Introduction
As a long-time member of the Flying Blue loyalty program by Air France-KLM, I’ve flown with them occasionally to various destinations. This time, I’m reviewing my recent flight from Lisbon to Paris on the Airbus A220, marking my first time flying on this particular aircraft. Interestingly, Ryanair was offering a flight for the same date and at the same price as Air France, which I found quite surprising given the difference in service. So, was my Air France flight worth it? Let’s dive into the details.
About Air France
Air France, a major global carrier, has been in operation since 1933 and is part of the Air France-KLM group. With a fleet of over 200 aircraft, they serve destinations worldwide, known for their blend of French style and efficiency.
The Airbus A220, the aircraft for this flight, is a newer addition to the Air France fleet, designed to enhance fuel efficiency while offering a more modern and comfortable passenger experience. The A220 is well-suited for short- to medium-haul flights, making it a great choice for intra-European routes like Lisbon to Paris.
Pre-Flight Experience
Check-in was a bit slow, mainly because many passengers had excess baggage, but the staff remained patient and helpful. One minor inconvenience was that the gate wasn’t assigned until 30 minutes before boarding, which can be a little stressful when you’re waiting around in a busy airport. However, once boarding began, it was smooth and organized. Passengers were called in groups, making the process quick and efficient.
Cabin and In-Flight Service
The cabin layout on the A220 is modern and clean, with a 2-3 seating configuration that feels more spacious than older aircraft. It’s worth noting that on short-haul flights within Europe, even in business class, the seats are the same as economy, with the middle seat left empty for extra comfort.
During the flight, a complimentary snack service was offered instead of a full meal, which is typical for shorter European routes. I opted for a simple yet tasty bread with cheese, paired with a small bottle of red wine. The cabin crew were friendly and attentive, making the flight experience enjoyable.
Entertainment System and Wi-Fi
Unlike long-haul flights, European carriers typically don’t offer seat-back entertainment screens on short intra-European routes. This is the case even on premium airlines like Air France. However, there was Wi-Fi onboard, which I paid for using miles. It was surprisingly fast and reliable, making it easy to stay connected during the flight.
Conclusion
Overall, I had a very positive experience flying with Air France on the A220. The aircraft is modern, comfortable, and ideal for short routes within Europe. I’d definitely choose to fly the A220 again. That said, I wouldn’t recommend spending extra on business class for European flights, except for Turkish Airlines, which still offers a true business class product.