Traveling in business class doesn’t always have to break the bank. With some research and strategic planning, you can enjoy the comfort, privacy, and luxury of business class at an affordable price. For those planning a trip to London from the USA, various airlines offer competitive business-class options. This article provides an overview of the best airlines for cheap business-class flights to London, their unique offerings, and tips for booking.
1. British Airways Club World
British Airways is a top choice for traveling to London, offering a premium experience with its Club World service. Known for its excellent amenities and direct flights to London Heathrow, British Airways balances luxury with competitive pricing.
Key Features:
- Seats: Fully flat beds (183cm/6ft long), adjustable lumbar support, and privacy screens.
- Dining: Freshly prepared multi-course meals with wine pairings and afternoon tea service.
- Lounge Access: Access to elegant lounges before departure and an arrivals lounge at Heathrow for post-flight refreshment.
- Entertainment: 12-inch flat screens, noise-canceling headphones, and hundreds of entertainment options.
- Extras: Quality bedding and amenity kits from The White Company for restful sleep.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Look for British Airways’ periodic business-class sales.
- Use Avios points (British Airways’ loyalty program) for discounted upgrades.
- Consider booking through their Flight + Hotel package for added savings.
British Airways Club World Review: A Comprehensive Analysis
British Airways’ Club World (business class) and its newer iteration, Club Suites, offer distinct experiences depending on the aircraft and route. With ongoing upgrades from the old Club World to the more modern Club Suites, experiences range from satisfactory to exceptional. Here’s a detailed look based on recent reviews and experiences.
Airport Experience
Lounges
British Airways’ Club World passengers enjoy lounge access, typically offering a decent pre-flight experience:
- Heathrow Lounges: Equipped with an array of hot meals, salads, and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic). Facilities include showers and clean restrooms.
- Other Airports: Access to OneWorld partner lounges, such as Cathay Pacific’s lounge in Hong Kong, maintains a consistent quality standard.
- Notable Features: Free-flowing champagne, snacks, and light meals like sandwiches or soups are appreciated. However, smaller lounges like Seattle’s First Lounge can feel underwhelming compared to flagship lounges like Heathrow’s Concorde Room.
Rating: 7/10 (solid but not world-class compared to Qatar or Emirates lounges).
Cabin and Seating
Old Club World
- Layout: A dated 2-4-2 “yin-yang” configuration with alternating forward- and backward-facing seats.
- Issues:
- Privacy is inconsistent; aisle seats are completely exposed, while middle seats force awkward proximity to strangers.
- Accessibility is problematic; window seats require climbing over neighbors.
- Storage is minimal, with only a small floor-level drawer.
- Sleeping Comfort: Flat beds are over 6 feet long, accommodating taller passengers, but lack proper mattress toppers, making sleep less restful.
Rating: 5/10 (dated and inconsistent).
Club Suites
- Layout: A 1-2-1 configuration with direct aisle access for all passengers.
- Highlights:
- Fully enclosed suites with sliding doors provide privacy.
- Excellent seat design includes lie-flat beds, ample storage, and large entertainment screens.
- Attractive wood trim and intuitive seat controls enhance the modern aesthetic.
- Downsides: Limited availability, as not all aircraft have been upgraded.
Rating: 8/10 (modern and competitive).
In-Flight Dining
- Pre-Flight Drinks: Offers include champagne, orange juice, and water. The champagne selection is often underwhelming, with basic options like NV Heidsieck & Co Monopole.
- Meals:
- Appetizers: Hits, like tuna tartare and smoked salmon, contrast with misses like uninspired salads.
- Main Courses: Mixed reviews. Beef cheeks are tender and flavorful, while some dishes, like lamb, suffer from lackluster sauces.
- Desserts and Cheeses: Cheeses are uninspired, but desserts like banana mousse or scones often redeem the meal.
- Breakfast Options: Highlights include French toast and fresh seasonal fruit.
Rating: 7/10 (inconsistent but occasionally excellent).
Entertainment and Amenities
Entertainment
- Old Club World: 15-inch screens with outdated resolution and a clunky interface. Content selection is decent but limited compared to competitors.
- Club Suites: Larger touchscreens and updated interfaces provide a much better experience.
- Wi-Fi: Often unreliable, with frequent dropouts. Pricing is average, but connectivity issues make it frustrating.
Rating: 6/10 (improvements in Club Suites but lagging behind industry leaders).
