Virgin Atlantic UPPER CLASS: Expectation vs Reality
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Date: 2024-12-09
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Comments and reviews: 20
JordCA
Virgin Atlantic of the past: In Upper Class back in the day, I had a manicure and cranial massage at my seat. Back Massages were also available at the back of the nose section, where there was an onboard Spa rep. In the VS LHR lounge, there was a soundproof music room to blare your music, along with a library and other specialty rooms. The garden upstairs used to be for UVIP's like Princess Diana - it would be closed off while they were up there.
Before Lie-Flat and angle flat seats, first-class seating was billed at 55 deep comfy recliners. They were veeeery comfortable for relaxing and sleeping in, whereas business class was 38-40. Upper Class as a business class offered identical First Class seats for a business class price. People (and bloggers today) have no idea all that Virgin did back in the day.
The bar and lounge on the 747s was massive. I believe there were around 8 bar stools and lounge seating as well. It was all on another level, before the Mid East carriers. Yes, lounges did exist on the 747-200s back in the 70s. but Virgin took it to another level.
Can say what you like about Branson, but he really built a solid airline with his team.
It's a shame your FAs were lazy and untidy on this service because usually the VS FA's are amazing. I've flown in Upper Class more times than I can remember. PE - twice, and Eco 5 times on VS. All great flights.
I have seen things in the nose of their 747s. Things Ill never forget, and lots of celebs. I will share one experience. They used to be a 23: 55 JFK-LHR service. It was days before Christmas and we were stuck on the ground due to a snowstorm. Brian Adams was a couple of rows behind me. and he quietly, but oh so beautifully strummed his guitar and sang to his companion. The cabin was in awe, it was soooo beautiful. Imagine being in Upper inside the nose of the 747, snow falling, that old world Christmas feel, and a superstar singer is singing and playing the guitar. I will never forget it. When he finished playing (no one clapped) - it was private, but also for us all; -. I saw others smiling.
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Virgin Atlantic of the past: In Upper Class back in the day, I had a manicure and cranial massage at my seat. Back Massages were also available at the back of the nose section, where there was an onboard Spa rep. In the VS LHR lounge, there was a soundproof music room to blare your music, along with a library and other specialty rooms. The garden upstairs used to be for UVIP's like Princess Diana - it would be closed off while they were up there.
Before Lie-Flat and angle flat seats, first-class seating was billed at 55 deep comfy recliners. They were veeeery comfortable for relaxing and sleeping in, whereas business class was 38-40. Upper Class as a business class offered identical First Class seats for a business class price. People (and bloggers today) have no idea all that Virgin did back in the day.
The bar and lounge on the 747s was massive. I believe there were around 8 bar stools and lounge seating as well. It was all on another level, before the Mid East carriers. Yes, lounges did exist on the 747-200s back in the 70s. but Virgin took it to another level.
Can say what you like about Branson, but he really built a solid airline with his team.
It's a shame your FAs were lazy and untidy on this service because usually the VS FA's are amazing. I've flown in Upper Class more times than I can remember. PE - twice, and Eco 5 times on VS. All great flights.
I have seen things in the nose of their 747s. Things Ill never forget, and lots of celebs. I will share one experience. They used to be a 23: 55 JFK-LHR service. It was days before Christmas and we were stuck on the ground due to a snowstorm. Brian Adams was a couple of rows behind me. and he quietly, but oh so beautifully strummed his guitar and sang to his companion. The cabin was in awe, it was soooo beautiful. Imagine being in Upper inside the nose of the 747, snow falling, that old world Christmas feel, and a superstar singer is singing and playing the guitar. I will never forget it. When he finished playing (no one clapped) - it was private, but also for us all; -. I saw others smiling.
