Air France

Air France was born in 1933, a combination of five existing French airlines and as such was one of the pioneers of civil aviation. Competition has grown in the last two decades after the "Open Skies" Agreement with the result that many airlines looked at how they could strengthen their position. In 2003, Air France and the Dutch national carrier, KLM, announced they intended to form a merger by an International Public Offering (IPO) for KLM shares and that was launched in April 2004.

The two prestigious brands remained to take advantage of the loyal customers both already had. Paris-Charles de Gaulle remains Air France’s headquarters. Subsequently, an arrangement made with Delta Airlines for Trans-Atlantic collaboration has strengthened its hand even further with Alitalia joining up a year later.

• Offers destinations in North America and the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East and Asia as well, of course, as the notable cities of Europe.
• Provides the quality of service and cuisine that you would expect of a French company.
• Well-established world brand in aviation with all the strength that such a status brings with it.
• Modern fleet and therefore can offer the latest modern technology in every aspect of its business.
• Committed to eco-friendly policies relating to every aspect of its operation.

You can check in and select your seat within 30 hours of your flight. It means that your experience at the airport does not involve queuing to get your boarding pass; you merely need to drop off your luggage.

First Class passengers have all the airport procedures done for them as they relax in a special lounge, before the complete security formalities. Business travellers likewise have priority to avoid the ‘’bureaucracy’’ that modern airport travel involves

The in-flight entertainment on board an Air France flight involves a choice of films, music on CD or radio channel and games which will keep children amused, even on the longest flights.
There are several categories of films and regular updates to new releases.

Likewise, television is split into popular categories such as comedy, sport, business, comedy and drama. There are channels specific to children, plenty of computer games and music in many forms; CD, radio and concert clips.

It is important to check the baggage regulations when you book your flight because there are some variations depending upon your destination. It is possible to buy extra allowance beyond what Air France will give you free.

You should ensure your luggage is no larger than 158 cm when height, length and width are added together. Anything that is larger will be categorised as ‘’oversized’’ and you will be liable to a fee. Your weight allowance on an economy or premium economy ticket is 23 kgs. while Business and La Premiere travellers are allowed 32 kgs.

Anyone who would prefer to get rid of their baggage well in advance of the flight can check their baggage in 24 hours in advance at no charge. It will be stored and there for you as you fly.

Hand baggage must not exceed 8 kgs., dimensions 55 x 35 x 25 cms. If you have an additional accessory the total weight allowed in the cabin varies from 12 kgs. to 18 kgs., depending on your class of ticket. Accessories allowed include a small handbag, laptop or briefcase. Jackets, umbrellas, duty free or essential items such as wheelchairs or crutches are not included within the allowances.

First Class travel with Air France is certainly that. Passengers are met on arrival where their baggage is taken to a private check-in lounge. They can relax and await their flight while staff handles all necessary procedures other than security but that is prioritised before a short journey in luxury car to the aircraft.

La Premiere Cabin is home for the flight, spacious, comfortable and private with cloakroom and storage space. Effectively, you have a private suite with your seat transforming into a comfortable bed guaranteeing a good night’s sleep. In-flight entertainment satisfies every taste in film, television and music while the cuisine is the creation of such famous chefs as Michel Roth and Guy Martin with regular changes in the menus.

Business Class passengers can use a priority check-in area with staff assistance where required. There is a business lounge and the business cabin offers a spacious area that converts into a bed at night. Those needing to work while flying will have the space and technology to do so. There is the same excellent choice of cuisine and fine wines.

Super Economy offers a lounge and priority check-in while you do not have to join the queues to board. There are free drinks and snacks with a choice from two meal options.
Economy travellers can check in online and select their set starting 30 hours before the flight. Adjustable seats ensure a comfortable journey while the choice of meals and the comfortable tray on which food and drinks are served make dining a pleasure.

Air France is undoubtedly one of the top airlines worldwide. It won Europe’s Leading Airline – Economy Class in 2015 and Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline – First Class the same year in the World Travel Awards.

Subsequently it has received several nominations under these Awards as Europe’s Leading Airline in total, and Leading Airline under First Class, Business and Economy Class as well as for Africa and Asia for 2017, having received 10 nominations in 2016.

It shows the regard that the industry has for Air France which in itself makes it an airline you should seriously consider seriously next time you need to book a flight.