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A first look at a revamp of British Airways’ A380 aircraft has unveiled a first class that emulates a “luxury hotel” in the sky, and the world’s largest business class cabin.
The multi-million-pound makeover of British Airways’ A380 jumbo jets, the world’s largest type of passenger aircraft, is thought to be one of the most extensive cabin refurbishment programmes ever undertaken by an airline.
The first completed A380swill enter service in the coming months, with the upper class cabins receiving the most extensive transformation.
Sean Doyle, the chairman and CEO at British Airways, said the transformation of its 12-strong A380 fleet is a “major milestone” for the airline.
“We’ve completely reimagined the customer experience, introducing new and updated seats in every cabin, all carefully considered to deliver greater comfort and an elevated customer experience.
“At the heart of the transformation is our brand-new First suite, but this investment goes far beyond a single cabin.
“From redesigned interiors and upgraded dining to new amenities and service delivery, every detail has been thoughtfully designed with our customers front and centre, helping them to have a more seamless and memorable experience when they fly with us.”
Club World, the British Airways equivalent of business class, will include added storage, improved functionality, and new amenity kits stocked with exclusive products from luxury British wellness brand anatomē.
Becoming the largest business class cabin in the skies, Club World will include 106 single-seat suites across the full upper deck.
Four distinct cabin zones in Club World create an intimate feel, complemented by dedicated dwell areas, kitchens and galley spaces that encourage passengers to move freely throughout the flight.
The Club World cabin will feature a colour palette inspired by the airline’s blue, red and cream accents.
Customers in World Traveller, the airline’s version of economy, will have larger entertainment screens, wider seats and upgraded bedding.
World Traveller Plus (premium economy) also have access to privacy wings, even larger screens and amenity kits featuring a Dr.Pawpaw moisturising balm.
In first class, the airline is promising passengers “hotel quality sleep at 35,000ft” with new mattresses, a cotton duvet and a newly designed pillow, as well as new cool-touch navy sleepwear and slippers.
A dedicated daytime woven blanket and a cushion will also be provided.
The cabin, known onboard as First, has centre seats that can be transformed into a shared space by removing the divider, for people travelling in pairs. Stowable tables let them enjoy “buddy dining” with their companion. There are a total of 12 seats in the First cabin.
The new First dining experience is now available across the airline’s entire long-haul fleet, with a “From the Grill” concept and a dedicated beverage menu.
A bespoke mini bar has also been integrated into the new First seat, giving customers easy access to refreshments and snacks throughout the flight.
The First amenity kits are inspired by heritage suitcases and include skincare products from Wildsmith and a bespoke “circadian rhythm” collection designed to support hydration and comfort from day into night.
Read more: British Airways sounds emergency alarm after rapid 28,000ft descent to London Heathrow
