Is Flying First Class Worth It? A Comparison of Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines

Flying first class is often considered the pinnacle of air travel. Private suites, lie-flat first-class seats, gourmet meals, and exclusive lounges create an experience that promises ultimate luxury. But with first-class airfare costing thousands, or even tens of thousands of dollars, many travelers ask: Is flying first class really worth it?

To find out, we’re comparing the first-class flights of three major global airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Each is known for providing a top-tier experience, but which one offers the most value for the price? And is it worth choosing first class over business class flights?

If you’ve ever wondered whether to splurge on 1st class flights or stick to business class, keep reading, we’re breaking down the experience, cost, and perks of these three elite airlines.

Why First-Class Travel Is Marketed as the Ultimate Experience

Flying first class isn’t just about getting from point A to point B, it’s about exclusivity, comfort, and prestige. Airlines market first-class flights as a premium experience that starts before you even board the plane.

Here’s why 1st class flights are considered so special:

• Privacy: Many first-class cabins offer enclosed suites, giving passengers a personal space that feels more like a hotel than a plane seat.
• Fine Dining: Forget reheated trays, first-class passengers enjoy multi-course gourmet meals, often prepared by onboard chefs.
• Exclusive Lounges: First-class travelers access ultra-luxurious airport lounges with à la carte dining, private sleeping rooms, and spa treatments.
• Personalized Service: From pre-flight champagne to turn-down service, first-class passengers receive individualized attention from highly trained cabin crews.

However, first-class airfare often costs five to ten times more than an economy ticket. With business class flights offering similar perks, is the price difference justified? Let’s see what each airline offers.

Emirates First Class

If you’ve ever seen viral videos of first-class flights, chances are they featured Emirates. The airline has one of the most extravagant first-class seats in the industry, complete with a shower spa at 40,000 feet.

What Makes Emirates First Class Unique?

Private Suites and Mood Lighting

Emirates’ first-class seats are fully enclosed suites, offering complete privacy. Each suite comes with a vanity table, personal minibar, and touchscreen mood lighting, allowing passengers to customize their space.

Onboard Shower Spa

Yes, you can take a hot shower in the sky. Emirates offers a shower spa for first-class passengers on its A380 aircraft, with luxury toiletries from Bvlgari.

Fine Dining and Exclusive Beverages

Emirates provides a dine-on-demand service, meaning you can order food anytime during the flight. The menu includes caviar, Dom Pérignon champagne, and chef-curated meals.

Ground Perks

First-class passengers enjoy complimentary chauffeur service to and from the airport in select cities. At Dubai International Airport, they have access to an exclusive first-class lounge with a private cigar bar, full buffet, and sleeping areas.

Cost of Emirates First Class

A first-class flight on Emirates can range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the route. The high cost is largely due to the private suite experience and onboard shower. This cost will vary depending on the season, and the time you make the booking. 

Qatar Airways First Class

Qatar Airways is known for offering 5-star hospitality, and while its business class flights (Qsuite) are already exceptional, its first-class seats take things to another level.

What Makes Qatar Airways First Class Special?

Spacious Seating with Privacy Partitions

Unlike Emirates’ fully enclosed suites, Qatar Airways first-class seating is semi-private, with spacious lie-flat seatsand adjustable privacy screens.

Qsuite vs. First Class 

Many travelers wonder if Qatar’s Qsuite business class is so good that first class isn’t necessary. While Qsuite offers a private suite with doors, first class provides larger seats, finer dining, and a more exclusive experience.

Dine-on-Demand with Michelin-Star Dining

Qatar Airways’ first-class airfare includes a dining experience curated by Michelin-star chefs. Expect hand-selected wines, caviar, and custom-made dishes served on demand.

Al Safwa First Lounge

Qatar Airways’ Al Safwa First Lounge in Doha is one of the most exclusive airport lounges in the world. It features private sleeping suites, a spa with jacuzzis, and à la carte dining.

Cost of Qatar Airways First Class

A first-class flight with Qatar Airways typically costs between $4,000 and $12,000, making it slightly more affordable than Emirates.

Turkish Airlines First Class

Turkish Airlines doesn’t have a traditional first-class product, but its business class flights rival other airlines’ 1st class flights.

What Makes Turkish Airlines Business Class a First-Class Alternative?

Lie-Flat Seats and In-Flight Chef Services

Turkish Airlines offers lie-flat seats with plush bedding, making long-haul flights extremely comfortable. Additionally, an onboard Flying Chef prepares meals fresh, something even some first-class cabins lack.

Exclusive Business Lounge vs. First-Class Lounge

Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul Airport Lounge is often considered a first-class experience with private sleeping rooms, gourmet buffets, and live entertainment.

Cost of Turkish Airlines Business Class

A business class flight with Turkish Airlines ranges from $2,500 to $7,000, offering a luxury experience at a lower price compared to Qatar and Emirates first class.

Is First Class Worth the Cost?

First Class vs. Business Class – What’s the Difference?

• Business class flights offer lie-flat seats, luxury dining, and lounge access, but first class provides more privacy, finer dining, and exclusive amenities.
• If luxury and privacy are top priorities, Emirates and Qatar first class are worth it.

Who Should Consider First Class?

• Luxury travelers looking for privacy and premium services
• Business executives who value comfort on long-haul flights
• Travelers using miles and points for an upgraded experience

Alternatives to First Class

Using Points and Miles for First-Class Flights

Many travelers fly first class for free using credit card points and airline miles. Programs like Emirates Skywards, Qatar Privilege Club, and Turkish Miles&Smiles offer redemption options for first-class upgrades.

Choosing Business Class Instead

If you want luxury without paying first-class prices, business class flights are a great alternative.

Upgrading at the Airport

Some airlines offer discounted first-class upgrades at check-in, making it possible to experience first class for less.

First-class flights are undeniably luxurious, but whether they’re worth it depends on your budget and travel style.

• Emirates wins for ultimate luxury, with private suites and onboard showers.
• Qatar Airways provides the best service, especially with its Michelin-star dining and Al Safwa Lounge.
• Turkish Airlines offers a business class experience that rivals first class, making it a great value.

Check out Chuckle Craft for expert tips on maximizing luxury travel.