Condor Airlines premium review

When planning a long-haul journey, the choice of airline and class of service can significantly impact your travel experience. Condor Airlines, known for its leisure-focused routes, offers various classes, including Premium Economy and Business Class, promising enhanced comfort and amenities. But are these premium upgrades truly worth the extra investment?

This comprehensive Condor Airlines premium review will delve into the specifics of their Premium Economy and Business Class offerings, examining everything from seating comfort and in-flight service to airport perks and overall value. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture to decide if upgrading with Condor is the right choice for your next adventure.

Understanding Condor's Premium Offerings

Condor Airlines provides two distinct premium cabin experiences beyond standard Economy: Premium Economy and Business Class. While both aim to provide a more comfortable journey, they cater to different levels of luxury and budget. It's worth noting that the experience can be significantly enhanced on Condor's newer Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, which feature modern interiors and amenities.

Condor Premium Economy Review: More Than Just Extra Legroom?

Condor's Premium Economy is often positioned as a comfortable middle ground, bridging the gap between Economy and Business Class. But what does it really offer?

Seating Comfort and Space

The most significant advantage of Condor Premium Economy over standard Economy is the increased legroom. Premium Economy seats typically offer a 35-inch pitch, providing 5 to 7 inches more space compared to the 30-inch pitch in Economy. This extra room can make a noticeable difference, especially on long-haul flights, helping to alleviate mid-flight leg cramps.

However, it's important to manage expectations regarding the seats themselves. On many Condor aircraft, the Premium Economy seats are fundamentally similar to Economy seats, albeit with added features like adjustable footrests and vertically and horizontally adjustable headrests. Unlike some other airlines' premium economy products, Condor's Premium Economy cabin often lacks a full physical divider from the Economy section, sometimes separated only by a small partition or headrest covers. The recline is also limited, typically around 12 degrees. Travelers on older aircraft might even find a lack of footrests.

In-Flight Amenities and Service

Upgrading to Condor Premium Economy brings several perks designed to enhance your journey:

• Meals and Beverages: Passengers receive a Premium Menu, often including two meals on most long-haul flights, along with a generous selection of complimentary non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Special dietary meals can also be pre-ordered.
• Amenity Kit: You'll typically find a basic amenity kit containing essentials like striped socks, an eye mask, a toothbrush, toothpaste, a light blanket, a soft pillow, and a bottle of water. The provision of a water bottle at takeoff is a welcome touch, as flight attendants may not frequently offer refills.
• Entertainment: The in-flight entertainment system is generally impressive, especially on newer A330neo aircraft, featuring large, crisp 13.3-inch 4K monitors. Seats come with USB-A/C connections and a device holder, and you can even pair your personal Bluetooth headphones. Wi-Fi is available, though it usually comes with a charge.
• Service Quality: Reviews on service can be mixed. While some travelers report positive experiences with friendly and efficient cabin crew, others have noted inconsistencies or a less proactive approach to service, such as water refills.

Airport Experience and Boarding

Premium Economy passengers benefit from priority check-in and priority tags for checked baggage, which can streamline the ground experience. However, boarding can sometimes be disorganized, particularly at bus gates where priority boarding might not be effectively managed, leading to a "free-for-all" scenario.

Is Condor Premium Economy Worth the Upgrade?

For many, Condor's Premium Economy hits a sweet spot. It's particularly beneficial if you're looking for noticeably more legroom and an enhanced meal service without the significant cost of Business Class. The value is often higher on newer aircraft, which boast more up-to-date amenities. The price difference between Economy and Premium Economy can sometimes be negligible, making it an easy choice for those seeking a more comfortable transatlantic flight.

Condor Business Class Review: The Ultimate Long-Haul Comfort?

For those seeking a truly elevated travel experience, Condor's Business Class aims to provide maximum comfort and convenience on long-haul routes.

Seating and Privacy

Condor's Business Class on its A330neo aircraft features a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access. The seats are a customized version of the Safran Skylounge Core seat, measuring 50.8 cm (20 inches) wide and reclining into a fully flat bed of 1.99 meters (78 inches). These spacious pods offer a good degree of privacy.

Condor also offers "Prime Seats" in the front row of Business Class for an additional fee. These seats provide even more space, a larger bed, a bigger 24-inch 4K monitor, an ottoman, and extra amenities like pajamas and a dedicated snack basket.

