Air France has unveiled its new La Première suites, which are being introduced onto a selection of Boeing 777-300ER aircraft from spring onwards.
The first aircraft to receive the new suites will be flying from Paris to New York, with other destinations including Los Angeles, Singapore, and Tokyo-Haneda to be added this summer.
Each of the new suites is almost 3.5 sqm, up from the previous suites’ three sqm.
Four suites will be fitted per aircraft and will be positioned at the front.
A key change to the design is that the side suites will include five windows to allow natural light into the cabin, complete with blackout layer and a translucent shade.
The French carrier has also chosen floor-level storage instead of overhead compartments, in order to create a more spacious feel.
As for seating, the suite is fitted with a chaise longue that converts into a two-metre-long, 75-centimetre-wide, lie-flat bed, as well as a seat positioned opposite.
Both can be adjusted using a wireless touchscreen tablet, which also allows passengers to browse IFE options and dim their windows.
There’s a small table positioned next to the seat, with a pop-out panel that can swing over the passenger’s lap.
Each suite has two 4K, 32-inch screens, one positioned opposite the seat, and the other opposite the chaise longue.
Side suites are separated from the wider cabin by a long, floor-to-ceiling curtain, whereas suites in the centre of the cabin have an electric partition.
In terms of design, cabins feature Air France’s signature red, which the carrier says is “reminiscent of haute couture”, plus pale grey fabrics, leather and champagne-coloured metallic accents.
Air France’s signature winged seahorse will be used throughout on two lamps and the seat’s headrest.
Also new to the first-class experience will be a set of Jacquemus pyjamas for each passenger.
Air France has partnered with French designer Simon Porte Jacquemus to create a navy set with the seahorse emblem on the front, and Jacquemus logo on the back.
The top comes in two styles: a V-neck with a tailored fit, or a round-neck option in a regular fit.
Fabien Pelous, director of customer experience at Air France, said:
“We are proud to partner with Maison Jacquemus and its innovative creativity to design a new loungewear set exclusively available in the La Première suites.
“Every detail matters in creating a memorable travel experience, and this collaboration strengthens our commitment to enhancing every moment in this exceptional cabin.”
It’s not the first time the carrier has partnered with a fashion house, nor a luxury brand.
At the beginning of the year, Air France partnered with French perfumer Francis Kurkgjian to create a ‘signature home fragrance’ to be used at the entrance of its lounges and in the La Première suites.
It has a long history working with fashion houses too, with its cabin crew having dressed in clothes by designers such as Cristobal Balenciaga and Dior.
