Honestly, for short haul flights I don't see the point in paying that kind of money. Especially the European business class just looks like Ryanair with food.
that's the correct description auf EU Business Class. When you have an airline status in the EU and so you have lounge access the difference is mostly the food. On Lufthansa you get a free seat besides yours in Business. On Air France/KLMs small Planes you not even get that. Turkish Airlines has a real business class, But i will not count this as an European Airlines. It's from concept and routing more like the middle east airlines.
I am not a lover of BA but I done a business class flight with them the other day LHR to BUD, lounge access plus a full English breakfast on the flight with unlimited orange juice and champagne, was very pleasant.
Interesting. I guess it comes down to one’s personal preferences. I think that the larger seats, the in flight entertainment and Bluetooth helps put United in the lead. I thank you for this video. My best wishes for you & your family always! Happy travels-
Great video as usual: Biggest complaint is the stupid short legroom In business class in Europe. Asian airlines tend to get it right; big seat; decent meal; lounge access and usually some IFE
Basically US domestic first class: bellow average ground experience and better inflight experience European Business class: better ground experience bellow average inflight experience. But the food on both flights are decent
I know that you probably get this all the time but recently I had to take a flight from Newquay to London and your videos really helped me get over my fear. To the point I actually really enjoyed it. I can't wait to fly again! Thank you so much.
In the middle of our Noel Philips cheap travel challenge. Currently in Bali having flown in from the states. Cathay business which was amazing and Malaysia business. The narrow body flight from SIN-KUL was hands down better than anything in the U.S. The flight from KUL-DPS was great too except I hated the seat. My elbow kept activating the seat controls. EVA Air business in a few days……
in europe when I was flying KLM Dublin to Amsterdam upgrade to business was roughly £50 which gives you lounge access, fast track and a seat at the front of the aircraft with a special treatment, I know that the small klm business is a bit of gimmick but adding up the extras make actually sens in terms of value
Airlines can differ so much. I recently went from Dublin to Denver with a connection in Heathrow and went business class with British Airways for the first time. I loved it, the whole experience, going through queues quicker, the lounges and fast track security. It really saved me so much stress that I usually have doing economy or premium economy. I also did first class with with United from Denver to Wichita, only an hour and a half and not much more expensive, but no lounge access, still worth it for less stress. Great video, thank you for showing us the two sides.
Australian domestic business is the best of both worlds, lounge access and the extra trimmings as well as the bigger seats and nicer Onboard meals and such
If you’ve seen one loo, you’ve see them all! Four walls, Floor, toilet and sink What else is there? Is DL’s Loo different from BA or CX? Not on any flights I’ve been on!
I always skip through Loo Reviews on all vlogs. One crapper's like the next. My only advice is... don't go there in bare feet - that liquid on the floor isn't water.
I fly United a lot because i get a Veterans discount on them. I tried First Class on a flight from San Francisco to Las Vegas with the wife became United offered for a slight upcharge. I didn't mind the seats were a little worn, i had room. I'm on the "fluffy" side so economy can be rough. We even splurged going to Hawaii for vacation this year. We got to fly in Polaris both ways and loved it. So we can save for Disney Paris in 4 years. 😁😁😁
I Like the USA entertainment & WiFi. The seat looked amazing. The Europe meal was presented better but the portions in USA look more. Definitely worth it. USA First For Sure. Excellent video Noel. Much Love Noel On to the next one. ❤
I look forward soooo much to your next video Noel! You are so down to earth as a neighbor sitting outside having a beer with! I am addicted to to your videos Noel.......there is only two other like-minded travel youtubers that i subscribe to......and, out of total respect to you, I will not mention them here. 👍😉😃
Austrian here. Once flew "First Class" Newark-Asheville on United operated by something. Not expecting a luxury meal on that flight. But what we got was still disappointing. Seated in a seat where the leather was cracked and the mechanics broken, we got a cup of juice served by a grumpy guy. That was it. I'll take Lufthansa or Austrian Airlines service over that anytime....
I took a United Polaris Dreamliner 787 flight from San Francisco to Chicago. It was amazing. Few ground benefits but the hard product was top notch and food was average. Your US domestic first class/business class experience will vary dramatically sorry to say.
I think it comes down to someone's preference. For me, I'd take the US domestic fight anyday. And if I didn't take Southwest Airlines, I'd take Delta instead! Your trips were once again fascinating this week and really gives you a chance to think which one is preferable when travelling. Both prices were almost equal, albeit not bad for what you get. I wouldn't mind getting in one of those lounges as I've never done that before, nor have I ever traveled internationally either.
