Business Class on a Budget: My La Compagnie Experience
Flying business class across the Atlantic usually comes with sky-high fares, but a small French airline has built its reputation on making premium travel more accessible. La Compagnie operates all-business-class flights between Europe and the United States, offering lie-flat seats, French hospitality, and gourmet touches at prices significantly lower than traditional carriers.
La Compagnie, the French boutique airline, has carved a niche in the competitive transatlantic market by offering an all-business-class experience that blends luxury, efficiency, and affordability. Operating routes between New York and Paris, Milan, and Nice, the airline’s fleet of Airbus A321neo aircraft is configured with just 76 lie-flat seats in a spacious 2-2 layout, creating an atmosphere more akin to a private jet than a commercial airliner.
Cabin Comfort and Design
- Fully flat bed seats extend to 192 cm and include plush mattresses, hypoallergenic pillows, and soft blankets.
- Each seat features 15.6-inch entertainment screens, adjustable lighting, personal storage, power outlets, and Caudalie skincare amenity kits.
- LED mood lighting and minimalist French design contribute to a serene, upscale ambiance.
Gourmet Dining Experience
- Seasonal menus are curated by renowned chefs like Christophe Langrée and David Toutain, offering four-course meals with chilled appetizers, hot entrées, artisanal cheeses, and desserts.
- Overnight flights prioritize rest with lighter fare such as gourmet salads, soups, and cheese plates, followed by a full breakfast featuring Maison Kayser croissants.
- Beverage service includes Piper-Heidsieck Champagne, organic French wines selected by Bettane+Desseauve, and a wide array of spirits and juices.
Connectivity and Entertainment
- Unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi is complimentary for all passengers, with access to news, entertainment, and exclusive partner content.
- Entertainment includes a rotating selection of films and music curated in partnership with mk2.
Streamlined Ground Experience
- Check-in is available up to 50 minutes before departure, with priority security access and swift boarding thanks to the small passenger count.
- Premium lounges at departure airports offer quiet spaces for relaxation or last-minute meetings.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Lounge Name: LOUNGE&CO
Location: Terminal B, Satellite B2, near gates B51–B57
Paris Orly Airport (ORY)
Terminal: Terminal 4
Lounges Available: Primeclass Lounge (included with Promo and Smart fares), Extime Lounge (included with Flex fares; available to others for a fee)
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Lounge Name: Montale Lounge
Location: Boarding Area – Extra Schengen – First Floor - The airline’s terminals are strategically located near city centers, minimizing ground transit time.
- Pets are welcome in the cabin (except large dogs), and sports equipment like skis travel free, catering to leisure and adventure travelers.
Corporate and Flexible Travel
Frequent promotions and seasonal sales make its fares even more competitive. Corporate rates are 30–50% lower than traditional business class fares, with fully flexible tickets allowing changes or cancellations without penalties. Round-trip fares typically start around $2,500–$2,900, depending on the route and season.
La Compagnie’s model proves that premium air travel doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. By focusing on comfort, culinary excellence, and operational efficiency, it offers a compelling alternative to legacy carriers—especially for business travelers and discerning leisure passengers seeking value without compromise.
Related news: https://airguide.info/category/magazineonline/airlines/airline-in-flight-services/
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com