The latest milestone in British Airways’ five-year £6.5 bn (US$8.4bn) investment plan has been revealed: a ‘substantial’ upgrade of its premium economy cabins. Changes to the premium economy cabins – branded World Traveller Plus – will include the furnishings, service and dining, which will be rolled out over the coming months. The update joins other parts of the scheme, including new aircraft, cabins, catering, lounges, inflight connectivity, and new routes.
The upgrades to the seat hardware over the previous designs include a 50% larger IFE display, as well as a six-way adjustable leg, foot and headrest to suit customers of all heights. The seat will feature on the airline’s A350 aircraft fleet when deliveries begin later this year. Passengers will enjoy a little extra comfort in their seats too, as BA has also invested in its World Traveller Plus amenities, with new amenity kits, quilts and pillows set to take to the skies in the spring.
The new dining options will be introduced from February 1, 2019, with a third meal choice for their main course, as well as a more substantial hot second meal later in the flight. According to the airline, launch menus will include braised British beef with roast new potatoes, onion soubise and bourguignon sauce; roasted guinea fowl with braised red cabbage, green beans, roast potato and mustard and chive jus; and rigatoni pasta in a creamy garlic and herb sauce with leek, pumpkin and baby spinach.
Customers travelling in World Traveller Plus have the ability to pre-order their main meal up to 24 hours before departure, guaranteeing their first choice for their main meal. Customers can select this option by using the ‘manage my booking’ tool on ba.com
Carolina Martinoli, British Airways’ director of brand and customer experience, said: “This latest tranche of our £6.5bn investment is set to improve World Traveller Plus and customers will see a real change to the cabin. In February the new menus will launch, followed in the Spring by the introduction of new amenity kits, quilts and pillows for added comfort and a touch of luxury.”