At least within Europe and within the U.S. the markets are different for at least two reasons. This might at least partly explain why in-flight services in Europe are at a lower level 1. the size of the continents. Last month I flew across most of Europe, from Luxembourg in the north-west to Crete (Greece) in the south-east, in just three hours. Passengers spend less time in the planes. 2. competition from railways. In most European countries trains are a good alternative to flying. In order to stay in the race European airlines are on a tight rope to keep profitable domestic (i.e. intra-European) flights. Long haul flights to/from Europe are a different story.
Would love to see more economy class content as everybody are doing luxury seat reviews these days. Apart from that it’s also much more relevant to us viewers to watch as it’s what most of us have to travel on anyways. Economy plus reviews would be interesting too.
Good to see you on AVL, Noel. Kev and Rudy are good friends. Gotta say, I love your loo reviews. They make me laugh, especially when you show off bog roll like a model on The Price is Right, lol!
You the man Noel! Was out all night, for 16 hours, at a horror movie marathon at a local drive in and havent slept yet!! Not gonna until i finish your video.. Keep em coming
I find European flight crews to be - generally - more friendly and seemingly caring more about their job. Also, there's some significant variety in Europe on things like wifi and this is generally thanks to the age of the aircraft...I find there is more often wifi than not to be honest. Great video Noel.
I've been to the US in two occasions but never had the chance to try out their domestic flights or airlines. Great video as usual though and as most people would think, it just comes to personal preference. United's first class on the A321-NEO looks pretty decent. Keep it up! 😍😍
Great vlog as always! I would go for the c-class light option. I never use the «yuppy day care» or Fast track. I always get pulled aside anyway. Lol! Keep up the good work. Be safe!
I can't believe that European Business Class is so sparce on amenities. Not even IFE???? Thanks for another great, informative and fun video Noel. I love your stuff mate and always look forward to another one dropping. Thanks Noel
If you want to try european business class, try Aegean Airlines. Even if you disembark remotely, they sent a dedicated bus for the business class passengers. Even if you are the only one
I love your videos so much ahhhhh. Who needs therapy when you've got the Noel's toilet review 🚻😂 I'm looking at flights from Cancun to Miami, to do a day in Miami. Omgggg. It's so expensive for a 2hr (less) flight. Think I'll do a day in Mexico city or Havana instead. This is my first trip out of Europe, so I'm absolutely buzzing!! Nervous, but absolutely filled with excitement. 😍
Totally correct, however for just 2 hours I wouldn't bother with business class anyway, maybe I'd just pay for lounge access then. Lounges are far more interesting to me if they have showers etc. it's just such a relaxed way to prepare for a flight. Business class I see as valuable on the long haul.
To answer the question, US First all the way. There’s absolutely no comparison in the hard products. As far as lounge access: virtually every European flight is an international flight, which necessitates lounges everywhere. I’ve been to dozens of US airports which don’t have a single international flight, hence no lounge. It’s much easier to standardize on that rather than spotty lounge coverage.
I once flew fairly regularly between Amman, Jordan (AMM) and Paris (CDG) in Air France Business Class. It was very similar to your experience despite being a longer flight at 4 1/2 hours.
On LATAM domestic, the economy seats at the front with an empty middle seat is called premium economy. Personally, I think that would be a more appropriate naming scheme for European 'business class'. [I'm excluding Turkish frim that as they do have an appropriate business short haul product]
That is true but they also come without lounge access. Having said that they are so cheap as a big guy who has hold luggage they're perfect. South American lounges are so cheap you can buy your way in for no more than a Lounge Pass ticket.
@edg84 Very true, but my comment is more about the seating. The seating arrangement on LATAM is identical to European 'Business Class' but they more honestly call it Premium Economy, which is a significantly more accurate description AND LATAM actually have notices on the luggage bins that they are for the premium economy passengers only, which is better than European carriers, since cheeky steerage passengers chuck their luggage above the 'business' seats on the way past. On lounges, you need to have enough time to use them and many European carrier just use contract lounges, which I could access with my LoungeKey or Priority Pass. In Brazil, I just used the lounges with my LoungeKey if in Premium Economy domestic.
@@mikefish8226 yeah I do the same. Avianca also sell it as the same no frills product, just a better seat. Both are similar, I just use Latam as I get Avios from all trips with them.
Bitty-bobby, argy-bargy, I just love listening to your videos! Earlier this year I was able to upgrade to US domestic first on a flight back from Orlando to Phoenix at a low price. I showed her this and she and I agreed we are quite spoiled when it comes to domestic "business". Though the food did look nice!
