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The 13 Best Airlines to Fly to France from the US

by Kayla D. Martinez
4 mins read
best airlines to fly to france from us

The best airlines for the US-France route are Air France, American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Lufthansa, etc. There are many non-direct flights for other airlines, such as British Airways, SWISS, KLM Royal Dutch, Norse Atlantic, Liberia, etc.,  connecting their European hubs to French destinations. 

You should check the airlines for their services, flight delay possibilities, baggage fees, in-flight amenities, etc when choosing.

So, hold on tight as we fly through the sky and look at the best planes for your trip to the land of art, romance, and baguettes!

13 Best Airlines to Fly to France from the US

To help you in planning the trip, I have compiled a list of the top 10 best airlines to fly to France from the US economy and business, based on their routes, affordable travel fares, products, and reviews:

AirlinesBest ForCustomer Review
Air FranceAuthentic French Luxury & ComfortHigh
Delta AirlinesService & On-Time PerformanceMedium
American AirlinesBudget & Loyalty ProgramLow
United AirlinesFlight Options & Star Alliance AccessMedium
French BeeBudget-Friendly & French ConnectionLow
British AirwaysPremium Service & Transatlantic FlightsHigh
Norse Atlantic AirlinesConvenient & Modern FleetLow
LufthansaBusiness Class & European FlightsHigh
Swiss International Air LinesOnboard Service & Swiss HospitalityHigh
KLM Royal Dutch AirlinesEconomy Class Comfort & European FlightsMedium
Air CanadaModern FleetMedium
Iberia AirlinesService & Flight QualityMedium
Virgin AtlanticPremium Service & Long-Haul FlightsHigh

The safety ratings above are given based on the extensive safety testing conducted by Airlineratings.com, considering customer reviews and careful observation.

Now, letโ€™s get to the details of the airlines:

1. Air France

Air France operates from its main hub in Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). But, CDG is the main hub of Air France.

best airlines to fly to france from us
Photo by Miguel รngel Sanz on Unsplash

They operate the most direct flights to Paris from major cities in The USA like:

  • New York (JFK) 
  • San Francisco (SFO) 
  • Seattle (SEA) 
  • Washington D.C. (IAD) 
  • Atlanta (ATL) 
  • Boston (BOS) 
  • Chicago (ORD) 
  • Houston (IAH) 
  • Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
  • Detroit (DTW) 
  • Los Angeles (LAX) 
  • Miami (MIA) 
  • Minneapolis (MSP) 

And thereโ€™s a seasonal direct flight from New York to Nice. Please note that flight availability can vary by season and is subject to change.

Pros

  • Extra miles, among other benefits, for Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard and Air France American Express card users.
  • SkyTeam Elite members can select any seat in their cabin for free
  • Highly rated new business class seats on Boeing 777 and Airbus A350
  • Closing doors for privacy, high-end finishes, and excellent amenities
  • Polished and professional service
  • Better rebooking policy than Delta, often allowing free changes

Cons

  • Occasional delays
  • Food quality in the premium economy class may not be as good.

2. Delta Airlines: US-Based Comfort

Delta Airlines is your home away from home, with stellar customer service, in-flight comfort, & safety.

delta airlines
Photo by Nick Morales on Unsplash

There are 14 daily nonstop flights from Paris and Nice to U.S. hubs connecting to over 200 destinations across North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Flights to Paris (CDG) from major US cities, such as

  • Atlanta (ATL)  
  • Boston (BOS) 
  • Cincinnati (CVG) (seasonal)
  • Chicago (ORD)  
  • Detroit (DTW) 
  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP)
  • New York (JFK)
  • Salt Lake City (SLC) (seasonal)
  • Seattle (SEA)

Flights to Nice (NCE) from US cities such as

  • New York (JFK) (seasonal)
  • Atlanta (ATL) (seasonal)

But the price may vary depending on factors like departure city, time of booking, and promotional deals. 

