Issue link: https://www.balharbourdigital.com/i/1532915
C O U R T E S Y O F R U T H A N N B LU N D E L L , C O N T I N E N TA L A I R L I N E S A R C H I V E , A I R F R A N C E Air France Prior to takeoff The French flag carrier's ongoing facelift is part of its attempt to carve out a premium tier above its European rivals. 1A? The three-seat cabin stretches along five windows of the fuselage, and incorporates three standalone spaces per traveler: a seat, flat bed, and chaise lounge. Dining at 36,000 feet Naturally, there's a frisson of excitement around the food onboard. Triple Michelin–starred chef Emmanuel Renaut remains in charge of appetizers and entrées—yes, there might be foie gras with salsify— while pâtissière Claire Heitzler has created a roster of seven desserts, including a triple chocolate cloud. Catwalk on the runway Whisper it, but Air France's uniforms seem a little passé: This year, the Lacroix-designed outfits will have been at work for two decades. Key route Anywhere the 777- 300ER is operated, especially Transatlantic routes like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Conversation-starter La Première fliers don't need to mix with the hoi polloi: there's a dedicated private check-in, and a private passageway leading to the 10,700-square-foot La Première lounge, with food by chef Alain Ducasse. Book one of the butler-managed suites, with bedroom and outdoor patio, for maximum comfort. Meals by a three Michelin– starred chef are a staple. COMINGS & GOINGS high flying As wealthy travelers recognize that a private jet is far less comfortable long haul than the pointiest end of a commercial plane, carriers around the world are responding with impressively upgraded top-tier cabins. Here, our pick of the five best flying right now, or soon to take to the air. BY MARK ELLWOOD BALHAR B O U RSH O P S .CO M