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susanmacaluso5218
What you are doing here is called, The normalization of deviation. Why are you treating your 10k in points as fake money Your excuses for their service is what allows these companies to keep jacking up prices for maximum profits and getting away with far less. Sounds like QC is lax on these flights, and the flight attendants are co-complicit. Unacceptable not to serve you the duck that you preordered or the food listed on the menu in the lounge as any time, and gross that they used the bench as a dirty dish receptacle. I'd hashtag this video #RichardBranson in hopes that he sees this. His mother was a flight attendant. That was NOT a 10k experience, my friend. Why are you acting humble I'd be pissed. After watching this, I'm never flying Virgin. Air France economy has better service than this. Your points are as good as cash! What would your review have been if you had actually paid the 10k! Omg. I wouldnt be so humble or easy on them. They have the right to price it like that, but not to deliver is pathetic. There is no on or off when it comes to services. Service is a product that comes at a price. Would you acceot a $500 blouse where one of the sleeves was 1/4 shorter than the other No. So why make excuses for theix lax 10k service Suzanne's sandwich looked pithy. Even if it tasted okay, it was sub par. Give me a break! Please give us HONESTY. This is why you are reviewing these experiences for us.
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What you are doing here is called, The normalization of deviation. Why are you treating your 10k in points as fake money Your excuses for their service is what allows these companies to keep jacking up prices for maximum profits and getting away with far less. Sounds like QC is lax on these flights, and the flight attendants are co-complicit. Unacceptable not to serve you the duck that you preordered or the food listed on the menu in the lounge as any time, and gross that they used the bench as a dirty dish receptacle. I'd hashtag this video #RichardBranson in hopes that he sees this. His mother was a flight attendant. That was NOT a 10k experience, my friend. Why are you acting humble I'd be pissed. After watching this, I'm never flying Virgin. Air France economy has better service than this. Your points are as good as cash! What would your review have been if you had actually paid the 10k! Omg. I wouldnt be so humble or easy on them. They have the right to price it like that, but not to deliver is pathetic. There is no on or off when it comes to services. Service is a product that comes at a price. Would you acceot a $500 blouse where one of the sleeves was 1/4 shorter than the other No. So why make excuses for theix lax 10k service Suzanne's sandwich looked pithy. Even if it tasted okay, it was sub par. Give me a break! Please give us HONESTY. This is why you are reviewing these experiences for us.
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nancycurtis3964
My husband and I flew Virgin Upper Class from TPA to LHR in 2023. The lounge at TPA was a surprise to me, as I wasn't aware that one existed. It wasn't nearly as swank as the one in LHR, but did offer a buffet, which was very tasty, and attentive cocktail wait staff. (At that time, there were few Virgin flights, maybe two or three per week, out of TPA) We were escorted to the plane by a Virgin staff member when it was time to board. The back of the plane was already on board, so it was quick and easy to get on and settle in. The welcome aboard glass of champagne was nice, as was the seat. I don't sleep well on overnight flights, but did snooze a bit. I woke very thirsty, and remembered the can of water which I appreciated. There was breakfast service before we landed, but (I apologize) I don't really remember what it was. We will definitely fly Virgin Upper Class again! It's not British Airways (my fav First Class overseas flight experience, but for half the price, it definitely gets the job done!
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My husband and I flew Virgin Upper Class from TPA to LHR in 2023. The lounge at TPA was a surprise to me, as I wasn't aware that one existed. It wasn't nearly as swank as the one in LHR, but did offer a buffet, which was very tasty, and attentive cocktail wait staff. (At that time, there were few Virgin flights, maybe two or three per week, out of TPA) We were escorted to the plane by a Virgin staff member when it was time to board. The back of the plane was already on board, so it was quick and easy to get on and settle in. The welcome aboard glass of champagne was nice, as was the seat. I don't sleep well on overnight flights, but did snooze a bit. I woke very thirsty, and remembered the can of water which I appreciated. There was breakfast service before we landed, but (I apologize) I don't really remember what it was. We will definitely fly Virgin Upper Class again! It's not British Airways (my fav First Class overseas flight experience, but for half the price, it definitely gets the job done!
