Traveling business class from Joliet, Illinois to Europe is all about comfort and convenience, even though Joliet itself doesn’t have a big international airport. You’ll probably kick off your journey at Chicago O’Hare or maybe Midway, both of which open up a bunch of business class options for Europe.
A handful of airlines really stand out for business class to Europe, offering comfort and service that make a long flight a lot easier to handle. If you’re looking for flexibility or something a bit more private, there are options for upgrading or even booking a private charter.
It helps to have a sense of your travel path, from getting to the airport to picking the best seat for your flight. Knowing how and where to book goes a long way toward making the whole trip smoother.
Key Takeways
- Choose nearby major airports for the best business class flight options.
- Compare airline options to find the best value and service.
- Plan your trip details early for a smooth travel experience.
Best Airlines Operating Business Class Flights from Joliet to Europe
Picking the right airline for business class out of Joliet means weighing comfort, service, and how efficiently you can get to Europe. Some carriers just do it better—think better lounges, seats, and more flexible booking.
Overview of Major Carriers
United Airlines (UA) is a big name here, flying business class to Europe from Chicago O’Hare. They’ve got both direct and one-stop flights to all the major cities.
Lufthansa (LH) is another favorite for many travelers, known for its service and a huge network across Europe. You’ll usually connect through their main hubs, like Frankfurt.
Spirit Airlines is around, but they’re all about budget travel and don’t offer business class. Royal Jordanian Airlines sometimes pops up in partner bookings, but you won’t see them flying direct from Joliet.
Comparing Business Class Amenities
When you fly business class, you expect a bit of pampering—spacious seats, decent food, and lounge access. United has lie-flat seats on most transatlantic flights and a solid dining experience.
Lufthansa keeps up with lie-flat seats, good meals, and their own lounges in both Europe and the U.S. Royal Jordanian’s business class is quieter, with comfy seating and Middle Eastern-inspired menus.
Just a heads-up: amenities can change depending on the plane and route.
Partner Airlines and Codeshares
Codeshare flights can really open up your options. United is in the Star Alliance, so you might book with them but actually fly with Lufthansa or Royal Jordanian for parts of the trip.
That means you can use business class perks—like lounges and priority boarding—even if you’re hopping between airlines. Double-check your boarding pass and booking, just so you know who’s actually flying each segment.
Booking and Upgrading Business Class Tickets
When you’re booking business class to Europe, timing and knowing how to use your rewards can make a big difference. Sometimes, last-minute upgrades pop up if your plans change.
How to Secure the Best Fares
Book early—ideally two to four months out is the sweet spot. Use sites like Kayak or Momondo to compare business class prices across different airlines.
Leaving from Chicago O’Hare usually gets you better business class options and prices since it’s such a busy international airport.
It’s worth checking out airlines like Icelandair or La Compagnie for deals or promo fares. Set price alerts if you’re not in a rush.
Booking directly with the airline can sometimes get you a lower price or perks like better seat selection.
Using Mileage for Business Class Upgrades
If you’ve got frequent flyer miles, they can be a smart way to move up to business class. A lot of airlines will let you use miles to upgrade when you check in or online.
Booking flexible or refundable tickets helps your chances, since those fares are more likely to be eligible for upgrades.
Always check the airline’s upgrade policy before you book. Some let you use miles to upgrade after you’ve bought your ticket, but others need you to request it in advance.
When you get your boarding pass, make sure your upgrade is confirmed. If not, showing up early at the airport can help.
Tips for Last-Minute Business Class Deals
Sometimes, the best business class deals show up just a couple of days before your flight. Airlines want to fill empty seats, so prices can drop at the last minute.
Keep an eye on airline websites and sign up for alerts. There are apps that track these discounts and can ping you when prices drop.
When you’re checking in, ask about upgrade offers. Some airlines sell discounted upgrades right at the counter or gate.
Bidding for upgrades is another option. Airlines like Emirates let you put in a bid, and if they accept, you get business class for less than the usual price.
If you’re flexible with your travel dates and times, your chances of snagging a last-minute deal go way up.
Navigating Your Journey from Joliet to European Destinations
Business class from Joliet to Europe usually means connecting through a big airport and getting a few nice perks along the way. Lounges, smoother boarding, and a comfier flight—especially with airlines like Lufthansa and United—make a real difference.
Connecting Through Major Airports
Since Joliet doesn’t have its own international flights, you’ll start at a nearby airport like Chicago O’Hare (ORD). From there, you can connect on airlines like LH or UA.
These hubs have lots of daily flights to Europe. You might even find a direct flight to cities like Frankfurt, Paris, or London.
Your boarding pass will show your whole route, so you’ll know exactly where your connections are.
Connecting at a big hub means more flight choices and less hassle with transfers. You get a chance to get settled before the long haul over the Atlantic.
Business Class Lounge Access
One of the real perks of business class is lounge access. At O’Hare or other big airports, you can get into lounges run by Lufthansa or United.
Lounges have free Wi-Fi, snacks, drinks, and comfy chairs. It’s a much calmer spot to wait for your flight compared to the main terminal.
You’ll just need your business class boarding pass or a lounge membership. Take advantage of the downtime to relax and recharge before your flight.
Boarding and In-Flight Experience
When you fly business class, boarding’s a breeze. Priority lets you get on early and settle in without the usual rush.
Your boarding pass shows your seat and group, so you know exactly where to go. It’s a small touch, but it does make things smoother.
On European flights with Lufthansa or United, you can count on wider seats and extra legroom. Many long-haul planes even have fully flat beds, which—let’s be honest—makes a world of difference.
Meals in business class? They’re usually multi-course affairs, with complimentary drinks. It’s nice not having to think about the little extras.
You’ll also find bigger screens for entertainment and noise-canceling headphones. Amenity kits are handed out too.
The crew tends to be attentive and genuinely helpful, which goes a long way toward making the flight less exhausting. Sometimes it’s those small gestures that stick with you.