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Category: Airline Reviews

Condor Premium Economy on the A330neo – Worth the Upgrade or Save Your Cash
Our Condor Premium Economy Review of the A330neo starts with first impressions: bold stripes, a new cabin, and the question – does Premium Economy really deliver a step up, or is it smarter to save the money (or jump straight to Business)?
✈️ Quick Flight Facts
- Route: Frankfurt (FRA) → Boston (BOS)
- Aircraft: Airbus A330-900neo
- Flight Time: ~7h 45min (day flight)
- Seat: Premium Economy (standard Economy seat with extra pitch)
- Cabin: Separate PE section, wider pitch vs. Economy, same seat shell
- Booking: Cash ticket; PE typically priced well below legacy carriers
- Date Flown: 2025
Booking & Value

Condor positions Premium Economy as a value step-up: more legroom, a bit more food, and included alcoholic beverages, without the high price of Business. If your priority is budget and a daytime crossing, the math can make sense. If you’re buying PE for sleep on an overnight, you’ll likely be happier saving the money or going Business.

Ground Experience (FRA T1)

Departures are from Terminal 1, Area C. As a leisure carrier, Condor’s bag-drop can mean long queues, and our gate (B60) was an out-position served by bus. Security in that B concourse was down to a single lane when we arrived – it took a while. While a Condor Business Class Ticket gives you access to the Lufthansa lounges in Frankfurt, you won’t get into any lounges with your Premium Economy ticket. Even with American Express Platinum you won’t get into the Lufthansa Lounges as they require a Lufthansa Group Ticket. In short: expect a functional, not premium, ground flow.

Cabin & Seat

The A330neo hard product looks fresh, but Premium Economy uses the same seat shell as Economy. The upgrade is primarily extra pitch/legroom – which, to be fair, was sufficient even at 195 cm. The seat itself isn’t built for sleeping; for a day flight, it’s fine. Storage is standard, and the PE cabin feels calm and new, but don’t expect a full dedicated product like you have on most other carries.

Food & Beverage

Quantity over finesse. Shortly after takeoff we were served a tray with starter, hot main and sides. Our main was Italian spinach gnocchi, asparagus, lemon cream sauce; pre-landing came a hot mini pizza plus a light snack in between. Flavors were good (exactly what you’d expect), but we were positively surprised by how much food was offered on a relatively short hop.

Drinks are the bright spot: beer, wine and spirits are included in Premium Economy. We loved the BrewDog x Condor collaboration – a fun, well-branded touch that Condor absolutely nails. Coffee/tea and soft drinks are available throughout.

Service

Crew were efficient and friendly, more “charter energy” than boutique polish – which fits Condor’s brand. Service ran smoothly despite the bus-gate boarding scrum.

IFE & Connectivity

The A330neo has a modern IFE look and a fair selection for a sub-8-hour crossing. Expect the typical pay-Wi-Fi tiers; we treated this as a watch-a-movie-and-chill flight and skipped connectivity.

The A330neo Vibe

Condor’s striped livery and clean new cabin are undeniably fun. If aesthetics and a fresh aircraft matter to you, you’ll enjoy the ride – just remember PE is a soft step up, not a sleeper seat.
Verdict
- Best for: Daytime crossings where extra legroom + included drinks are enough.
- What stood out: Generous catering cadence, fun BrewDog collab, brand-new A330neo cabin.
- What could improve: True PE seat (wider seat base/leg-rest), ground experience at FRA bus gates.
- Would we book again? Yes, for daytime value. For overnight comfort, we’d choose Business or a legacy PE with a better seat.
Pro-Tips
- At FRA T1: Arrive early for C-area bag drop and allow extra time for B-gate security and bus boarding.
- Seat strategy: Pick PE rows away from galleys/lavs to keep the cabin quiet.
- Expectations: Think “Economy+ with perks,” not a true PE recliner – great for day flights, less ideal for sleep.
Compare Next

Curious how this stacks up against premium cabins? Read our Lufthansa First Class on the A340-600, our Lufthansa 747 Business Class (Upper Deck), and our Qatar Airways 787-9 Business Suite. Planning the trip around it? Don’t miss our New England Road Trip guide.

