Established airlines are working on enhancing the commercial flying experience, prompting boutique carriers to follow suit by offering business-class privileges and thoughtful amenities for all passengers. In recent months, Delta, American, and United have all announced their plans to invest in more premium seating options on their flights. This new arrangement will provide passengers with additional benefits such as extra legroom and improved meal offerings. Bloomberg reported on Thursday that smaller luxury-focused operators have taken notice and are now introducing lavish features to pamper their passengers.
Consider BeOnd, an airline originating from the Maldives, as an illustration. Set to launch this autumn, BeOnd will provide nonstop flights to prominent destinations like Dubai, Delhi, and more, with fares beginning at $1,500 for one-way journeys. By the end of 2023, BeOnd will serve a total of seven cities. The most notable perk is that all 68 seats on their planes will fully recline into a lie-flat position. These seats, custom designed by Optimares, will also be equipped with iPad Pros and wireless headsets.
When it comes to luggage, travelers have the option of checking their bags from home and having them delivered directly to the plane through concierge services, eliminating the need to drag them through the airport. Additionally, depending on the destination, BeOnd will fly in and out of a private terminal, avoiding crowds. This also translates to shorter security lines and expedited immigration services. “We really want to make travel hassle-free,” stated Tero Taskila, the CEO of BeOnd, in an interview with Bloomberg. “We are targeting people who have been unable to find space in first class on other airlines or cannot afford it due to being a family of four.”
Likewise, Starlux, an airline based in Taiwan that commenced operations in 2020, has formed a partnership with PS LAX and presents an exclusive door-to-door chauffeur service for its passengers. Onboard, passengers can enjoy four different cabin classes. Even those traveling in economy class will benefit from more spacious seating, larger screens, and elegant finishes designed by BMW Designworks.
La Compagnie, a French all-business-class airline operating from Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey to Paris-Orly Airport, has garnered its own dedicated following. Currently, round-trip tickets start at $2,400. Throughout the week, La Compagnie offers additional flights to Milan, and during the summer, direct routes to Nice. If you need a reminder of how glamorous commercial flying can be, all of La Compagnie’s aircraft are configured with lie-flat seats, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and chef-catered cuisine.
In summary, both established and boutique airlines are striving to elevate the flying experience. With a focus on premium amenities and personalized services, these carriers are making air travel more luxurious and convenient for passengers.