For a European flight, I wouldn’t even consider buying Business Class as I’m not going to be on the plane long enough to warrant the cost! But when I lived Stateside, I was upgraded to Business once on American, as my original flight was overbooked and they asked for volunteers etc. The seat room and food was excellent. And in addition to the upgrade, I got a meal voucher for the airport and a free return flight anywhere within CONUS! I used that to get from OKC to EWR when I was leaving the US after moving home.
I'd definitely go with united. Even just them having a mobile app with inflight entertainment is definitely a big plus. Inflight entertainment is quite important
I was just on a trip to the US, all business and "first", excluding the long hauls, ITA business B-, Delta First B+, Delta First B, Air France C. Got lounge access with all because of the long hauls. Really liked the Delta Lounges, ITA was a priority pass lounge so it was packed, Air France lounges at JFK and especially CDG were gorgeous but I preferred the Delta lounges at Kennedy and Orlando.
Best Inter Euro Business I've experienced is BA. After an overnight flight our two hour flight from London featured a full English and a bottle of champagne haha. B+
I tend to prefer the US premium cabins, primarily for the better seats/space, and wifi availability. I am over 6ft tall so having a lot of legroom makes a big difference for me
I like the Domestic First seat. Always feel a bit of bad when I have lounge access in the US as a BA Gold member, even when flying in Eco :) I feel that lounge access is one of the key advantages on being a Business Class or status member on shorter connections - you simply waste less time at the airport...
That Business Lounge in Frankfurt really lives up to its name, everyone seems to be doing business. Meanwhile in 2017, I had lounge access in economy class. Bangkok Airways flight from Mandalay (Myanmar) to Chiang Mai (Thailand). It was nothing fancy but it was a lounge after all. I wished I dreessed more smartly in my cargo shorts and t-shirt with sandals on my feet.
If you have the money go business / first that's a no brainer. However most people flying today cost is a concern ...buy a flight and seat take your own food and entertainment. Still gets you there just as fast as the posh people. When you do your cost on the screen for your business class you could also put up the cattle class price as a more meaningful comparison. Great vlog as usual Noel.x
Thank you! I book first class in the US but you always call it business class. And yea, I’m with Delta 99% of the time. The only lounge is the Sky Club, with requires an AMEX to get in. I do use Priority Pass tho, which has some nice perks.
I flew in economy class from Frankfurt to Brisbane in 2019. The flight over wasn’t bad then my flight to Boston had a problem with the engine so we had to deplane and wait for another plane to get us back to Boston.
I paid 60€ once for a KLM upgrade from HEL>AMS at check in to avoid paying 90€ for my extra bag. I was pleased that my boarding pass then enabled lounge access in AMS for my Y long haul flight to BOS on the same booking. Definitely worth it but never come across upgrades that cheap in the US.
I mean at the end of the day it seems logical as a good portion of US routes are longer than even the longest Euro J routes and US carriers need to use their jets on anything from 60 minutes to 7 hours vs inter-European flights. Also the Euro business model is probably primarily for connecting long haul passengers vs the one segment point A-B. Euro J allows the marketing carrier to provide a "business" class seat end to end without re-configuring a short haul aircraft, but also allows flexibility for charter/leisure operations.
Icelandair have the two wider seat config in their business class (Saga Class). And in flight entertainment is standard on all seats, not just business.
When I flew United "first class", I loved the heated nuts, and I do not normally eat nuts. But something about how they heated those nuts was just amazing, and I've not been able to recreate that at home. Still, when I was flying the 4 hour flights on United, I hated that first class ranged from, "You just get a larger seat" to "Here's a primo, angled seat with bed-like reclining functions, big screen, etc."
in Europe, the airlines use their planes for loadings and "the curtain" can and does get moved if more/less business class seats are sold so the airlines can flex the amount of punters they have on the plane. So they need fewer planes. plus there is so little competition on business class routes they can get away with it.
I would love the see in Europe a cabin like in America, but for me personally the food especially from caterer like Do & Co is great here. Amazing video 👌 Thanks Noel 😊
First Class/Premium is best on long-haul flights, say SFO-EWR. Anything under 2-3 hours, Low cost carriers will suffice. I was honestly surprised that Lufthansa experience didn't surpass United. United is great for coast to coast flights. Thank you for the insights, Noel.
The original company was bought out and eventually ended up with Mattel - who relaunched it with all new products. This may be the second relaunch, even.
