I Tested British Airways Old Style Business Class Seat (Fly Back in Time)

[@leemccourt1604]

I’ve flown the old club world a number of times, I always choose the last row facing backwards as you don’t have to climb over anyone. Yes it’s cozy, but I like it. Once you’re settled in, seat flat, lights down always a good sleep, I’ve slept for 11 hours from Seoul, and 11 from Rio. Comfy seat.

[@imapoketrader]

Agree, its nice having absolutely tonnes of legroom and wiggle room too. 3 windows is a great plus too.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you @leemccourt1604 and @imapoketrader Most people agree that the bed is comfy and like that aspect, and I hadn't really thought about the three windows, which is a nice feature. Thank you both, Phil

[@neilh3883]

Nice video again. I too have avoided these seats but have thought that maybe I should try them just once. You have just put me off 😂😂😂

[@mygreygapyear]

If you want to experience it just because, then you really should, it is a blast from the past 😊

[@martenth1984]

Try Finnair longhaul, please. Their innovative lounge seat is surprisingly comfy, and to me which I find important: You have 100% privacy. Food is subpar but you won’t see anyone onboard! Prices to Asia are very competitive

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, Finnair is definitely on the list 😊

[@HayleyAndScott24]

I always thought that all business class seats would be amazing, but this did not look good and I fear I'd feel extremely claustrophobic in those seats! Thanks for taking one for the team Phil haha :) -Hayley

[@mygreygapyear]

It's tough but someone has to do it 😊 and if you're thinking of treating yourself to a one off business class flight always do your research.

[@vhira]

I am flying with British Airways on the A350 to Vancouver next month in economy class. Can’t wait as I have never flown on the A350 ever.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, hope you have an amazing trip.

[@andrewj3296]

Good content, thanks. BA have actually upped their food game. Recently flew First to Singapore and their lobster was amazing. Old hardware, but I never use the IFE anyway. Eat, sleep, get off. The 787 you were on is generally an awful experience whatever airline you go on. The call bell is there to be used! 😊. Over 50 flights for me this year, mostly in APAC, allows me to experience some top airlines and BA has certainly slipped, but I still can’t get over the excitement of getting on a BA flight home. T5 makes all the difference especially if on a domestic transfer.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for that comment, I loved it. I love lobster tail too, mega yum and I'm learning to press the bell when I need to 😊 Thanks again, Phil

[@hawkstones]

An honest review that matches my experience. I’ve had the pleasure of these seats to Singapore, back from Hong Kong, and then this year to and from Shanghai. First time around, 6 years ago, they felt OK, but this year they felt tired and worn. The screens didn’t work properly, and while the food from LHR was generally OK, the food on the return was terrible! … and the lemon meringue bar is better avoided.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for your comment and support and a special thank you for letting me know about the lemon meringue bar. Sometimes I wonder if the people who make these decisions ever fly on these aircraft and sample the food they're subjecting us to?

[@davenorth2903]

I remember when these seats came out decades ago. They were revolutionary and as I recall the first lay flat seat in the air. You can still do relatively well if you get the window seat in the back row. You get the privacy you don’t get in an aisle and you get direct aisle access.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I did manage to get one of those seats you describe and with no seat-mate I kept the little window down for most of the flight.

[@paulneale4659]

Great video thank you . I’m Amazed at these seats ! Last year I flew with BA to the USA . Business class. The seats were amazing, storage etc I could not complain. The service and food on the way out were amazing. This was on a 777 My only complaint on my return flight was the food that had been loaded from the USA . Even the cabin crew were horrified and were embarrassed. It amazes me just how much service differs even though it’s still sold as business class. I would expect high standard no matter what flight or aircraft your on . Please keep these videos coming 😊

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for your kind comments, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it. To have this difference in BA's fleet is shocking, I hate having to check seat maps when I'm booking.

[@neilmccarthy6107]

Flew to Melbourne (Cathay) via Hong Kong (BA) economy and the difference was telling. Both myself and my parents are similar build to yourself Phil and we felt on top of each other. There is a reason why a lot of people prefer the A350 over the dreamliner as an economy passenger

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, I have started booking the aisle seat exclusively for long haul economy, I prefer the window seat, especially to film take off and landing, but I have had very cramped conditions in the window on a couple of flights.

[@jkbutnotreally]

Your review is obviously quite valid, but I still love this seat as I usually travel with my wife. It's almost like we're sitting across from each other, I don't even have to turn my head to talk to her.

[@mygreygapyear]

I think these seats work well for couples, unless you want a break, putting up the screen on your spouse might not be the start to you're holidays that you're looking for 😂

[@stupidknut2138]

I had one of these on a JFK a couple of months ago after an aircraft switch. I actually find the window seat nice and cozy for sleeping but for a day flight they’re now way behind the rest for all the reasons you mentioned

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I'm glad the dreaded equipment change wasn't too bad for you with the window seat.

