Do You Turn Left?

On a aircraft!  We all know that you can upgrade on a flight from premium to first class but of course the amount can be hefty to do so however, what service and comfort you have!  The airline industry are of course all very keen for us to upgrade as it can generate up to 55% of it’s turnover, so big money is to be had.  It is not just the money though, there is huge competition to be the best. To give the best amenities, comfort, food etc.

Some airlines have been revamping the cabins, so if you can be tempted to pay a bit more, I thought it was a good idea to keep you in the loop as it were.  British Airways are launching the 56 “club suites” on the new A350 aircraft which will begin flying long haul in October.  These new seats will be arranged 1-2-1 which gives all passengers unrestricted aisle access. BA also state that you will get more storage space and of course the fully flat bed.

One of my favourites is Virgin Atlantic. They have completely revamped the upper class cabins on it’s A350-1000 aircraft. The bar is now taken out and going to be replaced by “the loft” which I guess is the same thing in being a space to mingle just not called a bar. Afternoon tea by Eric Lanlard will be served as well as cocktails. Again flat beds (and they are smashing!)

Air France have advised they are investing 140 million euros with a new business class product. They will be fitting seats on a 2-2-2 layout on the A330’s by next year. Larger entertainment screens, fully extended bed and access to a self service bar.

Turkish airlines is perhaps one name you would not think of, but I do hear the service is very good. This summer they are introducing the new B787-9 and A350-900 planes which will have business class called “Aurora.”  Full length privacy screens with padding which is used on interiors of sports cars called Alcantara, seats arranged on a 1-2-1 basis and 44 inches of leg room.

Swiss air introduced a new look cabin for business in March on one of the A340’s. Wooden tables and surrounds, 1-2-1 and 2-2-1 seat configuration and upgraded entertainment.

The others who have upgraded are Latam the South American carrier. New Vantage XL seats, granite effect cocktail tables, leather headrests and a “do not disturb” indicator.  Brussels airlines have called themselves a “boutique hotel in the air.”   They serve 8 Belgian beers and 5 course meals by Michelin star Belgian chefs in the new A330 cabins.  There are a couple more such as Air Europa and Westjet who have been revamping. The latter has a new B787-9 dreamliner from London to Calgary – very nice!

Not one mention of course of the Middle Eastern carriers here.  I think they are the ones to beat really however, you can see it is big money to be the best in the airline world.

I am sure there will be many more to come – watch this space!

Till next time x