It’s time for another Snapshot, this time focusing on the passenger experience with British Airways in Club Suites.
Yes. I said Club Suites.
I’m sure you’re all aware of 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 taking you into the experience, the small things… as well as 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)
Booking
This ticket was part of a return ticket with British Airways, with World Traveller Plus booked for the return portion of this ticket.
Check-in
Check-in was left check-in until I got to the airport – mainly as I forgot. This is located in Terminal 5 at O’Hare Airport, via the E vestable.
At check-in, my baggage was accepted, and I was informed that my seat had been changed from a World Traveller Plus seat to a Club World seat, as a complimentary upgrade.
With that, I was able to check both bags to London Heathrow.
Security
Given the experiences with the side security lane, I went through the main security lanes, which had demarcation for Clear, TSA precheck and normal passengers.
At about 7pm in the evening, it took around 15 minutes to clear.
Lounge
The British Airways lounge located inside Terminal 5 was utilised. This was split into a dining area for First class, a buffet area and a general seating area.
A pre-departure buffet service was offered, along with a mixture of self-serve and bartender-served beverages.
Boarding
Boarding was from Gate M21 in the Terminal 5 complex. Boarding was managed by group number and in order. A facial scan was taken, as well as a boarding pass stub to exit the USA.
The Plane
A British Airway Boeing 777-200ER would be providing the lift across the Atlantic that evening.
This was configured in a four-class configuration First, Club World, World Traveller Plus and World Traveller (First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, Economy Class).
The Seat
The aircraft had the Club Suite product (based on Collins Aerospace’s SuperDiaomond seat). This seat features lots of storage areas, as well as a closing door.
IFE
A Thales IFE system was installed on this aircraft. This was presented 18.5″ Screen.
Connectivity
Whilst there was an active BA Hotspot onboard, I could not access it to gain access to Internet pricing.
Food and Beverages
A full food and drinks service was provided, with dinner and breakfast for those who wanted it.
This started with welcome drinks
Followed by the menu being handed out
A marinated prawn and avocado starter was selected, along with a British Airways Gin Fizz
A main of a Cajun Chicken was selected…
With a Mango Toffee delight to end.
A Egg and Bacon breakfast muffin was selected for the arrivals service. This was complimented with a croissant and Coconut Chia Pudding.
Arrivals
The aircraft arrived at Heathrow and was parked at the far end of Terminal 5C.
This required a walk to the interterminal transit, to travel back to terminal 5A
Immigration and luggage claim
immigration was handled using a mixture of gates and manual inspection.
L
Upon clearance, it took 50 minutes for baggage delivery to be completed after landing.
Other Pictures
The full review of British Airways and their Club Suite product is coming soon.
And I’m not spoiling anything by saying this upfront – it’s as good as it looks.
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