You know an airline has its act together when you don’t want a flight to end — even when you’re looking forward to your destination.
The new Club World service at British Airways runs currently between London, New York and Los Angeles and is dedicated to passenger comfort and convenience from the moment he or she arrives at LHR, JFK or LAX.
The accommodations begin immediately with special check-in lines dedicated to Club World. After clearing airport security and/or Customs, the traveler has access to the British Airway Lounges before boarding.
However, Club World buyers are welcomed into a special sit-down restaurant area with a separate menu reserved only for BA’s top customers. A chef on duty keeps the buffet fresh, while friendly staff make certain the traveler is comfortable and otherwise hydrated with a beverage of choice.
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On the London and New York ends of the trip, Club World customers can enjoy a facial or massage from British spa and skincare brand, Elemis.
Once on board the British Airways liner via a dedicated queue, the flyer settles into a privater, enclosed seat that can recline fully flat into a bed. On any overseas flight anywhere in the world, such a berth is worth its weight in free drink coupons.
The Club World policy at British Airways allows the passenger to sleep as much as he or she legally can by regulations, so the seat isolated from the aisle is essential.
If the traveler decides to stay awake, the Club World seat offers personal storage compartments, power outlets for laptops, USB charging connections and continual access to everything from additional beverages to reading material.
The onboard cuisine is chef-prepared and created from locally sourced ingredients from the point of destination. This isn’t your old airline’s Rubber Chicken Marsala.
The Club World entertainment system is state of the art. The touchscreen folds out and extends into the seat space, including a thorough collection of movies, TV shows, games, music, etc. Unlike systems on many rival airlines, the Club World screens are highly reactive touch screens — allowing for immediate call-up of menus and choices, as well as easy fast forward, rewind, pause, etc.
Upon arrival at the destination airport, if the Club World customer wants to linger for a while, he or she can visit the lounge on arrival and enjoy a shower to freshen up post flight. And, the staff will press their shirts while they wait.
The only problem with Club World service when it’s all totaled up is that eventually you’ll have to return coach class sooner or later. You’ll end up pining for the international convenience festival British Airways offered you.