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andrecorona6581
Am I the only one that doesn’t care about lounge access I’d rather spend the least amount of time in an airport. Lounges suck, no matter the free alcohol, or semi alright food. The only thing I appreciate is expedited security and bag check. I’m the dipshit that flys in business and boards last. I hate airports, and genuinely dislike the feeling bestowed upon me when people walk past me because my company paid for my seat that is better than theirs. Super happy I haven’t flown Virgin in over 10 yearstheir cruises are abysmal, I recommend Celebrity.
I’m only editing this comment because people will say your seat is better. Fair point I suppose, but we’re all going to the same place, I don’t give a damn about where I sit on a plane, or the service provided, just get me there. I’ve slept in economy many times when I was younger and had a wonderful time. Plus, you’ll meet some very cool isle mates that way. Dig the vids, just absolutely have a distain for Virgin anything.
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Am I the only one that doesn’t care about lounge access I’d rather spend the least amount of time in an airport. Lounges suck, no matter the free alcohol, or semi alright food. The only thing I appreciate is expedited security and bag check. I’m the dipshit that flys in business and boards last. I hate airports, and genuinely dislike the feeling bestowed upon me when people walk past me because my company paid for my seat that is better than theirs. Super happy I haven’t flown Virgin in over 10 yearstheir cruises are abysmal, I recommend Celebrity.
I’m only editing this comment because people will say your seat is better. Fair point I suppose, but we’re all going to the same place, I don’t give a damn about where I sit on a plane, or the service provided, just get me there. I’ve slept in economy many times when I was younger and had a wonderful time. Plus, you’ll meet some very cool isle mates that way. Dig the vids, just absolutely have a distain for Virgin anything.
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srgroomy_
I flew to Tampa last week (out Mon 2nd, back Redeye Fri 6th) on Virgin and visited the same lounge on the way out. Firstly, the drop off, check in and security is second to none. Also, give yourself 2/3 hours in the lounge, lots to eat, drink and just people watch in great comfort.
The flight was slightly longer due to a mid Atlantic storm, but kept informed the whole way. Is was on the A330-900 Neo, so newer version and with fully closing doors on your 'cabin'. Staff attentive and kept asking if we wanted more drinks.
The Loft area was stocked with food, snack and drinks in the fridge, and ice-cream in the freezer! A truly First Class service, in what is deemed as a Business (Upper) Class flight.
Oh, and on the way home, a good, Virgin only lounge at Tampa. Lots of comfort, food, drink and great service and on the flight - pajamas offered (and greatly accepted too) Highly Recommend!
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I flew to Tampa last week (out Mon 2nd, back Redeye Fri 6th) on Virgin and visited the same lounge on the way out. Firstly, the drop off, check in and security is second to none. Also, give yourself 2/3 hours in the lounge, lots to eat, drink and just people watch in great comfort.
The flight was slightly longer due to a mid Atlantic storm, but kept informed the whole way. Is was on the A330-900 Neo, so newer version and with fully closing doors on your 'cabin'. Staff attentive and kept asking if we wanted more drinks.
The Loft area was stocked with food, snack and drinks in the fridge, and ice-cream in the freezer! A truly First Class service, in what is deemed as a Business (Upper) Class flight.
Oh, and on the way home, a good, Virgin only lounge at Tampa. Lots of comfort, food, drink and great service and on the flight - pajamas offered (and greatly accepted too) Highly Recommend!
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kmpboston
Hi Jeb, enjoyed your travels for awhile now
We flew VA BOS-LHR a few months ago, couldn’t do Upper so settled for premium econ. I’m surprised that my biggest complaint about the experience was picked up by you and many others here: enforcing having shades closed (especially on a daytime flight. This seems to be a thing; as much as I’d like to try them on my next flight - I can watch all the movies I want at home, but the view from the window is why I book that seat and the only unique thing about being on an airplane. It would be interesting to hear more about your thoughts and experiences here because that’s why I understood they provide a kit with a shade.
