Flying business class to Europe from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is an experience that combines luxury, comfort, and convenience. However, the cost of business class tickets can be daunting. If you’re looking for the best balance between affordability and premium services, we have analyzed two of the cheapest yet best business class airlines for this route. These airlines provide a superior flying experience without breaking the bank.
1. Condor Airlines – Affordable Luxury with Direct Flights
Overview
Condor Airlines is one of the most budget-friendly business class options for passengers traveling from LAX to Frankfurt. It is a German leisure airline known for offering affordable fares while maintaining a premium travel experience. Condor provides direct, non-stop flights, making it one of the most time-efficient choices.
Business Class Features
- Fully lie-flat seats: Condor’s latest business class seats recline to a full-flat bed position, ensuring a restful flight.
- Dedicated business class cabin: Spacious, with increased privacy and ergonomic seating.
- Premium dining experience: Passengers are treated to chef-curated multi-course meals, with options catering to various dietary needs.
- Exclusive airport services: Priority boarding, lounge access, and expedited security.
- Excellent inflight entertainment: 17-inch screens with an extensive selection of movies, music, and TV shows.
- Amenities kit: Featuring high-end skincare products, sleep masks, and other essentials.
- Checked baggage: Includes two checked bags free of charge (up to 32 kg each).
Why Choose Condor?
- Cheapest direct business class flights from LAX to Frankfurt.
- Non-stop service, saving valuable travel time.
- High-quality business class seats and services despite being a low-cost carrier.
- Seasonal promotions often provide additional discounts, making it an even better deal.
Pricing
Business class fares on Condor are often 30-50% lower than those on major legacy carriers like Lufthansa or United. Prices generally start from $2,000–$2,800 round trip, depending on the season and booking time.
Drawbacks
- No Wi-Fi on some aircraft.
- Service and food quality may not be on par with top-tier premium carriers.
- Limited partnership for frequent flyer miles compared to major alliances like Star Alliance.
2. Turkish Airlines – A Premium Yet Budget-Friendly Option
Overview
If you are open to a one-stop flight with a layover in Istanbul (IST), Turkish Airlines offers a high-end business class experience at a lower price point. Turkish Airlines is renowned for its award-winning business class, exceptional onboard service, and luxurious lounges. Despite the layover, many travelers choose Turkish Airlines for its superior comfort and affordability.
Business Class Features
- Lie-flat seats with ample space: Turkish Airlines’ business class cabins are designed for ultimate comfort, featuring seats that convert into a fully flat bed.
- Exceptional onboard dining: Turkish Airlines is known for chef-prepared meals, featuring gourmet Turkish and international cuisine.
- Access to Istanbul Business Lounge: One of the best business class lounges in the world, offering a wide selection of food, private suites, showers, and entertainment.
- Generous baggage policy: Business class passengers can check in two 32 kg bags for free.
- Exclusive amenities kit: Provided by Salvatore Ferragamo, featuring premium skincare products.
- Extensive inflight entertainment: Large HD screens with hundreds of movies, TV shows, music, and games.
- Wi-Fi onboard: Available on most flights, free for business class travelers.
Why Choose Turkish Airlines?
- Award-winning business class services at a relatively lower price.
- One of the best inflight dining experiences.
- Highly-rated customer service and comfortable seating arrangements.
- Access to one of the world’s best lounges in Istanbul.
- Frequent promotions and competitive fares.
Pricing
Turkish Airlines’ business class fares are typically 20-40% cheaper than Lufthansa or United, with round-trip fares starting at around $2,500–$3,200. While not as cheap as Condor, it offers far superior service and overall experience.
Drawbacks
- Longer travel time due to a layover in Istanbul.
- Some travelers may find the Istanbul layover inconvenient.
- Not a direct flight, which may be an issue for those prioritizing speed.
3. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) – Competitive Pricing with a Premium Experience
Overview
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) provides affordable business class fares while maintaining a high-quality flight experience. Although SAS does not offer direct flights from LAX to Frankfurt, their one-stop route via Copenhagen (CPH) is often cheaper than Lufthansa and other legacy carriers.
Business Class Features
- Fully lie-flat seats: Comfortable 180-degree reclining seats in a 2-2-2 configuration.
- Modern Scandinavian design: Stylish, clean, and ergonomic seating for maximum comfort.
- Exceptional dining experience: Passengers can enjoy Nordic-inspired cuisine, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and special diets.
- Wi-Fi onboard: Free for business class passengers.
- Generous baggage allowance: Two checked bags (32 kg each) included.
- Airport lounge access: Access to SAS Lounges and Star Alliance lounges at connecting airports.
- Great inflight entertainment: 15-inch HD touchscreen with a large selection of movies and TV shows.
- Fast-track security and priority boarding: Ensuring a smooth airport experience.
Why Choose SAS?
- Affordable pricing compared to other European carriers.
- Layover in Copenhagen offers a great lounge experience.
- High-quality seats and service for a budget-friendly price.
- Excellent inflight meals and premium airport services.
- Easier frequent flyer benefits through Star Alliance.
