Air France Business Class: Tahiti to LA - Is it Worth the Upgrade?

Air France Business Class: A Flight to Remember (and Some Things to Forget)

Dreaming of Tahiti? My recent Air France Business Class experience from Papeete (PPT) to Los Angeles (LAX) offered a mix of South Pacific charm and a few unexpected bumps. Departing PPT, the pre-flight lounge was a welcome oasis, surprisingly spacious for the small airport. It's a shared space for international airlines, a definite upgrade from the terminal bustle.

Upon boarding, the 1x2x1 cabin configuration ensured direct aisle access for every passenger. The flight attendants, sporting Polynesian attire, added a touch of local flair. A hot towel and menus were promptly distributed, setting the stage for a themed dining experience.

The initial meal featured a Polynesian-inspired starter: Roast French Polynesian Shrimp and Sweet Potato Salad. For the main course, I opted for the Polynesian Chicken Fafa with Fei Banana Rice and Pan-fried Pumpkin, a delightful choice that exceeded expectations. The cheese selection was generous, though the tarts, sadly, didn't quite live up to the hype. The wine list included a 2016 Pessac-Leognan La Garde Bordeaux blend and a 2018 Santenay Bouchard Pere & Fils Pinot Noir for red wine enthusiasts, and a 2016 Couvent Des Jacobins Jadot Chardonnay or a 2018 Chateau L’Hospitalet Gerard Bertrand for white wine drinkers.

The Zodiac Cirrus reverse herringbone seats, while familiar from other airlines, presented some comfort challenges. The side seat controls were awkwardly placed, leading to accidental seat adjustments during my attempt to nap. While the seat reclined fully flat, I found the coffin-like position a bit claustrophobic. However, the in-flight entertainment system offered a wide selection of movies, and the noise-canceling headphones were adequate.

One notable drawback was the limited number of lavatories for Business Class passengers. While waiting wasn't a major issue, three toilets would have been preferable. Also, while free messaging was available, Wi-Fi was not offered on this particular aircraft.

The pre-arrival meal, served about 90 minutes before landing, included a bowl of plain yogurt, a sweet mini loaf, and a blueberry tartlet. While the light snack was sufficient for the short flight, it might be disappointing on a longer journey.

Overall, the Air France Business Class experience offered a taste of Polynesian hospitality and a comfortable journey. While some aspects, like the seat controls and lavatory availability, could be improved, the friendly service and themed dining made for a memorable flight. Date: October 26, 2024