I have taken many long haul AF flights and they have been my carrier of choice for 8 years from the West coast to Europe. I took LX back from Europe when I got simply fed up with CDG strike madness. Since then, comparing the two carriers, it is not even close. LX is hands down better. I now have taken several roundtrips on LX so can compare on the basis of many flights on both carriers.

First what counts the most: the seat. LX by a mile in C. Indeed I am as comfortable in LX C as I have been in AF F. Fully lie flat horizontal bed in LX. Plus each seat has its own credenza for stowing things. Thus you have lots of personal space. Almost all C seats have direct aisle access--another big plus. And to make it worse, AF is going backwards with worse C seats on the way. No leg rest? Are you kidding me?

Meals are very close. Both airlines disappoint me with the cocktail service. Maybe I give a slight edge to AF now that they offer a small appetizer along with the "box". LX offers package chips and nuts. I think anything in a package is low class. LX champagne is better than AF. Appetizers are a tie. I don't understand the comment about no choice on LX. They do offer a choice. Main courses a complete tie. Sometimes LX slightly better; sometimes AF. Cheese course, LX wins. Dessert a tie. Wines a tie.

Service. On the basis now of several flights on LX and dozens and dozens on AF, I say slight edge to LX. One area where they are better, when you hit the attendant call button, somebody actually comes to your seat!

IFE. Hands down LX. AF has the pathetic small choice continuous loop system on the 747. That system is an insult.

Ground service. Hands down LX. CDG is a mess. Zurich runs easily and smoothly. Never a line for C. CDG always a problem.

Lounges. LX hands down. Many more food choices. Nice space.

Strikes. Well you know the answer.

I voted with my feet and switched carriers.