US domestic first, I care more about the seat comfort, everything else is just extras. When I pay for premium cabins, it's because I don't want to be squished into a small seat next to a stranger on a longer flight. I typically don't fly intra Euro biz unless it's included with a longer booking or the cost to upgrade is nominal. I recently upgraded to biz for a little over $100 on Swiss on the A220, that was worth it to me since I have the whole port side row to myself on that aircraft with the 2-3 config, and Swiss is known to harass people about carry on weight in economy so that alone was worth the upgrade at that cost.
Business class in Australia on domestic flights has seats that are much like the US ones. Although if you are flying domestic business class on Qantas you do get access to the Qantas Club. (never been inside a Qantas Club although many many years ago I remember being a guest in the Ansett Golden Wing Lounge at Perth Airport back when that was a thing)
At least you had the middle seat with Lufthansa 😉. Flying business class on a Finnair Embraer 190 between Geneva and Helsinki, seats are identical to economy, same width, same legroom. During the 3 hour trip, it was impossible for me to work on my laptop as the passenger in front of me has reclined his seat. I had shared this frustrating experience with Finnair client services (which added more frustration to my experience unfortunately). To be fair, I've also flown on an Airbus with Finnair, also between Geneva and Helsinki. And it was much better.
For a short haul flight like this I would prefer the European because of the ground experience. Short security, lounge and getting your checked bag first etc makes the teip way more relaxing. But then again, you get the same thing if you have status so i dont know 🤷
The main reason for the difference in seats is that most European carriers adjust their Business Class to what is needed. The Curtain is movable. If you have more passengers booked in business you just move the curtain two rows back and vice versa if you have very little bookings up front
4:34 I am convinced. I spent 5 hours on the tightest 757 of this airline in Eco once a year ago. It was great fun with this airline so far. No complains. But for this year, I upgraded myself to First class at united on a flight between Dulles and Houston. I often upgrade inneeuropean flights to Business because of the lounge access and the bag rules. Also like this one between FRA to LIS.
Honestly, for short haul flights I don't see the point in paying that kind of money. Especially the European business class just looks like Ryanair with food.
Basically... lol.
that's the correct description auf EU Business Class.
When you have an airline status in the EU and so you have lounge access the difference is mostly the food. On Lufthansa you get a free
seat besides yours in Business. On Air France/KLMs small Planes you not even get that.
Turkish Airlines has a real business class, But i will not count this as an European Airlines. It's from concept and routing more like the middle east airlines.
There is no ugly safety diagram on the back of the seats. But yes, it's like all the other short haul airlines; Austrian Air, AerLingus, etc.
Exactly
Ryanair with food? Funny 😂!
I am not a lover of BA but I done a business class flight with them the other day LHR to BUD, lounge access plus a full English breakfast on the flight with unlimited orange juice and champagne, was very pleasant.
Interesting. I guess it comes down to one’s personal preferences. I think that the larger seats, the in flight entertainment and Bluetooth helps put United in the lead. I thank you for this video. My best wishes for you & your family always! Happy travels-
Great video as usual:
Biggest complaint is the stupid short legroom In business class in Europe. Asian airlines tend to get it right; big seat; decent meal; lounge access and usually some IFE
Basically
US domestic first class: bellow average ground experience and better inflight experience
European Business class: better ground experience bellow average inflight experience.
But the food on both flights are decent
100% true, I would have liked this statement as the conclusion of the Video!
how is having salmon and a steak below average? lmao
@GlucoseYummy he said the food is decent but here in Europe your basically getting an economy seat with a better meal and nobody in the middle
@@andycalvia yeah then that is above average? you're getting a better experience over economy...
@@GlucoseYummy yes better than economy but below average compared to business class elsewhere.
American business class hands down. The leg room alone does it for me
I know that you probably get this all the time but recently I had to take a flight from Newquay to London and your videos really helped me get over my fear. To the point I actually really enjoyed it. I can't wait to fly again! Thank you so much.
That's awesome!
@@noelphilips You should fly inter-Europe with Turkish = US Domestic First Class seating, with 5* meals and Lounge!
U.S. domestic business/first class is roughly equivalent to premium economy on international wide body flights.
The seat is yea, not the soft product
the guy mean mugging noel next to him on the first flight made me laugh
Sunday evening means popcorn, beer, and a Noel Philips video. 😁🍺
In the middle of our Noel Philips cheap travel challenge. Currently in Bali having flown in from the states. Cathay business which was amazing and Malaysia business. The narrow body flight from SIN-KUL was hands down better than anything in the U.S. The flight from KUL-DPS was great too except I hated the seat. My elbow kept activating the seat controls. EVA Air business in a few days……
Have a great time
Compliments Mr Philipps! A great video which illustrates the big differences. Gut gemacht!
