SKYCLUB TRAVEL BLOG

British Airways is in the process of a progressive First Class unleashing across their fleet, providing an unprecedented level of comfort and luxury for the airline’s most discerning customers with exclusive check-in desks, access to luxurious Concorde Lounges at London Heathrow Terminal 5 and New York Terminal 7, spacious private suites, and indulgent dining.

Customers can sample the (newish) First cabin on flights between London Heathrow and Lagos, New York JFK, Shanghai, Tokyo Haneda, Tokyo Narita, Hong Kong and Sao Paulo. The cabin design may slightly differ on other routes but the main (and important) features of First Class service is standard across all aircraft, as well as lounge access, in-flight dining and customer service.

The Cabin

With its £100 million upgrade programme British Airways aims to create a ‘private jet’ experience for its First Class customers. The cabin retains the traditional 1-2-1 configuration with all seats facing forward, but the new seat offers 30% more personal space, 60% more stowage space and is upholstered in a dark blue leather with a cream finish. The window has been designed so that a separate internal window covers the area of two traditional windows, which is covered with a back-lit blue LED blind.

Photo: British Airways

The Suite

The stylish and elegant First Class cabins all feature private First suites with seats that turn into a 198cm (6ft 6in) fully flat bed topped with a luxurious quilted mattress and a crisp white cotton duvet and pillow. When you want to charge your laptop or electronic devices, you can plug them into the in-seat power supply.

Photo: George Gillard

Amenities

If you wish to get ready for bed you can slip into soft cotton pyjamas and freshen up at any time with BA’s range of premium skincare products including eye gel, lip balm and moisturizer, which come in a signature Anya Hindmarch bag, exclusively designed for First Class.

In-Flight Entertainment

The in-flight entertainment system features a 15-inch screen and is packed with endless hours of the latest films, documentaries, television, music, audio books and games. It’s also equipped with a USB port and RCA jack for enjoying your laptop, iPod or digital camera on the larger screen.

Dining

At any time during the flight, you can choose from an exclusive a la carte menu, featuring classic British dishes designed by leading chefs from around the world. You’ll get to enjoy a starter, main course and dessert, followed by a carefully chosen cheese platter, accompanied by fresh seasonal fruit and the finest chocolate. Or, if you just want something quick and light, the Bistro service offers a selection of pasta, salad, soups and hot sandwiches.

Of course there’s also a full bar service, featuring award winning champagnes and wines, a variety of spirits, non-alcoholic drinks, coffee and tea. If you’re flying over breakfast time you can kick-start the day with a classic English breakfast, with a choice of juices, smoothies, yoghurts, cereals and pastries, but if you’d rather sleep you can request the Express breakfast, which will be served closer to landing.

A major culinary highlight of the British Airways First Class experience is the tradition of afternoon tea. You can choose from a selection of delicate sandwiches, delicious cakes and pastries, in addition to warm scones, jam and clotted cream, accompanied by a special blend of tea created by Twinings.

Airport Facilities

At the airport you can skip the queues by checking in at dedicated check-in desks. You’ll also enjoy fast-track security at London Heathrow, London Gatwick and New York JFK, as well as fast-track arrivals at London Heathrow for non-EU passport holders.

The baggage allowance in First is generous, including one cabin bag plus a laptop or handbag, as well as up to three bags in the hold, meaning you can travel as light or as heavy as you like.

With a First Class ticket you’ll be able to relax and unwind in one of BA’s departure lounges around the world and if you’re flying from London Heathrow Terminal 5 or New York JFK Terminal 7, you’ll receive an invitation to the exclusive Concorde Room, which boasts discreet booths, full waiter service, private cabanas and a state-of-the-art business suite. At both of these terminals you can also indulge in a facial treatment or relaxing massage from luxury skincare brand Elemis.

Fancy experiencing the new British Airways First Class? Our dedicated experts are on hand to help you book your First Class flight and answer your every travel need.