Budget long-haul to France has gotten complicated with all the new entrants and route announcements flying around. As someone who tracks transatlantic options obsessively, I learned everything there is to know about French Bee’s Miami service and whether it’s worth considering. Here’s my assessment.
The Route
Paris Orly to Miami, sometimes via the Azores for a fuel stop. Yes, it stops. No, it doesn’t add as much time as you’d think. Total travel time runs around 12 hours. They also fly direct from Paris to Miami on some schedules — the A350’s range makes it work without the stop.
That’s what makes French Bee’s model endearing to us budget travelers — they found a way to offer transatlantic A350 service at prices that undercut legacy carriers significantly.
Miami Terminal Experience
North Terminal, Terminal N at MIA. Not the prettiest terminal at the airport but perfectly functional. Customs process runs standard — international arrivals through the regular immigration hall. Nothing about the ground experience is special or terrible. It just is.
The Aircraft
Probably should have led with this section, honestly. A350-900 on the transatlantic. Quiet cabin. High ceilings. Better humidity than older widebodies. Standard French Bee three-class configuration: basic economy (nothing included), premium economy (more legroom and recline), and business up front.
Price Reality
Basic fares can be shockingly cheap. Like $300 one-way cheap. But the fine print matters: bags cost extra. Meals cost extra. Seat selection costs extra. Everything that legacy carriers bundle in, French Bee unbundles.
Add everything up and you might be within striking distance of legacy carrier prices. The real savings come if you pack light and bring your own food. Know what you’re buying before you celebrate that $300 fare.
Who Should Book
Budget-conscious travelers who don’t need frills. Backpackers. People visiting family who just need the flight itself. Young travelers who’d rather spend their money on the trip than the transportation. If you expect full service included in your ticket price, French Bee will frustrate you.
Worth It?
For the right traveler, absolutely. You’re flying a modern A350 across the Atlantic at potentially half the cost of a legacy carrier. Just go in with eyes open about what’s included — and what isn’t.