Glad you liked it!
in europe when I was flying KLM Dublin to Amsterdam upgrade to business was roughly £50 which gives you lounge access, fast track and a seat at the front of the aircraft with a special treatment, I know that the small klm business is a bit of gimmick but adding up the extras make actually sens in terms of value
Airlines can differ so much. I recently went from Dublin to Denver with a connection in Heathrow and went business class with British Airways for the first time. I loved it, the whole experience, going through queues quicker, the lounges and fast track security. It really saved me so much stress that I usually have doing economy or premium economy. I also did first class with with United from Denver to Wichita, only an hour and a half and not much more expensive, but no lounge access, still worth it for less stress. Great video, thank you for showing us the two sides.
Australian domestic business is the best of both worlds, lounge access and the extra trimmings as well as the bigger seats and nicer Onboard meals and such
You pay for it though. Euro business typically much cheaper
Facts!
Slightly bigger seats and your meal, which is OK, is part of the ticket price. Not that special.
Yep, regardless of who you fly! Whether it be Virgin or Qantas!
I only fly business class in Europe when
it’s on a connection and I’ve already paid for a long-haul business class ticket.
Exactly.
❤ absolute brilliant content ,always fair and honest ,thank you
Thank you
I saw you on Airline Videos a few days ago. I loved it very much. ✈️🇺🇸❤️
Glad you enjoyed it!
A "Noel Philips Loo Review" would've helped me decide!! 😂😂
😂😂😂
If you’ve seen one loo, you’ve see them all!
Four walls, Floor, toilet and sink
What else is there? Is DL’s Loo different from BA or CX?
Not on any flights I’ve been on!
I always skip through Loo Reviews on all vlogs. One crapper's like the next. My only advice is... don't go there in bare feet - that liquid on the floor isn't water.
@@mxyzptlyk exactly
With your great looks Noel you should get automatic access to the best lounge in any airport!
😂
Making comparisons between procedures, flight conditions, fares, meals and snacks served is very instructive and interesting !! Thank you !!
I enjoyed your interview/podcast talk with Airline Videos Noel.
I fly United a lot because i get a Veterans discount on them. I tried First Class on a flight from San Francisco to Las Vegas with the wife became United offered for a slight upcharge. I didn't mind the seats were a little worn, i had room. I'm on the "fluffy" side so economy can be rough. We even splurged going to Hawaii for vacation this year. We got to fly in Polaris both ways and loved it. So we can save for Disney Paris in 4 years. 😁😁😁
I Like the USA entertainment & WiFi. The seat looked amazing. The Europe meal was presented better but the portions in USA look more. Definitely worth it. USA First For Sure. Excellent video Noel. Much Love Noel On to the next one. ❤
I thought Noel used too add a link to the music he uses? some of it is really good.
Great video as always Noel
I look forward soooo much to your next video Noel! You are so down to earth as a neighbor sitting outside having a beer with! I am addicted to to your videos Noel.......there is only two other like-minded travel youtubers that i subscribe to......and, out of total respect to you, I will not mention them here. 👍😉😃
Great editing Noel!
Austrian here. Once flew "First Class" Newark-Asheville on United operated by something. Not expecting a luxury meal on that flight. But what we got was still disappointing. Seated in a seat where the leather was cracked and the mechanics broken, we got a cup of juice served by a grumpy guy. That was it. I'll take Lufthansa or Austrian Airlines service over that anytime....
Probably was an Embraer or CRJ if it went to Asheville. Def not as higher level experience
I took a United Polaris Dreamliner 787 flight from San Francisco to Chicago. It was amazing. Few ground benefits but the hard product was top notch and food was average. Your US domestic first class/business class experience will vary dramatically sorry to say.
I think it comes down to someone's preference. For me, I'd take the US domestic fight anyday. And if I didn't take Southwest Airlines, I'd take Delta instead! Your trips were once again fascinating this week and really gives you a chance to think which one is preferable when travelling. Both prices were almost equal, albeit not bad for what you get. I wouldn't mind getting in one of those lounges as I've never done that before, nor have I ever traveled internationally either.
Great video Noel. As someone based in the UK. This is really interesting.
Glad you enjoyed it!
At least within Europe and within the U.S. the markets are different for at least two reasons. This might at least partly explain why in-flight services in Europe are at a lower level
1. the size of the continents. Last month I flew across most of Europe, from Luxembourg in the north-west to Crete (Greece) in the south-east, in just three hours. Passengers spend less time in the planes.
2. competition from railways. In most European countries trains are a good alternative to flying. In order to stay in the race European airlines are on a tight rope to keep profitable domestic (i.e. intra-European) flights.