Amenities
- Amenity Kits: White Company kits include basics like eye masks, lip balm, and toothpaste. While functional, they lack luxury appeal.
- Bedding: Thin mattress toppers and adequate blankets fall short of the plush offerings from airlines like Qatar or Singapore.
Rating: 6/10 (functional but unremarkable).
Service
- Crew: Generally friendly and attentive, though some reviews cite inconsistencies across routes.
- Efficiency: Meal service can feel slow, particularly on shorter flights.
Rating: 7/10 (largely dependent on individual crew members).
Overall Experience
Strengths
- Club Suites’ design and privacy elevate British Airways’ standing in the business class market.
- Consistently good service from the cabin crew enhances long-haul flights.
- Heathrow lounges and flagship routes offer glimpses of excellence.
Weaknesses
- Old Club World remains a weak point, with outdated seating, limited privacy, and subpar amenities.
- Food and beverage offerings, especially wines and champagnes, lack premium appeal.
- Slow pace of fleet upgrades means passengers may face the older product until 2030.
2. EVA Air Royal Laurel/Business Class
Though based in Taiwan, EVA Air offers competitive transpacific and transatlantic routes, often featuring stopovers. Their Royal Laurel Class provides top-tier services with excellent pricing for travelers to Europe, including London.
Key Features:
- Seats: Fully flat seats with direct aisle access and adjustable headrests.
- Dining: A la carte menu with fine wine and premium dining options.
- Lounge Access: VIP lounges at departure airports for relaxation and refreshments.
- Entertainment: Wide selection of movies, music, and games on personal screens.
- Extras: High-quality amenity kits and noise-canceling headphones.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Book during seasonal promotions, often advertised directly on EVA Air’s website.
- Leverage partnerships with other airlines to find cheaper connecting flights to London.
Review of EVA Air Royal Laurel (Business Class)
Overview
EVA Air’s Royal Laurel business class delivers a sophisticated flying experience marked by excellent service, fine dining, and comfortable seating. Known for its polished amenities and high standards, EVA Air is often ranked among the top business class options for transpacific travel. Here’s a detailed look into what to expect when flying Royal Laurel.
The Seat
EVA Air’s Royal Laurel cabin features reverse herringbone seats, offering direct aisle access for every passenger. The layout prioritizes privacy while maintaining a sense of openness, particularly suitable for solo travelers. The seat converts into a fully lie-flat bed with plush bedding, ensuring restful sleep during long-haul flights. Additional touches include a modest mattress topper, slippers, and Jason Wu-designed pajamas, enhancing the comfort quotient.
However, some passengers noted minor drawbacks, such as stiff seat controls and a slight gap in the seat padding, which might not suit every sleeper.
Dining Experience
EVA Air’s dining service is one of its standout features. The airline partners with premium brands like Din Tai Fung, offering authentic Taiwanese dishes, including braised beef noodle soup. Its champagne offering is legendary—flights typically serve Krug or Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame, elevating the onboard dining experience.
Menus feature carefully curated meals with appetizers, mains, and desserts that rival high-end restaurants. Meals are complemented by fine wines, spirits, and gourmet coffee. Even with such high standards, there’s room for improvement; some dishes, while beautifully presented, lack robust flavors compared to their on-ground counterparts.
Service
EVA Air’s cabin crew is consistently praised for professionalism and attention to detail. Whether it’s assisting with bedding, proactively serving drinks, or managing meal timings for families, the crew ensures a smooth journey. Passengers traveling with children highlighted the airline’s ability to accommodate their needs with customized meals and thoughtful gestures like reusable bags for pajamas.
That said, some travelers found the service slightly mechanical compared to the warmth offered by other premium airlines such as Singapore Airlines or Cathay Pacific.
Cabin Atmosphere
The Royal Laurel cabin is stylish, with EVA’s signature green accents and a “starry night” ceiling effect that creates a calming ambiance. However, the lack of individual air vents and slightly dated aesthetics on older aircraft, such as the Boeing 777-300ER, detract from an otherwise premium experience.
Amenities
Royal Laurel passengers receive Giorgio Armani-branded amenity kits, complete with luxury skincare products and a travel wallet. These thoughtful inclusions enhance the journey’s exclusivity. For children, EVA Air provides engaging activity kits, a rare feature in business class.
Entertainment
The entertainment system is serviceable but falls short of industry-leading standards. While the 15-inch screen provides a good viewing experience, the selection of films and TV shows is limited, particularly in non-English categories. The absence of touchscreen controls and dated interfaces can frustrate tech-savvy travelers. Passengers are advised to bring personal entertainment to supplement the onboard offerings.