Pros

  • SkyMiles loyalty program offers flexibility with elite status perks and co-branded credit cards. 
  • Delta’s frequent flyer program offers earning status and miles through credit card spending. 
  • Generally good customer service
  • Wide range of destinations
  • Comfortable seating options
  • In-flight entertainment

Cons

  • Some complaints about flight delays and cancellations
  • Baggage fees can add up
  • Mixed reviews on food quality
  • Limited availability of budget fares

3. American Airlines

Connecting two iconic cities with a harmonious blend of comfort, style, and efficiency, American Airlines is one of the largest airlines from New York (NYC) to Paris that offers an unparalleled travel experience.

american airlines
Photo by Jan Rosolino on Unsplash

It operates an extensive domestic and international network, with flights to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries.

It runs a huge network of local, regional, and international flights as a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Airlines Group Inc. These are some of the most important flights, having several routes, such as flights from the U.S. to France. Best part? This airline offers comparatively cheaper flights than others.

โ€œThis is a major U.S. airline with hubs all over the country that fly to more than 350 cities in 48 countries.โ€

Source: Wikipedia

Here are some American Airlines non-stop flights  to Paris from different states of the US:

  • New York (JFK/EWR) 
  • Chicago (ORD) 
  • Orlando (MCO) 
  • Miami (MIA) 
  • Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
  • Los Angeles (LAX) 
  • Philadelphia (PHL) 
  • Charlotte (CLT) 
  • Phoenix (PHX) 
  • Seattle (SEA) 
  • Washington D.C. (DCA) 

And recently, thereโ€™s a direct flight option from Philadelphia to Nice. 

Pros

  • This airline offers comparatively cheaper flights than others.
  • Extensive global route network with multiple hub airports across the U.S.
  • Part of the Oneworld alliance, allowing earning and redeeming miles on partner airlines. 
  • Comfortable seating options, including premium classes.
  • Admirals Club lounges for premium passengers.

Cons

  • Occasional delayed flights and baggage mishandling.
  • Miles earned on cheaper fares might be less than on expensive ones.

4. United Airlines

United Airlines is the third-largest airline in the world and one of the oldest American carriers.

As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United Airlines provides smoother connectivity and extensive flight options to travelers worldwide.

united airlines
Photo by Miguel รngel Sanz on Unsplash

And the most amazing thing is that youโ€™ll find direct flights to Paris (CDG) and Nice (NCE) from most US cities. 

Pros

  • Extensive Route Network
  • MileagePlus Program
  • Fun things to do through the United Airlines App.
  • Great customer service
  • Premium Cabin Options
  • In-Flight Entertainment
  • Airport Lounges

Cons

  • Delays and cancellations  
  • Baggage Fees
  • Seat Comfort
  • On-Time Performance

5. French Bee

This is a budget-friendly option for your long-haul direct journey from the US to France.

French Bee is based at the Paris Orly Airport (ORY) so, you can land closer to central in this less crowded airport. French Bee also offers direct flights to ORY from a small number of US cities such as –

  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • Miami (MIA)
  • Newark (EWR) 
  • San Francisco (SFO) 
  • San Jose (SJC, SFO)

Pros

  • Offers very low fares for transatlantic flights between the US and Europe/Tahiti
  • Brand new Airbus A350 fleet with seatback entertainment systems
  • Allows free carry-on bag
  • On-time performance is generally good
  • Smooth booking process
  • Fast airport security and boarding

Cons

  • Tight economy seat pitch and width
  • Charges fees for everything – checked bags, meals, seat selection, etc.

6. British Airways

For those who appreciate a touch of British sophistication, British Airways is certainly one of the premium airlines to travel to Paris from the USA.

They have been around for almost one hundred years and have a fleet of more than 280 planes that fly 1,23,000 people around the world every day, making it one of the best global premium carriers.

british airways
Photo by Arkin Si on Unsplash 

As British Airways uses Heathrow as its base, youโ€™ll have an hour or so of layover in London, then head for Paris Charles De Gaulle or Orly Airport. It gives a free seat selection facility 24 hours before you fly. 

The US cities in which British Airlines offers non-direct flights to Paris (CDG) are –

  • New York (JFK/EWR)
  • Chicago (ORD)

From Orlando, they fly to Philadelphia (PHL) for a stop, then head to Paris. 