Thanks again for your reviews!
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Hi Jeb, enjoyed your travels for awhile now
We flew VA BOS-LHR a few months ago, couldn’t do Upper so settled for premium econ. I’m surprised that my biggest complaint about the experience was picked up by you and many others here: enforcing having shades closed (especially on a daytime flight. This seems to be a thing; as much as I’d like to try them on my next flight - I can watch all the movies I want at home, but the view from the window is why I book that seat and the only unique thing about being on an airplane. It would be interesting to hear more about your thoughts and experiences here because that’s why I understood they provide a kit with a shade.
Thanks again for your reviews!
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studioxxswe
Virgin have been on my bucket list for years but never found an interesting destination. However as they are part of Sky Team and I'm a huge SAS customer things might finally change.
About the airport DOH Hamad is my best airport even if you don't have any status / fly business or first - Get their Spa package and use their gym and swim in their 25 meter pool for like $70 - you can even pre-book if I remember correctly. Now I'm QR platinum so I will have access to to their first class lounge but is so boring Id take the Virgin lounge at any time - Its interesting that QR where its like 30 degrees C the whole year dont have an outside seating / plane spotting.
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Virgin have been on my bucket list for years but never found an interesting destination. However as they are part of Sky Team and I'm a huge SAS customer things might finally change.
About the airport DOH Hamad is my best airport even if you don't have any status / fly business or first - Get their Spa package and use their gym and swim in their 25 meter pool for like $70 - you can even pre-book if I remember correctly. Now I'm QR platinum so I will have access to to their first class lounge but is so boring Id take the Virgin lounge at any time - Its interesting that QR where its like 30 degrees C the whole year dont have an outside seating / plane spotting.
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kentgordis7922
Hi Jeb, Thank you for your excellent review of Virgin Upper Class. I'm sorry to hear the crew on this flight did not meet your expectations. Clearly a lot depends on the crew you happen to fly with. I've flown Virgin's Upper Class on two trips and in both those cases I found the crews to be absolutely lovely and very pro-active. Also, I agree that the lounge at Heathrow is spectacular. On one of the trips my daughter and I went to the lounge, where we had lunch, My daughter commented that this was the best meal we had during our entire stay in London. On board, the Virgin Upper Class experience is excellent, no question.
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Hi Jeb, Thank you for your excellent review of Virgin Upper Class. I'm sorry to hear the crew on this flight did not meet your expectations. Clearly a lot depends on the crew you happen to fly with. I've flown Virgin's Upper Class on two trips and in both those cases I found the crews to be absolutely lovely and very pro-active. Also, I agree that the lounge at Heathrow is spectacular. On one of the trips my daughter and I went to the lounge, where we had lunch, My daughter commented that this was the best meal we had during our entire stay in London. On board, the Virgin Upper Class experience is excellent, no question.
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jf0817bl
It would REALLY piss me off if the flight attendant closed my window shade. I specifically pick a window seat so I have views. As you say, that is what EYE SHADES are for, if people want to sleep. I will tell you that whenever I am flying domestic first class and am siting on the aisle, I always tell the person sitting at the window that they need not close the window shade on my behalf as they have a window seat and deserve the view if they want it. The fact that on this flight the attendant closed you window shade is absolutely unacceptable, and that alone would make me not want to consider this airline.
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It would REALLY piss me off if the flight attendant closed my window shade. I specifically pick a window seat so I have views. As you say, that is what EYE SHADES are for, if people want to sleep. I will tell you that whenever I am flying domestic first class and am siting on the aisle, I always tell the person sitting at the window that they need not close the window shade on my behalf as they have a window seat and deserve the view if they want it. The fact that on this flight the attendant closed you window shade is absolutely unacceptable, and that alone would make me not want to consider this airline.
