Flying Air France Nonstop From the US: What Travelers Say

Nonstop flights from the US to Paris are always in demand, and Air France operates many of them. Here’s a comprehensive look at what travelers actually say when flying Air France nonstop.

1. Service in the Air

Service is often described as a highlight. Crew are attentive, professional, and sometimes go above expectations.

On one flight, a passenger allergic to shrimp was offered the flight attendant’s own appetizer when there was no alternative available. Families mention that staff treat children kindly, serving them first, offering toys, and generally making kids feel comfortable.

In business class, service is said to compare favorably to Delta’s Polaris or United’s offerings. Passengers from Atlanta to Paris praise the smooth handling and decent wine selection.

Some in premium economy feel a major step up compared with standard economy, though others say the difference isn’t dramatic.

2. Food and Drinks

Opinions on food could not be more divided. Many describe it as fantastic, far better than Delta or American, with champagne and wine included even in economy. Cognac is sometimes offered after dinner, and cheese on French-originating flights is praised.

Others are shocked that anyone could enjoy it, calling the meals bland or outright bad. Bread and butter come up repeatedly as a redeeming part of the tray.

Business class catering usually gets better reviews, often considered superior to United Polaris on the same route. Still, there are criticisms: economy travelers from Boston and Toronto find the food ick or even shocking.

Some regular flyers say the food has declined compared to a decade ago. Several note a difference depending on direction: flights from France to the US tend to have tastier, fresher meals than those departing the US.

Parents confirm that children are treated well at mealtimes, sometimes even better than adults.

3. Planes and Comfort

Aircraft type makes a big difference. The A350 is the favorite, described as modern, quiet, and comfortable in both business and economy.

The seats recline more in certain exit rows, and business passengers say they sleep better on this aircraft than on Delta’s equivalent.

The 777 draws mixed reviews. Premium economy on older versions is considered cramped. Some cabins lack power outlets or overhead air vents, which is a problem in summer when cabins get warm.

Business class seats differ depending on aircraft. Newer planes have lie-flat configurations that are praised, while older versions feel outdated. Frequent fliers say to always check the plane model before booking.

4. Entertainment and Extras

The inflight entertainment is solid with a wide movie and TV library. Travelers enjoy boarding music that features French pop playlists, creating a cultural touch from the start.

A few note the absence or unreliability of Wi-Fi, particularly on the 777, which frustrates those needing to work in-flight.

Passengers also enjoy small touches: snacks available in the galley, fresh bread during service, and sometimes specialty items depending on the route.

Families appreciate that baggage rules are less strict than some US carriers.

5. Charles de Gaulle Airport

CDG generates strong opinions. Some find it fine, even easy. Others hate it so much they choose to fly into Heathrow and take the Eurostar rather than deal with it again.

Automated passport control has improved processing times, and several travelers note consistently quick arrivals and departures.

But connecting is still a headache. Travelers mention long walks between terminals and inconsistent quality: one terminal feels luxurious with a Louis Vuitton presence, another resembles a bus station with almost no seating at gates.

Some call it “a special kind of hell,” especially when transferring while sleep-deprived. Others dismiss the complaints, saying it’s just a normal big airport that comes with the usual hassles.

6. Reliability and Issues

Air France generally runs on time. Flights from SFO, BOS, and RDU are cited as punctual and smooth.

But disruptions happen. Strikes have led to cancellations, though Air France reimburses costs when they do, which travelers see as fair handling.

Overselling occurs. A Denver-Paris passenger paid months in advance for upgraded seats only to be bumped back to regular economy without compensation at check-in. They had to chase Air France afterward.

Another issue arises with ticketing through Delta – lap child seating rules created a standoff that staff eventually resolved, though not smoothly.

Luggage delays are occasionally mentioned, with some cases of bags arriving two days late. Seat changes at check-in are another frustration, though staff sometimes fix this mid-flight if possible.

7. Comparisons With Other Airlines

Air France is often compared with Delta because of the partnership. Some call it “French Delta with slightly better food.” In terms of award travel, AF and KLM are said to offer better value than Delta, which now requires far more points.

KLM, its partner, gets specific praise for having better food than Air France. Virgin Atlantic is described as offering much warmer service on similar routes, while Turkish Airlines is mentioned as one of the only other favorites for transatlantic flights.

Many still place Air France above United and American, which are seen as weaker across service, catering, and comfort.

8. Tips From Frequent Flyers

These points come up repeatedly:

• Always check the aircraft type – A350 is considered far superior to the 777.
• Paid upgrades can be worth it, especially last-minute offers.
• Bring your own water and snacks since drink service is limited.
• Kids usually receive thoughtful service, so families feel comfortable flying AF.
• CDG is better if starting or ending a trip, but allow lots of time for transfers.
• Food can be better on flights originating in France.
• Champagne is consistently available, even in economy, something travelers enjoy.

In Conclusion

Reviews of Air France nonstop flights from the US to Paris are largely positive. Travelers appreciate the service, enjoy champagne in the back cabin, and rate the A350 as one of the best planes for crossing the Atlantic.

Food opinions are sharply divided, and CDG remains a sticking point. Still, most say they would book Air France again, especially when prices are good or routes are nonstop.