For travelers looking for an elevated experience on the transatlantic journey from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to London, business class is the ideal choice. While British Airways and Virgin Atlantic are popular options, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines also offer exceptional business class services on this route. These airlines provide a blend of comfort, luxury, and premium service, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
In this article, we compare American Airlines Flagship Business and Delta One Suites to help you decide which premium cabin best suits your travel needs.
1. American Airlines Flagship Business
Overview
American Airlines offers an upgraded business class experience with its Flagship Business product, available on Boeing 777-300ER aircraft flying between LAX and London Heathrow (LHR). The airline has revamped its premium cabin to enhance comfort and convenience for business travelers.
Seating and Comfort
The Flagship Business seat is designed for maximum privacy and relaxation. Arranged in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone configuration, every seat has direct aisle access, ensuring easy movement during the flight.
- Seat Dimensions: 78 inches when fully flat
- Seat Width: 21 inches
- Privacy: High-walled seat with a sliding privacy partition
- Entertainment: 18-inch touchscreen with Bose noise-canceling headphones
- Storage: Multiple compartments for personal items and devices
The seat is fully lie-flat, making it easy for passengers to sleep comfortably during the overnight flight to London.
Dining Experience
American Airlines’ Flagship Business dining includes a multi-course meal service curated by renowned chefs. Highlights include:
- Pre-flight dining at the Flagship Lounge
- A choice of entrees, including international and regional flavors
- Premium wine and cocktail selection
- On-demand snacks and mid-flight meal options
Airport Lounge Access
Passengers flying Flagship Business have access to the American Airlines Flagship Lounge at LAX, which includes:
- Luxury dining options
- Full-service bar with premium beverages
- Shower suites and quiet areas for relaxation
Upon arrival at Heathrow, business class passengers can access the Arrivals Lounge, where they can enjoy a meal, freshen up, and prepare for the day.
Onboard Service
American Airlines offers personalized service with dedicated flight attendants for the Flagship Business cabin. Passengers receive an amenity kit by Shinola and D.S. & Durga, as well as plush bedding by Casper to enhance sleep quality.
Value for Money
American Airlines often provides competitive fares and generous loyalty program benefits through the AAdvantage program. Travelers who frequently fly on Oneworld alliance carriers can maximize their mileage earning and redemption opportunities.
2. Delta One Suites
Overview
Delta Air Lines has revolutionized business class travel with its Delta One Suites, providing a private, suite-like experience in the sky. This cabin is available on Airbus A350 and Boeing 767-400ER aircraft, ensuring maximum comfort and exclusivity on flights from LAX to London Heathrow.
Seating and Comfort
Delta One Suites offers a fully enclosed suite with a sliding door, making it one of the most private business class experiences available.
- Seat Dimensions: 81 inches when fully reclined
- Seat Width: 21 inches
- Privacy: Individual suite with sliding doors
- Entertainment: 18-inch touchscreen with noise-canceling headphones
- Storage: Personal compartments and charging ports
Each suite is designed to maximize space and comfort, making it ideal for working, dining, or sleeping during the long-haul flight.
Dining Experience
Delta One passengers enjoy a chef-curated meal service that reflects global cuisine. Highlights include:
- Seasonal menu selections featuring premium ingredients
- Signature wine and cocktail pairings
- Sky-high snacks available throughout the flight
- Freshly brewed coffee and breakfast options before landing
Airport Lounge Access
Delta One travelers departing from LAX have access to the Delta Sky Club, which includes:
- An extensive buffet and made-to-order dishes
- A curated wine and cocktail menu
- Shower suites and business workstations
At Heathrow, passengers can access the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, as Delta is a partner airline of Virgin Atlantic.
Onboard Service
Delta’s crew is known for exceptional hospitality, ensuring passengers are well taken care of throughout the flight. Each traveler receives a TUMI amenity kit, plush Westin Heavenly bedding, and enhanced personal space for a restful journey.
Value for Money
Delta One Suites offers a premium flying experience with exclusive privacy features, making it a top choice for business and leisure travelers alike. SkyMiles members can also redeem miles for upgrades or award tickets, making Delta a great option for frequent flyers.
3. British Airways Club Suite
Overview
British Airways is one of the leading airlines connecting the U.S. to the UK, and its Club Suite business class is a game-changer. Introduced to replace the older Club World, the Club Suite is now available on most of BA’s Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft flying from LAX to London Heathrow (LHR).
Seating and Comfort
The British Airways Club Suite provides a fully lie-flat seat with direct aisle access, offering maximum privacy thanks to its sliding door feature. Each seat is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring that every passenger has unobstructed access to the aisle.
- Seat Dimensions: 79 inches when fully reclined
- Seat Width: 20 inches
- Privacy: Enclosed suite with a sliding door
- Entertainment: 18.5-inch HD screen with noise-canceling headphones
- Storage: Ample space with compartments for personal items
Dining Experience
British Airways serves a la carte meals designed by top chefs, featuring British and international cuisines. Passengers can enjoy:
- Pre-flight dining at the lounge to maximize rest onboard
- Multiple-course meals with wine pairings
- Mid-flight snacks available on demand
- Breakfast service before landing in London
Airport Lounge Access
Business class passengers flying British Airways from LAX have access to The British Airways Lounge at LAX Terminal B. The lounge offers:
- A full bar with premium spirits and wines
- A buffet of gourmet dishes
- Shower facilities for freshening up before the flight
Upon arrival at London Heathrow, business class travelers can enjoy the Galleries Arrivals Lounge, where they can shower, eat, and relax before heading into the city.