Long haul flights to/from Europe are a different story.
Texas = France: Alaska = Continental Europe.
@@bodyloverz30 Alaska isn't as big as continental Europe lmao.
@@navyocean2477 Yes it is.
Would love to see more economy class content as everybody are doing luxury seat reviews these days. Apart from that it’s also much more relevant to us viewers to watch as it’s what most of us have to travel on anyways. Economy plus reviews would be interesting too.
Good to see you on AVL, Noel. Kev and Rudy are good friends.
Gotta say, I love your loo reviews. They make me laugh, especially when you show off bog roll like a model on The Price is Right, lol!
You the man Noel! Was out all night, for 16 hours, at a horror movie marathon at a local drive in and havent slept yet!! Not gonna until i finish your video.. Keep em coming
I find European flight crews to be - generally - more friendly and seemingly caring more about their job. Also, there's some significant variety in Europe on things like wifi and this is generally thanks to the age of the aircraft...I find there is more often wifi than not to be honest. Great video Noel.
Best way to start a trip; watching Noel in the airport while waiting the flight✈️
Great content as always.
I've been to the US in two occasions but never had the chance to try out their domestic flights or airlines. Great video as usual though and as most people would think, it just comes to personal preference. United's first class on the A321-NEO looks pretty decent. Keep it up! 😍😍
I counter with Asian airlines. In my experience I got the lounge access and the onboard experience.
Looking forward to then comparing these to Asian and even Australian Business Class!
Not having in flight entertainment is a game changer. And what’s up with the leg room? I’m glad I saw this, because I’m planning a trip to Europe.
Great vlog as always! I would go for the c-class light option. I never use the «yuppy day care» or Fast track. I always get pulled aside anyway. Lol! Keep up the good work. Be safe!
Sunday cuppa and a Noel vid. Epic 😊
My biggest problem with EU operators is that we don't even get power on the seats, sometimes not even on 10+ hour long haul in economy.
Economy eschmonomy.
Sound really chipper mate, you must be in a good place. Nice to see, nice to know. Comes across in the vid
I can't believe that European Business Class is so sparce on amenities. Not even IFE????
Thanks for another great, informative and fun video Noel. I love your stuff mate and always look forward to another one dropping. Thanks Noel
If you want to try european business class, try Aegean Airlines. Even if you disembark remotely, they sent a dedicated bus for the business class passengers. Even if you are the only one
I love your videos so much ahhhhh. Who needs therapy when you've got the Noel's toilet review 🚻😂
I'm looking at flights from Cancun to Miami, to do a day in Miami. Omgggg. It's so expensive for a 2hr (less) flight. Think I'll do a day in Mexico city or Havana instead.
This is my first trip out of Europe, so I'm absolutely buzzing!!
Nervous, but absolutely filled with excitement. 😍
Thanks so much for your videos! You've helped me get through a difficult time in my life. Thanks so much!
I'm so glad!
Totally correct, however for just 2 hours I wouldn't bother with business class anyway, maybe I'd just pay for lounge access then. Lounges are far more interesting to me if they have showers etc. it's just such a relaxed way to prepare for a flight. Business class I see as valuable on the long haul.
New to your channel...came over from the macmaster channel.
Great content...we'll be watching you carefully 😂😂❤❤
Welcome!!
To answer the question, US First all the way. There’s absolutely no comparison in the hard products.
As far as lounge access: virtually every European flight is an international flight, which necessitates lounges everywhere. I’ve been to dozens of US airports which don’t have a single international flight, hence no lounge. It’s much easier to standardize on that rather than spotty lounge coverage.
"European Cuisine is a bit more fancy and bitty bobby"........made me laugh out loud ! Brilliant "Noelism".
I once flew fairly regularly between Amman, Jordan (AMM) and Paris (CDG) in Air France Business Class. It was very similar to your experience despite being a longer flight at 4 1/2 hours.
On LATAM domestic, the economy seats at the front with an empty middle seat is called premium economy. Personally, I think that would be a more appropriate naming scheme for European 'business class'. [I'm excluding Turkish frim that as they do have an appropriate business short haul product]
That is true but they also come without lounge access. Having said that they are so cheap as a big guy who has hold luggage they're perfect. South American lounges are so cheap you can buy your way in for no more than a Lounge Pass ticket.
