Air France is a member of the SkyTeam alliance and has a network that spans five continents. Its business class cabin is a popular redemption for members of partner programs like Delta SkyMiles.

The French carrier is currently updating its business class cabins to feature a 1-2-1 layout. The newest designs for the Boeing 777-300ER include more modern finishes and a sliding door on each seat to add privacy. There are still a few Boeing 777/777-300 planes that have a 2-3-2 layout with middle seats in business class, so you’ll want to avoid these.

No matter which plane you fly, the typically French experience of fine dining and fashionable presentation remain highlights of flying Air France business class. And you can experience it by paying in cash or redeeming miles.

Here's what you need to know before flying Air France business class.

What is Air France business class like?

Air France likes to highlight its “Frenchness:” fine dining with chef partnerships, Champagne, tasty French cheeses and amenity kits packed with Clarins products.

On top of the French-inspired touches, Air France offers many of the perks you might expect from business class. Here are some of the highlights:

Bag allowance. The airline limits business class passengers to two checked bags weighing 70.5 pounds each. Top elite status members from Flying Blue (Air France-KLM’s loyalty program) or with SkyTeam Elite and SkyTeam Elite Plus status can check a third bag with a similar weight limit free of charge. The airline is strict with hand baggage, often weighing them or placing them into sizer units to make sure they fit. Travelers can bring one bag measuring 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.9 in (including wheels and handles) and a personal item. Business class passengers are limited to a combined weight 40-pound limit of both items.

Boarding. Business class passengers can take advantage of SkyPriority boarding lanes allowing them to board first or any time during the boarding process.

Seats. Air France operates Boeing 777-200 and 300 models plus the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A330 and A350 planes on long-haul routes. These are almost entirely in a 1-2-1 or 2-2-2 layout with only some Boeing 777-300 planes featuring middle seats in a 2-3-2 layout. Business class seats lie fully flat and feature entertainment screens and plentiful personal space. Ideally, you can fly on a plane that offers all business class passengers aisle access, like the A350 or B787 Dreamliner.

Lounges. Air France has lounges for business class passengers that serve Champagne, wine, cocktails, soft drinks and juices. Buffets feature hot and cold food often including cheese, salads and pastries. A handful of lounges also feature spa treatment areas with complimentary massage and facials for passengers. The airline also has a network of lounges around the world including airports like Bangkok, Frankfurt, Houston-IAH, New York-JFK and Washington Dulles among others.

How to book a business class ticket on Air France

It’s easy to book business class with Air France using cash or miles, but remember that Air France doesn't offer complimentary upgrades, even to elite members. However, occasionally Air France may sell an upgrade in cash or miles at check-in.

When using the Air France website, you can toggle between "book a flight" or "book with miles." Be sure to sign in to your Flying Blue account if you’re booking an award.