Have you flown Condor Premium Economy? Drop your questions below or join us on Instagram @urbanescapestories for behind-the-scenes clips from this flight.
01/11/2025
Lufthansa A340-600 First Class Review 2025 – Is It Still Worth It?
There’s something undeniably special about stepping onto a Lufthansa A340-600, one of the last four-engine long-haul aircraft still flying. In this Lufthansa A340-600 First Class review 2025, we take you from Boston (BOS) to Frankfurt (FRA) to see whether this legendary First Class experience – from lounge to caviar service – is still worth the splurge.
✈️ Quick Flight Facts
- Route: Boston (BOS) → Frankfurt (FRA)
- Aircraft: Airbus A340-600
- Flight Time: ~6h 45min
- Seat: 1G (Lufthansa First Class, 1-2-1 configuration)
- Cabin: 8 Seats, Open “Half Suite” Design
- Booking: Available via Miles & More (from 90,000 miles one-way + fees) or as an upgrade from Business Class
Pre-Flight & Lounge Experience

Boston is one of Lufthansa’s key transatlantic gateways, served by the A340-600, Boeing 747-8, and Airbus A380. Lufthansa operates its own dedicated lounge at Logan Airport, which includes a First Class area for eligible passengers. It’s not the full Frankfurt First Class Terminal experience — no Porsche transfer or private security lane — but it sets the tone with calm design, à la carte dining, and attentive staff.

The majestic A340-600 at Boston Logan – still one of the most elegant silhouettes in the sky.

The Cabin & Seat

I was seated in 1G, one of the middle seats in Lufthansa’s eight-seat First Class cabin. While the seat design is undeniably dated compared to newer enclosed suites from airlines like Emirates or ANA, there’s something timeless about Lufthansa’s open yet private layout. The seat feels wide, supportive, and infinitely adjustable. The ottoman even slides toward you – perfect if you prefer lounging rather than fully reclining.

Seat 1G — the classic half-suite design, open but beautifully spacious.

The A340-600’s nose section feels both intimate and grand – no overhead bins in the center seats mean more headroom and an open atmosphere. Storage is tucked discreetly into armrests and side panels. It’s not Allegris-level, but it’s a reminder that Lufthansa’s old First Class still holds its charm.

Dining at 35,000 Feet

This is where Lufthansa’s heritage truly shines. The dinner service began with an amuse bouche and a glass of champagne, followed by the airline’s signature caviar service – beautifully presented with traditional garnishes. For many, this alone justifies the First Class indulgence.

Starters followed: a selection of tuna, duck, and salad, each well-balanced in flavor. For the main course, I chose the beef fillet with red wine jus and seasonal vegetables. It was delicious, even if the plating wasn’t quite as elaborate as on some Middle Eastern competitors.

The flavors, however, were outstanding.

Dessert came in the form of a cheese plate and a glass of port wine – a fitting end to a two-hour dining experience. The wine list features two champagnes, four whites, and four reds, ranging from €20 to €100 retail, alongside Lufthansa’s own Avionic signature cocktail. Personally, I enjoyed the Grüner Veltliner with my starters and a Super Tuscan with the main – both excellent pairings.

Sleep & Comfort

After dinner, the crew offered to prepare my bed – a gesture that still feels indulgent, even after years of flying. The bedding was thick and comfortable, and despite the short transatlantic flight, I managed a solid two hours of sleep. The flight attendant even asked whether I’d like to be woken for breakfast – a small but thoughtful touch that perfectly sums up Lufthansa’s First Class service ethos.

The amenity kit featured products from Augustinus Bader, adding a true touch of luxury. While not as multipurpose as Lufthansa’s Porsche Design Business kits, the overall quality was superb.

Breakfast before landing — freshly scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and chives.

Service & Crew

Lufthansa’s First Class crew are in a league of their own – professional yet warm, anticipating needs without overstepping. Every interaction felt natural, from setting the table with precision to offering a second glass of wine mid-flight. While the hardware may be showing its age, the service remains timeless.

Connectivity & Entertainment

The in-flight entertainment system is, admittedly, due for an upgrade – smaller screens and dated menus compared to newer aircraft. However, the free Wi-Fi for First Class passengers is a welcome perk, and connectivity was stable throughout the flight.

Final Thoughts – Lufthansa A340-600 First Class Review: Is It Still Worth It in 2025?

Lufthansa’s First Class on the A340-600 may not have sliding doors or on-demand espresso bars, but it has something rarer – heritage and heart. The blend of understated design, exceptional service, and that unmistakable “Lufthansa calm” make this a product that continues to stand out, even in 2025.

Iconic, understated, and still refined — Lufthansa’s First Class remains a timeless experience.
Verdict
- Best for: Travelers seeking old-school aviation elegance and refined European service.
- What stood out: Caviar service, crew attentiveness, exceptional bedding comfort.
- What could improve: IFE screen quality and presentation of hot dishes.
- Would I fly again? Absolutely – especially while the A340-600 is still flying.
For those considering this experience, it’s often best booked via Miles & More at around 90,000 miles one-way (plus taxes) – or as an upgrade from Business Class. If you’re looking for comparisons, check out our upcoming Condor Premium Economy Review, our Lufthansa 747 Business Class Review, and our Qatar Airways Qsuite Experience to see how the world’s leading premium products stack up.

