Air France to introduce new product on medium-haul flights

As of April 2015, new seats, made from leather, will be installed on board in all classes. 24 Airbus A319s will receive the new seats during the first half of 2015, and during 2016, an additional 25 Airbus A320s will be equipped with the new seats. A total of 7,800 new seats are to be installed.

The food concept will also be changing, and according to Air France, the idea is that the concept on longer flights within Europe more will more closely resemble what you get on long-haul flights. In business class, a welcome drink and hot food will be served during the flight, along with wine, coffee, and liqueurs. Breakfast will be served in some form regardless of flight duration, and warm bread will be available on all flights.

In economy class, croissants, sandwiches, or alternatively, something sweet or salty, will be served depending on the flight length and the time of day. On longer flights, hot food will be served. Drinks with and without alcohol will be offered as they currently are.

Premium economy will be abolished within Europe, and in the future will only be offered on long-haul flights. As compensation, Air France will launch ‘Economy Flex’ for business travellers. These tickets will provide Sky Priority benefits on the ground and a seat at the front of the economy class cabin on board. Tickets will also be rebookable.

During the summer of 2015, Air France will also trial WiFi on board number of aircraft in collaboration with Orange. The new service will provide the opportunity for passengers to surf the internet, check e-mails, and watch live TV and TV series on board the aircraft. The new service will be trialled during a three-month period on two Airbus A320 aircraft.