Long Haul Business Class for under $2K (Long Post)

[Luv2Phuket]

Guys, I was researching (bored) alternatives to my usual EVA in business class lie flat again.  And got a pleasant surprise with a Delta price.  Seems very good.

 

I then visited Seatguru,com and the seating is 1-2-1.  Very good.  Then I read the reviews.  Not good.  Apparently the seats are like a tunnel so small you can not roll over while reclined.  Has anyone flown on these seats with Delta that can give another point of view or confirm?  

 

check the seat width on Seat Guru and compare it to others (like the EVA seat)

 

This could be a case of reviewers exaggerating

[Luv2Phuket]

This is a little off topic, but I generally consider this a Frequent Flier Miles thread, so I thought I'd go ahead and post here.

 

My OCD on reading ff blogs paid off this week, and I wanted to pass along what I figured out.

 

I was getting a little antsy about my trip to Pattaya -- was scheduled to leave 13 hours ago -- so I looked into re-arranging my trip, postponing it a couple of days and spending 4 nights in Hong Kong and Macau with friends to be sure things in BKK don't blow up.

 

Although BA showed a first class seat on the flight I wanted from LAX-HKG on Weds., AA said it booked solid.  BA also showed first availability on a flight that left about the same time from SFO, and a first class seat was available with a 2 hr layover from LAX-SFO (so leave LAX about 3 1/2 hours earlier, but hit HKG right around the same time).  

 

Booked the new flight to HKG and paid to have my original flight canceled and my 67,500 miles re-deposited.  Sadly, I didn't save anything miles-wise by only going to HKG instead of BKK and I can't do a 4 night layover in HKG.

 

Next task: book a one way flight from HKG - BKK.

Coach in Thai was the cheapest option at around $255, but I recall reading that BA -- a Chase transfer partner -- has VERY cheap flights if the distance is short.  Looked it up and -- boom -- 7500 miles + $40 to fly from HKG to BKK.....but wait -- I could pay an extra $100 and use 500 more miles and go BUSINESS class.  To me, 8,000 miles + $140 was a MUCH better option than $255 to fly coach!  8,000 Chase UR points transferred instantly to BA and I was all set.

 

Next task: where am I going to stay?

 - IHG points got me 2 nights at the Macau Holiday Inn (across the street from my friends);

 - Stay in a friend's room on Sat. b/c Holiday Inn wasn't available;

 - Move to 5 star Grand Hyatt in Hong Kong with a free night certificate on Sun., allowing me a "tourist day", before heading to BKK

I had to eat a deposit of one night at The Stay, but 2 Hilton free nights went back into my account.

 

Finally, I checked flights back to LAX early if the shit REALLY blows up in LOS -- which I do NOT expect! -- and there are non-stop business class seats on most days and even more if I am willing to connect.

 

I have been a miles/points junkie for a while now and it has allowed me to take some incredible trips for very little expense, but this was the first time I was able to appreciate how it can really help if there are issues with a trip!

 

The BA low mile redemption from HKG-BKK is definitely something to consider if you can book cheaply into HKG and want to stay there a few days.  Lots of price/miles options, starting at 15,000 + $40 all the way down to the 8,000 + $140 that I chose.  By my calculation -- and I'm usually wrong on these things! -- the 7,000 miles that I "saved" by spending the $100 worked about to 1.4 cents each....but I'm not smart enough to figure out if that means I should've used miles or paid the $100.  I think I usually get more "value" for my miles by booking long haul upgraded classes, but I'm far from certain.

[fatjack1]

check the seat width on Seat Guru and compare it to others (like the EVA seat)

 

This could be a case of reviewers exaggerating

 

I did check there.  But of course it can't tell all the story.  

 

Delta - 767-300ER    76-81     21" wide

EVA 777-300ER      81-87      26" wide

 

The reviews I read were Seatguru and both said the same thing.  That with the seat flat you didn't have enough room where your legs went in to turn or move at all.  Like a coffin I think one said.

 

having said that I just went back to Seatguru and can't find ANY reviews now.  Weird.