FAQ – Lufthansa A340-600 First Class

Is Lufthansa A340-600 First Class still worth it in 2025?
Yes – if you value classic aviation style and refined service over the newest hardware. The seat isn’t a closed suite, but the caviar service, excellent bedding and genuinely attentive crew make this one of the most charming ways to cross the Atlantic, especially while the A340-600 is still flying.

How many miles do I need for Lufthansa A340-600 First Class?
On most routes you’ll need from around 90,000 Miles & More miles one-way plus taxes and fees for a First Class ticket. Availability can be limited, especially from North America, so it’s worth checking multiple dates or considering an upgrade from Business Class when offers appear.

What is the best seat in Lufthansa A340-600 First Class?
Solo travellers usually prefer a window seat (1A or 2A / 1K or 2K) for privacy and views, while couples often choose the middle seats (1D/1G or 2D/2G) to sit together. I flew 1G, which offered a nice balance of openness and space in the centre of the cabin.

What is the dining experience like in Lufthansa First Class?
Expect a multi-course restaurant-style service starting with an amuse-bouche, champagne and Lufthansa’s signature
caviar service. On my flight the starters and main course were flavourful and well paired with wines, followed by a classic cheese plate and dessert. Presentation is more understated than on some Middle Eastern carriers, but the quality is excellent.

How does Lufthansa First Class compare to Qatar or other premium airlines?
Compared to enclosed suites like Qatar Airways Qsuite or Emirates First, Lufthansa’s A340-600 First Class feels more open and traditional. You don’t get doors or an ultra-modern IFE system, but you do get a quieter cabin, superb bedding and one of the most polished crews I’ve flown with. It’s less “flashy luxury” and more quiet, European elegance.

Have you flown Lufthansa’s A340-600 First Class? Let us know your thoughts in the comments – or follow along on Instagram @urbanescapestories for more behind-the-scenes travel moments.
25/10/2025
Qatar Airways Business Class Q-Suite (787 Dreamliner)
Qatar Airways’ Qsuite is famously known as one of the world’s best business class products, often feeling closer to First Class than business. With fully enclosed suites, dine-on-demand service, and even caviar on some routes, the hype is immense.

But not all of Qatar’s business class cabins are the full Qsuite. On our recent flight from Frankfurt (FRA) to Doha (DOH), we had the pleasure of flying on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which features a slightly different, more compact product the aviation community has nicknamed the “Qsuite Lite.” So, how does it stack up? Here’s our full review.

Understanding Qatar’s Business Class Products

Qatar’s offering on its newer planes is simple: Economy and Business Class. While the airline’s CEO has announced plans for a groundbreaking new First Class, for now, their top-tier product is business.
- The Qsuite: Found on their A350-1000s and refitted Boeing 777s, this is the famous product with the quad seating option.
- The Business Class Suite (This Flight): Found on the 787-9 Dreamliners, this is a more customized, forward-facing herringbone suite that lacks the quad feature.
- The “Classic” 2-2-2 Business Class: Found on older, non-refitted Boeing 777s and the Airbus A330 fleet, this is the product to watch out for. These seats are comfortable but offer no privacy and do not have all-aisle access for window passengers.
The Ground Experience in Frankfurt

Starting our journey from Frankfurt Terminal 2, it’s worth noting that Qatar Airways does not operate its own dedicated lounge here. While your business class ticket grants you access to a third-party contract lounge, we’ll begin this review from the moment we stepped onto the plane.

The Cabin & The Suite

The Boeing 787-9 business class cabin is intimate, with just 8 rows in a 1-2-1 herringbone layout. This means every passenger has direct aisle access. We sat in two of the middle seats, which feature a retractable privacy divider.

The suite itself is beautifully designed, with high-quality finishes and the all-important privacy door that closes you off from the aisle. That said, if you lower the divider to speak with your travel partner, the angled, outward-facing position of the seats can make conversation feel a bit awkward. It’s a small quirk and certainly not the same “dine together” experience you’d find in the full Qsuite on the A350.

Amenities & Comfort

The comfort level on this flight was exceptional. Waiting at our seats were pajamas from The White Company (ours were the special edition F1 design), a cozy blanket, and stylish “his and hers” amenity kits from the luxury French brand Diptyque. The attention to detail is remarkable. The seat fully reclines into a comfortable bed, which was perfect for a quick nap even on this relatively short flight.

Dine on Demand Service

This is a signature feature of Qatar Airways’ premium cabins. You can order whatever you want from the menu, whenever you want it. As we were hungry, we ordered our main meal service right after takeoff.

The food was, without a doubt, restaurant quality. The presentation, flavors, and options were all superb. Sadly, the steak had already run out by the time the crew reached our row, but the alternative dishes were so delicious and the service so proactive that we hardly noticed. I also ordered a Whiskey Sour from the open bar, which was expertly made.