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TassieEV
Wouldn't have a clue what a Business Class lounge should have as an extravagance as I don't have the funds to fly that way so haven't ever been in a lounge not even got kicked out of one. I like the open air deck though something that should be available to all classes really as there are at some airports. Virgin Cruises supposedly according to Cruise expert Gary Bembridge(based in UK) it is quite good and is more an adult cruise line not many kids so could be perfect for you two.
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Wouldn't have a clue what a Business Class lounge should have as an extravagance as I don't have the funds to fly that way so haven't ever been in a lounge not even got kicked out of one. I like the open air deck though something that should be available to all classes really as there are at some airports. Virgin Cruises supposedly according to Cruise expert Gary Bembridge(based in UK) it is quite good and is more an adult cruise line not many kids so could be perfect for you two.
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paulbessell6154
I think you're being generous to be honest. That business of closing the window on a daytime flight without asking would really annoy me - it smacks of them hoping everyone will sleep and not bother them. Having a dark flight in the day would mess with my body clock for sure - I like to stay awake on West bound flights. I'm returning from Atlanta on VA in March - was thinking of upgrading from Premium, but I don't think I'll bother now. Thanks for the video: -)
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I think you're being generous to be honest. That business of closing the window on a daytime flight without asking would really annoy me - it smacks of them hoping everyone will sleep and not bother them. Having a dark flight in the day would mess with my body clock for sure - I like to stay awake on West bound flights. I'm returning from Atlanta on VA in March - was thinking of upgrading from Premium, but I don't think I'll bother now. Thanks for the video: -)
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metrovic
I've been fortunate to travel in VAA Upper class many times over the last 20 years or so on leisure trips with my wife. We look upon the flights as part of our holiday/vacation and our experience has been overwhelmingly positive. There have been odd glitches and I think you were unfortunate with this particular crew who really didn't seem as attentive or efficient as they should have been. VAA Upper certainly beats BA business hands down transatlantic, that's for sure!
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I've been fortunate to travel in VAA Upper class many times over the last 20 years or so on leisure trips with my wife. We look upon the flights as part of our holiday/vacation and our experience has been overwhelmingly positive. There have been odd glitches and I think you were unfortunate with this particular crew who really didn't seem as attentive or efficient as they should have been. VAA Upper certainly beats BA business hands down transatlantic, that's for sure!
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TG
I took it last year. Didn’t like the neo-pinkish interior lights. The stewardess had to make everyone’s bed because the way seats were designed is confusing. Their airport Lounge seats are simple but uncomfortable for long sitting, tables are small cafes type and foods are basic, the entire atmosphere seemed not wanting people to stay long. It’s no wonder they are cheaper comparing to other airlines business and first classes costs.
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I took it last year. Didn’t like the neo-pinkish interior lights. The stewardess had to make everyone’s bed because the way seats were designed is confusing. Their airport Lounge seats are simple but uncomfortable for long sitting, tables are small cafes type and foods are basic, the entire atmosphere seemed not wanting people to stay long. It’s no wonder they are cheaper comparing to other airlines business and first classes costs.
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MegaGo68
It's shocking how the wealthy and powerful separate themselves from the rest of us. From the private-chauffeur ride into the airport, to the luxury lounge, to the upper class cabin; it's quite repugnant if you believe that all humans are equal in dignity and worth. I'm sure they don't call the economy cabin lower class, but that is the unmistakable message one takes from Virgin -- and from this video. It makes me very sad.
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It's shocking how the wealthy and powerful separate themselves from the rest of us. From the private-chauffeur ride into the airport, to the luxury lounge, to the upper class cabin; it's quite repugnant if you believe that all humans are equal in dignity and worth. I'm sure they don't call the economy cabin lower class, but that is the unmistakable message one takes from Virgin -- and from this video. It makes me very sad.
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jackychan8090
I had a great time on Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady in February, I had amazing food courtesy of Extra Virgin and The Wake. Great shows and ship wide parties, I really hope you and Suzzane can enjoy it.
