For many, choosing between two airlines comes down to price, schedule, or frequent flyer miles award. But for those of us who fly frequently, especially in premium cabins, the decision-making process can be far more nuanced. Especially when I am sitting on enough points at my disposal. Case in point: the internal struggle between experiencing Lufthansa’s legendary First Class and the famed Frankfurt First Class Terminal versus flying on my preferred day in British Airways’ Business Class, with the added perk of world-class lounges at London Heathrow’s Terminal 3.
Decisions, Decisions. Poor more LOL.
The Case for Lufthansa First Class
Lufthansa’s First Class experience is top notch, particularly for those who appreciate seamless, luxurious air travel. From the moment you arrive at Frankfurt Airport (FRA), the journey becomes a meticulously curated experience, including porch transfers! Yet as I would be leaving from an outstation. Flying First class from Sao Paulo would be nice, but the ground game would just be mediocre. Yet I know once I get to FRA for my layover everything would improve and the journey aboard the 747-8i would be top notch.
The First Class Terminal at FRA
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Lufthansa First is the Frankfurt First Class Terminal (FCT). More than just a lounge, this standalone terminal offers a private security checkpoint, fine dining, relaxation areas, personal assistants, and the thrill of being driven across the tarmac to your awaiting aircraft in a Porsche or Mercedes. Few experiences match the exclusivity and efficiency of FCT, making it one of the best pre-flight indulgences in the world. Or in this case, the best layover experience. I could time my flights to have up to a 6 hours, allowing me all the time needed to relax in the lounge. I could even take a bath or nap! As the lounge has great suites for both.
Plus I could get another fun duck for my collection…Yeah more shit I don’t need, but collect for some reason!
The Onboard Experience
Lufthansa’s First Class product is consistently praised for its elegant simplicity and exceptional service. I would be spoiled with Caviar and 2005 Noble Brut champagne. Flying first class, the food and wine is a big upgrade over any other class of service. Lufthansa’s First Class seat is seat is larger, but not really private. It’s regardless an upgrade, despite being a dated product.
With a spacious, open suite design, top-tier bedding, and an extensive wine and champagne selection, it’s a haven of comfort. The personal attention from the crew and the understated German efficiency make it an unbeatable experience for those who appreciate refined luxury. Plus GRU – FRA is full 11 hour flight. Meaning I could truly enjoy the product and still rest. Something I rarely get to do when flying from Chicago or DC with Lufthansa.
Decisions, Decisions.
The Case for British Airways Business Class
While Lufthansa’s First Class is undoubtedly a premium experience, there’s something to be said for flying on my preferred day, even if it means “downgrading” to British Airways Business Class. And, in this case, the lounge options at London Heathrow Terminal 3 (T3) are strong enough to make up for it. Which makes me think that flying British Airways wouldn’t be all that bad. The real downside is that plane.
British Airways flies 10 weekly flights between London and Sao Paulo. 7 flights a week are on the new A350 with the new Club world seats. 3 flights a week are on an outdated 787-8 with the previous generation business class seat. A product that I refer to as the Economy class seat that lays flat. I HATE the seat. Yet, when traveling on points, it’s hard to complain, and the A350 flight never became available.
Furthermore, I utilized Alaska Airlines miles to book this flight. This means I will email elite qualifying miles even though I am flying on award points. This is handy to help regain status towards 2026.
Lounge Hopping at LHR T3
One of the best-kept open secrets among frequent flyers is that T3 at Heathrow houses some of the best Oneworld lounges in the world. While BA’s own lounges are solid enough, the real stars are the Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge and the Qantas Lounge:
- Cathay Pacific First Class Lounge: A haven of tranquility with à la carte dining, fine champagne, and a much calmer atmosphere than BA’s busy lounges. The lounge hosts awesome tarmac views and the dan dan noodles and dim sum lunch is great.
- Qantas Lounge: An energetic, stylish space featuring a gin bar, an excellent buffet, and a made-to-order hot food station. Perfect for those who prefer a livelier pre-flight experience. The lounge has the food and options out before their flight to Perth in the morning, or during the evening hours before the Singapore Kangaroo route departs. I would be able to visit during this time.
There are also the American Airlines First Class lounge and the British Airways First class lounge at LHR T3. I would likely swing by them so Diego could see them. Yet the majority of our time would be in the better of these four options. Yet these lounges are NOT better than the First Class terminal. So it’s not enough to skew my decisions.
The British Airways Business Class Experience
While British Airways Business Class (Club World) doesn’t hold a candle to Lufthansa First Class, the newer Club Suite is a significant improvement with a fully flat bed, direct aisle access, and a closing door for privacy. Yet, again unless there is a last minute plane swap, I would not be on a plane with the new seat. British Airways may not be as indulgent as Lufthansa First, but it does the job efficiently, especially when combined with great lounges and a schedule that better fits my itinerary.
The Dilemma: Experience vs. Convenience
So, which option wins? It’s a tough call. 100K miles for Luthansa First or 70K miles for British Airways Business?
- If I’m prioritizing the ultimate luxury experience, Lufthansa First Class (and the Frankfurt First Class Terminal) is a no-brainer.
- If I’m focusing on maximizing my time and schedule while still enjoying premium perks, British Airways Business Class through LHR T3 becomes highly appealing.
- If I focus on status, British Airways wins again
In the end, it often comes down to the purpose of the trip, how much I value the extra comfort of First Class for that particular flight, and whether the allure of Porsche transfers and FCT outweighs the appeal of some of the best lounges at Heathrow and status. I know what most of you are thinking. FLY LUTHANSA STUPID!
For now, I’ll keep debating though. After all, these are the kinds of “problems” that make frequent flyer life so rewarding.
