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Heading to Austria this year? Here’s your guide to Austrian Airlines business class, where we cover everything from securing your seat to savoring the in-flight perks.
Since starting my blog seven years ago, I’ve been around the globe, lucky enough to experience the highs and lows of air travel. Among these, Austrian Airlines’ business class has been a consistent highlight. My countless flights have given me a unique perspective on what makes their service truly stand out.
Why listen to me? Well, I’ve compared seats, sipped drinks at 30,000 feet, and interacted with crew members from some of the world’s best airlines. But every time I return to Austrian Airlines, there’s a familiar sense of excellence that greets me.
This guide aims to share that insight with you. From the nitty-gritty of seat selection to the delights of in-flight dining, I’ll walk you through everything Austrian Airlines’ business class offers. Stick with me to discover why it’s one of the best airlines in Austria.
My #1 tip to find cheap Austrian Airlines Business Class tickets
Looking for a steal on Austrian Airlines business class tickets? Before jumping into the article, I first wanted to give you this insider tip to find cheap airfare on business class flights.
For years, I’ve been using this site called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), which sends you alerts on airline deals, discounts, and mistake fares. It’s a total game-changer, saving me $10,000+ on flights each year.
Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. I recommend trying the free trial and using my special discount code JON20 to save 20%!
And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version. Last year, this service saved me $2,750 on a first class flight and $1,500 on a business class flight. At just $199 year year, trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.
Overview of Austrian Airlines
Austrian Airlines, based at Vienna International Airport (VIE), connects Austria to the rest of the world. They have a strong fleet, 67 aircraft to be exact, with 9 Boeing 787-9s on the way.
They fly to over 120 destinations globally. That’s a lot of options, whether you’re headed to a business meeting in Asia or a holiday in Europe. If you’re looking for flights to Vienna from the US, Austrian offers direct routes from Chicago, New York City, Newark, and Washington D.C. Even better, starting July 2024, Bostonians get a direct line to Vienna on a Boeing 767-300.
Austrian Airlines is part of Miles & More, Europe’s leading loyalty program. Every flight earns you points, which you can use for upgrades or booking flights. It’s a straightforward program that rewards you for flying with them or their Star Alliance partners.
Austrian Airlines business class products: A detailed comparison
When you choose to fly business class with Austrian Airlines, you’re signing up for an experience that varies delightfully across their fleet. Let me guide you through what to expect.
Boeing 777-200ER
The Boeing 777-200ER, used on longer-haul flagship routes like Chicago to Vienna, underwent a business class transformation in early 2023. With the seat count trimmed from 40 to 32, the focus is on space and privacy.
The seats are staggered in a forward-facing layout, granting 80% of passengers direct aisle access. However, a note for solo travelers: avoid rows 2, 4, or 6 in seats A, C, H, and K unless you’re okay with a bit of a dance with your neighbor to get aisle access.
For maximum privacy and comfort, aim for the ‘throne’ solo seats in rows 1, 3, and 5. These seats offer solitude and space, with a table on each side, ensuring you won’t have to share your personal bubble. While there’s a fee for these gems, it’s waived for elite status fliers or any business class passenger on the day of departure (subject to availability).
All business class seats on Austrian’s 777 recline into a flat bed, stretching out to 2 meters.
Boeing 767-300ER
Used on medium-to-long-haul flights, Austrian’s 767-300ER sports a total of 26 seats in a cozy 1-2-1 configuration. Every seat reclines to a flat bed of 1.9 meters.
I’d recommend choosing seats 1A or 1K. These offer extra legroom thanks to a bulkhead cutout and a more spacious entry to your seat.
Airbus A320 & A321 family
Flying across Europe? The business class here transforms economy seats by simply blocking the middle seat. It’s nothing revolutionary, but it does allow a bit more elbow room and privacy.
Embraer 195
On the smaller side, the Embraer 195’s business class feels intimate, with just three rows for a total of six passengers. Here, Austrian Airlines keeps the adjacent seat free, as standard for intra-European business class. It’s perfectly comfortable for short hops.
Baggage allowance with Austrian Airlines business class
As the best airline in Austria, the baggage policy is clear and generous. If you’re flying short or long haul, you’re allowed two checked bags, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs). Plus, you can bring two carry-ons, each no heavier than 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
Austrian Airlines business class airport experience
Austrian Airlines business class offers priority check-in, baggage, fast lane security, and boarding. This means less waiting and more comfort from the moment you arrive at the airport.
The Austrian Business Lounges at Vienna Airport are where the experience really shines. There are three lounges, depending on your flight: Non-Schengen (G gates), Schengen (F gates), and another Non-Schengen (D gates).
Each lounge offers a serene space away from the bustle of the airport, complete with luxurious facilities and a stunning view of the apron. The amazing airport lounges are a highlight for me, offering a space to work, relax, or just enjoy watching the planes. The food, catered by Do & Co, is delicious and a step above what you might expect from lounge fare. The seating is plentiful and comfortable.
If you’re flying to Vienna, access to partner Star Alliance lounges is included with your business class fare.
In-flight comfort & amenities on Austrian Airlines business class
On the 777 and 767, as you settle into your seat, you’re greeted with a set of essentials: a pillow and blanket. They’re basic, but do their job of making you comfortable.
Noise-canceling headphones are also provided. They’re okay and help drown out the cabin noise. The in-flight entertainment (IFE) system is robust, featuring a touchscreen monitor loaded with movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and games. The selection is decent, offering enough variety to keep you entertained on longer flights. However, note that there’s no Wi-Fi available on these long hauls.
