La Première

60s

Air France’s first-class service fully embodies elegance and modernity. With the arrival of the Boeing 707 in 1959, the flight from Paris to New York now takes just 8 hours and 15 minutes non-stop.

By 1966, first-class passengers can enjoy in-flight movie screenings — a major innovation at the time. A chauffeur service is also introduced, featuring Peugeot 504s or Simca Marlys that bring privileged passengers directly to the foot of the aircraft. The 1960s perfectly represent the blend of performance, lifestyle, and international prestige.

70s

In 1973, the introduction of the Boeing 747 revolutionizes air travel. Onboard this giant of the skies, capable of carrying up to 507 passengers thanks to its upper deck, first-class travel maintains its exclusivity.

Three years later, in 1976, another milestone redefines luxury travel: the Concorde enters service. The ultimate symbol of speed and elegance, it connects Paris and New York in just 3 hours and 30 minutes at Mach 2.02 — propelling first-class travel into an entirely new dimension.

80s

Air France continues its quest for excellence and further asserts its high-end identity. The direct Paris–Los Angeles flight aboard the Boeing 747-200 is completed in 12 hours and 20 minutes.

The Concorde, still in operation, remains a symbol of speed and elegance, with crew uniforms designed by fashion house Nina Ricci. It’s also during this era that the La Première brand is officially introduced — marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of Air France’s first-class service.

90s

The La Première experience began at the airport: at Paris-Charles de Gaulle’s Terminal 2A, passengers were welcomed into an exclusive lounge — a peaceful haven away from the terminal’s hustle and bustle. Relaxing in comfortable armchairs, passengers could unwind before takeoff.

In 1992, the direct Paris–Tokyo flight, lasting 12 hours and 20 minutes, was operated by the Airbus A340-300 — a long-haul aircraft that combined comfort and sophistication. On the tarmac, the arrival of the Boeing 777-200ER marked a shift toward a new generation of aircraft: more efficient, quieter, and suited for long distances.

2000s

La Première enters a new era of absolute comfort and refined service. Onboard the Boeing 777, long-haul travel is transformed with seats that convert into full beds.
In 2009, the introduction of the Airbus A380 is a game changer: its double-deck layout allows for new spaces, including a lounge area and even a changing room for La Première passengers — adding to the sense of exclusivity.