 

OK, I did more work and found maybe I read the reviews on Skytrax

 

http://www.flatseats.com/Reviews/delta.htm

 

The reviews on their 767 business class seats confirm the one I thought I read on Seatguru earlier.  the term "torture chamber" is used by one passenger.  I guess I have to write them off the lost as competition to EVA.

Edited May 25, 2014 by fatjack1

[Luv2Phuket]

I did check there.  But of course it can't tell all the story.  

 

Delta - 767-300ER    76-81     21" wide

EVA 777-300ER      81-87      26" wide

 

The reviews I read were Seatguru and both said the same thing.  That with the seat flat you didn't have enough room where your legs went in to turn or move at all.  Like a coffin I think one said.

 

having said that I just went back to Seatguru and can't find ANY reviews now.  Weird.

 

OK, I did more work and found maybe I read the reviews on Skytrax

 

http://www.flatseats.com/Reviews/delta.htm

 

The reviews on their 767 business class seats confirm the one I thought I read on Seatguru earlier.  the term "torture chamber" is used by one passenger.  I guess I have to write them off the lost as competition to EVA.

 

5 inches is a pretty damn big difference!

 

(EDIT: that's what SHE said....)

Edited May 25, 2014 by footypjman

[navidnavid]

Footy nice to hear in the end it is going to work out for you in a better way than your original plan.

 

I head out Friday, and I requested a night layover in HKG on my way to MNL. Hotel's are super expensive in HKG but I can book one for 15,000 Marriott Reawrd points, which is located 30-40 minutes from the city via the MRT.  

[bgtp]

fatjack1, I've flown Delta 747 (1-1 seating upstairs is nice) and 777 and not experienced any torture. I'm not a wide person, but I am 6'2". I don't know if those seats are any different from what they have on their 767's. That being said, I just flew over a few weeks ago on EVA and did like their seats much better.

 

One of the reasons I sometimes use Delta is that I live in the southeast and I like having a very short domestic flight connecting to the long leg from Atlanta to Narita where I can get a good night's sleep. I had to endure hours in a single-class regional jet to get to my EVA gateway. Now, that was torture.

[Luv2Phuket]

Footy nice to hear in the end it is going to work out for you in a better way than your original plan.

 

I head out Friday, and I requested a night layover in HKG on my way to MNL. Hotel's are super expensive in HKG but I can book one for 15,000 Marriott Reawrd points, which is located 30-40 minutes from the city via the MRT.  

 

Hey, if things go south in BKK, I may be heading to Manila and AC!  

 

If so, I'll shoot you a PM

[navidnavid]

Sounds good, enjoy the flight over.

 

Cathay and their pilot's are currently in labor disagreements, with the possibility of a pilot's strike if the two sides don't form a deal in the next meeting- four weeks away. 

 

I'm confident they will get everything settled as from what I've read, Cathay recently (last year?) reached a new deal with their service staff and other employees, after a similar conflict between workers union and Cathay.

 

[fatjack1]

fatjack1, I've flown Delta 747 (1-1 seating upstairs is nice) and 777 and not experienced any torture. I'm not a wide person, but I am 6'2". I don't know if those seats are any different from what they have on their 767's. That being said, I just flew over a few weeks ago on EVA and did like their seats much better.

 

One of the reasons I sometimes use Delta is that I live in the southeast and I like having a very short domestic flight connecting to the long leg from Atlanta to Narita where I can get a good night's sleep. I had to endure hours in a single-class regional jet to get to my EVA gateway. Now, that was torture.

 

Thanks for the personal experience review.  I found it hard to believe it would be THAT bad.  The reviews on Skytrax are grim for those new seats complaining about trying to cram too many in a small space etc.  And not being able to bend their legs at all in the tunnel where you stretch out.  I admit that would put me off.   Can you roll over and bend your legs a bit when the seat is lie flat?

 

You might want to post your review to Skytrax.  BTW, I empathize with you regarding regional to get to the long haul.  All of my trips are Southwest to LAX.  The only redeeming factor is it's only a 1 hour flight.  My next trip I arrive in LAX at 10:30 PM and depart the next morning at 1:55 AM.  A 3.5 hour layover.  No help for it.  And the lounge in LAX sucks.  Why do we Americans have such shitty airports?  