Pros

  • Vast network and premium services such as lie-flat seats, and private suites. 
  • Luxury bedding and gourmet dining in business class. โ€‹
  • Pre-flight lounge access for refreshments, including buffets. 
  • Frequent Flyer Program offers reward options and Elite status benefits.

Cons

  • Extra charges for seat selection in many fare classes and high fees on award tickets.
  • Overcrowded lounge during peak times.

7. Norse Atlantic

Although a newer airline compared to others, Norse Atlantic Airlines is a premier transatlantic carrier offering exceptional service and value on flights between the United States and France. 

With a focus on comfort, convenience, and affordability, Norse Atlantic Airlines provides travelers with a seamless travel experience, whether flying for business or leisure.

Currently, they provide direct flights to the following US cities –

  • New York (JFK) 
  • Los Angeles (LAX) 
  • Miami (MIA)

Pros

  • A budget-friendly option for transatlantic flights.
  • Modern fleets like Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and an efficient flying experience. 
  • Features like improved cabin pressure and humidity controlโ€‹.
  • Smooth and simple ticketing and other services.

Cons

  • As a newer airline, it has a more limited route network compared to others. 
  • Extra fees for services like meals, checked baggage, and seat selection.โ€‹

8. Lufthansa

This German airline offers a delightful fusion of efficiency and hospitality, setting the stage for your French adventure.

As one of the founding members of Star Alliance, the airline goes all over the world with its partners. Its main hubs are in Frankfurt (FRA) and Munich (MUC).

lufthansa airline
Photo by Nick Herasimenka on Unsplash

Lufthansa offers direct flights from the following US cities to Paris –

  • New York (JFK)
  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • Washington D.C. (IAD) 
  • Chicago (ORD)
  • Houston (IAH) 

However, for non-direct flights from the US to France, youโ€™ll have a layover in either Frankfurt (FRA) or Munich (MUC). 

From there, Lufthansa flies to Major French cities besides Paris (CDG/ORY) such as Lyon (LYS), Marseilles (MRS), Toulouse (TLS), Nice (NCE), Strasbourg (SXB), etc. 

Pros

  • Premium economy class with more space, legroom, and recline.
  • Allows Co-branded credit cards.
  • Flights are available daily or multiple times a week.
  • High-quality service including comfortable seating, good in-flight entertainment, and attentive staff.
  • Frequent Flyer Benefits offers rewards and miles.
  • Easy access to connecting flights throughout Europe and beyond

Cons

  • Direct flights can be more expensive.
  • Limited direct destinations.
  • Fewer options during off-peak times.
  • Direct flights can be long

9. Swiss International Air Lines

With the perfect touch of the infamous Swiss hospitality, this airline offers a seamless journey experience from the US to France. 

However, there are no direct flights from the US to France. There will be at least one connecting spot, usually the SWISS hub in Geneva or Zurich. The direct flights from US cities to Zurich or Geneva are

  • New York (JFK)
  • Chicago (ORD)
  • San Francisco (SFO)
  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • Miami (MIA)

Then from Zurich or Geneva, you can board a connecting flight to French cities like Paris (CDG/ORY), Nice (NCE), Lyon (LYS), Toulouse (TLS), Marseilles (MRS), etc. 

Pros

  • Professional and attentive flight attendance, reflecting Swiss hospitality.
  • Ample legroom and ergonomically designed seatsโ€‹.
  • Timeliness in their tight schedule. 
  • High-quality meals and a selection of beverages.
  • Extraordinary cleanliness of the cabins.

Cons

  • Tickets can be more expensive compared to other airlines.
  • Additional baggage fees.
  • Some reported that flyer programs are less generous than those of other airlines. 

10. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is a renowned carrier with a rich history dating back to 1919. It offers travelers from the US a smoother and comfortable journey to France. 

Moreover, they also provides various flight options, including economy, premium economy, and business class, ensuring a suitable choice for every traveler’s needs. 

KLM offers direct flights from several major US cities to Amsterdam, KLMโ€™s hub, where passengers can then connect to flights to France. 

These flights may be partially or fully operated by Air France, Delta Airlines, American Airlines, or United Airlines.  