[@VicTheflyingDentist]

If given a choice, I’d fly Cathay Pacific, and will also get tier points. Lovely video though. ❤

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, much appreciated, I have flown Cathay a few times now, although not in the new Aria suite, and I did enjoy it.

[@chrisdrake331]

Another great honest review cheers 🍻

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks Chris, much appreciated

[@Crazy_Charo]

Great vid Phil. I flew that seat on the A380 from LHR to JNB return. I understand the free legs situation, but agree that I will never intentionally fly on that seat again unless there is absolutely no other choice. Recently BA accounced that they will be upgrading their A380s to feature the new Club Suites, which I am looking forward to.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I think Club Suite on an A380 will be a sight to behold.

[@obamtl]

Thanks for sharing this, Phil. I agree with your point about advantages for taller people. I slept incredibly well, with the Apple Watch suggesting I maintained deep sleep for most of it. I love the BA Club Suite, but the trade off I sometimes feel I get with them is the constrained foot cubby. I think this product would have been a lot better if BA hadn't been so greedy and had gone for a 2-2-2 layout with the unobstructed feet and wider seats. This really only works for tall, slim people.

[@mygreygapyear]

I agree, I think a 2-2-2 with 4 seats having aisle access would have been an improvement, especially for taller people who struggle with the foot cubby. As (probably) the shortest KZbin airline reviewer at 5'4" this isn't an issue for me 😊

[@manutdrule09]

These videos are just brilliant mate

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you, that does mean a lot mate, I'm glad you're enjoying them

[@nolllyp]

Great video. I recently fly back from New Orleans on the Dreamliner in the same business class and I was so disappointed as the seat maps on booking and until check in showed the 121 new lay out. My foot stool fell down constantly, so I couldn't sleep and also the entertainment system failed for the whole flight, it was a disaster! Food was not good, crew ruched and first drink service was with meal and hour and half after take off. It was my first time flying business with BA and I've had better economy flights and meals. I would not recommend to anyone for the price you pay

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for sharing your experience, it's much appreciated, and you have my sympathies. Getting that last minute equipment change is very disappointing, especially as it was your first business flight. You go from looking forward to a new (and expensive) experience to just being a bit fed up before you even get on board. Then when things start going wrong with the flight it just compounds the crappy experience. I think the falling footstool is a common theme with this seat making sleep very difficult.

[@sharifur]

Thanks Phil for the detailed review! It seems that tier points awarded from LON-HKG may be the only good thing for those that are flying this business class product with BA!

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your kind comment and your support, yeah, if you fly this product it doesn't have much beyond tier points going for it, I agree.

[@internationAL21]

I remember this seat well….with zero affection..even when it was an upgrade. I’ll never fly it again and won’t even try the ClubSuite whilst these are still in service…just in case of a last minute equipment change!

[@mygreygapyear]

Yeah, avoiding club suite in case of equipment change is a fair point, BA don't do this too often but it does happen

[@andygeeves3404]

@internationAL21 only reason I'm flying business is avios. The normal price one way is £7000 flying back from a different airport on emirates business 😄

[@ScottMatthews-gk8ef]

At least it looked like they didn’t lock the windows… My first long haul in business was the BA Club Dormitory, perhaps in 2016 so not too long ago. I was genuinely in absolute awe as given my background, it was something I never thought I’d experience. Since then, I’ve got used to Club Suite & when I was upgraded from PE on an A380 flight in 2023, it was an absolute shock being reacquainted with what once passed for luxury! Admittedly, those old seats were a tad more comfortable in bed mode. I’ve just flown from LHR to MIA on American’s Flagship First to try it while it’s still around - if you haven’t done so, please do. Yes, the seats are outdated with little privacy (unless you swivel the chair to face the window!) but gosh, I was impressed. The seats are so spacious, they have a massage setting, the service & crew were impeccable & the catering wonderful. Kudos to a bone dry sherry accompanying the cheeseboard instead of the usual port. Nine hours literally flew by with no need for sleep or IFE, just the view & being in the moment.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for sharing that experience, if I get the change to fly with AA in Flagship First I will, based on your wonderful comment. And I love the idea of a bone dry sherry with some good cheeses and flights where you don't want to land are the very best. Thanks Phil

[@RandomLifeProductions]

Oh I loved this seat especially the upstairs seats with loads of seat service

[@mygreygapyear]

Apparently the upstairs on an old 747 was amazing in this seat, I've been told that they were in 2-2, so a quiet cabin and, as you say, great service. Is this the upstairs you mean?

[@faithg9766]

I love reading all the comments, I don't fly often, but it's great reading about other people's experiences. The kung pao chicken looked like you'd ordered the No.37 from the dodgiest take away in town!

