The Best Business Class Seats for Long-Haul Flights | 2025 Guide

When you’re flying long-haul, the type of business class seat you choose can completely transform your experience. From private suites with doors to spacious lie-flat layouts designed for comfort, the right seat makes every hour in the air feel easier, quieter, and more luxurious.

Below is a full breakdown of the best business class seat types in 2025 — and what makes each one worth booking for your next international trip.

1. Qatar Airways Qsuite — The Gold Standard of Business Class

Qsuite is considered by many travelers to be the best business class seat in the world, and for good reason.

Key Features

• Fully private suite with a sliding door
• Lie-flat bed with plush bedding
• Adjustable seating that allows double beds for couples
• “Quad” seating option for families or groups
• Large screen, premium Wi-Fi, luxury dining

Why It’s Great

Qsuite offers first-class style privacy — without the first-class price. If you’re flying to Asia, the Middle East, or Africa, this is one of the top choices for maximum comfort.

Where You’ll Find It

• Qatar Airways A350-1000
• Select B777-300ER aircraft
• On long-haul routes from major U.S. hubs (New York, Chicago, Los Angeles)

2. Reverse Herringbone — The Most Comfortable All-Around Layout

Reverse herringbone seats are popular across many premium airlines because they strike the perfect balance between privacy, comfort, and space.

Key Features

• Lie-flat layout angled away from the aisle
• Direct aisle access for every passenger
• Large side surface for storage
• Good privacy without being fully enclosed

Why It’s Great

This layout is ideal for travelers who want peace, space, and ergonomic design. It’s comfortable for sleeping and great for working.

Airlines That Use Reverse Herringbone

• Cathay Pacific (Superb quality)
• American Airlines (Flagship Business)
• EVA Air
• Air France (New Business Class)
• Finnair A350 / A330 (modified herringbone-style AirLounge seats)

3. Staggered Seats — The Most Common Lie-Flat Option

taggered business class seats are found in many fleets and offer solid comfort, even if they’re not as luxurious as suites.

Key Features

• Lie-flat bed
• Seats alternate in a “staggered” pattern
• Some seats near the window feel more private
• Storage varies depending on the exact row

Why It’s Great

Staggered seats are consistent, comfortable, and widely available across Europe and Asia. Some window seats create a “mini-suite” effect.

Best Airlines with Staggered Seats

• Emirates (777 Business Class)
• Austrian Airlines
• Lufthansa (current 2-2-2 layout; new Allegris staggered suites launching)
• Etihad (older A330/A340 aircraft)
• Japan Airlines Sky Suite (excellent privacy versions)

4. Business Class Suites with Sliding Doors — The New Generation of Luxury

Airlines are now introducing fully enclosed business class suites, offering privacy that competes directly with first class.

Key Features

• Doors that close for full privacy
• Wide lie-flat beds
• Large screens (up to 24–30 inches)
• Improved noise isolation
• Premium dining and high-end finishes

Why It’s Great

If you value peace and privacy, suites are the top of the business-class world. The feeling is similar to a boutique hotel room — quiet, private, and spacious.

Top Airlines Offering Business Class Suites

• Qatar Airways Qsuite
• Emirates A350 Business Class (new)
• British Airways Club Suite
• Delta One Suites
• ANA “The Room” (extremely spacious seating)
• Air France New Business “Suite”
• Etihad Business Studio (semi-enclosed)

Which Seat Type Should You Choose?

Best for Couples

• Qatar Airways Qsuite
• Emirates A350 Business Class (new)
• Emirates A350 Suites

Best for Solo Travelers

• Reverse Herringbone
• Delta One Suite
• British Airways Club Suite

Best for Value

• Staggered Seats with window privacy
• Air France / KLM Business Class
• Austrian Airlines

Final Thoughts

When booking a long-haul business class flight, the seat type is just as important as the airline. Some travelers prefer the privacy of a suite, while others want the spacious layout of a reverse herringbone seat.

With VipTrips, you can find exclusive business class deals with the world’s top airlines — saving up to 60% on premium cabins for long-haul travel.

Ready to fly in comfort?
VIPTrips helps you book the perfect business class seat for your next journey.