These US cities include –

  • New York (JFK)
  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • San Francisco (SFO)
  • Chicago (ORD)
  • Atlanta (ATL)
  • Washington, D.C. (IAD)
  • Boston (BOS)
  • Miami (MIA)
  • Houston (IAH)
  • Seattle (SEA)

From Amsterdam, KLM provides numerous connecting flights to major French cities, such as –

  • Paris (CDG and ORY)
  • Lyon (LYS)
  • Nice (NCE)
  • Marseille (MRS)
  • Toulouse (TLS)
  • Bordeaux (BOD)
  • Montpellier (MPL)
  • Nantes (NTE)
  • Strasbourg (SXB)

Pros

  • Smooth transfer experience at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
  • Wide network and connectivity.
  • Reliable service and customer care
  • Multiple daily flights from key US cities to Amsterdam.
  • SkyTeam Alliance Benefits like, shared lounges, frequent flyer points, and coordinated schedules with partner airlines.

Cons

  • Layovers can be inconvenient, especially for travelers with tight schedules.
  • Thereโ€™s always the risk of delays or missed connections.

11. Air Canada: Modern & Slick

This Canadian flag carrier offers several direct flights from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Denver, etc. to various destinations in France. And for the best part, you can easily find their flights in almost every major US city. 

For non-direct or connecting flights, there will be a layover in its Canadian hub Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), or Vancouver (YVR) with additional stops in European hubs like Munich (MUC) or Frankfurt (FRA). 

From the layover spot, you can take a connecting flight to major French cities such as Paris, Toulouse, Lyon, Nice, etc. 

Pros

  • A comprehensive network of destinations.
  • Modern and slick design and performance.  
  • Better comfort and seat pitch in economy class compared to others.
  • Better loyalty programs offer the option of earning Aeroplan miles, which can be redeemed for award flights.
  • Professional and helpful flight attendants. 

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other airlines discussed. 
  • As usual, there are extra fees for baggage and seat selection. 
  • Economy class can be quite crowded.

12. Iberia Airlines: The Spanish Flag Carrier

This airline achieved a good name over the 100 years of its operation, dating back to 1927 with its hub and base in Madrid.

So, as youโ€™ve guessed rightly, there are no direct Iberia Airlines flights from the US, only connecting flights via Madrid. From the major US cities such as New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, etc. Iberia Airlines is partially or fully operated by American Airlines. 

After reaching Madrid, you can take a connecting flight to French cities like Paris, Toulouse, Marseilles, Nice, Lyon, etc.  

Pros

  • Competitive pricing and is often cheaper than other carriers for similar routes.
  • All-Airbus fleet, including modern aircraft like the A350-900s.
  • In-flight comfort and service for every class. 
  • Includes a baggage allowance for all fares except Economy Basic. 

Cons

  • On popular routes, economy class can be quite crowded.
  • Limited services in the economy class too. 

13. Virgin Atlantic

As modern and slick as it can be, this is another British gem of an Airline that has it all. 

Through it hubs in London Heathrow (LHR) and Manchester (MAN), Virgin Atlantic provides connecting flights from the USA to France. So, there are no direct flights from the US to France.  

In London or Manchester, youโ€™ll be connected to Air France flights to major French cities like Paris, Lyon, Marseilles, Nice, etc. You can also take a high-speed train to Paris from London if thatโ€™s more convenient for you.

Pros

  • Excellent customer service from check-in to landing.
  • State-of-the-art in-flight entertainment & quality dining options. 
  • Upper-class passengers and certain loyalty members get clubhouse lounges with complimentary food and drinks.
  • Generous baggage allowances, especially for premium cabins.

Cons

  • The Network is limited compared to others above. 
  • More expensive, especially for the premium cabins. 
  • Flights sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

How to Choose the Best Airlines from the US to France

Choosing the right airline for your trip to France can make a world of difference in your travel experience. So, when picking an airline, you must consider the following aspects:

Look for a reasonable price

  • Compare ticket prices across various airlines.
  • Consider budget airlines for short-haul trips to save money.

Consider the trip time & specific schedule

  • Opt for direct flights to minimize travel time.
  • Avoid multiple or long stopovers to enjoy more time in France.