@edg84 Very true, but my comment is more about the seating. The seating arrangement on LATAM is identical to European 'Business Class' but they more honestly call it Premium Economy, which is a significantly more accurate description AND LATAM actually have notices on the luggage bins that they are for the premium economy passengers only, which is better than European carriers, since cheeky steerage passengers chuck their luggage above the 'business' seats on the way past. On lounges, you need to have enough time to use them and many European carrier just use contract lounges, which I could access with my LoungeKey or Priority Pass. In Brazil, I just used the lounges with my LoungeKey if in Premium Economy domestic.
@@mikefish8226 yeah I do the same. Avianca also sell it as the same no frills product, just a better seat. Both are similar, I just use Latam as I get Avios from all trips with them.
Bitty-bobby, argy-bargy, I just love listening to your videos! Earlier this year I was able to upgrade to US domestic first on a flight back from Orlando to Phoenix at a low price. I showed her this and she and I agreed we are quite spoiled when it comes to domestic "business". Though the food did look nice!
Ha, I recognised the airport at Chicago at 9:07 from home alone 2!!
Interesting video, Noel… it’s decent seat vs lounge access isn’t it really?
For a European flight, I wouldn’t even consider buying Business Class as I’m not going to be on the plane long enough to warrant the cost! But when I lived Stateside, I was upgraded to Business once on American, as my original flight was overbooked and they asked for volunteers etc. The seat room and food was excellent. And in addition to the upgrade, I got a meal voucher for the airport and a free return flight anywhere within CONUS! I used that to get from OKC to EWR when I was leaving the US after moving home.
I'd definitely go with united. Even just them having a mobile app with inflight entertainment is definitely a big plus. Inflight entertainment is quite important
I was just on a trip to the US, all business and "first", excluding the long hauls, ITA business B-, Delta First B+, Delta First B, Air France C. Got lounge access with all because of the long hauls. Really liked the Delta Lounges, ITA was a priority pass lounge so it was packed, Air France lounges at JFK and especially CDG were gorgeous but I preferred the Delta lounges at Kennedy and Orlando.
Best Inter Euro Business I've experienced is BA. After an overnight flight our two hour flight from London featured a full English and a bottle of champagne haha. B+
Great video Noel 😊
Glad you enjoyed it
I tend to prefer the US premium cabins, primarily for the better seats/space, and wifi availability. I am over 6ft tall so having a lot of legroom makes a big difference for me
I like the Domestic First seat. Always feel a bit of bad when I have lounge access in the US as a BA Gold member, even when flying in Eco :) I feel that lounge access is one of the key advantages on being a Business Class or status member on shorter connections - you simply waste less time at the airport...
That Business Lounge in Frankfurt really lives up to its name, everyone seems to be doing business.
Meanwhile in 2017, I had lounge access in economy class. Bangkok Airways flight from Mandalay (Myanmar) to Chiang Mai (Thailand). It was nothing fancy but it was a lounge after all. I wished I dreessed more smartly in my cargo shorts and t-shirt with sandals on my feet.
If you have the money go business / first that's a no brainer. However most people flying today cost is a concern ...buy a flight and seat take your own food and entertainment. Still gets you there just as fast as the posh people.
When you do your cost on the screen for your business class you could also put up the cattle class price as a more meaningful comparison.
Great vlog as usual Noel.x
0:13 never would i ever think i would ask that, but now im curious and need to know
Thank you! I book first class in the US but you always call it business class. And yea, I’m with Delta 99% of the time. The only lounge is the Sky Club, with requires an AMEX to get in. I do use Priority Pass tho, which has some nice perks.
I flew in economy class from Frankfurt to Brisbane in 2019. The flight over wasn’t bad then my flight to Boston had a problem with the engine so we had to deplane and wait for another plane to get us back to Boston.
I paid 60€ once for a KLM upgrade from HEL>AMS at check in to avoid paying 90€ for my extra bag. I was pleased that my boarding pass then enabled lounge access in AMS for my Y long haul flight to BOS on the same booking. Definitely worth it but never come across upgrades that cheap in the US.
Imagine if european airlines had entertainment screens in economy for short haul flights...
Depending which airline you use, they do.
@@KeithChegwin24 What airlines have it in their narrowbodies that fly only in the continent?
@@KeithChegwin24 no they dont
Europeans aren’t as brainrotted as Americans typically so we don’t need constant entertainment on a 2h flight
Tui often use their 787's on short haul European flights in high season and they have screens .
So random but I was thinking the other day that I’d never seen you in Orlando!
When i was in the US in 2015, i saw an ad for flatbeds on AA for their coast to coast flights on an a321.
