When flying in business class, the experience should be seamless, comfortable, and luxurious—an expectation that travelers have when boarding a premium cabin. In this review, we take a closer look at Austrian Airlines’ Business Class aboard the Airbus A320 on a flight from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) in Paris to Vienna International Airport (VIE). From the moment we checked in to when we touched down in Vienna, Austrian Airlines exceeded many expectations, and in some areas, it truly shone. Let’s explore this business class journey in detail.
Booking and Check-In Process
Booking a flight with Austrian Airlines is straightforward, and the airline offers multiple channels through which you can secure your ticket—whether it’s through their website or third-party platforms. The process was simple, and the customer service was easy to reach should you have any questions. The choice of seating in Business Class was also clear and user-friendly, with the option to select a preferred seat during booking.
When it comes to check-in, Austrian Airlines provides dedicated counters at major airports like Charles de Gaulle, offering a premium check-in experience for Business Class passengers. The staff at CDG was polite, professional, and efficient. Despite the bustling environment of the airport, there was minimal waiting time, and I was quickly issued my boarding pass and lounge access. One of the great perks of flying Business Class with Austrian Airlines is the lounge access at CDG. Austrian Airlines shares the Lufthansa Business Lounge at CDG, which is spacious, well-stocked, and perfect for relaxing before the flight.
Boarding the Flight: A Warm Welcome
Once it was time to board, Business Class passengers were called to board first. This priority boarding process was well organized and allowed us to avoid the usual congestion in the gate area. As I approached the aircraft, the crew greeted me with warm smiles and welcoming words, a nice touch that set the tone for the flight ahead.
The Airbus A320, the aircraft for this particular flight, is a narrow-body jet that typically features 12-16 Business Class seats, depending on the configuration. Austrian Airlines offers a 2-2 seating arrangement in Business Class on the A320, which is a distinct advantage compared to many other European carriers who often have a 3-3 setup. The smaller cabin made for a more intimate and comfortable atmosphere, even on a short flight like the one from Paris to Vienna.
Cabin and Seating Comfort
The Business Class cabin on the Austrian Airlines A320 is designed with a sense of understated elegance. The seats are upholstered in leather and provide a feeling of luxury without being over the top. Each seat offers ample legroom, an adjustable headrest, and armrests that provide enough space for a relaxing flight. The seat width was generous, giving you the room to stretch out and feel at ease even during the brief duration of the flight.
Though the flight from CDG to VIE is only about two hours, the seats offer adequate recline, perfect for resting or adjusting to the ideal sitting position. Austrian Airlines also offers a small pillow and blanket, which, while not as plush as some long-haul services, were perfectly suited for a short haul flight.
One feature I particularly appreciated was the power outlets available at each seat, allowing passengers to charge devices during the flight. This is an increasingly important feature, especially for business travelers who need to stay connected while on the move.
Onboard Service: Attentive and Friendly
Austrian Airlines is renowned for its top-notch service, and the crew did not disappoint on this flight. From the moment we took off, the flight attendants were attentive, making sure passengers had everything they needed without being intrusive. The service style was friendly, professional, and personal, which made a huge difference in the overall flight experience.
Shortly after takeoff, the flight attendants began offering drinks, and they took the time to ask each passenger for their preferences. Austrian Airlines offers a wide range of beverages, including premium wines, soft drinks, and sparkling water, and I was impressed by the quality of the offerings.
Dining Experience
On this short two-hour flight, Business Class passengers were treated to a light meal service. The meal consisted of a choice between two main options, accompanied by a selection of salads, bread, and desserts. I opted for the chicken dish, which was flavorful and well-cooked. The meal was elegantly presented, with an eye to detail that made the whole dining experience feel like more than just a quick meal.
The meal service also included a range of beverages to complement the food. Austrian Airlines is known for offering high-quality wines, and the flight attendants provided a selection of Austrian wines to pair with the meal. The wine choices were excellent and reflected Austria’s renowned wine culture, which was a delightful bonus for those who appreciate a fine glass of wine.
Despite the limited space on the A320, the meal service felt leisurely and enjoyable. The pace was relaxed, allowing passengers to fully appreciate the food and drink.
In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity
As the flight was relatively short, there was no in-flight entertainment system on board, which is not uncommon for European short-haul flights. However, Austrian Airlines provides Wi-Fi on their A320 aircraft, and Business Class passengers have access to complimentary internet, which is a nice touch. Although the Wi-Fi service wasn’t particularly fast, it was sufficient for browsing the web or catching up on emails.
There was also a USB port at each seat, which is essential for charging your devices, especially when relying on mobile entertainment or needing to stay connected for work purposes.
Arrival at Vienna International Airport
After a smooth and pleasant flight, we arrived at Vienna International Airport right on time. The deplaning process was quick, and Business Class passengers had priority access through immigration and customs. The efficiency of this process allowed for a smooth transition from the airplane to the terminal, enhancing the overall Business Class experience.
Conclusion: Is Austrian Airlines Business Class Worth It?
For a short-haul flight from Paris to Vienna, Austrian Airlines’ Business Class aboard the Airbus A320 offers exceptional value. From the smooth check-in process to the attentive in-flight service, comfortable seating, and delicious meal, Austrian Airlines truly delivers a high-quality experience. The cabin crew’s warm hospitality, combined with thoughtful touches like lounge access and Wi-Fi, elevates this flight beyond just transportation—it’s an experience.
Though the flight duration is short, Austrian Airlines ensures that every aspect of the journey is comfortable and enjoyable, making this a solid choice for travelers looking for a little extra luxury on a European route. For anyone flying between Paris and Vienna or other European destinations on Austrian Airlines, the Business Class experience is definitely worth considering.
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Austrian Airlines Business Class on the A320 provides all the amenities and services you need for a smooth, enjoyable flight.