I have the good fortune to experience the breath taking view of a seriously aft suite, but go for a Mega-rocktar suite if guys can! Have a look at VVinsider for the comprehensive and independent guide.
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I had a great time on Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady in February, I had amazing food courtesy of Extra Virgin and The Wake. Great shows and ship wide parties, I really hope you and Suzzane can enjoy it.
I have the good fortune to experience the breath taking view of a seriously aft suite, but go for a Mega-rocktar suite if guys can! Have a look at VVinsider for the comprehensive and independent guide.
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KerryRiper
I would continue to fly Virgin Upperclass from the West Coast, but I cannot stand the seat layout. The seats face away from the windows and have no personal space at all. No amount of good service fixes that dreadful layout. Until that changes, I will stick with Delta One. Delta lacks the service that Virgin Upperclass has, but the better seat layout, amount of room, and privacy trump the service.
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I would continue to fly Virgin Upperclass from the West Coast, but I cannot stand the seat layout. The seats face away from the windows and have no personal space at all. No amount of good service fixes that dreadful layout. Until that changes, I will stick with Delta One. Delta lacks the service that Virgin Upperclass has, but the better seat layout, amount of room, and privacy trump the service.
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richardinjapan4578
I don't find your comments and the JebScore to be criticisms so much as they are honest observations, and you always make it clear that your opinions are your own and your scoring system subjective. You always encourage others to comment as well, which makes your criticisms feel more like invitations for others to have a dialogue. Your sense of gratitude is always clearly apparent.
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I don't find your comments and the JebScore to be criticisms so much as they are honest observations, and you always make it clear that your opinions are your own and your scoring system subjective. You always encourage others to comment as well, which makes your criticisms feel more like invitations for others to have a dialogue. Your sense of gratitude is always clearly apparent.
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VeganWithAraygun
I'll soon be flying VA A330-900 premium economy at night to LHR from IAD, and returning in Upper Class in the a daylight on a A330-300.
Lot's of ocean & a little bit of land, so what)
I've been flying window seats since my first rides on my favorite DC-3s, Convair 440 & 660s, a DC6b and my forever beloved Lockheed Connie's. If it's daytime, I will keep my window open, period.
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I'll soon be flying VA A330-900 premium economy at night to LHR from IAD, and returning in Upper Class in the a daylight on a A330-300.
Lot's of ocean & a little bit of land, so what)
I've been flying window seats since my first rides on my favorite DC-3s, Convair 440 & 660s, a DC6b and my forever beloved Lockheed Connie's. If it's daytime, I will keep my window open, period.
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priitpriit259
80% of people cannot afford to fly business class or first class. This also reflects why most airplanes have most of the space in the tourist class. The vast majority of people cannot afford to fly enough to get upgraded for points. Do you do a promo who can afford expensive flights. Maybe also in terms of sponsorship, but ordinary people can't fly like you say.
But cool videos: )
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80% of people cannot afford to fly business class or first class. This also reflects why most airplanes have most of the space in the tourist class. The vast majority of people cannot afford to fly enough to get upgraded for points. Do you do a promo who can afford expensive flights. Maybe also in terms of sponsorship, but ordinary people can't fly like you say.
But cool videos: )
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manfriendlychurch
The; lounge on the plane seems to be a waste of space as I almost never see anyone using it on A350 or A330 NEO. Prefer the bar on the older planes.
The A350 flat bed as you said is very comfortable but on the new A330NEO the foot area is too cramped so would rather do a night flight on an A350 (or even the old A330) but a day flight on the A330NEO with the better TV etc.
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The; lounge on the plane seems to be a waste of space as I almost never see anyone using it on A350 or A330 NEO. Prefer the bar on the older planes.
The A350 flat bed as you said is very comfortable but on the new A330NEO the foot area is too cramped so would rather do a night flight on an A350 (or even the old A330) but a day flight on the A330NEO with the better TV etc.
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