 

I actually look forward to boarding my EVA flight.  They immediately begin pampering me and plying me with liquor and food.  I love it.  I suspect I'd have to do the same thing if I change to Delta as they aren't a presence in PHX.

[navidnavid]

I'm flying into LAX late one night and will just stay the night in the USO, it's open 24/7 (hopefully they are not renovating it ), and is free for military.

 

then I fly out the next morning @ 7 am. 

 

Pumped up for my trip, just got off the phone and chose my seats.

[QuotaMan]

I've flown Delta business class several times this year. I've been a life long economy class flyer, so anything business, any airline, is an absolute luxury to me by comparison.

 

I found the lie flat seats to be good, it ain't exactly going to be like sleeping on your bed back home, but comfortable to be able to stretch out nonetheless. Keep in mind I'm not a big dude, only 5'5" or so.

 

The food was good as well. Some of the nice benefits are lounge access in some airports, board first/disembark before others, separate check in counter, and different immigration check in area at BKK during departure.

 

The only other business class I've flown is China Airlines, the service is good but the seats are nowhere near as good as the Delta ones IMO.

 

These pics are from Seattle to Narita, airbus A330-300:

 

 

These are from Narita to BKK, BKK to Narita, Boeing 747-400:

 

 

These are from Narita to Minneapolis, Boeing 777-200/300:

 

 

I prefer the side seats in the 1-2-1 seating arrangement on the A330 (and A747 I believe). The two middle seats on these planes sort of angle towards each other, and if you're non social like I am, I don't care much for looking at the person next to me. The seats on the side look out so feel a bit more comfortable with the space. Even better is upstairs if you have the option on the 747-400, now that was cool. All seats are on the side looking out towards the windows.

 

On the 777, the side seats and the middle seats sort of face each other, kind of interesting.

 

 

[fatjack1]

Thanks Quotaman.  Pictures speak 1000 words.  I guess when I finally use up my air miles on EVA and have to pay for my next ticket I will have to consider Delta as well.  But if I can transfer my Chase miles to EVA 1 for 1 it will be another year or so.

 

The EVA seats are the best I've flown on.  But I don't have experience of any other airlines in the last 10 years so it means little.  Have you flown the newer EVA Royal Laurel between USA and TPE?  Just wondering at a direct comparison.

[navidnavid]

Cool photo report, thanks for sharing.

[wackyjacky]

If you want to know what seat you're going to get and seat comparisons & reviews - check Seat Guru and Sky Trax.

[sneradog]

.

 

Next task: book a one way flight from HKG - BKK.

Coach in Thai was the cheapest option at around $255, but I recall reading that BA -- a Chase transfer partner -- has VERY cheap flights if the distance is short.  Looked it up and -- boom -- 7500 miles + $40 to fly from HKG to BKK.....but wait -- I could pay an extra $100 and use 500 more miles and go BUSINESS class.  To me, 8,000 miles + $140 was a MUCH better option than $255 to fly coach!  8,000 Chase UR points transferred instantly to BA and I was all set.

 

 

The BA low mile redemption from HKG-BKK is definitely something to consider if you can book cheaply into HKG and want to stay there a few days.  Lots of price/miles options, starting at 15,000 + $40 all the way down to the 8,000 + $140 that I chose.  By my calculation -- and I'm usually wrong on these things! -- the 7,000 miles that I "saved" by spending the $100 worked about to 1.4 cents each....but I'm not smart enough to figure out if that means I should've used miles or paid the $100.  I think I usually get more "value" for my miles by booking long haul upgraded classes, but I'm far from certain.

 

Not sure if you have to go back to HKG anyway, but if not, Thai Smile has a very cheap and convenient flight twice a day from Macau airport directly into Swampy. The one way cost is only about USD 150, the flight timing is very convenient (the first one leaves around noon), the flight attendants are much younger and prettier than on regular Thai Air and they even give you a snack. In addition it saves the hassle of taking the ferry back to Hong Kong. Yeah, it is not in business, but on such a short flight the covenience of it and the cheap costs trumps that for me. Anyway, just wanted to make you aware of that option, as that is the one I usually take when I am there.

