British Airways unveils ‘world’s largest’ business-class cabin in retrofitted A380s

British Airways has claimed its retrofitted Airbus A380 aircrafts will feature the “world’s largest” business-class cabin as part of a revamp of all four classes of travel.

 

The aircraft will feature 106 Club Suite business class seats across the full upper deck across four distinct cabin zones. Each suite includes added storage and improved functionality following customer feedback.

 

Dedicated “dwell areas”, kitchens and reimagined galley spaces encourage passengers to move freely and relax throughout the flight, according to the airline.

 

Claimed to be one of the most extensive cabin refurbishment schemes ever undertaken by an airline, the new look will see redesigned interiors, new seats in every cabin and upgrades to the onboard experience.

 

The A380 retrofit programme involves the installation of more than 35,000 individual parts across each aircraft.

 

The first completed A380 is expected to enter service “in the coming months”, marking the start of a fleet-wide transformation and forming part of the airline’s wider multi-billion pound investment in the customer experience.

 

The First cabin is “designed to evoke a modern luxury hotel feel”. Passengers travelling together in centre seats will be able to open the divider to create a shared lounge, while stowable tables allow them to dine together.

 

A bespoke mini bar has been integrated into the new First seat, giving access to refreshments throughout the flight, including a selection of premium snacks and still and sparkling water.

 

A new first class dining service became available across BA’s entire long-haul fleet from October 1 including a ‘From the Grill’ concept enabling passengers to create their preferred meal from a selection of premium proteins including British roast rack of lamb, grilled salmon, sides and sauces.

 

Specially trained cabin crew will deliver the airline’s new dining service, available in every First cabin across the long-haul fleet.

 

World Traveller (economy) has been refreshed to include larger entertainment screens, wider seats and upgraded bedding. 

 

Improvements to World Traveller Plus (premium economy) cover larger in-flight entertainment screens and privacy wings, alongside new bedding and pillows and a reusable amenity kit.

 

A new lounge at Heathrow Terminal 5 C Gates is to be introduced at the end of 2028 alongside a complete redevelopment of an arrivals lounge at the dedicated BA terminal and a new first class check-in at Terminal 3 in collaboration with transatlantic partner American Airlines.

 

Other lounge projects are underway in Boston and Newark, with plans for Geneva and San Francisco next in line next year. 

 

Recent lounge openings and refurbishments include in Miami, Glasgow, Seattle and Washington. 

 

BA chairman and chief executive Sean Doyle said: "This is a major milestone for British Airways and the future of our A380 fleet, marking one of the most significant transformations we’ve ever undertaken on any aircraft.

 

“We’ve completely reimagined the customer experience, introducing new and updated seats in every cabin, all carefully considered to deliver greater comfort and an elevated customer experience.

 

“At the heart of the transformation is our brand-new First suite, but this investment goes far beyond a single cabin. From redesigned interiors and upgraded dining to new amenities and service delivery, every detail has been thoughtfully designed with our customers front and centre, helping them to have a more seamless and memorable experience when they fly with us."