BRITISH AIRWAYS
The cost A return flight from Dubai to London typically costs from Dh9,070.
The perks British Airways made history when it introduced Concord flights from London to New York in 1976 (until it was retired in 2003). You could land before you took off, the flight was so quick – and many years later BA was the first airline to introduce lie-flat beds in its business cabins in the early Noughties. Such innovation set the British flag carrier apart from the rest of the world. Over the decade other airlines have caught up, and now BA is designing a new first-class seat, completely under wraps at the moment, that – when unveiled later this year – will once again set the carrier apart from the rest of the industry. On board you can choose your three-course meal from an extensive menu, while enjoying in-flight entertainment on a 26cm flat-screen display. You’ll also be provided with a memory foam pillow, blanket and an Elemis amenity kit. BA is also offering “World Sleeper Service” on some longhaul routes. Enjoy your food in the
lounge, and then a quick drink before lights out in the sky. On the ground in London and New York, business-class passengers have access to BA’s Elemis spa, where the free treatments include massages and facials, as well as beauty treatments such as manicures, eyebrow shaping, and for men, a ‘power shave’. That said, securing a slot is easier said than done.
The drawbacks Some of British Airways’ older planes are showing their age. While the Club World – business – cabins are well looked after by the airline, that doesn’t compensate for the fact older Boeing 747s jumbo-jets – commonly used on one of the twicedaily Dubai to London flights – are noisy. Check when booking, as opting for a flight using a Boeing 777 is likely to improve your travel experience.
The verdict If you’re looking for a tried and tested experience, with lashings of old-world British etiquette, the UK’s flag carrying airline offers just that.
For more info or to book visit
www.britishairways.com/ae