[Luv2Phuket]

Not sure if you have to go back to HKG anyway, but if not, Thai Smile has a very cheap and convenient flight twice a day from Macau airport directly into Swampy. The one way cost is only about USD 150, the flight timing is very convenient (the first one leaves around noon), the flight attendants are much younger and prettier than on regular Thai Air and they even give you a snack. In addition it saves the hassle of taking the ferry back to Hong Kong. Yeah, it is not in business, but on such a short flight the covenience of it and the cheap costs trumps that for me. Anyway, just wanted to make you aware of that option, as that is the one I usually take when I am there.

 

Yep - I was considering Thai Smile form Macau straight to BKK.

 

I am taking the ferry to HKG so I can spend a day/night there.  I want to do a little sightseeing (and take LOTS of photos, so I can act like that was the point of my trip!  5555555).  I had a couple of free nights at any Hyatt and the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong looks pretty damn sweet, so I'm using one there.

 

If the situation in Pattaya goes to Hell in a handbasket, I may cash out another night there and/or make arrangements to go to either Ho Chi Minh or Manila/AC

[wackyjacky]

Well done Footy. I did the same when US Air only charged 90K in Biz, SFO-HKG. I pretty much said adios to Avios when BA devalued and switched to them, but they're still good short haul and for hotels. I really don't know where to dump my Chase points these days. All options suck. Maybe I'll take a look at Eva. Their program used to be horrible when I had status with them. Maybe Star Alliance made them shape it up a bit.

[Luv2Phuket]

Well done Footy. I did the same when US Air only charged 90K in Biz, SFO-HKG. I pretty much said adios to Avios when BA devalued and switched to them, but they're still good short haul and for hotels. I really don't know where to dump my Chase points these days. All options suck. Maybe I'll take a look at Eva. Their program used to be horrible when I had status with them. Maybe Star Alliance made them shape it up a bit.

 

Chase doesn't transfer directly to EVA, do they?

 

Although Korean has some pretty steep mileage requirements, I am thinking about making a push to get some Korean Air miles.  They have a new 30,000 mile bonus on a personal card and a business card via US Bank (one of the few banks I don't have cards with), and are rumored to have excellent premium class availability.  UR also transfer to Korean 1:1, so I figured I could use them to top it off for a future one way award.

 

Promotion ends May 31, so I'm going to go ahead and try to get business and personal cards today.  

 

Here's a blog discussing it: http://boardingarea.com/onemileatatime/category/korean-air/

 

 

EDIT:

well, that didn't go as smoothly as I had hoped -- instead of instant approval, I got the "you'll hear from us in 7-10 days reply.  I called the US Bank reconsideration line to try to speed things up, but the rep seemed to indicate that there was nothing that could be done yet, but I would need to wait 5 to 7 days for them to review everything.  

Edited May 27, 2014 by footypjman

[navidnavid]

Hate when that happens Footy.

 

I applied for Chase Ink Plus few months ago and after confirming everything and wrapping up the approval over the phone there was a discrepancy in addresses they had on file. So I have to fax them proof of residency, followed by a couple calls. I got approved, and it was worth it- but a pain in the ass. 

Edited May 27, 2014 by navidnavid

[Little Evil]

This is a little off topic, but I generally consider this a Frequent Flier Miles thread, so I thought I'd go ahead and post here.

 

My OCD on reading ff blogs paid off this week, and I wanted to pass along what I figured out.

 

I was getting a little antsy about my trip to Pattaya -- was scheduled to leave 13 hours ago -- so I looked into re-arranging my trip, postponing it a couple of days and spending 4 nights in Hong Kong and Macau with friends to be sure things in BKK don't blow up.

 

Although BA showed a first class seat on the flight I wanted from LAX-HKG on Weds., AA said it booked solid.  BA also showed first availability on a flight that left about the same time from SFO, and a first class seat was available with a 2 hr layover from LAX-SFO (so leave LAX about 3 1/2 hours earlier, but hit HKG right around the same time).  

