British Airways will fly its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner between Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and London Heathrow from February 2016. The Texas city will be the first in North America to receive the aircraft and its newly redesigned first-class cabin.

British Airways

Service between the two cities began in March 2014 with 787-8 Dreamliners. This October, service will temporarily switch to a 777, bringing British Airways’ first class to Austin for the first time. The 787-9 is due to be delivered this month. At 20 feet longer than the 787-8, British Airways can add first-class cabins to the aircraft for the first time. The 787-9 will accommodate 127 World Traveller economy-class passengers; 39 World Traveller Plus (premium economy) travelers; 42 Club World, or business class, passengers; and eight first-class travelers.

Lower pressurization and smooth ride technology on the new aircraft mean less dry cabin air and a reduced effect of turbulence, helping travelers feel more refreshed and less jet lagged.

The new first-class suites feature ambient lighting, extra storage space, a personal suiter and a discreet charging port. A smartphone-like handset allows passengers to simultaneously watch one item while also watching the 23-inch widescreen. Travelers can enjoy gate-to-gate entertainment and do not have to stow the television for take-off and landing.

American Airlines’ Business Extra program allows members traveling BA, Iberia or AA to collect and spend across all three airlines with coordinated benefits to help businesses stretch travel budgets. British Airways Vacations offers flight/hotel and flight/car packages, as well as sightseeing tours, city passes and theater tickets.