The Verdict

All in all, this was the best flying experience we have ever had. It’s not just about getting from A to B; Qatar Airways has turned the flight itself into a luxurious and memorable part of the journey.

While the 787 suite isn’t the true “quad” Qsuite, it is still a world-class product with incredible privacy, comfort, and five-star service. The food was phenomenal, and the amenities were top-notch. It truly is as close as you can get to a First Class experience. We landed punctually and safely in Doha, ready to explore the airport’s lounge paradise—but that’s a story for another time.

Pro-Tip: If you specifically want to fly the full Qsuite with the quad-seating option, look for the “Qsuite” logo on the seat map when booking on the Qatar Airways website. It is always clearly marked.

Have a look at our Lufthansa Business class review as well.
09/08/2025
Flying the Queen: A Lufthansa 747 Business Class Review (Upper Deck)
There are few aircraft as iconic as the Boeing 747. In this Lufthansa 747 Business Class review, we share our experience flying from Frankfurt (FRA) to Chicago (ORD) on the Queen of the Skies’ legendary upper deck – a true aviation bucket-list flight. Lufthansa remains one of the last major airlines still operating a large 747 fleet, making each journey feel like a tribute to a golden age of air travel. If you like iconic planes make sure to also visit our First Class review on one of Lufthansa’s remaining A340-600.

Lufthansa 747 Business Class: A Product in Transition

It’s important to understand that Lufthansa is in a major transition period with its business class seats. The product you experience can vary greatly depending on the aircraft.
- The Classic Seat (This Flight): The long-serving business class, found on the 747s and some A340s, which features a 2-2-2 or 2-2 layout.
- The “Upgraded” Seat: A number of newer aircraft that Lufthansa acquired (like their 787 Dreamliners) came with a more modern, all-aisle-access business class product already installed.
- The Future – “Allegris”: This is Lufthansa’s brand-new, highly anticipated business class. It offers multiple seating options, including private suites, and Lufthansa is progressively rolling it out on their new Airbus A350s and newly delivered 787s.
This review focuses on the classic product, which you will still find on many long-haul routes.

The Ground Experience: Lufthansa Senator Lounge, Frankfurt

Our journey began in Frankfurt’s Terminal 1. As holders of an American Express Platinum card, we have access to the Lufthansa Senator Lounge. The lounge was a comfortable place to relax before the flight, offering a quality buffet selection, multiple coffee stations, and ample seating. It set a premium tone for the journey ahead.

The Main Event: The 747 Upper Deck

Sitting on the upper deck of a 747 was always a dream of mine. After boarding, you walk up a small staircase to a surprisingly intimate and quiet cabin.

With only 32 seats in a 2-2 configuration, the cabin feels like a private jet. It’s completely separated from the main deck below, which creates a serene and exclusive atmosphere.

The Seat

The seats on our 747-8 use a V-shape arrangement, which offers a bit more room than older parallel versions. As a couple, we didn’t mind the 2-2 layout, but the main drawback is that the person in the window seat must climb over their neighbor to reach the aisle.

However, the window seat on the upper deck has a massive advantage: enormous side storage bins. These lockers are large enough to store a carry-on, leaving the overhead space free and your belongings easily accessible. This is, in our opinion, the single best reason to choose a window seat here.

The seat itself is a comfortable lie-flat bed with adjustable firmness, but it lacks the privacy of modern business class suites. The In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) screen is also visibly dated, though it offered a decent variety of movies and series.

We recommend using tools like seatguru to check the best spots in your aircraft and seat configuration upon reservation.

The In-Flight Experience & Dining

The five-star service began the moment we settled in. We were offered a welcome drink—with a choice between champagne and Lufthansa’s signature cocktail, the “Avionic”—and some nuts. Shortly after takeoff, a proper three-course lunch was served. The food was truly excellent for an airline meal, and the flight attendants were incredibly friendly, professional, and helpful with wine pairing suggestions. Before landing in Chicago, a second, lighter one-course meal was served.

The Verdict

Flying Lufthansa’s 747 Business Class is a phenomenal experience. The impeccable 5-star service and the unique, quiet ambiance of the upper deck makes it feel incredibly special.

One must be honest: the “hard product” (the seat and IFE) is outdated by today’s standards. However, for the romance of the aircraft and the quality of the service, we would do it again in a heartbeat. It was the perfect start to our Chicago adventure.

Stay tuned, as we’ll be sure to review the new Allegris business class as soon as we get a chance to fly it!

For Those Interested: How We Booked

We booked our flights for this trip using miles, which is one of the best ways to experience premium cabins without the high cash price. Award availability for the 747 upper deck can be competitive, so we recommend searching well in advance.

Have you flown on the iconic 747? Drop your questions below or join us on Instagram @urbanescapestories for behind-the-scenes clips from this flight.
31/07/2025