[@mygreygapyear]

When I've had Kung Pao chicken in the past its been stir fried vegetables and chicken (not battered) in sauce and yummy so I was surprised to see it in batter, but apparently this is common. I think I'm going to order it again soon to compare it 😊

[@travelstylers6667]

actually enjoyed my old style seat on a flight to Dubai with my wife and infant. Granted it was upstairs on an A380. with plenty of side cupboard space, but it was pretty handy being able to pass the kid between the seats, a lot easier than the Club Suites, but I'd say the superior comparisons ends there.

[@mygreygapyear]

Now side storage in an A380 upper deck would make a difference, that is an excellent point. I know with my grandson right now he would love being passed through the little hatch 😊

[@imaginationandflair]

Always slept well in these and Loved when they were first introduced from the cradle style seat Flat bed over economy is a no brainer.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, you're in the majority with liking these seats for sleeping in, and I agree that this is a significant step up from economy.

[@mrfrisky6501]

Great Vlog mate👍 You have a really good channel growing here.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for your kind comment, I really appreciate your support and I'm really glad you enjoyed the video.

[@ianhamilton396]

This might be the precise reason why I do my level best to avoid BA, unless a commuting run to LCY.

[@mygreygapyear]

I think if I had full choice as a cash paying passenger (I'm not) then I might not pick BA, but having said that BA crews have typically looked after me very well

[@The_Jeffski]

Its interesting as once you have been in the new club suite seat this one didn't see so bad - makes you realise the final refurb can't come soon enough. Now wish they could make the PE seat more comfy too!

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I did like the club suite but I haven't tried PE yet.

[@jamesholder1210]

We flew this for our honeymoon recently. Our first time in business class and we were a little disappointed and it's put us off business class altogether from day 1.

[@tugboat6313]

Don't worry, it can't get any worse

[@mygreygapyear]

@tugboat6313 😂😂😂

[@mygreygapyear]

@jamesholder1210 I found the variety in quality of business class within mainstream carriers to be very surprising and it is easy to get caught out. Emirates have 2-3-2 (yes, a middle seat in business class), BA have this, Qatar have many different seats of different quality, and don't get me started on European Business Class...

[@jimmyjames6492]

Thanks for the great info + video!

[@mygreygapyear]

Your very welcome, thanks for your comment

[@andrewclark8630]

I will miss them! But would only want to be in one of the window seats. Like your own very small bedroom, sealed off form the movement on the aisle. The ones on the top deck of a 747 (sadly retired) were amazing. The seats were head and shoulders above the Swiss business (too hard, metal bars) and the American reverse herringbone (too hard).

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I agree it is a very private bed(room) and is incredibly private. I would have love to have flown the old 747, I think I did in economy with Continental as a kid.

[@ianworthington2324]

I don't have too much of an issue with the ying yang seat per se, but then i always choose the rear facing window seat and value the privacy. But agree 100% about the ancient screen and plastic fittings and fixtures. Food in BA bc seems, for some reason, to be rather like Longfellow's little girl with a little curl. Unsure why there's so little consistency in it.

[@mygreygapyear]

Yes, I agree with the food, sometimes great and sometimes horrid, no consistency.

[@michaelfretter9394]

I had the footrest dropping from under me constantly on the 380 to Singapore. BA have the uncanny ability to take what should be a decent plate of food and make it look like it's gone the full 80 mins of rugby! They have a LOT of work to do to bring it up to the standard of their competitors

[@mygreygapyear]

"The full 80 minutes of rugby" 😂😂😂 I am having the best time this morning reading these comments, thank you

[@jasondugg]

I flew similar distance on this old style business from Shanghai back in July. Not again. Flying from Doha in January with BA and opted for premium over business as it would've been same old club world product.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, I think PE will offer better value over this old club world seat.

[@robchambers326]

Interesting video Phil, I've just booked that exact seat (and the twin on the other side) for flights to Nashville for myself and the wife. I went for the privacy but entirely agree this seat is now storage compared to the "Club suite" and competitors. Still it's not economy, and it's a first world problem 😉

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment Rob, definitely a first wold problem and definitely better than economy and PE 😊

[@nickf619]

Flew this seat on the way back from Dubai this year. Yes it’s old but did the job on a shorter long haul flight when I just wanted to sleep. Seems food is going more and more down hill with BA. Look at the recent Brunchgate cuts and night time food cuts. So if you just want to sleep BA is decent except for that excuse of a mattress topper, it’s really pathetic. If they fixed that I’d be happier. I’d only fly BA long haul now with Avios vouchers and use full Avios flights on other airlines. However club Europe catering is pretty good

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, the mattress topper really needs a re-think, I'm surprised that the white company are prepared to put there name to it.

