What Is It Like to Fly Korean Air’s Boeing 747-8 in Prestige Business Class?

Korean Air’s daily route from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN) is a key link between the U.S. and Asia, forming part of its joint venture with Delta Air Lines. This partnership allows Korean Air to deploy its iconic Boeing 747-8, while Delta operates the Airbus A350-900 on the same route.

Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air

Flying the “Queen of the Skies” has always been a dream of mine, and this was the perfect opportunity to experience Korean Air’s Prestige business class on the airline’s longest flight.

Check-In

My journey began at Miami International Airport (MIA), where Delta’s partnership with Korean Air allowed me to check my luggage directly through to Incheon, making the transfer in Atlanta seamless.

Photo: Centurion Lounge, Atlanta. Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

Upon arriving at ATL, I tried the Centurion Lounge in Concourse E but found it overcrowded. The nearby Delta SkyClub in Concourse F provided a quieter spot to enjoy a light breakfast and relax before heading to our departure gate.

Boarding

Boarding commenced promptly at 11:40. As a business class passenger, I was among the first to board and was thrilled to step onto the Boeing 747-8.

Welcomed at the door by three smiling flight attendants, I was directed to the stairs leading to the upper deck, a quieter space configured exclusively for business class in a 2-2 staggered layout. This thoughtful design ensures each passenger enjoys direct aisle access without disturbing a neighbor.

The compact galley in the rear served a limited number of upper-deck passengers, ensuring quick and personalized service.

Photo: Courtesy of Isabella Grisanti

On the lower deck, six rows of 2-2-2 seating make the Prestige Business Class cabin less private, although the seats are spacious and staggered, similar to those on the upper deck.

The Seat

Korean Air’s 747-8 Prestige business class seats, manufactured by B/E Aerospace, offer impressive privacy and storage, especially for window seats, which come with spacious bins by the windows.

Photo: Courtesy of Korean Air

My seat, on the right side of the cabin, provided a perfect view of the aircraft’s massive wings and engines. My wife sat just beside me in an aisle seat, separated by a privacy divider that could be electronically raised.

Even without the partition, the setup felt secluded, and the four large windows beside me emphasized the spaciousness of the seating area.

Equipped with a 21-inch width and a fully flat, 72-inch-long bed mode, the seat included all essentials: a plush pillow, slippers, an amenity kit, and a menu detailing the meal services.

In-flight entertainment came via a 17-inch HD touchscreen that was easily accessible using a remote control. Each seat featured universal AC and USB-A sockets, keeping devices powered for the 14-hour journey.

Photo: Courtesy of Isabella Grisanti

Our flight attendant, Woorin, introduced herself and spoke perfect English. Her warmth and professionalism added a personal touch to the experience.

Recalling a delicious bibimbap from my previous flight on Korean Air 11 years ago, I chose it again for my main course. She warmly acknowledged my choice with a smile, saying, “Excellent choice!”

The Flight

Pushback was precisely on schedule at 12:45, and by 13:00, we were airborne. The hum of the four GEnx-2B67 engines was exhilarating, marking the start of a truly special journey.

About 20 minutes after takeoff, Woorin began the first meal service by setting my table with a crisp white linen and offering a fresh towel.

The meal commenced with a refreshing eggplant and zucchini appetizer, followed by a seared tuna salad with a flavorful sesame dressing and a hearty tomato soup with warm bread and  French butter.

The main course, my anticipated bibimbap, arrived beautifully arranged with traditional elements like steamed rice, fish broth, and Korean chili paste (Gochujang).

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

The fresh ingredients and authentic flavors brought back fond memories, and Woorin’s continuous champagne service added to the experience.

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

To complete the meal, a cheese platter with gorgonzola, brie, camembert, and fresh grapes was served, followed by a decadent lemon tart cheesecake, Häagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream, and freshly brewed Starbucks coffee.

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

After the meal, I settled in with an episode of Top Chef on the oversized screen, and later, I changed into pajamas—my personal long-haul travel ritual—and drifted off, sleeping comfortably for nearly eight hours.

The immensely wide seat provided ample space, allowing me to twist and turn in my sleep and move around without any restriction. In contrast, today’s modern seats tend to be narrower, making it difficult to move freely.

One drawback I noticed was the absence of a mattress pad, which would alleviate the stiffness of the seat and contribute to a more comfortable sleep. This, however, I have been informed will be available soon as part of the airline’s premium hard product.

Upon waking, Woorin was ready with the second meal service. My table was once again elegantly set, and I enjoyed a bright citrus salad with oranges and grapefruit paired with a refreshing San Pellegrino.

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

For the main course, I selected the beef bourguignon with vegetables and mashed potatoes. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the vegetables added a satisfying crunch.

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

Woorin rounded off the service with warm cookies for my wife and fresh fruit for me, along with a second cup of rich coffee.

Arrival

Before landing, I changed back into my clothes in the spacious lavatory. Despite the comfort, the 747’s environmental system reminded me of the advancements in newer aircraft. Unlike the humidified cabins of the Boeing 787 or Airbus A350, the 747 left my skin feeling quite dry.

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

After expressing gratitude to the attentive crew and the lovely purser, we touched down smoothly in Seoul, concluding a memorable flight aboard one of aviation’s most beloved aircraft.

Verdict

Korean Air’s Prestige business class on the Boeing 747-8 delivers a premium long-haul experience backed by excellent service and a comfortable, spacious, and private seat.

Photo: Courtesy of Enrique Perrella

Although the 747-8 is a pleasure to fly, its environmental controls could be improved by the advancements present in newer aircraft. Nevertheless, if given the opportunity to fly it again, I would gladly take it without hesitation.

With the airline’s new Prestige 2.0 cabin on the 787-10, Korean Air is well-positioned to stay competitive in the trans-Pacific business travel market.

Best For

SkyTeam frequent flyers looking for a premium and nostalgic journey across the Pacific, especially those seeking Delta connections from major U.S. hubs to Asia. The 747’s unique upper deck and seamless service make it a top choice for long-haul travelers.