Best seat on board Air France becomes pay-as-you-go (even for platinums)

As is well known to TFC readers, are around the Polynesia And I arrived here after 26 hours aboard Air France. The direct flight Paris Papeete we did it aboard theAir France's flagship, namely the A350/900 outfitted with the new cabins.

For business class passengers, as I had been reporting. When I had reviewed this cabin., there is a choice of front row seats, a total of 8 divided over the two cabins not only the convenience of being first, but more importantly so much more space to travel more comfortably.

Needless to say, when I had booked I had immediately grabbed two front-row seats, the only ones left free, to deal with this journey in the best way possible.

The choice of these seats was inhibited for everyone until the last 48h, except for Platinum status holders or above, now, however, things change significantly, and the seat is optionable for a fee by anyone.

Because they are "special" chairs

Space-wise they are definitely more comfortable, although then the hardware is the same and there is not, for example as with Virgin Atlantic, a larger monitor or a situation where you can comfortably have lunch face to face. There is a small locker, but that is ultimately difficult to use and has no additional storage other than the shoe drawer.

In bed mode is when you most appreciate the freedom of movement although, as you will see in our flight review, I have to say that after experiencing both at the same time, I have to say that perhaps perhaps it is not really the most comfortable.

Now the business suite is chargeable

The news is not pleasant, but it is part of a pattern common to many carriers, some more and some less, milking as much as possible the peculiarities of their offerings, just as hotels call deluxe the same room that has a better view, however.

Just think of the absurd price list that Lufthansa and Swiss charge passengers, including Senator, to choose a seat on board Allegris. However, it must be said that lately Flying Blue Has greatly improved the benefits of Platinum users starting with the possibility of Have lots of extra prize places Than all other users.

With the recent change in conditions the free choice remains valid for Ultimate, while everyone else can reserve the chair for a fee, and unfortunately, there is no discount to Platinum people compared to new customers.

At present, the levy does not appear to apply to direct flights to the U.S., but it is not certain that things will not change in the near future.

In conclusion

Flying Blue is constantly evolving, sometimes improving one aspect for a group of users, sometimes getting worse is the basic rule of this game. That said. ok put the choice on a fee basis, but they could at least give a discount for platinum.

PS. As I know I have Club2000 status in Air France and I still see all the free places, perhaps this is a privilege that will remain with me because of the special card that Flying Blue offers me, every year.

• Flying Blue