 

Booked the new flight to HKG and paid to have my original flight canceled and my 67,500 miles re-deposited.  Sadly, I didn't save anything miles-wise by only going to HKG instead of BKK and I can't do a 4 night layover in HKG.

 

Next task: book a one way flight from HKG - BKK.

Coach in Thai was the cheapest option at around $255, but I recall reading that BA -- a Chase transfer partner -- has VERY cheap flights if the distance is short.  Looked it up and -- boom -- 7500 miles + $40 to fly from HKG to BKK.....but wait -- I could pay an extra $100 and use 500 more miles and go BUSINESS class.  To me, 8,000 miles + $140 was a MUCH better option than $255 to fly coach!  8,000 Chase UR points transferred instantly to BA and I was all set.

 

Next task: where am I going to stay?

 - IHG points got me 2 nights at the Macau Holiday Inn (across the street from my friends);

 - Stay in a friend's room on Sat. b/c Holiday Inn wasn't available;

 - Move to 5 star Grand Hyatt in Hong Kong with a free night certificate on Sun., allowing me a "tourist day", before heading to BKK

I had to eat a deposit of one night at The Stay, but 2 Hilton free nights went back into my account.

 

Finally, I checked flights back to LAX early if the shit REALLY blows up in LOS -- which I do NOT expect! -- and there are non-stop business class seats on most days and even more if I am willing to connect.

 

I have been a miles/points junkie for a while now and it has allowed me to take some incredible trips for very little expense, but this was the first time I was able to appreciate how it can really help if there are issues with a trip!

 

The BA low mile redemption from HKG-BKK is definitely something to consider if you can book cheaply into HKG and want to stay there a few days.  Lots of price/miles options, starting at 15,000 + $40 all the way down to the 8,000 + $140 that I chose.  By my calculation -- and I'm usually wrong on these things! -- the 7,000 miles that I "saved" by spending the $100 worked about to 1.4 cents each....but I'm not smart enough to figure out if that means I should've used miles or paid the $100.  I think I usually get more "value" for my miles by booking long haul upgraded classes, but I'm far from certain.

 

....and there I was, thinking I had a pretty strong miles game, then you go all "Yoda" on us with this body of work.  You could teach a masterclass of mile scoring & usage. 

[Little Evil]

 

I found the lie flat seats to be good, it ain't exactly going to be like sleeping on your bed back home, but comfortable to be able to stretch out nonetheless. Keep in mind I'm not a big dude, only 5'5" or so.

 

 

Great pics. I definitely prefer reverse herringbone to herringbone seating. Also, on EVA's reverse herringbone, it is actually a bit difficult to see your neighbor when in the center two seats unless you have both seats moved forward to "conversation mode". I would go as far as to say there really aren't any bad seats in this set up except for maybe right next to a lav. I'd imagine it would be the same on Cathay's business and American's new jets. 

 

I'm on the shorter side too, so most business products are pretty roomy for me. I was actually kind of embarrassed when I first got into EVA's Royal Laurel seat. When sitting upright for take off, with my backside firmly planted in the seat (ie. no slouching), I could barely make use of the full footrest. My foot kept on slipping off because I only had about a half inch of it on the footrest with my shoes off. I had a brief moment of feeling like a greedy bastard, taking up so much space on the plane when I'm on the shorter side. It was a moment of guilt over my decadent seat and also a question about what that does to my carbon footprint. That all quickly evaporated when the champagne started flowing and menus were presented. The miles game has truly spoiled me over the years. 

[QuotaMan]

Thanks Quotaman.  Pictures speak 1000 words.  I guess when I finally use up my air miles on EVA and have to pay for my next ticket I will have to consider Delta as well.  But if I can transfer my Chase miles to EVA 1 for 1 it will be another year or so.

 

The EVA seats are the best I've flown on.  But I don't have experience of any other airlines in the last 10 years so it means little.  Have you flown the newer EVA Royal Laurel between USA and TPE?  Just wondering at a direct comparison.

 

I haven't, but based on this video it looks similar to the Delta setup and seats:

 

 

The EVA ones actually look a bit nicer. Price wise, I compared Delta and EVA business for exact same round trip dates to BKK in mid July, and EVA business was slightly cheaper than Delta (around 500 bucks).

