow what a disaster.
You should have flown on French Bee.
It’s on my list!
Did you have delays due to the ATC strike? I Flew Air France from Zurich to Paris and back so that I could fly the A318 before they were sent to the scrapper, and we delayed both ways about 20 minutes each waiting for a slot. I originally had an hour connection in Paris to a TGV train, and fortunately, we did fly into Terminal F, which is close to where the TGV station, but by the time I left the Terminal, it said I had a 10-minute walk to the station, and my train would leave in 11-minutes, but I somehow made it. On the trip back I was delayed due to all kinds of issues with RER trains, and once again, I was running the whole way but at least I flew back in Business Class and was able to use priority lanes which were empty but then got on the plane and waited again.
Yikes - sounds like you had a stressful trip! I’m glad everything worked out though, as it’s never fun to try to salvage what’s left of an itinerary after delays and cancellations. But I’m not sure if the issue I has this time was related to the ATC strike. They just seemed somewhat understaffed, which made lines long (and slow). Hopefully things get better soon!
I would’ve chides United Polaris lol but I love this review!!
Thanks! It’s definitely a tough call for me to make. United has a better seat, but AF has better food…🤔
"Rage Watch!" 🤣Your candid reviews never disappoint. And, by the way, you have not had one of your chicken/rice bowls in a while. ✈
Amazing how I haven't been on an AF flight considering I've been (and still am) a SkyTeam Elite Plus flyer. But I'll gladly chow down on whatever they're serving LOL!
- Red
The food is definitely worth going out of your way for - you need to try it at least once!
Having flown new and old business on AF, I prefer the old one. All seats are equal, footwell are spacious and air vents exist.
I think it was the footwells that surprised me the most. They’re huge!
By the way Defcon works in reverse order, with 5 being the lowest state of readyness(aka peacetime) and defcon 1 being ready for imminent attack.
Oops. 🤦🏼♂️😅
The economy section looked like a disaster zone. Yeah been there. Business despite the seat problems and legs in the air person. The food looked amazing. Thanks Scott. Long distance can be tiring for sure. Cheers.
You’re very welcome Philip! It’s true - long-haul travel (even in business class) is extremely tiring at times. It’s not as easy as it looks!
I flew the same AF business class / aircraft from IAD-CDG-IAD back in March and 100% agree with you. The service you get on AF alone elevates the product beyond Polaris, Delta One, etc. despite a seat that's seen better days. However, I will say that the foot well on this seat is top tier - I was actually able to sleep on my side comfortably which I can't do in most Business Class products. The food is better coming from CDG, where I had probably the best meal I've ever had in the sky (duck lasagna with vegetables). AF does it right in the sky, just wish their ground operations were a lot less chaotic. Agree that it's always good to budget at least 3 hours transferring in CDG. Going from 2E to 2F and vice versa is always an experience. I love how CDG hires people to basically tell everyone where to go as the signage is confusing. Great video though, thoroughly enjoyed!
Thanks man! For as frustrating as the transfer process was at CDG, I agree - the ground staff (directing people where to go) were really helpful. It’s just too bad it took so long. Air France is definitely one of the better airlines I’ve flown recently!
135k miles yikes. I just booked CDG LAX on the new business product on A350 for 80k, but I did have to pay $300+ in fees but we’ll worth it.
80K is one heck of a deal! Just like the old days.
i would probably fly united just because of the polaris lounge
The Air France lounges at CDG are awesome though - it would be a tough decision for me.
@@sanspotter I've only experienced polaris lounges, the star alliance lounge LAX and KAL lounge at ICN since I've only flown KAL and OZ as far as business class goes. Going from CDG definitely Air france would be the best. From SFO I would choose united
You don't get heartburn unless you are guzzling the vegetable oils and sugar.
True - which makes sense, because there was a lot of that in the meal.
So why so do I burp and fart for 3 hours if I eat a lot of cheese?
Pro tip for traveling through CDG: DON’T! Take the Thalys train to AMS and fly from there.
AMS still has its shortcomings too haha
AMS might have improved but had horrible queues the last time I passed through it. Maybe go to FRA instead. Oh, hang one, same problems there too. LHR? Erm, no. DUB, no, abysmal. This is what I experienced last year. The best experience I had at a major European airport in 2022 was LGW as it happens. I hope that 2023 is proving better for the big hub airports.
I think all major European airports are going to have issues again this summer - but hopefully it won’t be as bad as last year.
The flight screw should have told that one to get her feet off someone's else's seat.
I’m surprised they never said anything!
I flew Business on United from London to LA and trust me I kick myself for not buying the ticket with another Airline. Despite the Mold issue, AF wins hands down !!!!!.
United is the worst
United is definitely hit or miss on a lot of things except for the seat. Those Polaris seats are really nice!
@@sanspotter Yeah but not work $3500 just for the seat.
