Air France A350-900 Business Class: Best Seats (A Thai Airways Perspective)
While this post focuses on the Air France A350-900 Business Class experience, it's written with a unique perspective: comparing and contrasting the experience with what you might expect from a carrier like Thai Airways. Both airlines offer excellent long-haul travel, but their approaches differ significantly, offering distinct advantages depending on your preferences. Let's dive into finding the *best* seats on the Air France A350-900 Business Class, and how they stack up against what you're used to (or might expect) from Thai Airways.
The Layflat Magic: Comparing the Suites
Both Air France and Thai Airways boast impressive lie-flat business class seats, but the experience differs. Thai Airways often prioritizes a more traditional, slightly more enclosed feel, while Air France tends towards a more modern, open design. On the Air France A350-900, the best seats are generally considered to be those in the **forward cabin**, offering greater privacy and often quicker access to amenities. They also tend to experience less noise from the galleys and lavatories. While Thai Airways offers a comfortable lie-flat experience, they might not provide the same level of space or privacy, particularly in older aircraft. The overall feeling is often one of quiet elegance versus Air France's sleek modernity.
Window vs. Aisle: The Age-Old Dilemma
The age-old question remains: window or aisle? On the Air France A350-900, window seats provide ample privacy and a stunning view (especially at night!), while aisle access is undeniably convenient. Think about your preferences: if you value uninterrupted sleep and personal space, a window seat might be preferable. If you frequently need to use the lavatory or stretch your legs, an aisle seat is the better choice. Comparatively, Thai Airways might offer a slightly narrower aisle, impacting the aisle seat experience. The window seats, however, often feel more comparable in terms of width and privacy.
Avoiding the Middle Seats: Strategic Seat Selection
While Air France A350-900 Business Class doesn't have middle seats in the traditional sense, certain rows might be less desirable due to proximity to galleys or lavatories. Using online seat maps (available on Air France's website or through third-party booking sites) is crucial to visualize the cabin layout and choose accordingly. Thai Airways seat selection also requires careful consideration, but their cabin layouts can vary significantly between aircraft types. Remember to check for obstructed views or proximity to noise-generating areas.
Beyond the Seat: Amenities and Service
While seat selection is paramount, don't forget the overall experience. Both Air France and Thai Airways excel in providing excellent service and amenities. However, their approaches to catering and in-flight entertainment might differ. Air France might offer a more contemporary menu with a stronger emphasis on French cuisine, while Thai Airways might focus on a more regionally inspired and traditional culinary experience. This difference extends to the in-flight entertainment system as well, with each airline showcasing its unique selection of movies, music, and TV shows. This is where personal preference greatly influences your perception of "best."
Conclusion: Your Perfect Air France A350-900 Business Class Experience
Ultimately, the "best" seat on an Air France A350-900 Business Class flight depends on your personal priorities and preferences. By carefully considering the factors discussed above—location relative to galleys, window versus aisle preference, and even considering your previous experiences (perhaps on Thai Airways), you can find the perfect spot for a comfortable and enjoyable flight. Happy travels!