 

I wish I were more motivated to do these mileage things. Not only am I lazy, but my credit cards I have are maxed out and I have shyte credit, so I can't even apply for new cards to get those bonus miles.

 

Cool photo report, thanks for sharing.

 

Cheers.

 

Great pics. I definitely prefer reverse herringbone to herringbone seating. Also, on EVA's reverse herringbone, it is actually a bit difficult to see your neighbor when in the center two seats unless you have both seats moved forward to "conversation mode". I would go as far as to say there really aren't any bad seats in this set up except for maybe right next to a lav. I'd imagine it would be the same on Cathay's business and American's new jets. 

 

I'm on the shorter side too, so most business products are pretty roomy for me. I was actually kind of embarrassed when I first got into EVA's Royal Laurel seat. When sitting upright for take off, with my backside firmly planted in the seat (ie. no slouching), I could barely make use of the full footrest. My foot kept on slipping off because I only had about a half inch of it on the footrest with my shoes off. I had a brief moment of feeling like a greedy bastard, taking up so much space on the plane when I'm on the shorter side. It was a moment of guilt over my decadent seat and also a question about what that does to my carbon footprint. That all quickly evaporated when the champagne started flowing and menus were presented. The miles game has truly spoiled me over the years. 

 

Yes I had the same problem.

 

I wish I had the money to fly at least business class international all the time. I'm still paying for my last trip on credit card.  It truly makes a world of difference in many ways, ease the pain of coming back from Pattaya, the comfort, not stressing over fellow passengers, things of that sort. 

 

Delta business is like economy class compared to the very best international business class, but to me it was like being on Emirates first class.

 

Here's an interesting article:

 

http://www.airlinequality.com/Experience/bestCclass_seats.htm

 

Our TheDesignAir Top 10 lists have undergone a revamp in 2014, and to aid transparency, our top 10 airlines will now have their rating out of 100 shown, as voted for and calculated by our judging panel.

What is interesting for our Top 10 International business classes 2014 is the wide-ranging percentage scores within the top 10. Many airlines scored between 60 and 70%, and quite a few just missed out on the top 10 list. Five members of last year’s list have dropped down this one, signaling the ever-changing product levels throughout the industry. Our top 10 really reflects airlines that have invested into their product, or who still are seen as innovators.

 

10. British Airways [new entry]

2013 saw British Airways launch its new 787 and A380 aircraft. They are slowly being rolled out across the network, and with this, they are adding the newly improved ‘Club World’ seats. Whilst we aren’t the biggest fans of the back-to-front seating configuration of the cabin (because of climbing over your neighbour), the improved seats fit perfectly with the new look of premium economy and first class cabins. What’s more, in the 787 cabin, the solo rear facing seats in the centre of the cabin are the epitome of privacy.

The new fleet is just the touchstone of the improvements across the network, including new business class lounges and spas, and improving service levels including at seat drinks service (rather than from the trolley). Even more, the new IFE, with better resolution screens and improved seats make sure that BA keeps on top of its product, offering the best it possibly can. However, with many One World carriers now embracing the reverse herringbone seats with greater space per passenger, we question how long BA will keep hold of the more cumbersome seat layout they have.

9. Virgin Australia [new entry]

Virgin Australia may be new to our list, but its product is long lasting (since the launch of its 777 fleet) and the alignment of the V Australia and Virgin Australia brands have brought together a more unified product. The Virgin Australia experience is one of three Virgin brands that are in our list, and is of great competition to Qantas. Their business class product includes an inflight bar and the infamous row 5, which is super private and intimate and has a super friendly cabin crew.

Read MoreOn the Way to a Strong Q1, British Airways Cuts Losses at Iberia in Half

On the ground, an ever improving product that includes a great new lounge in Melbourne is testament to the investment the airline is making into their product. Virgin is seen around the world as a market leader, and their friendly cabin service, comfortable seat and added social extra of an inflight bar, means the offering is better than ailing Qantas.

