BA unveils its new business class

British Airways has unveiled its £100 million next generation business class flat bed.

The initiative is part of an investment programme in the airline’s products and services that includes enhancements to its First Class cabin and the introduction of an on-demand in-flight entertainment system in every cabin across the long-haul fleet.

The new Club World bed is 25 percent wider and offers more privacy, greater comfort, with more storage.

Willie Walsh, British Airways chief executive said, “British Airways set the industry benchmark with the launch of the first flat bed for business customers in 2000. Our new Club World flat bed re-establishes our position as market leader.”

“Our premium cabins are our most profitable segment and we are re-configuring our aircraft to increase Club World capacity by eight per cent, moving from 38 to 52 seats on some of our Boeing 747 aircraft.”
“We are giving our customers what they want – not gimmicks and gadgets - but an environment that is comfortable, flexible and private, with service that anticipates their every need.”

Key features include:

·          Even more comfortable six feet long fully-flat bed that is 25 per cent wider.
·          A new ‘z’ bed position that extends to six foot six inches and allows the body to assume a position similar to that in zero gravity, ideal for watching movies.
·          Electronically operated privacy screens using an innovative opaque material, Lumisty.
·          A laptop locker where customers can stow electronic items, a small bag and shoes.
·          Standard 110v US style in-seat power socket that only needs a UK/USA adaptor.
·          An enhanced in-flight entertainment system that allows customers to pause, stop, fast-forward or rewind up to 100 films and TV programmes, and play games on larger 10-inch digital screens.
·          An onboard Club Kitchen where customers can enjoy hot and cold snacks in between meals.

Recently, British Airways shared its second quarter results ended September 30, 2006 including a one-off write down of the group's investment in its regional subsidiary BA Connect of £106 million.This resulted in an operating profit of £134 million for the quarter (2005: £261 million) and £345 million (2005: £437 million) for the half year giving an operating margin of 5.8 per cent and 7.5 per cent respectively. The pre-tax profit was £176 million for the three months (2005: £241 million) and £371 million for the half year (2005: £365 million).