[@nickf619]

@@mygreygapyear well I can’t imagine Do&Co are very happy putting their name to Ba Club World catering, but I suppose both of these companies want the contract even if BA have given them a tight budget to work with

[@johncallow5184]

The crew have some revolutionary tech to sort those wonky screens and table out- shoving coffee stirrers in them 😂

[@mygreygapyear]

😂😂😂 Thanks for your comment

[@merob9432]

I really don’t enjoy the old club world cabin, climbing over people’s legs if you get a window seat or like you are lying down in the aisle if you have an aisle seat.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, neither option is particularly appealing are they?

[@nicholasashaw72]

Agree with many of your comments in this video, especially the fact that this product should have been retired by now. However, I find the bed on this old seat very comfortable (maybe even better than club suite ?!) and as I fly with my daughter and wife, I actually like the 3 in the middle.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for your comment and support, much appreciated. The three seats would work brilliantly for your family, and in a way that club suite never will. And quite a few people have said that this style of seat does make a better bed. Thanks again, Phil

[@coloradocolorado1527]

Totally agree. Compared to Club Suites, the old Business Class is a joke. When club suite not available, I just take Premium Economy,

[@mygreygapyear]

I think PE is definitely going to offer to better bang for your buck over this seat, I guess it does depend on the cost, I imagine if PE and this seat were the same price I would pick the Club World seat

[@oblongmusic3389]

When I first flew on this seat back in 2002 , it totally blew me away . There was NOTHING like it , and it was truly exciting.. back then .. imagine the way aviation KZbinrs drool all over Qsuites or ANA’s The Room at the moment.. this was as good , but there was zero competition in this league , and it was amazing to fly in it , which I’ve done many times since too .. but BA were also one of the best carriers , if not THE best back in the day , and obviously every business passenger has been softened up by increasingly ‘fluffy’ products, just in case they should have a slight negative aspect to their flights .. I truly loved this seat 20 years or so ago , but everyone else caught up and overtook it ages ago .. BA should’ve moved on completely by now .. but I still have a soft spot for it as a trailblazer amongst what were truly inferior products by literally everyone else .. you can’t halt progress , as they say .. And BA are basically awful overall nowadays anw.. Cheerz.. 😅

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and sharing your experience, I can only imagine what this was like back in the day, I don't imagine there were many middle class passengers just treating themselves back then, I guess it was mostly business travellers

[@BenWeatherhead-f3g]

I honestly cannot understand how not only a designer came up with that configuration, but also, that an airline actually agreed to install it on a plane. It is awful.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, installing in 2006 I can understand, installing in 2016 is harder to understand, I agree, it's awful.

[@gordonwalters7113]

It is strange how BA can innovate and then just rest on their laurels whilst the competition flies by. I recall flying on the first iteration of their then revolutionary lie flat, which was indeed disruptive despite being appropriately known as the flying coffin, with that odd fan screen. That they have retained the zing-zang defies understanding when so many better options exist - even within their own fleet. However, I do agree with others that enjoying it on the upper deck of the 747 was sublime and indeed I would sooner continue that experience than the club suite within a vanilla 777 of 350.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for sharing your experiences, I would love to try the old seat with the fan, I've only seen it in pictures. As you say, BA seem to have just rested on their laurels with club suite being part of a generation of very vanilla suite business seats

[@Allan-Lauder]

Flew this product back from Atlanta a few years back, you can can see at the time how it was revolutionary, but now it looks tired, bear in mind Emirates still have a middle seat in BC. I thought the chicken looked ok, I would expect it in batter. Presentation was not good. I would also try and ensure I avoided this product, it’s a great deal of money for something that isn’t competitive.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I do want to try the Emirates 2-3-2 on a quiet route if I get the chance. And I agree with you, I'll be avoiding this in the future

[@howard8573]

Another informative video Phil, thanks. In all fairness, BA's meal service has deteriorated a lot over the years, I remember the days when you had a salad and they gave you a small bottle of oil/balsamic to apply to the salad. The meals were filling and enjoyable, being served individually by the crew. Moving forward, we now have the "brunch service" to endure! It will be interesting to see how long that stays after Mr Doyle gets his ear bent from departing First Class/Club passengers. Keep up the good work Phil.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for your kind comments, I think the brunch service must be abandoned in First immediately. If someone is paying £8k for a flight then they have to get a decent meal with some proper pandering.

[@diamonddave2622]

My fav business class seat is Finnair’s A350. All time fav meal was the Japanese breakfast I had on ANA.

[@JJ-vy2rh]

Yes I'm looking forward to flying them from Singapore to Budapest next year.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you @diamonddave2622 and @JJ-vy2rh for your comments, it's much appreciated and Finnair is on my horizon for next year.