I've never been on AirFrance before, but I've been to France when I went on a euro trip (UK, Paris and Italy) when I completed high school in 2012.. and from what I know (from what I overheard by my folks who also went with me on the trip), it stunk like urine, the French hated Americans and my mom got her iPod and headphones pickpocketed by two French girls..
I Dont Like Paris Charles De Gaulle Airpoprt,Its So Difficult To Navigate,I Had Chosen AIRFRANC,I Like Food Aboard Airfrance.Great Trip Report
It’s a beautiful airport for sure (especially T2), but there are parts of it that are becoming horribly out of date. AMS is so much easier to connect through IMHO.
@@sanspotter Me To Love Flying Out AMS Schiphol
11:00 I agree about the latest and greatest. Like why get a new smartphone every time a new version is released? It’s a engineering technological marvel. No matter how you put it, you’re miles above the ground with a scenic view, traveling 500mph, sitting in a chair inside a pressurized tube, that flies! ✈️🌎🍽🥂🎥 imagine going back 100 years and explaining to people how flying works today🕖🧐
Definitely! It reminds me of that Louis CK bit about people being mad at their smartphone. 😂
The second trip video today of a mad dash through CDG. I am sensing a pattern. 😀
Glad I’m not the only one who had issues. 😅
I am fine flying dated business class like you said as long as the service is good. Having said that, there is decorum involved in flying business. Feet of any kind should NEVER go above the cubby. The worst for me was Emirates when a woman had her bare feet (really gnarled feet at that) planted on either side of her IFE screen and used her nasty big toe to scroll. She should have been moved to economy and duct taped to the seat rendering her feet useless. Short but decent review.
😨
ok people complaining about my fabulous home airport (lol) I have the EXACT same complaints about every major airport in the US. CDG, Atlanta, JFK, LAX etc are all hubs for international destinations and as a result customs. So it's normal to go through security again although we do have trams that connect you to all the terminals. But here's something else : we have a fast track for business/premium eco passengers and all loyalty++ members AND we have a cut-line first class service. When u go to LAX, u can be paying a 15k first class ticket and wait 1h30 in line just to get out of the airport. JFK let' not even talk about it, I've waited 1H30 in the fast track line to connect and 3H just to get out of the airport to go to the city. So in my opinion, CDG can't be that bad.
It gives me sort of privacy not like the 2-2-2 seating! I rather seat an old seat alone than on a new seat with close to a drinker who wake you up every half hrs.777 is the best
There’s SANSpotter ignoring FrenchBee again!
Hopefully I’ll get to try them before they go out of business. 😅
Scott, I like all your reviews. Even when you're forced to be critical, you go about it in a nice way.
That said, Air France should be slapped on the wrist for allowing so much wear and tear in a business class cabin. Inexcusable, unprofessional, and more importantly, very un-French!
Okay, the inflight service was acceptable, but...
P.S. Je suis Français.😜
I didn’t know you were French! 😄 Anyway, thanks for the kind words. It’s definitely hard to be critical without sounding mean, and it’s something I’m still trying to refine.
So the real question is, when all was said and done, did you leave your heart in San Francisco? Or maybe you went there with a flower in your hair?
Nope and nope, but I did enjoy sittin’ on the dock of the bay. 😆
@@sanspotter Oh, but when you do that - you're just wasting the day away! :)
Lol whoever that person who put their feet up would regret doing that again when they see this video.. 😂😂.
Hopefully she sees this and gets the message 😬🤣
No fan of CDG airport or Air France in general...maybe that is my Swiss background showing. That said if one is going from their home airport I expect the meal to be top flight...pun intended.
It would have to be an exceptionally situation for me to use an U.S. registered airline Internationally. I would like to try JetBlue to the UK.
At least you got something akin to chicken rice on the flight. Be well my friend.
Haha, yeah, I was going to make a chicken and rice comment, but decided against it since it’s been so long and I’m not sure how many of the OG subscribers are still here. 🤔 Newer subscribers just wouldn’t get it. 🤣 Anyway, JetBlue is definitely worth trying. They are certainly putting the pressure on a lot of other airlines.
Wow...now getting "chic"!
😬😬
I would've asked a flight attendant to try to shut the video screen.
Either that or I need to start flying with duct tape. 😂
I’m the 11th according to the UA-cam comments 😅
I’m not sure there’s an award for that. 🤔😆
You got the menu that was designed by someone whose brother-in-law owns a carrot farm near Paris, I see.
The lady with her legs in the air is, obviously, entitled. Very rude for the passengers in the seat ahead of her. This lady does not think her feet stink! 🦆
I love your vids but you are such a Tides Foundation type.
If I were paying to be in business class and some idiot was dancing their feet above my head, I would have to ask the FA to tell them to move them before I did it for them - and it would NOT. be. pretty.
Also the 777 is dry as fu**
Sounds kinky. 😬😅
@@sanspotter 😂😂
You had a case of the swamp ass, huh?