8. Etihad [+1 previously 9t ]

Etihad has featured for the last two years running for good reason. Their product is still an impressive forerunner in the airline industry. We love the staggered seating environment, their clean modern lines that really make the airline a contemporary business class which the worldly traveller will have come to expect in this day and age. Mix together fine dining, massage functions, a fully flat bed seat, and each one of these boxes are well and truly ticked.

Whilst the ‘World’s Leading Airline 2013′ has an award list as long as it’s arm, the business class cabin itself hasn’t won any awards for the past couple of years, but we here think this cabin is consistently of award winning quality, and firmly deserves its place in our Top 10 list. Plus secretly we are huge fans of the ‘Humbug’ bedding, super chic!

7. Virgin America [new entry]

So whilst strictly speaking Virgin America‘s short haul aircraft aren’t the first thought when it comes to international travel, with their flights across the border to Mexico, they do fall into this category. The second of our Virgin brands to enter the list, this little upstart airline just oozes cool. So they don’t have flat beds, or a turn down service, but these international flights are short hops and they pack a punch.

Big white leather recliners, AVOD that is full of hidden extras and both The Loft in LAX or the Virgin Clubhouse in San Fran as bases, mean that it’s never been cooler to fly to Mexico than now. The service is brilliant, the food excellent and the seats super comfortable, but what we love the most is the mood lighting, in seat messaging, and wifi onboard. If only all American carriers could follow the mantra of Virgin America.

6. Virgin Atlantic [-3 previously 3rd]

Virgin Atlantic recently won our Top 10 Cool Airline brands 2014. The airline was the first airline to introduce Premium Economy and first to introduce individual IFE screens to business class passengers. It has been an innovator since it first started, and whilst it hasn’t created anything really groundbreaking in the past few years, it’s still an airline of choice. Whether travelling on their slightly older Upper Class Suite or their newer one, expect privacy, and a fully flat bed with separate mattress side for a more comfortable sleep.

Also extras such as PJs, amenity kits and now onboard wifi on the A330s mean the airline is offering more of a first class product, but manages to match the price of British Airways. They also feature higher on the list than their BA counterparts due to a few key reasons, no trolley service (bar the afternoon tea service) more friendly pro-active cabin crew, and that extra privacy. Whilst best for solo travellers, the ottomans still mean it is possible to dine with a partner. We will be doing a full A330 report in the next few weeks at TheDesignAir so stay tuned!

4. (tie) Emirates [ new entry ]

Whilst Emirates have a varied product in their business class cabin, they do have an excellent business class product on their A380 fleet, which is quickly being rolled out on all the major international routes. The success of the airline is very much based on their use of the A380, and its comfort and space. The business class seat in its herringbone format is perfect for both solo travellers, and the dual seats in the centre of the cabin perfect for partners travelling together.

Together with a roomy and well appointed bar, the upper deck of the A380 is a haven for international travellers, with mammoth amenity kits, and a huge IFE selection played on a huge IFE screen, there is a lot that Emirates offers. On the ground, chauffeur drive service and a gigantic lounge in Dubai make sure that the product is all encompassing. There are no surprises they feature highly on the list, although the older generation aircraft with lie-flat seats and the occasional dip in service levels has left the airline a few points short.

4. (tie) Qatar [previously 4th]

Qatar hasn’t shifted place this year, scoring a very decent 90 out of 100. Here’s why. Chauffeur services, private terminals, award winning cuisine and service, it is a pure delight to fly with Qatar even before you board. And when you board, the new 787 seating are next generation and competitive with their Middle Eastern counterparts, but not only that, they’ve recently announced new seats to replace the older ones on the A330 fleet, and new flat beds for the A320 fleet.

But the previous versions, which cover most of their fleet is still excellent. The new A380 which will launch on the London route this year will be the perfect reason to fly with Qatar.  Winning countless awards inclusive of Airline of the Year 2012 by Skytrax, it is no surprise that the name is on our list, but with the introduction of the new business class seat (pictured above) across the fleet or the improvement of the current seats would boost the airline to the top of the airlines.