Safety comes first, as always

  • Research airline safety records and ratings.
  • Choose airlines with strong reputations for safety.

Research for quality onboard accommodations & amenities

  • Check seat pitch, width, and in-flight entertainment on sites like SeatGuru.
  • Look for amenities such as lie-flat seats for long-haul flights.

The service must be worth the time, money, and trip

  • Read reviews and passenger comments to gauge service quality.
  • Select airlines known for friendly and helpful flight crews.

Some Additional Tips:

  • Budget airlines are ideal for short-haul trips.
  • Premium flight services are better for long-haul journeys.
  • Consider airlines with good customer experiences for a smoother trip.
  • For traveling with kids, choose airlines offering family-friendly amenities and comfort.

Booking Information & Safety Tips for Smooth Travel

Now that we all know what airlines fly to Paris from the US, It is time to learn about some tips and tricks for traveling. After all, a smooth trip experience starts with making well-informed reservations. 

best airlines to fly to france from us
Essential Items for Traveling

Here are some tips to follow to ensure a smooth travel –

  • Book Early: Secure better prices and seat options by booking in advance.
  • Compare Prices: Use websites like Kayak and Skyscanner to find the best deals.
  • Check Policies: Review baggage, cancellation, and change policies before booking.
  • Choose Seats Wisely: Use SeatGuru to select seats with more legroom or better entertainment.
  • Consider Upgrades: Premium economy or business class can offer more comfort on long flights.
  • Look for Packages: Booking flights and hotels together can save money.
  • Frequent Flyer Programs: Sign up to earn miles and enjoy benefits like priority boarding.
  • Get Travel Insurance: Cover unforeseen circumstances like flight cancellations or medical emergencies.
  • Check Documentation: Ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements.
  • Health Precautions: Check for required vaccinations and current COVID guidelines.
  • Plan Airport Transfers: Arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation.
  • Pack Smart: Keep essential items in your carry-on in case of lost luggage.
  • Stay Updated: Monitor your flight status and sign up for alerts for real-time updates.
  • Check Arrival Time: Plan your arrival during the daytime for easier navigation.
  • Passport Validity: Ensure your passport remains valid for at least three months beyond your departure from the Schengen Area.

For a smooth journey to France, make sure your passport remains valid for three months beyond your departure from the Schengen Area. If your passport isnโ€™t valid, you might not be able to board. Also, most travelers might be confused that โ€“ is it required a green card to travel to France? However, when going overseas, itโ€™s best to have at least six monthsโ€˜ worth of validity.

Concluding Words

As our journey through the clouds comes to an end, one can’t help but marvel at the myriad options available for traversing the Atlantic.

Each airline we explored offers its own unique charm, ensuring your arrival in France is just as magical as you’ve imagined.

So, dear reader, which of the best airlines to fly to France from the US ignites your interest? Are you enticed by the luxurious flair of Air France, or perhaps the efficiency of Delta Airlines suits your style?

The skies are vast, and the choice is yours. Bon voyage and may your flight be as splendid as the destination it leads to!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What airline is best for France?

Well, it depends on several aspects, like individual preference, travel timing, and location.

What airlines fly to France from the USA?

There are a lot of airlines that operate flights from various cities in the US to France. Such as, Air France, United Airlines, British Airways, and many others. Read the blog for details.

What month is the cheapest to fly to France?

From late November to early March, these months are the cheapest to fly to France.

What is the cheapest US city to fly to Paris?

You can find the cheapest flight option from New York City in the United States to fly to Paris.

What is the best airline to take to Paris, France?

This greatly varies from individual to individual, depending on the preference, trip time, and location.

What is the cheapest day of the week to fly to France?

Tuesday and Wednesday are often the cheapest days to fly to Europe during the week. And, for the months, Mid-to late-October to mid- to late-March are the best times to go.

What airlines fly directly to France?

From the US to France, there are many carriers that offer direct flights. Like Air France, United Airlines, and a lot of other airlines.

How far in advance should I buy plane tickets to France?

It’s best to book your flight between 21 and 121 days before planning to go on the trip.

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