In anticipation of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Air France is redefining the premium travel experience with the introduction of La Première, an ultra-exclusive airport lounge complex at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). While the focus for the Olympics may be on athletic competition, Air France is capitalising on this global spotlight to showcase its commitment to unparalleled luxury air travel. 

La Première goes beyond the traditional concept of an airport lounge, instead offering a completely private travel experience tailored to La Première passengers, Air France's first-class cabin.

A Seamless and Luxurious Journey from Arrival to Departure

From the moment La Première passengers touch down at CDG, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of exclusivity and personalised service. A dedicated concierge greets them upon arrival, whisking away luggage and handling all pre-departure formalities with efficiency. A private passage ensures a smooth and swift transition through airport security, eliminating the usual queues and frustrations.

The La Première Lounge

Upon entering the La Première Lounge, designed by the renowned agency SGK Paris, passengers are greeted by an oasis of tranquillity. The beautifully appointed space embodies French elegance and sophistication, offering a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the airport. Passengers can unwind in plush seating areas, savour culinary delights from a menu curated by celebrity chef Alain Ducasse, or indulge in pampering treatments at a spa operated by the prestigious French beauty brand Sisley.

The Pinnacle of Airport Luxury: Private Suites

For those seeking an unparalleled level of exclusivity, La Première offers a limited number of private suites adjoining the main lounge. These havens of luxury, each measuring nearly 500 square feet, provide everything a discerning traveller could desire:

• A comfortable living area perfect for relaxation and socialising, furnished with plush seating and top-of-the-line amenities.
• A luxurious double bedroom offering ultimate comfort and privacy, ensuring a restful pre-flight experience.
• A spacious bathroom stocked with premium toiletries, allowing guests to freshen up before their flight in style.
• An outdoor patio provides a breath of fresh air and captivating Parisian views, ideal for a moment of reflection or a private conversation.

To ensure an unparalleled level of service, a dedicated butler is on hand to cater to guests' every need, from drawing a relaxing bath to ensuring a seamless boarding experience. These private havens can be interconnected to create an even larger space for families or groups and are available for an additional fee starting from €800.

A Potential First-Class Renaissance

Air France's investment in La Première comes amidst a shifting landscape within the airline industry. While some carriers have opted to phase out first-class cabins altogether, focusing on a more refined business-class experience, there are signs of a potential first-class revival. Qatar Airways recently announced the development of a new first-class cabin, reversing course after previously dismissing the concept. Similarly, U.S. domestic carriers like American Airlines are bolstering their domestic first-class offerings.

Skift's 2022 Megatrends report identified the rise of premium leisure air travel. Air France's La Première directly caters to this trend, offering an unparalleled level of luxury and exclusivity for discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable travel experience. While the broader implications for the future of first-class travel remain to be seen, Air France's La Première undoubtedly makes a bold statement in the realm of premium air travel, setting a new benchmark for luxury and personalised service. La Première stands to redefine the way we think about airport lounges, transforming them into luxurious havens that cater to every whim of the most discerning traveller.