It’s time for another Snapshot, this time focusing on the passenger experience aboard British Airways 296 in World Traveller Plus (the Premium Economy Cabin)
I’m sure you know how I do this travel writing thing by now. But for those reading this for the first time, I have two major travel writing styles:
- Trip Reports—These are full, deep-dive reports that take you into the experience, the small things and the big things!
- Snapshots – These are bite-sized reviews that show you the product in some gentle headlines (and normally, only images shot on the phone)
We’re on Snapshots at the moment as I finish up getting this trip report into some sort of manageable working order (let’s say it’s more of a battle than a journey currently).
With that, let’s get on with the show.
Check-in
British Airways departs from Terminal 3 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport – their check-in counters are located on the right-hand side of the terminal, near the security checkpoint.
The seat I had reserved was confirmed, with my baggage accepted for travel.
Security
The right-most security lane was used to clear the TSA at Chicago O’Hare. Shoes were kept on. The bags cleared without an eyebrow raised, and I passed the security scanner without incident.
Lounge
British Airways uses the American Airlines Flagship Lounge for its Club/First and Elite frequent flyers. This was accessed using my oneworld Sapphire status.
After being checked in the lounge, an invitation for the Flagship Lounge was issued.
Once in the lounge, space was found, along with access to food and drink to while away time before departure.
Boarding
Boarding was called from the lounge, with passengers directed to Gate K19 – the end of the K gates at O’Hare. Boarding was managed by groups.
The Aircraft
A Boeing 787-10 would provide lift across the Atlantic that evening.
The Seat
British Airways uses the Recaro PL3510 for its World Traveller Plus seating product aboard this 787-10. This aircraft also features the First Suite, Club Suites and World Traveller economy class seats.
A pillow, blanket, amenity kit and headphones were at-seat.
Amenity kit
For travellers in World Traveller Plus, an amenity kit was provided at-seat. This was filled with an eye mask, socks, a toothbrush and paste, and a pen.
Food and Drink
Pre-departure drinks of Orange Juice, Champagne and Water were offered.
A meal service was conducted after take off, along with a drinks run. The Butter Chicken was selected as the main dish that evening.
Breakfast was served, which was a filled croissant with drinks.
In-Flight Entertainment
British Airways uses a Panasonic IFE system on this aircraft, with a 12″ screen installed.
The mapping platform was based on the Panasonic ARC Maps platform.
And when the lights were down, the screen looked excellent for space shuttle launches.
Connectivity
British Airways uses the IntelSat/SES connectivity platform, with free messaging offered for Club members. Paid internet access was £11.99 for 4 hours, £17.99 for the entire flight.
Arrival
The Boeing 787-10 made up around 30 minutes during its journey, arriving late on the North Runway at Heathrow.
After landing, the aircraft was guided to the hard stands near Terminal 5C.
Immigration, Customs
With the aircraft arriving at a hard stand near, a bus transfer was provided to the Terminal.
This dropped us off at arrivals and transfers. From here, I proceeded to the UK border to enter the country.
Baggage delivery was reasonably quick for Terminal 5, with bags appearing around 30 minutes after landing.
From here, I was able to clear customs and exit to the ground-side part of Heathrow Terminal 5.
With limited time due to the aircraft being delayed, I exited the terminal and proceeded to the waiting coach, which would take me towards my final destination.
The full trip report from British Airways 296, as well as the rest of this trip, is coming soon!
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