Showing posts with label British Airways. Show all posts
Showing posts with label British Airways. Show all posts

August 3, 2013

BA fly A380 with flights to/from Frankfurt



A post by Joe Mendonca


Happy to post this on behalf of a passenger and follower of Joe Journeys that was lucky enough to fly British Airways on day 1 of operation, 4th commercial BA 380 flight from Frankfurt to London Heathrow.

The new A380 is now being deployed on short-haul flights in order to give cabin crew and ground handlers experience of the jet - starting with BA902 to Germany's financial centre.

Instead of an old Boeing 767, passengers stepped aboard the Airbus A380, British Airways newest plane, for the 90-minute flight. Frankfurt was chosen because it is a high-frequency destination from Heathrow, and the airport is already well accustomed to handling the A380.

All passengers were accommodated on the lower deck; those carrying Club Europe tickets were able to enjoy lie-flat business-class beds on the short flight.

"The crew was visibly new, so all pretty excited and service wasn't routine yet" said the flyer who regularly does this route.

"Economy cabin looked like the normal long haul product with Business the same (2-4-2 layout with some back facing seats)" commented the frequent flyer who wants to remain anonymous, "First Class and Upper Deck was sealed off and I wasn't allowed to get in there. They seemed to have installed a few blue mood-lights (a bit like in new first), but apart from that the most striking difference was that the cabin was proper clean. Service was standard Club Europe, nothing exciting. though there were 23 crew members for what usually would have been an A319 load. The bird itself is fairly quiet and moves pretty softly" he said, "the engines move a lot, especially when there is a little wind. I'd imagine that to look scary during turbulence."



British Airways

June 27, 2013

Dreamliner to Toronto on BA



A post by Joe Mendonca


British Airways announces arrival of the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner with routes to Toronto and Newark from September 2013. Though the BA website does have my scheduled flight listed as an operational flight, they cannot guarantee the aircraft I will be traveling on, but keeping my fingers crossed.

The new Boeing 787 Dreamliner cabin interior have been designed nose to tail. A new 'smooth ride technology' is said to provide a calmer journey. There are larger windows and new ambient lighting. The aircraft is also quieter, lighter and more fuel efficient.

I'll be watching to see if my flight is lucky enough to travel on this new aircraft, and if I do, I'll be sure to let you know what it was like.


British Airways


September 16, 2012

Club World on British Airways



One of the best things that could happen to anyone is getting an upgrade on a long haul flight, such was the case when I flew from London to Tokyo on British Airways when I was upgraded to Club World.

With a better seat that fully reclines and delivers a fully rested arrival, big screen for watching and catching up with movies, more storage and better meals, Club World offers a traveler a complete flight experience with all the perks.





If your arriving into Heathrow Terminal 5 with British Airways and flying Club World or in First, you also get an arrivals Fast Track Pass to quickly get through a dedicated border control. As well, British Airways has a Galleries Arrivals Lounge with showers, prepared breakfasts, a spa, and even will press your suit or shirts. Nice touch.

I must admit I rather liked flying in Club World, who wouldn't?



July 12, 2012

First Class on British Airways


Spoilt. First Class on British Airways, after years of collecting I finally indulged by using my frequent flyer points to upgrade and experience what its like to travel in upper class. Here I am with champagne in hand, warm nuts, pillow placed behinds my head, 30000 feet on a 747 jet to London from Moscow.

It's just a 3 hour 30 minute flight but at least a chance I can indulge in this captive  time in the air. Its not everyday one gets these sort if pleasures. My seat is reclined, a double aspect window, semi-private seat to stretch in. Big screen with video on demand. Powering my mobile while I write this. Take off your shoes and and stretch.


The dinner service starts with caviar with blinis and Russian Standard Imperial vodka, followed by my choice of seared Scottish king scallop with broad bean puree and crispy porchetta from the menu. The main dish a roasted Herefordshire fillet of beef and braised beef pie with artichoke barigoule (slow roasted and topped with bacon and vegetables) and crispy Iberico ham, a delicous glass of wine, and finally ending with a sweet desert. At this altitude, I'm as near to heaven as can be while alive.


The tiny first class bathroom is clean and sparkling, with full length mirror to make sure you look perfect when you arrive. In first you get dedicated magazines not seen behind the curtain. Even the inflight duty free has more options, and of course, higher price tags too.

A short flight it was, but very comfortable and excellent taste of first class onboard British Airways. Definitely a mile-high experience.