[@JJ-vy2rh]

Lovely video Phil, why all the travel to Hong Kong, i hear it's not what it was. I haven't been in a few years but going next year. What's the cup in the loo

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for your kind comments, it just seems to be fate and tier points that takes me through Hong Kong so much. I didn't notice the cup in the loo when I was filming it, I make little comments to use later, but I'm going to guess that it was holding toothbrushes and toothpaste and other amenities.

[@andygeeves3404]

I'm flying this route this march in business 😢 only hope is more 787s will be sidelined with the backlog for parts 😅 fingers crossed

[@mygreygapyear]

Good luck Andy, I have my fingers and toes crossed, 😊

[@andygeeves3404]

Ba premium economy in Dec to doha and tips

[@meghansb76]

I have to fly that plane every once and awhile when I fly to the US. I hate it. But it now has gotten me to actually be aware of the type of plane I will be flying before booking. But unfortunately it is a must at times.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, having to check a seat map when you book is never fun.

[@BIGTIMESKELLS]

Can’t wait to see the Club Suite refresh on the a380 ✈️

[@mygreygapyear]

I agree, Club suite on the A380 will be amazing, I'm really looking forward to that.

[@robp4682]

Cheers once again

[@mygreygapyear]

Your very welcome 😊

[@adamingleton8529]

Crazy that this seat was delivered only 1 year prior to the q suite introduction in 2017

[@mygreygapyear]

That particular aircraft was 8 years old, so year 1 year before Qsuite, I hadn't made that connection before, mental. And thank you, Phil

[@sarariley3174]

I actually think the bed is more comfortable than the new club suites!!

[@mygreygapyear]

And lots of people agree with you, that is a running theme with this seat, and I found it good too, except for the collapsing footrest. Of course I'm a shorty so I'm generally ok in all lie flat seats 🙂

[@willswomble7274]

Not viewed yet but did you book and pay for 2 seats...?

[@mygreygapyear]

No, that was your mum

[@AleksiGlick]

I def embarrass myself when smoked salmon is at the breakfast buffet, too lol. Nice video!

[@mygreygapyear]

I'm glad it's not just me 😂😂😂 (nom nom nom)

[@orcaswaling1143]

Another great Video Phil, where did you park this time?

[@mygreygapyear]

Same place but I've had my cracked rear light fixed 😂

[@iriding64]

Great video I personally hate this seat. No storage awful arrangement no privacy. Ba flie this Mco-Lgw it’s a cheaper option but I always find I’ll pay more to connect than fly this seat

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, the lack of storage is a major pain

[@zaphod4245]

As I discovered on a recent flight (also to HKG, albeit in WTP, not CW), the BA 787 has a very old IFE system (Thales i8000), and so has a very limited selection of films and TV. My flight back was on a retrofitted 777, which has the newer system (Panasonic EX3), with a far greater selection and doesn't have this "only 3 episodes" issue, as that system can actually fit the whole season of everything. So BA on their newer and retofitted planes is on par with the other airlines mentioned, and actually I always have an issue with the likes of Qatar, Emirates etc as they often censor the films they show for their medieval sensibilities, meaning you get weird jumps and essentially miss large parts of many films, which is pretty terrible.

[@mygreygapyear]

Ah... How very interesting, thank you for sharing that, much appreciated. I have actually thought that I was sure there was more than this on other BA flights I've been on, and I guess this is going to be why, Thanks Phil

[@n1icolas]

Thanks for sharing Philip

[@mygreygapyear]

You're very welcome 😊

[@TechsterYT]

I flew this seat layout from Gatwick to Punta Cana in May. I don't think the leisure planes are expected to replace these seats anytime soon. I must confess that I didn't have a problem with these seats at all. Of course they are not going to be as good as the new Club Suite, but I still found them to be comfortable. Granted, I was travelling with my partner, so there was not awkward catching of the eye. The only complaint I had was that the power socket on my seat wasn't working on the way back. Turns out I could've emailed a complaint for some Avios compensation, but it's a bit past that now! It was a redemption booking, so maybe that's why I am not too fussed. I think if I had paid the £6,000 they normally retail for though, I'd be a bit miffed! They should not be charging similar prices to Club Suite, for a Club World seat.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, and I agree, there should be a cost break on these seats over the club suite. On the Heathrow - Hong Kong route they have (had) both seats for the same money. I'm really bad at complaining for Avios too, people keep telling me I should have complained about various things.... Thanks Phil

[@LunarEcho87]

The Lemon bar is exactly what you feared it would be, a soggy citric mess of sweetness!

