British Airways Club World on GCC flights next year

To be fair the 'new' Club World is already in service on many BA routes around the world, and 50 of the airline's 57-strong fleet of 747s have been converted to the new product.

The Boeing 777s used on BA's 49 routes to the Gulf will all be upgraded over the course of the next year.

So any executive travelling the world with BA has likely encountered the attractive new minimalist design of this seating. It is the same chic design that has become fashionable in bathroom and ultra-modern apartment interiors.

The cozy blanket and cushions are from same school. The seating is arranged with head-to-toe to keep your neighbour's snores at the maximum distance, and an opaque privacy screen will stop them staring at you.

Screen size

However, it is a wonder why Emirates Airline can offer a similar size of TV screen in Economy Class on flights from Europe to Dubai, while BA is only just getting around to providing this size of screen for those paying higher prices in Club World. On Emirates you already get a 19-inch screen in Business Class.

The same can also be said of the video-on-demand system. This is a great innovation that allows passengers to watch a movie anytime they like from a list of more than a hundred. Again other airlines have a system right now in Economy.

All the same, competition is a healthy thing and it is true that BA still rules the air space over the Atlantic with its 747s where this new level of comfort is no doubt very welcome to travelers from the Gulf whether for business or leisure.

Bed comfort

AME Info can vouch for the ergonomics of the new flat-bed, which lies genuinely flat and not at an angle that gives you a stiff neck. The arms of the seat also retract to give 25 per cent more hip-room, and exceptionally tall passengers seemed happy with it too. And laptop users will like the dedicated locker and multi-standard power socket.

In addition, BA has been converted to the grazing concept of catering. In the new Club World a full buffet will be constantly on hand for hungry passengers.

From March 27 next year BA will operate out of the new London Heathrow Terminal 5, greatly improving the ground services to passengers, and allowing much more convenient connections between short and long-haul routes. In short, BA is investing to stay ahead in business travel.

See also:
Review: Virgin Atlantic, Upper Class
Review: British Airways, Club World
Airbus makes big splash at Air Show