I mean at the end of the day it seems logical as a good portion of US routes are longer than even the longest Euro J routes and US carriers need to use their jets on anything from 60 minutes to 7 hours vs inter-European flights. Also the Euro business model is probably primarily for connecting long haul passengers vs the one segment point A-B. Euro J allows the marketing carrier to provide a "business" class seat end to end without re-configuring a short haul aircraft, but also allows flexibility for charter/leisure operations.
Icelandair have the two wider seat config in their business class (Saga Class). And in flight entertainment is standard on all seats, not just business.
Enjoyed seeing you on AVL :)
Thank you, it was a blast!
When I flew United "first class", I loved the heated nuts, and I do not normally eat nuts. But something about how they heated those nuts was just amazing, and I've not been able to recreate that at home.
Still, when I was flying the 4 hour flights on United, I hated that first class ranged from, "You just get a larger seat" to "Here's a primo, angled seat with bed-like reclining functions, big screen, etc."
in Europe, the airlines use their planes for loadings and "the curtain" can and does get moved if more/less business class seats are sold so the airlines can flex the amount of punters they have on the plane. So they need fewer planes. plus there is so little competition on business class routes they can get away with it.
Enjoyed that one Noel👍
Thanks 👍
You are so great Noel Phillips
I would love the see in Europe a cabin like in America, but for me personally the food especially from caterer like Do & Co is great here. Amazing video 👌 Thanks Noel 😊
First Class/Premium is best on long-haul flights, say SFO-EWR. Anything under 2-3 hours, Low cost carriers will suffice. I was honestly surprised that Lufthansa experience didn't surpass United. United is great for coast to coast flights. Thank you for the insights, Noel.
I think I’d take the US experience. I done both several times. Thanks Noel!
1:28 ~ OMG, Polly Pocket; is that still a thing???
The original company was bought out and eventually ended up with Mattel - who relaunched it with all new products. This may be the second relaunch, even.
US domestic first, I care more about the seat comfort, everything else is just extras. When I pay for premium cabins, it's because I don't want to be squished into a small seat next to a stranger on a longer flight. I typically don't fly intra Euro biz unless it's included with a longer booking or the cost to upgrade is nominal. I recently upgraded to biz for a little over $100 on Swiss on the A220, that was worth it to me since I have the whole port side row to myself on that aircraft with the 2-3 config, and Swiss is known to harass people about carry on weight in economy so that alone was worth the upgrade at that cost.
Business class in Australia on domestic flights has seats that are much like the US ones. Although if you are flying domestic business class on Qantas you do get access to the Qantas Club. (never been inside a Qantas Club although many many years ago I remember being a guest in the Ansett Golden Wing Lounge at Perth Airport back when that was a thing)
At least you had the middle seat with Lufthansa 😉. Flying business class on a Finnair Embraer 190 between Geneva and Helsinki, seats are identical to economy, same width, same legroom. During the 3 hour trip, it was impossible for me to work on my laptop as the passenger in front of me has reclined his seat. I had shared this frustrating experience with Finnair client services (which added more frustration to my experience unfortunately).
To be fair, I've also flown on an Airbus with Finnair, also between Geneva and Helsinki. And it was much better.
I preffer united and the whole enchilada thing. Much better experience 🤭👏
Personally, except for a long layover, I’d rather hurry up and get to my gate. As for the legroom, I might pay a little more for the exit row.
You do get lounge access for domestic United Business First but just United Club - not Polaris!
A great majority of flights in EU are 1-3 hours. I will fly ryanair and save money/points for the longer flights for that length of flight.
For a short haul flight like this I would prefer the European because of the ground experience. Short security, lounge and getting your checked bag first etc makes the teip way more relaxing. But then again, you get the same thing if you have status so i dont know 🤷
You should do an Asia vs Australia business class review as well Noel.
Pre boarding in the USA is such a con, pay for an expensive ticket and half the flight magically become disabled before you board.
Strictly grading the on board product I would take the United experience based on the 2 airlines rated here.
The main reason for the difference in seats is that most European carriers adjust their Business Class to what is needed. The Curtain is movable.
If you have more passengers booked in business you just move the curtain two rows back and vice versa if you have very little bookings up front
It depends on the airline. Try BA business class. Brilliant.
Eating that second meal gave us a lot of clues
I've always thought you are travelling in style when you get warm nuts.
I Love this Channel!!!
Great vlog again Noel just not worth business class for a short flight not worth the money but the usa seats look far better
4:34 I am convinced. I spent 5 hours on the tightest 757 of this airline in Eco once a year ago. It was great fun with this airline so far. No complains. But for this year, I upgraded myself to First class at united on a flight between Dulles and Houston.
I often upgrade inneeuropean flights to Business because of the lounge access and the bag rules. Also like this one between FRA to LIS.