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you for letting me know, and I love your description 😊 I am glad I just stuck with some cheese,

[@orighomisandediare4990]

You really missed out on these seats in year 2K, especially the first generation seats - the first ones didn't have the glass partitions. The best seats were on BA's 744 upper deck (in particular 62A or 64A) What is funny is that BA is my only preferred business class amongst all the airliners. Yes I know about the Q Suites, but wouldn't give up BA Club world seats for anything

[@mygreygapyear]

I know, those fans as privacy screens, I can only imagine. Thank you for sharing your experiences, Phil.

[@andywatterson4161]

Great video Phil 👍 Some planes had a 2-4-2 configuration, with two central rear facing seats. The rearmost pair had ‘direct’ aisle access and was a decent option for couples travelling together.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your kind comment, 2-4-2, wow that really is an eye opener, but two side by side at the rear works.

[@DPWestMids-u3c]

The 777’s still flying out of Gatwick have a wider body and 2-4-2 just about works and as had been said the middle two rear facing seats for a couple are like having a double bed and much cosier than the Club Suite offering where a couple are just too far apart to converse.

[@mygreygapyear]

@@DPWestMids-u3c Do these two seats have a divider if the passengers aren't a couple?

[@DPWestMids-u3c]

@@mygreygapyear the divider is only at shoulder and face level so not ideal being next to a stranger

[@mygreygapyear]

@@DPWestMids-u3c Thanks for letting me know 😊

[@charliebrown5]

Thank You ✈️

[@mygreygapyear]

Welcome as always Charlie.

[@ianmarkham149]

Recently went on a "new" A350 suite between London and Tokyo. Not much of an improvement. There isn't the fold down foot rest and there's a sliding door for the privacy and a bit more storage for you phone and headphones. Food was alright, but there's still the same pasta dish they've offered over the past few years. IFE was very poor IMO. No external cameras for the geeks and the selection of films was poor. I managed to eventually find something, but it took ages scrolling through. I just couldn't believe that the Britsh flag carrier didn't even have a Bond film. I won't bother paying for a BA long haul flight again. I'll keep collecting the Avios, but that return flight cost me the best part of £5k. ANA is about the same in a much older 777 and was fantastic.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for sharing your experience, much appreciated. Most people find the club suite to be a much better product and generally enjoy it, although it is very similar to lots of other products out there. I find the food on BA to be hit and miss depending on what you choose, although my Kung Po chicken wasn't great I have had some spectacular meals with BA, so I just wish they could be consistently good. Thanks again for your comment, I'll have to try the ANA product Phil

[@bar10ml44]

You actually paid for this !

[@mygreygapyear]

Your comment reminds me when I was a kid, that's what you said when anyone got a haircut ever 😂 It was a reward flight, but yeah, money changed hands.

[@charlieb2903]

Those seats should have ditched years ago. While they were ground breaking when introduced, BA then decided the job was done. Recently I sat in 13A from LHR to SIN and, while it is the best of a bad bunch, the lack of any storage is a disgrace.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, the lack of storage is one of many issues, agree that its the best of the bunch.

[@ahumpage]

I just would not fly that seat. Have fun in HKG, hope you get a better hotel this time. Cabin service: Well, BA is beating AA with a stick transatlantic. Which, sadly, ain't hard.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, I'm in agreement of not flying that again. I'd book PE or economy and save the money for something else.

[@pwjames1]

Where can you find out when they are upgrading this cabin? Have to “endure” this cabin when flying to Mexico

[@Locutus]

British Airways on FlyerTalk. They should have a sticky or FAQ regarding the seats.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your question @pwjames1 and thanks for your helpful response @Locutus , an example of a thread on flyertalk is this one regarding the 787-8 refit. www.flyertalk.com/forum/british-airways-executive-club/2152617-ba-boeing-787-8-refitted-club-suites-route-info-updates.html But if you're flying on your holidays to Cancun from Gatwick unfortunately those planes are not scheduled to be refitted and will probably be around as long as the plane is in service.

[@richardstreet7518]

The Gatwick fleet were refreshed and unlikely to see the new ish club suite

[@mygreygapyear]

I've read that somewhere, that this seat will basically go out when the fleet retires at Gatwick. Not great really.

[@richardstreet7518]

@mygreygapyear it's good from a fleet commonality point of view..

[@mygreygapyear]

@@richardstreet7518 That's true, you know what you're going to get.

[@redcomusic]

Interesting old seat layout! Wouldn't want to try it out either, just too awkward. What I'm planning next for BA is to film in Club, but on one of their 5th Freedom routes. POOOKE!!!

[@Locutus]

It's not that bad.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks @redcomusic is that one of their flights onward in the Caribbean?

[@mygreygapyear]

@Locutus Its all in the eye of the beholder... 😊

[@redcomusic]

@@mygreygapyear Yes!

[@Michael-wr1yy]

Yes it is dated but very comfortable for a decent sleep

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I've heard that lots of people prefer the bed to other products and on a night flight that might be the most important thing.