3. Korean [new entry]

Korean have just a wonderful and elegant product. Light airy cabins, beautiful cabin crew and excellent food and drink, as well as great connections through Incheon make for a great connecting airline between Europe / North America and Asia. The flat bed ‘Prestige sleeper’ seats especially on the A380, that take up the entire top deck, are matched with a ‘Celestial Lounge’ which whilst super clean and modern in appearance, is the perfect place to soak up a martini and chill out with a good book or friends.

The whole ethos of the ‘Korean Air’ product is to experience effortless luxury, and they produce it vast amounts. Our judges get excited when they get the opportunity to fly with Korean, as they epitomise the Asian luxury carriers at a fairly decent price point. For those in need of some retail therapy, it’s also the only airline to offer an onboard real life Duty-Free shop. The pristine cabin crew uniforms also won our Top 10 airline uniforms 2013.

2. Cathay Pacific [-1 previously 1st]

Cathay Pacific has never failed to impress, and can hold its own against Singapore Airlines, or any of the Middle Eastern carriers, synonymous with lavishing luxury on guests. Last year Cathay even won our best international business class 2013, a testament to the new seats they have rolled out through their fleet. What Cathay Pacific has done over the past three years is really impressive in the form of lounges, cabin crew service and frequencies, making them an airline of choice, whilst ensuring their price point still remains competitive.

We are huge fans of Cathay, and their design ethos. Simplicity, functionality and luxury all work in harmony to create a quiet environment which makes the passenger the most important element. See why we love Cathay Pacific in our trip report.

1. Singapore Airlines [+1 previously 2nd]

This scoring of 100 from our judges is rare, and well deserved, showcasing how faultless we feel Singapore Airlines’ Business Class product is, and securing it first place on our list. Last year we stated that if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it, but Singapore Airlines have done just that. Designed by JPA, the new business class seat is even better (can it be possible) than the previous incarnation of the seat – which is more First Class than business class. But the cabin crew, and food are still the biggest selling point to fly with Singapore.

Fine china, excellent and extensive menus, beautiful wine pairings and champagne until you are full (and a little giddy) are all reasons to take to the skies with what still is the best airline in the sky. Sadly, they are also perhaps some of the most expensive, as when we have looked at travel options, Singapore has never come up the cheapest option across our flight options. With a home in Changi airport too, the whole experience from booking your flight to arriving at your destination, is effortless, and is as close as it gets to the ‘JetSet’ yesteryear we all wish we lived in.

 

[wackyjacky]

"Chase doesn't transfer directly to EVA, do they?" ................ No, I don't know where the fuck I got that from. Bad reading retention from skimming this thread + the fact that I read a rumor that an Asian Star Alliance carrier was joining. Oh yeah, the rumor is true and it's FUCKING SINGAPORE !!!!!!!!!!!  Those MR points just got A LOT more valuable. LINK: http://boardingarea.com/dealswelike/2014/05/29/chase-ultimate-rewards-singapore-airlines/

[fatjack1]

"Chase doesn't transfer directly to EVA, do they?" ................ No, I don't know where the fuck I got that from. Bad reading retention from skimming this thread + the fact that I read a rumor that an Asian Star Alliance carrier was joining. Oh yeah, the rumor is true and it's FUCKING SINGAPORE !!!!!!!!!!!  Those MR points just got A LOT more valuable. LINK: http://boardingarea.com/dealswelike/2014/05/29/chase-ultimate-rewards-singapore-airlines/

 

In a word - dayum.  I've got 161K points available right now.  Airlines I see listed for a 1-1 transfer rate are:

 

British Air

Korean

SIngapore

Southwest

United

Virgin

 

What i don't understand is EVA is now part of the Star Alliance.  Why not them too?

[casinoclub]

In a word - dayum.  I've got 161K points available right now.  Airlines I see listed for a 1-1 transfer rate are:

 

British Air

Korean

SIngapore

Southwest

United

Virgin

 

What i don't understand is EVA is now part of the Star Alliance.  Why not them too?

 

This is a thing between Chase and each individual airline. 

 

British Air is One World.

 

United in Star Alliance

Singapore in Star Alliance

 

Korean is SkyTeam

 

Virgin isn't in any

Southwest isn't in any.

 

EVA reward chart isn't all that much better then United, so I see no difference going from Chase to United then book Eva flights.