The “secret” first class seats offered by airlines... where do you find them?

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Although global airlines are gradually retiring their first-class seats, passengers can still enjoy their atmosphere in secret suites tucked away at the front of the plane. These suites are distinguished by their large space, hidden features, and luxurious touches.

Anthony Harcop, senior director at design firm Design House Teague, explains where the seating space comes from. The rows of business class seats are usually so close together that the traveler can place his feet under the seat of the passenger who is sitting in front of him.

But the front space of the first row is not sufficiently utilized. Harkop says restructuring this space to create unique features and more space turns it into premium real estate on board.

The space available can be larger than first class for many airlines, which means designers can get more creative, such as adding a side sofa to allow your partner or children to sit with you and watch movies on the larger in-flight entertainment screen. Other options include a small wardrobe so you can change into the airline-provided nightgowns, leaving your clothes clean when you arrive.

“All this extra space is particularly important as more efficient business class seats replace vanishing first class seats,” says Harcop. “In doing so, they are a ray of light that keeps the spirit and distinction of first class alive.”

JetBlue Airways' Mint Studio is an example of this, introduced on its latest long-haul aircraft. “Not only were we able to create a larger, more comfortable bed, but also a larger screen, a second seat, and more space to work,” says Daniel Klucas, senior designer at Acumen Design Associates.

There are many options available to airlines, seat makers and their design partners, and choices to be made based on what the airline wants and needs. If the airline is business-focused, it can offer a “meeting seat” and an expanded “business table” with additional power sockets and chargers.

For an entertaining-focused mover, the “work table” can be transformed into a romantic, extended dining space, perhaps with the introduction of low-light options, flowers, and even an electronic candle. Meanwhile, airlines targeting families can dedicate space to board games, with additional coloring space.

Not only that, but we also install a bed for the children, and provide them with suitable snacks and drinks. So, how do you find these new seats?

Well, maybe the airline sells it as “Business Plus” or “Business Suite”. Therefore, be sure to monitor the seats when you reserve them, even at the back of the plane.

When you're on the flight, take a look at the front row and see if it has more space than the row behind it. “When it comes to the front row, passengers will want to see features that go above and beyond the rest of the business class cabin,” Clucas explains. “Providing more space to sleep, rest or work is not enough...

“So, we included things like personal lockers, a bistro, and additional mood lighting, in our designs.”