[@Locutus]

0:00 Tonight, Matthew, I'm going to be a KZbinr! 🤦‍♂️😂

[@mygreygapyear]

😂😂😂 Just watched it again and that's exactly what it sounds like... Love it.

[@chyphilip]

In which airplane is that?

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, I'm not sure how much detail you're looking for so this is a straight response (not sarcastic): AIRCRAFT G-ZBKK Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner SERIAL NUMBER (MSN) 38627 AGE (Jun 2016) 8 years

[@shehebehsuebwisshgauwbevsjs]

Can't disappear soon enough!!!

[@mygreygapyear]

I agree, but it isn't going from Gatwick flights any time soon.

[@rickreid8572]

These seats will be around for a few years more unfortunately. The key thing is being away from other people- these seats constantly remind you there is someone on the other side of the frosted plastic- you can feel every movement the other pax make.....look at those wines...oh dear....

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment Rick, I was fortunate to be on a quiet cabin and I didn't have a seat mate so I didn't experience that...

[@goingmouch3753]

Just saw a news article…( daily mail) club world are no longer serving a 3 course meals on night flights…just one course

[@mygreygapyear]

I know, I've heard about that, changing to brunch before 11.30 and supper after 9pm or something, very poor. And yet the flight costs the same...

[@goingmouch3753]

@@mygreygapyear Gutting really….meant to be our flagship airline…I don’t think they made it into the top 20 !!

[@mygreygapyear]

@@goingmouch3753 Yeah, it's tragic really.

[@james.telfer]

What I've found is the leg rest isn't always level with the seat so on my last flight I had to use the blanket under my legs too avoid the seat edge pressing into my calves. Headphones have terrible audio quality, I used my laptop and Sony XM4 instead.

[@mygreygapyear]

I use my own headphones on BA flights, even in First Class my Bose headphones are a step up from the provided headphones

[@santstravels]

I believe the 787-10s are done, and they're making their way through the 787-8's as we speak.

[@fics112]

Yes but still a few years to go. Just booked LHR to SFO next year and it’s this seat. We are disappointed as this trip is the result of years of saving!

[@santstravels]

@@fics112is that on the 380? If it’s a reward flight you can change it for £35 each. Also you can choose a bulkhead window seat which has direct aisle access, or if you’re a couple there’s the love seats on the lower deck which are quite good for a couple as you’re right next to each other, something not available on new seats.

[@fics112]

@@santstravels Yes, thanks for the info... TBH changing never works out well for me, i think i will leave it to see if they change the plane nearer the time. its a 787...

[@santstravels]

@@fics112I doubt they’ll change it as fitting a 380s worth of pax to anything else is a nightmare. If I was you I’d enjoy the love seats on the way back, something you won’t be able to do in future. And on the way there get a window bulk head and aisle opposite it👍also worth noting it’s not as bad as some people make it out to be. Some people really struggle with it but I personally don’t mind it, it’s still an amazing experience!

[@mygreygapyear]

@santstravels Good to know that they are making progress, I'll be glad when they're finally gone from Heathrow and I don't need to check a seat map.

[@framedman]

There's very little premium in a seat that costs thousands. And usually BA service makes up for the poor soft and hard product, so it's a shame. Clearly a picture of where things are going with BA and IAG as a whole. It could be worse, right, you could have flown Iberia.

[@framedman]

Also, the Gatwick fleet is a load of s***. Two decades old 772s and those seats that really haven't aged well. Ground breaking 20 years ago, now it's just profits.

[@mygreygapyear]

I have yet to properly experience Iberia but I'm sure that experience is on the horizon, but wouldn't it be nice if I could say lots of lovely positive things about Iberia, it's not likely but could happen 😊

[@mygreygapyear]

And no date for an upgrade to club, so it sounds like these seats will be there until the aircraft are retired...

[@framedman]

@mygreygapyear a real shame if you've saved all your money to fly on a luxury all inclusive 'business' trip to Cancun or Carribbean and you walk into that 🤦🏽‍♂️. I know you focus on OneWorld points but be good to see you on a Virgin plane soon, to compare flag carriers.

[@mygreygapyear]

@@framedman Watch this space, Cape Town in December... 😊 (on Virgin)

[@TC.C]

Those configurations were terrible. Not a fan of the frosted screens. I don’t know how they designed those seats in the first place. They’ll be gone soon 😊

[@mygreygapyear]

We can only hope that they will be gone, but from Gatwick it doesn't sound like soon 🙂

[@TC.C]

@ Oh that’s true. Their 777-200s already got refurbished. These old seats may still be around for years

[@MagicWok]

My economy tears cry for you all 😂 (Actually I’ve flown that seat multiple times, and it indeed sucked the moment it came out new till now haha)

[@mygreygapyear]

Lol, it is definitely a big step up from economy 😂😂😂

[@Stephen-Steven-Stephens]

When I read "OLD" I was expecting upper-deck, non smoking, business class seats ...... and flying into Kai Tak ... Happy Days !!!

