As someone who travels frequently for both work and pleasure, I’ve had the opportunity to fly business class on six different airlines this year. The experiences varied considerably, from the sublime to the disappointing.

When it comes to the best, one airline stands out: Airline A. From the moment you check in, the staff treats you with a level of attention and care that sets the tone for the entire journey. The lounges are tranquil havens, providing a variety of high-quality food and beverages, ample space for work or relaxation, and splendid facilities. Once on board, the seat comfort in their business class cabin is exceptional with full-flat beds and sufficient privacy. On top of that, their in-flight entertainment system is top-notch, with an extensive selection of movies, TV shows, and music.

Airline A’s dining experience aloft is also unparalleled; the meals are gourmet, often curated by renowned chefs. They come with an impressive wine list that would not be out of place in a fine dining restaurant. Furthermore, their impeccable service makes you feel like royalty throughout the flight.

In stark contrast stands Airline F – where every aspect felt like an afterthought rather than a premium service. At check-in and in the lounge, interactions were perfunctory and the amenities were underwhelming. The business class seat was more akin to what one might expect from premium economy – lacking in both space and comfort.

The cuisine on Airline F was unremarkable; it neither impressed in flavour nor presentation. What’s worse, service lapses such as forgotten drink refills or long response times to call buttons exacerbated the lacklustre experience. Compounding this was an outdated entertainment system that seemed to harken back to the early 2000s.

Between these two extremes were airlines B through E which offered varying degrees of comfort and service – some nearly reaching the heights of Airline A and others a little too close to Airline F’s nadir for comfort.

In summation, flying business class can range from an exquisite experience that adds to your trip to a forgettable one that fails to justify its cost. For frequent fliers or those looking to splurge on a special occasion, choosing wisely between airlines could be the difference between a flight being a treasured part of your travel memories—or simply a means to an end.