The amenity kit is pretty basic, more of a pouch, really, with eyeshades, socks, earplugs, and a dental kit. It’s the essentials to help you feel refreshed.
For short haul flights, the experience is similar to other European business class products. The standout amenity is a small, bright red pillow provided for each passenger. It’s a simple touch but adds a bit of comfort to your journey.
There’s no in-flight entertainment system on these shorter trips. I recommend bringing a book or loading up your device with entertainment for the flight.
Overall, Austrian Airlines proves why it’s among the best airlines in Europe, balancing luxury and simplicity across its flights. Long hauls with Austrian come packed with amenities designed for enjoyment and relaxation, while its short haul business class simplifies travel without compromising comfort.
On-board dining in Austrian Airlines business class
One of my favorite things about flying business class with Austrian Airlines is the food and drink. It’s honestly a game-changer in air travel dining.
Short haul flights
On flights under 50 minutes, Austrian Airlines offers hand-baked pastries. For 50-80 minute flights, the menu includes items like fresh muesli and poke bowls with smoked salmon. Flights over 80 minutes feature hot dishes from Austrian and international cuisines, plus desserts. Without a doubt, this quality outshines other European business class options like Swiss or Lufthansa.
Long haul flights
Austrian Airlines takes its in-flight dining to another level on long-haul flights. The collaboration with DO & CO and Demel, two of Austria’s premier catering brands, means passengers can expect meals that are both refined and hearty. The service is unhurried, focusing on Austrian cuisine.
I particularly like how the food is plated on a trolley next to your seat. It feels personal and allows you to customize your plates how you like.
Austrian assiettes are available anytime, along with specialty cheeses, desserts, and Austrian coffee. The overall food quality is excellent.
Beverages
Austrian Airlines offers a selection of Austrian wines, signature cocktails, spirits, beers, and non-alcoholic options. The coffee service features traditional Austrian coffee, rounding off the dining experience.
If you ask me, the food and drink alone is a reason to choose Austrian when you’re looking for the best airlines to fly to Europe. It’s consistently outstanding.
Tips for booking Austrian Airlines business class flights
Looking for cheap business class flights to Austria? Here are some pointers to help you snag the best deal and make the most out of your journey:
- Start early: About 6 to 7 months before your departure is the sweet spot for finding award space. Austrian Airlines typically opens award bookings around 210 days in advance.
- Use Star Alliance partners: As part of the Star Alliance network, you have the flexibility to use points from various programs. Avianca LifeMiles and United MileagePlus are my go-to options for booking Austrian Airlines business class flights.
- Check often: Award availability can change. If you didn’t find what you were looking for initially, keep checking back.
- Be flexible: If possible, have flexible travel dates. A day before or after your preferred date might have better availability or require fewer points.
- Subscribe to Cheap Flight Alerts: Again, if you want to find the best possible deals on business class airfare, I highly recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for finding discounted economy flights, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.
A little planning and flexibility can go a long way in securing cheap Austrian Airlines business class flights. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the high life above the clouds.
Austrian Airlines business class vs. rival products
Wondering which airline has the best business class? I’ve flown with several and here’s my take on how they stack up.
Austrian Airlines vs SWISS
Both Austrian Airlines and SWISS are part of the Lufthansa Group and offer high-quality service. However, Austrian shines with its catering service, thanks to its partnership with DO & CO, known for their delicious meals.
SWISS, while also offering excellent dining options, tends to have a more consistent product across its fleet. If in-flight dining is a priority, Austrian might edge out SWISS for you. On the other hand, SWISS often has newer aircraft with slightly more modern cabin features.
Lufthansa vs. Austrian Airlines
Both Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines offer premium experiences. Lufthansa’s global network is broader, with a staggering 229 destinations. Their business class seats, especially on their newer aircraft, offer more privacy.
Austrian, while having a smaller network, focuses on personalized service and outstanding dining options. The choice here might come down to whether you prefer Lufthansa’s extensive network and newer cabins or Austrian’s superior catering and service. If you’d like to fly on a Boeing 747, go for Lufthansa!
Austrian Airlines vs. KLM
KLM, the Dutch flagship carrier, offers a different business class experience. KLM’s seats and cabins are stylish, with a unique Dutch design aesthetic. Their Delft blue house miniatures given to business class passengers are a collector’s item.
Austrian, on the other hand, focuses heavily on the quality of its in-flight dining and personalized service. KLM’s global network is extensive, but Austrian Airlines provides a cozy, more intimate flying experience with a focus on Austrian hospitality. I’d always recommend KLM if you’re looking for flights to South America from Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Austrian Airlines business class
Are you still curious about which airline is the best to fly to Austria? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help decide whether Austrian Airlines business class is the right option for you.
Does Austrian Airlines have flat beds in business class?
Yes, Austrian Airlines offers flat beds in their business class on long-haul flights. It’s a game-changer for comfort, especially on overnight journeys.
What is the best airline to fly in Europe?
Honestly, if you’re looking for the best European airlines, you can’t go wrong with Lufthansa. Their efficiency and network are top-notch. But for a more boutique feel, KLM surprises with its unique Dutch hospitality.
Does Austrian Airlines business class include baggage?
Absolutely, Austrian Airlines business class comes with a generous baggage allowance. You’re allowed two checked bags, each up to 32 kg, plus two carry-on items, each up to 8 kg. It’s pretty spacious.
Which airline has the best business class in Europe?
British Airways’ new Club World Suite and Air France’s business class both offer exceptional experiences. BA’s suite with its privacy door and direct aisle access really sets a new standard. Meanwhile, Air France’s impeccable service and cuisine bring a touch of luxury to the skies. Both are strong contenders for the best business class to fly to Europe.