Pricing
SAS often provides cheaper business class fares than Lufthansa, with prices ranging between $2,200 and $3,000 for a round trip. Promotional fares sometimes drop as low as $1,900.
Drawbacks
- No direct flights, as it requires a stop in Copenhagen.
- Limited U.S. network connectivity compared to Lufthansa.
- Some travelers prefer more privacy, as SAS’s 2-2-2 seating layout lacks direct aisle access for window seats.
4. Air France – Best Service at a Lower Cost
Overview
Air France offers high-end business class services at a competitive price, often undercutting Lufthansa. Flights connect through Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), adding a touch of French elegance to the experience. While not the cheapest option, Air France’s superior service and comfort make it a great choice.
Business Class Features
- Fully lie-flat seats: A 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers.
- Gourmet French cuisine: Michelin-star-inspired meals paired with premium French wines and champagne.
- Exceptional lounge experience: Access to Air France Business Lounges in LAX and CDG, offering gourmet dining, showers, and spa treatments.
- High-speed Wi-Fi: Available on most aircraft for a seamless online experience.
- Premium amenity kits: Includes luxury skincare products from Clarins or Givenchy.
- Priority services: Fast-track security, priority boarding, and baggage handling.
- Superior inflight entertainment: Large touchscreen monitors with a vast selection of movies, TV series, and music.
Why Choose Air France?
- One of the most comfortable and luxurious business class cabins at a mid-range price.
- French-inspired dining and premium wines make it a top choice for food lovers.
- Layover in Paris provides access to world-class lounges.
- Reliable service and seamless connections within Europe.
Pricing
Business class fares with Air France generally range between $2,400 and $3,500, but occasional promotions bring them down to around $2,000.
Drawbacks
- No direct flights – all routes require a layover in Paris (CDG).
- Higher base price compared to SAS and Condor.
- Inconsistent aircraft quality on some older planes.
Comparison of Business Class Airlines from LAX to Frankfurt
Flying business class from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is an experience that combines luxury, comfort, and convenience. However, the cost of business class tickets can be daunting. If you’re looking for the best balance between affordability and premium services, we have analyzed four of the cheapest yet best business class airlines for this route.
Feature Comparison
Feature | Condor Airlines | Turkish Airlines | SAS Airlines | Air France |
---|---|---|---|---|
Direct Flight | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (Stop in IST) | ❌ No (Stop in CPH) | ❌ No (Stop in CDG) |
Price Range (Round Trip) | $2,000–$2,800 | $2,500–$3,200 | $2,200–$3,000 | $2,400–$3,500 |
Lie-Flat Seats | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (2-2-2) | ✅ Yes (1-2-1) |
Inflight Dining | Standard | Premium, Chef-Prepared | Nordic Cuisine | Michelin-Star French Cuisine |
Lounge Access | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (World-Class) | ✅ Yes (SAS & Star Alliance) | ✅ Yes (Premium Lounges) |
Wi-Fi Onboard | ❌ Not Available on Some Planes | ✅ Available | ✅ Free for Business Class | ✅ High-Speed Available |
Frequent Flyer Benefits | Limited | Star Alliance Membership | Star Alliance | SkyTeam Membership |
Best For | Budget-Friendly, Direct Flights | Luxury on a Budget, Premium Experience | Affordable Comfort, Scandinavian Design | High-End Service, Premium Comfort |
Airline Breakdown
1. Condor Airlines – Affordable Luxury with Direct Flights
Best for: Travelers seeking the cheapest direct business class flight from LAX to Frankfurt.
- Direct, non-stop service.
- Comfortable lie-flat seats.
- Cheaper than major legacy airlines like Lufthansa.
- Limited inflight services (no Wi-Fi, basic dining options).
2. Turkish Airlines – A Premium Yet Budget-Friendly Option
Best for: Those who don’t mind a layover in Istanbul in exchange for top-tier service.
- World-class business class lounge in Istanbul.
- Gourmet dining and premium amenities.
- Higher cost than Condor but much better service.
- Longer travel time due to layover.
3. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) – Competitive Pricing with a Premium Experience
Best for: Those looking for an affordable yet high-quality business class experience with a layover in Copenhagen.
- One of the cheapest alternatives.
- Modern Scandinavian design and excellent comfort.
- No direct aisle access for all seats (2-2-2 configuration).
4. Air France – Best Service at a Lower Cost
Best for: Travelers who prioritize luxury, gourmet food, and excellent lounges over direct flights.
- Top-tier French cuisine and wine selection.
- Direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration.
- Higher base price but frequent promotions bring it down.
Conclusion: Which Airline is Best for You?
- For the lowest-cost, non-stop experience, Condor Airlines is the best choice.
- For luxury at a mid-range price, Turkish Airlines is an excellent option.
- For a budget-friendly stopover experience, SAS Airlines is ideal.
- For the best dining and premium comfort, Air France is the top pick.
To secure the best business class fares, book in advance, monitor promotions, and use frequent flyer miles or credit card rewards. Whichever airline you choose, each of these options offers a comfortable and cost-effective way to fly business class from Los Angeles to Frankfurt.