Swapping sails for seats, The Sandton Times wrapped up a week of ocean adventure with a smooth ascent aboard Air Seychelles Business Class.

• Flying Business Class with Air Seychelles feels less like travel and more like an extension of your luxury island holiday.
• Subtle Creole-inspired design elements and friendly cabin crew bring the warmth and charm of the Seychelles onboard.
• The Business Class cabin offers a quieter, more intimate space, ideal for both relaxation and catching up on work.
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After a week of sailing across the turquoise waters of the Seychelles as part of the thrilling Seychelles Challenge, The Sandton Times swapped sails for seats – specifically, those in the front row of Air Seychelles’ Business Class. Offering a refined, relaxing journey from Mahe to Johannesburg, the national carrier of Seychelles delivered an experience as lush as the islands themselves.

In 2025, Air Seychelles claimed three prestigious accolades at the World Travel Awards: Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline, Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline – Economy Class and Indian Ocean’s Leading Cabin Crew. The titles speak volumes for an airline that has been flying the flag of Seychelles for over 45 years and plays a vital role in the country’s tourism-centric economy.

From our first step onto the Airbus A320neo, it was clear this wasn’t your typical regional hop. Business Class on Air Seychelles features a 2-2 seat configuration with just 12 seats, offering 38 inches of pitch and 10 inches of recline. Each seat is wide and supportive, complete with a three-way headrest, a large silk-like pillow, and a luxuriously thick embroidered blanket (which, in our case, remained tucked away thanks to the tropical climate).

Storage is generous. A thoughtfully placed side console and ample seat pocket meant we could keep essentials close. A complimentary bottle of water in the armrest welcomed us aboard, and the vibe was unhurried and personal thanks to a half-full cabin that allowed for a bit more breathing room.

Shortly after take-off, the cabin crew – led by Tania and Yanick, who didn’t seem like they knew we were reviewing the flight – sprang into action with poise and warmth. The service was solid. We were offered a selection of beverages and our choice from a thoughtfully curated menu. While the drinks menu featured SeyBrew (Seychelles’ signature beer), we couldn’t help but think that a splash of Takamaka Rum would have added a final island flourish – either as a celebratory hello or a wistful farewell.

Meals were served on white tablecloths with elegant crockery and cutlery bearing design elements inspired by the iconic coco de mer, the Seychelles’ unique double coconut. The dishes were beautifully plated and full of flavour, balancing international favourites with touches of Creole inspiration. From fresh bread rolls to decadent desserts, the inflight dining experience was well worth it.

Entertainment on board is handled a little differently. Rather than seat-back screens, Air Seychelles embraces a progressive “bring your own screen” approach. Using their seyStream platform, passengers can stream movies, TV shows, and games directly to their own phones, tablets, or laptops via in-flight WiFi. It’s a smart, lightweight solution that eliminates clunky tech while giving travellers access to contemporary content.

The aircraft itself – the Airbus A320neo – is a marvel. Known for its fuel efficiency and lower cabin noise, it delivered a remarkably smooth ride, even while navigating some unusually gusty conditions around the islands. The quiet hum of the engines and the cabin’s well-regulated environment contributed to an effortlessly comfortable flight.

With 40kg of checked baggage allowance (and 12kg for carry-on), Business Class passengers can pack generously – though keep in mind, connecting domestic flights on smaller aircraft like the Twin Otter or helicopters to other islands might require more minimalist packing. Then again, you’re heading to a tropical paradise. A swimsuit, sunglasses, sandals, and sunscreen are often all you really need. Alright, a toothbrush too, for good hygiene.

Beyond the onboard perks, flying Business Class on Air Seychelles offers another, less tangible luxury – time. Time to unwind. Time to transition gently from island life back to reality. Time to enjoy a final Creole meal in the sky before touching down in Johannesburg.

The airline’s long-standing heritage and its pursuit of excellence are evident, from its in-flight product to its genuinely hospitable crew. As a national carrier, airlines aren’t just transporting travellers; they represent an entire nation.

Whether you’re heading to the Seychelles for a romantic retreat, a family escape, or the next leg of an island-hopping adventure, Business Class with Air Seychelles sets the tone with a thoughtful, comfortable, and distinctly Seychellois flair. For those who might hesitate about booking a premium seat on a regional flight, consider this: paradise deserves a grand entrance – and an equally elegant exit.

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