Onboard Service
The flight crew provides attentive and professional service, with personalized greetings and quick responses to requests. Passengers receive a luxurious amenity kit featuring The White Company products, noise-canceling headphones, and plush bedding.
Value for Money
British Airways frequently offers competitive fares and Avios redemption options, making it an excellent choice for those looking for both quality and affordability in a business class experience. Travelers who prioritize privacy and direct aisle access will find the Club Suite an excellent investment.
4. Virgin Atlantic Upper Class
Overview
Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class offers an unparalleled business class experience with its stylish design, fun atmosphere, and high-quality service. With daily flights between LAX and London Heathrow, Virgin Atlantic ensures a comfortable and unique journey for business and leisure travelers alike.
Seating and Comfort
Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class features herringbone seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access for all passengers. The cabin design is sleek and modern, with mood lighting enhancing the onboard atmosphere.
- Seat Dimensions: 78 inches when fully reclined
- Seat Width: 22 inches
- Privacy: Slightly angled seats with privacy screens
- Entertainment: 18.5-inch touchscreen with a vast entertainment library
- Storage: Dedicated compartments for small items
One of the highlights of Upper Class is The Loft, an onboard lounge where passengers can socialize, enjoy drinks, or work in a comfortable space.
Dining Experience
Virgin Atlantic is known for its excellent food and beverage service. Business class passengers can enjoy:
- A gourmet three-course meal with British and global flavors
- On-demand snacks and light bites
- A well-curated wine and cocktail menu
- Afternoon tea service before landing in London
Airport Lounge Access
At LAX, Virgin Atlantic business class passengers have access to the Clubhouse Lounge, one of the best airport lounges in the U.S. The lounge offers:
- A la carte dining with fresh, chef-prepared meals
- Signature cocktails and premium wines
- Showers and relaxation areas
- Fast Wi-Fi and comfortable seating
Upon arrival at Heathrow, Upper Class passengers can use the Revival Lounge, featuring showers, breakfast, and relaxation areas to freshen up after the flight.
Onboard Service
Virgin Atlantic’s crew is known for being friendly, engaging, and professional. The airline offers bespoke amenity kits, plush bedding, and noise-canceling headphones to enhance the flight experience.
Value for Money
Virgin Atlantic frequently offers reward seat availability through Flying Club miles, making it an excellent option for those looking to redeem points. The airline’s stylish approach and unique onboard lounge make it an attractive choice for travelers seeking an enjoyable business class journey.
British Airways vs. Virgin Atlantic: Which One Should You Choose?
Both airlines offer an exceptional business class experience, but the choice depends on individual preferences.
Feature | British Airways Club Suite | Virgin Atlantic Upper Class |
---|---|---|
Seat Layout | Enclosed Suite, 1-2-1 | Herringbone, 1-2-1 |
Privacy | High (sliding door) | Moderate (angled seats) |
Onboard Lounge | No | Yes, “The Loft” |
Dining | Elegant multi-course meals | Chef-curated meals + afternoon tea |
Airport Lounge (LAX) | British Airways Lounge | Clubhouse Lounge |
Arrival Lounge (LHR) | Galleries Arrivals Lounge | Revival Lounge |
Best for Privacy | ✅ | ❌ |
Best for Socializing | ❌ | ✅ |
Best for Sleep Comfort | ✅ | ✅ |
American Airlines vs. Delta: Which One is Better?
Both American Airlines and Delta Air Lines offer exceptional business class experiences, but choosing the right one depends on your travel priorities.
Feature | American Airlines Flagship Business | Delta One Suites |
---|---|---|
Seat Layout | Reverse Herringbone, 1-2-1 | Enclosed Suite, 1-2-1 |
Privacy | Moderate (high-walled seat) | High (sliding door) |
Onboard Lounge | No | Yes (Virgin Clubhouse access) |
Dining | Multi-course, premium dining | Chef-curated seasonal menu |
Airport Lounge (LAX) | Flagship Lounge | Delta Sky Club |
Arrival Lounge (LHR) | Yes, American Airlines Lounge | Yes, Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse |
Best for Privacy | ✅ | ✅✅ |
Best for Sleep Comfort | ✅ | ✅✅ |
Best for Dining | ✅ | ✅✅ |
Final Verdict
- Choose American Airlines Flagship Business if you want a comfortable and spacious seat with direct aisle access, along with great dining options and access to the Oneworld network.
- Choose Delta One Suites if you value maximum privacy with a fully enclosed suite, an elevated onboard dining experience, and access to Virgin Atlantic’s premium lounge at Heathrow.
Both airlines deliver premium business class experiences, ensuring a comfortable journey from LAX to London. Whether you prioritize privacy, sleep comfort, or superior lounge access, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines are excellent choices for your transatlantic business class flight.