On the Ground: There was virtually no wait in the dedicated check-in line for Premium Voyageur passengers, and pleasant, efficient agents assisted us quickly. Our bags received priority tags, we moved through the dedicated security lane without delay, and headed to L’Espace Lounge.
The lounge is compact and divided into distinct zones for dining, watching television, or using the internet, though not into private rooms. The décor is minimalist and shows some wear, but the space was clean. Large windows fitted with opaque shades allowed natural light while hiding rooftop ducts and air-conditioning units. Leather club chairs, side tables, lamps and plentiful electrical outlets provided comfortable seating. I set up my laptop and accessed the complimentary Wi-Fi, while my husband checked the three workstations; one terminal was nonfunctional and the others were slow.
We arrived just before 1 p.m. and had hoped for a hot lunch, but food options were limited to prepackaged snacks and small rounds of cheese. A short time later a few small sandwiches were put out, but they were gone before I could reach them. The beverage selection was good, with sodas, bottled water and a self-service station offering wines, Champagne and spirits. A boarding announcement that noted the time needed to reach our gate was especially helpful.
Pre-flight: Boarding was via a separate entrance, although our seats were located behind the economy-class doorway, which delayed the start of inflight service. Each seat was equipped with an amenity kit (ear plugs, eye shade, toothbrush, comb, shoehorn, moisturizer, headphone covers, socks and a shoe bag), a blanket, pillow and bottled water. Seats also featured a USB port and electrical outlet, an individual reading lamp, headphones and storage space for personal items. After boarding completed, attendants offered Champagne, juices and a selection of newspapers.
In-flight: Dinner was presented on white linen and china, beginning with an amuse-bouche of quail with chestnuts and cranberry preserves (accompanied by more Champagne). The starter course included a smoked duck and scallop flan and a seasonal salad. The only disappointment was the rolls, which arrived cold and somewhat dry. For mains there were three entrées plus a special chicken dish; we both chose the tournedos of beef in shallot sauce and enjoyed it with two well-chosen red wines. A cheese course followed, featuring brie and camembert served at the right temperature, and the meal concluded with a trio of miniature desserts and a choice of coffee, tea or after-dinner liqueurs.
After lights were dimmed, I sampled the onboard entertainment system—movies, TV series, games and music—then reclined my seat into its shell and raised the footrest to reach a comfortably angled position for several hours of rest. While most cabins tend to run cool for sleeping, this flight felt warmer than I prefer.
Breakfast was served about 90 minutes before arrival in Paris. It began with fresh fruit—the pineapple was notably sweet and juicy—along with yogurt and pastries. Main choices included an omelet with hash browns, blueberry crêpes, or a cold plate of preserved meats and cheeses. I enjoyed the crêpes; my husband, who was the last to be served, received the cold plate, which was disappointing given that the forward cabin was not full. Since we don’t drink coffee, the hot chocolate—thick, creamy and rich—was particularly satisfying.
The Experience: This was my first flight with Air France and one I would happily take again. The comfortable seating, attentive service and well-executed food and wine made the nearly 11-hour journey enjoyable.
GT Checklist
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Friendly and helpful agents
- Priority tagged bags
- Airport lounge
- Complimentary in-lounge food and beverages
- Priority boarding
- Helpful and courteous in-flight staff
- Pre-flight beverage service
- Pre-flight newspapers and magazines
- Amenity kits
- Slippers
- Lie-flat seat/bed
- Mattress pad and comforter
- In-flight menu offering choice of three entrées
- Top-shelf wines and liquors