From check-in to arrival, first-time business class travellers often don't know what's included. We cover every detail.
Booking business class for the first time is one of those experiences that permanently changes how you think about long-haul travel. But if you've never done it, there's a lot you might not know is available to you. This guide covers everything — from when to arrive to how to sleep well on a flat bed.
Check-in and bag drop: Business class passengers use dedicated check-in desks. On most major carriers, this means little or no queue — sometimes a completely private area. You'll typically receive a priority boarding pass and expedited security at airports where this is offered.
Lounges: With a business class ticket, you have access to the airline's premium lounge. At major hubs, these are exceptional — the Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai, the Qatar Al Mourjan Business Lounge in Doha, and the Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge in Singapore are genuinely worth arriving early for. Expect proper food, bar service, showers, spa treatments (at some lounges) and fast Wi-Fi. Arrive 2.5–3 hours before an international flight to make proper use of the lounge.
The seat: Business class long-haul seats are fully flat on virtually all major carriers. Ask your advisor to confirm when you book — a small number of short/medium-haul business products are not flat-bed. On wide-body international aircraft, you should have a seat that reclines 180 degrees to a flat sleeping surface of at least 72 inches. Most seats have direct aisle access.
Meals: Business class meal service varies by carrier but is generally excellent. Dine-on-demand (order whenever you want) is standard on Middle Eastern and Asian carriers; European carriers typically serve at more fixed times. Special meals (vegetarian, kosher, gluten-free, diabetic) can be requested up to 24 hours before departure — ask your Paxway advisor to add this at the time of booking.
Sleeping: A pillow, duvet and sometimes pyjamas are provided. The best time to sleep on a long-haul flight depends on your destination — your advisor can recommend whether to eat first or sleep immediately based on the routing. Noise-cancelling headphones (usually Bose or equivalent) are provided and are excellent.
Arrival: Business class passengers deplane first, arrive at passport control before economy queues build, and often have a fast-track immigration lane. If you have checked bags, they come off the carousel earliest.
Miles: Your frequent-flyer number earns miles based on the fare class. Consolidator business class tickets earn full or near-full miles on most carriers — ask your advisor to confirm for your specific booking.