[@mygreygapyear]

Wouldn't that be amazing, to be on the old flying experience and the hair raising landing into the old Hong Kong airport. I didn't get to do it but I do hear lots of lovely stories like yours 😊

[@professorchris3515]

How absolutely awful. I think you would be much better treated in Emirates or Etihad Business Class if they were flying on your routes.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I haven't tried Etihad (can't find a way to redeem points) but Emirates business class also has a middle seat in business on their 777 😊

[@chrisgreenwood9835]

Like a tight coffin ⚰️

[@mygreygapyear]

A bit like that, but without the nailed on lid 😂

[@P_A_MC]

A almost did my hamstring stepping over someone a few years back.

[@mygreygapyear]

Pulling a hammy mid climb... 😂 With my little legs it would be a groin strain

[@P_A_MC]

@ the stewards should encourage stretching for those hemmed in. I will fly the LHR KUL route early next year after many years away from BA business. I am no longer golf or silver so getting hold of those few seats without a climb will be a challenge

[@mygreygapyear]

@@P_A_MC Good luck and I hope you have and amazing trip to KUL.

[@BonkersAboutAlice]

Ground breaking in its day but an embarrassment now.

[@mygreygapyear]

Completely agree, it would be great if our national carrier could get back to the days when it was a ground breaking market leading, "World's Favourite Airline"

[@gazhilts53]

Who ever agreed to those seats at BA should've been sacked

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, you're right, but it was a different world in 2006, this was innovative. I really think the crime here is that they still fly them.

[@fastoez]

@@mygreygapyear because we all keep buying tickets! we all need to stop, but they do often have very good prices and its still miles better then being down the back, me and my wife often take the two middle seats and thats slightly better once ur up and in the air, i think they also let u put the screen up after the safety briefing these days, well i always put it up and the crew never say anything

[@gazhilts53]

@@mygreygapyear yeah time to get rid.

[@GWJUK]

I’m never sure why people are so afraid of looking at someone for a few mins. You don’t have to stare at each other.

[@richardstreet7518]

A great improvement on night flights over the old cradle 50" club seats... I don't think any other airline had flat beds in business at that time... it was really innovative.. should have gone by now tho!!

[@mark_just_mark]

"What air travel was like in the olden days..." 🤣 Is there a simple way to work out what the seating layout will be on a flight as we are planning a trip to Australia next year and or route may be determined b the seating layout in BA business class, most of the time it tells you the "type of aircraft" but that doesn't always confirm the specific layout...

[@fics112]

Look on google flights, and if it says lie flat bed it’s this one, if it says individual suite, it’s the club suite

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment and support, I recently found out that BA fly both Club Suite and this old seat to Sydney and it is seasonal. During the British summer it is the old yin yang seat, and in British winter they then fly Club Suite. I'm not sure when the cut over is exactly but @fics112 is spot on, Google flights is the easiest way to tell in exactly the way they described.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thank you @fics112, I really appreciate it, there is a really nice community building here.

[@mark_just_mark]

@@mygreygapyear Thanks, need to check for the return…!!!

[@Qui-GonJohn]

That’s without a doubt the most confused, impractical, cramped seat layout I’ve seen on a plane. A real mess. I’d ask for a seat in economy if faced with that

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, I'm not sure I'd swap for economy but I know what you mean 😊

[@TheNutcracker19]

Hope you got a complaint in and a few thousand avios for your trouble :)

[@mygreygapyear]

Do you know what, I've only raised a compensation claim or complaint once and that was when I missed my Athens flight a couple of years ago. I should be more proactive on this shouldn't I.

[@TheNutcracker19]

@@mygreygapyear each to their own, and some might call me petty, but BA throw Avios around as a goodwill gesture and I think ‘why not?’ when it comes to filling in their online form as it’s relatively painless.

[@mygreygapyear]

@@TheNutcracker19 Not petty, I meant I should be better at doing it and get myself a few.

[@karlp8484]

BA is crap. Not in relation to other airlines, objectively crap.

[@mygreygapyear]

That made me smile, I generally find BA to be decent, but this seat was definitely "objectively crap" (and I love that phrase) 😊 Thanks Phil

[@francismcdonnell753]

This just comes across as a pure winge fest.

[@mygreygapyear]

Thanks for your comment, sorry to hear that, it wasn't supposed to come across like that.

[@mrp7555]

How much wa sot

[@mygreygapyear]

I was on a reward flight and I paid 100,000 Avios and £550 for the round trip to Hong Kong in Business.