
On the Ground: I’ll be the first to admit that no matter how many times I fly first class, the corners of my mouth go up ever so slightly into a smile every time I check in for my flight. The smile is usually subdued for the first few moments of check-in at JFK, but British Airways made even that experience a premium one. Business- and first-class flyers have a dedicated check-in desk and access to a 24-hour concierge. I was early for my flight, and the desk was not busy. The check-in agent was polite and professional. She had my details sorted within minutes and told me I would enjoy the newly renovated lounges. I was escorted through security. This security checkpoint holds nostalgia for any longtime frequent flyer — it was once the boarding gate for the Concorde. As a first-class passenger, I had access to the Concorde lounge, which was gorgeous, decorated in dark wood tones with a separate white-tableclothed dining area. I enjoyed a healthy salmon entrée, finishing just as my flight was called to board. (30/30)
Pre-flight: Once on board, I was welcomed by the purser, and I checked out the enhancements BA recently made to its first-class cabin. I was surprised to see 14 seats in first class, where I often see no more than 12 on the same aircraft, but I was still impressed with the amount of privacy. I had my own closet at my seat, which was handy for hanging my jacket with no worries about leaving anything in the pockets. I changed into the blue BA First pajamas in the lavatory and, back at my seat, chatted with fellow passengers and flight attendants. Everyone was very pleased with the new seats. (30/30)
In-flight: After take-off, my turndown service was completed with a seat mattress and 400-thread-count duvet. As I had taken advantage of a pre-flight dinner served in the lounge, I quickly fell asleep.
I woke in time for breakfast and a movie on my 15-inch TV, which offered more than 100 on-demand films. I really enjoyed the seat, especially its additional width (31 inches when flat) and new built-in technology. I could control the electric window blinds — very futuristic — and the lights adjusted automatically depending on the time of day to help with the time zone change. The seat adjustment was also revolutionary. Instead of separate controls for each part of the seat, a knob controlled all the components at once, taking the seat smoothly from full upright to a bed, allowing me to stop the seat at any position in between.
Breakfast was served on beautiful china and included my own breadbasket filled with every breakfast roll I could imagine. The breakfast choices were well executed; the traditional English breakfast made me feel like I was already in London. The only unfortunate part was that I was traveling alone — I had room for two in my seat and plenty of food to share! (38/40)
The Experience: The British Airways experience is efficient and comfortable. All the luxuries are there but not in an overpowering manner. The new seat offers a true bed for a good night’s sleep. I don’t usually use the products in the amenity kit, but the Elemis selections were excellent, and I have incorporated some into my daily life. I was transiting in Heathrow and enjoyed the new lounges at T5. I highly recommend the hydrotherapy showers in the arrivals lounge. They are a great way to pass the time and help fight jet lag. At the Concorde lounge at T5, I felt more like I was visiting a private club than transiting. The business- and first-class lounges were bright and buzzing with energy — an environment I welcome in my travel routine.
Total Score: 98/100
Read This Next
Jamaica, Tryall Club, Chef Kai Bechinger
2011 / March 2011
Mar 1, 2012Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Jul 1, 2022Banyan Tree Group Debuts in Japan with 5 New Properties
Banyan Tree Group recently announced its first-ever expansion into Japan with five new properties across four concepts. The hospitality group’s partnership with Wealth Management Group saw Dhawa Yura and Garrya Nijo Castle launch in June, with two more properties slated to open now through 2026. Another partnership with Terraform Capital sees plans to build Cassia, a property in the ski resort of Niseko.
Sponsored Content
United’s 100 Percent Green Commitment to be Carbon Neutral by 2050
United Airlines remains firmly committed toward sustainability in aviation. The latest development in its eco-conscious goals includes working with Oxy Low Carbon Ventures to commercialize the production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) with biotech firm Cemvita Factory. Cemvita looks to develop a revolutionary new way to produce SAF by using carbon dioxide and synthetic microbes. Additionally, United Airlines Ventures (UAV) recently announced an equity investment in Fulcrum, and United has invested more in SAF production than any other airline in the world.
Daily
Jul 1, 2022Chikagai: Tokyo’s Underground Shopping Malls
For many business and leisure visitors to Tokyo, squeezing in a few hours of shopping during the city’s wet and humid early summer months can be somewhat unpleasant.
Daily
Jul 1, 2022American Airlines Launches Mobile ID with TSA PreCheck
American Airlines Mobile ID creates a more seamless, touchless travel experience for American Airlines customers with TSA PreCheck. Recently started at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, AAdvantage members with PreCheck can use Mobile ID at selected checkpoints to verify their identity. AA plans to deploy the technology at Miami (MIA), Phoenix (PHX), Washington, D.C. (DCA) and more later this year.
Sponsored Content
Discover Egypt in Total Luxury with World’s Most Eminent Archaeologists
THE MOST EXCLUSIVE TOURS OF EGYPT EVER OFFERED
Daily
Jun 30, 2022London’s Historic Wiltons Celebrates 280th Birthday with Exclusive Dining Experience
First opened in 1742 by George William Wilton, a seller of oysters, shrimp and cockles near Haymarket in London, Wiltons continued drawing diners with its delicious food for more than two centuries. This summer, Wiltons celebrates its 280th birthday and its place as one of London’s most beloved fine-dining establishments with a unique dining experience.
Luxurious Getaway at Ocean Casino Resort
Daily
Jun 29, 2022Madeira Food on Foot Review
eFlyer Reviews
Jun 29, 2022eFlyer News
Jun 29, 2022New PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys Expedition in Antarctica in 2023
PONANT recently announced a new collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys for a series of co-branded sailings for 2023. Led by two Smithsonian Journeys experts, such as an art historian, solar astrophysicist or international relations expert, the 21 itineraries seek to deepen travelers’ immersion and knowledge of different destinations.
Sponsored Content
From 24-Hour Butler Service to a Sky Pool: Boutique Luxury Awaits at Vista Encantada Spa Resort & Residences in Los Cabos
Set on a seaside bluff overlooking Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas, Vista Encantada Spa Resort & Residences is a Baja paradise specializing in serene vistas and impeccable hospitality, offering a Pacific coast lifestyle with authentic Mexican touches. Guests can now earn a fourth night free at the stunning resort, plus a $100 resort credit, when booking through March 20, for travel through June 15.
eFlyer Deals
Jun 29, 2022Celebrate Four Seasons Hotel Prague’s 20th Anniversary
In honor of its 20th anniversary, Four Seasons Hotel Prague celebrates the beauty and eternity of this historic city with a limited-time stay offer. The Eternal Beauty offer includes a stay in one of the Premier River rooms, which boasts unique views of Prague, a limousine transfer and breakfast.
ShareThis