Dining and Beverages

Business Class dining on Condor is a significant upgrade. Passengers can expect a gourmet menu with a choice of three different main courses, and all drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are complimentary and unlimited. Snacks are served, and depending on the time of day, a breakfast or dinner is provided before landing. You can even pre-select your main course up to 24 hours before departure.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

The entertainment system in Business Class is robust. Seats feature a 17.3-inch 4K high-resolution touchscreen (larger 24-inch for Prime Seats) and a cabled touchpad remote control. Noise-canceling headphones are provided, and you can connect your personal Bluetooth headphones. Universal power outlets, USB, and USB-C ports are available for charging devices. Wi-Fi is offered, and for Prime Seat passengers, a chat package is included. Aviation enthusiasts might enjoy the "Condor Insights" section, featuring behind-the-scenes documentaries.

Airport Privileges

Business Class passengers enjoy a full suite of airport privileges, including priority check-in, priority baggage tags, fast-track security, lounge access (e.g., Lounge @T7 in JFK), and priority boarding. These benefits contribute to a smoother and more relaxed pre-flight experience.

Is Condor Business Class a Good Choice?

Condor's Business Class is often lauded as a strong contender, offering amenities comparable to other major carriers but frequently at a more competitive price point. If a lie-flat bed, gourmet dining, and a comprehensive airport experience are priorities for your long-haul flight, Condor's Business Class presents a compelling option.

Making Your Decision: Value for Money and What to Consider

Deciding whether to upgrade to a premium class on Condor Airlines ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Here are key factors to consider:

• Flight Duration: For shorter flights, the benefits of Premium Economy or Business Class might not justify the cost. However, on long-haul journeys (over 7 hours), the increased comfort, especially legroom or a lie-flat bed, becomes significantly more valuable.
• Budget vs. Comfort: Carefully compare the price difference between the classes. Is the added comfort and amenities worth the extra expense for you? Sometimes, the upgrade to Premium Economy can be quite affordable and offer good value.
• Personal Priorities: Do you prioritize legroom and a slightly better meal, or is a fully flat bed and lounge access essential for your well-being?
• Aircraft Type: If possible, try to fly on Condor's newer Airbus A330-900neo aircraft, as they generally offer a more modern and enhanced premium experience.
• Operational Consistency: Be aware that Condor, like any airline, can experience operational issues such as delays or cancellations. Some reviews mention inconsistent ground staff assistance when things go wrong. While not directly related to the premium product itself, it's a factor in the overall travel experience.

Conclusion

Condor Airlines offers compelling premium options for travelers looking to enhance their journey. Condor Premium Economy provides a noticeable upgrade in legroom, meal service, and amenities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking more comfort without the full Business Class price tag. It's often described as a "really good economy class experience" that bridges the gap.

Meanwhile, Condor Business Class delivers a robust luxury experience with lie-flat seats, gourmet dining, comprehensive entertainment, and valuable airport privileges, often at a more accessible price than some competitors.

Ultimately, a Condor Airlines premium review reveals that the "worth" of an upgrade hinges on your specific needs for comfort, the length of your flight, and your travel budget. By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure your next journey with Condor is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

Have you flown Condor's Premium Economy or Business Class? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below – your insights could help fellow travelers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main difference between Condor Premium Economy and Economy?

The main differences are increased legroom (35-inch pitch in Premium Economy vs. 30-inch in Economy), an adjustable footrest, an upgraded meal service with complimentary alcoholic beverages, and a basic amenity kit. While the seats are often structurally similar, the added space and perks aim to provide a more comfortable experience.

Do Condor Business Class seats lie flat?

Yes, Condor Business Class seats on their A330neo aircraft recline to a fully flat bed, measuring approximately 1.99 meters (78 inches) long. They are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing all-aisle access.

Is Wi-Fi free on Condor's premium classes?

Wi-Fi is generally available on Condor flights, including premium classes, but it is typically a paid service. However, passengers in "Prime Seats" within Business Class may receive a complimentary chat package.

Do Condor premium class tickets include lounge access?

Yes, Condor Business Class tickets include lounge access at many airports. Premium Economy tickets do not typically include lounge access.