Airport Lounge Experience
EVA Air’s lounges, particularly at Taipei’s Taoyuan Airport, are functional but lack the luxury of top-tier competitors. The food offerings are adequate, but quirky details, such as a hot dog station, feel out of place. However, the airline compensates with efficient boarding processes and exclusive check-in counters for business class travelers.
Value and Booking Tips
EVA Air Royal Laurel is a highly coveted business class product, often requiring substantial effort to book with points or miles. Availability through Star Alliance partners like Air Canada’s Aeroplan or United MileagePlus is sparse but occasionally rewarding. For travelers paying cash, round-trip fares can be steep but justify the cost with premium offerings.
3. Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) Business
SWISS is renowned for its award-winning business class, combining elegance, Swiss hospitality, and competitive pricing for flights to London.
Key Features:
- Seats: Spacious fully flat seats with a built-in massage function.
- Dining: Seasonal dishes crafted by top Swiss chefs, paired with fine wines and desserts.
- Lounge Access: Access to exclusive SWISS lounges, such as the Alpine Lounge at Zurich Airport.
- Entertainment: Personal entertainment screens with a monthly updated library of movies and music.
- Extras: Premium amenity kits by Victorinox and exclusive Swiss alpine-inspired onboard fragrances.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Take advantage of their early booking discounts.
- Look for flights via Zurich to access SWISS Business’ affordable fares.
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) Business Class Review
Overview
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) Business Class offers a polished yet mixed experience, blending elements of luxury with notable drawbacks. Flying on their flagship Boeing 777-300ER, passengers can expect thoughtful cabin design, excellent seat options like the coveted “throne” seats, and quality meal presentations. However, the overall service and amenities fall short when compared to leading carriers such as Qatar Airways or Singapore Airlines.
Booking & Ground Experience
SWISS Business Class tickets are premium-priced, though redemption options offer some value if booked strategically. Lounge access for Business Class passengers at Zurich Airport is generally limited to the Business Lounge, while those with Star Alliance Gold status gain access to the superior Senator Lounge. The Senator Lounge features an open-air terrace and Whisky Club 28/10, offering an impressive whisky selection, but food options are limited. Boarding at Zurich is often described as chaotic, with unclear procedures and frequent delays.
Cabin & Seat Design
SWISS Business Class features a staggered layout alternating between 1-2-2 and 2-2-1 configurations. The standout “throne” seats, offering unparalleled privacy and storage, are a highlight but come at a premium for advance selection. Couples might prefer window pairs, while solo travelers should aim for the throne seats for maximum comfort.
The seat aesthetics impress with wood finishes, thoughtful lighting, and a sense of exclusivity. However, certain design quirks, such as limited enclosed storage and the shared console for paired seats, might inconvenience some travelers. The fully-flat bed extends comfortably for most passengers, though taller individuals may find the footwell snug.
Food & Beverage
SWISS delivers a solid dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients. Pre-departure champagne and well-presented meals set a positive tone. Highlights include expertly prepared main courses like beef tenderloin and desserts such as tiramisu crafted in partnership with Nespresso. However, the overly salty seasoning on some dishes detracts from the experience.
A significant drawback is the lack of a robust second meal service on longer flights, with offerings such as small salads leaving passengers hungry. Mid-flight snack options are also minimal, and beverages like espresso are inconsistently served.
Inflight Entertainment & Connectivity
The inflight entertainment system is satisfactory, with a selection of recent films and TV shows, but it may not compare to the expansive libraries of other premium carriers. The inclusion of external cameras is a nice touch. SWISS offers inflight Wi-Fi at reasonable rates, with the added benefit of allowing media sharing via messaging apps. However, speeds may vary.
Amenities & Service
The amenity kits, though eco-friendly, are underwhelming, and the absence of slippers or mattress pads in Business Class is disappointing. Service onboard is polite but lacks the attentiveness and warmth of top-tier airlines. Crew communication is inconsistent, with lapses such as forgetting passengers’ requests and coats. Cleanliness and maintenance of lavatories, however, are commendable.
Verdict
SWISS Business Class offers a refined and visually appealing experience, particularly for passengers fortunate enough to secure a throne seat. The thoughtful design and quality meals make it a compelling choice for certain routes. However, the inconsistent service, underwhelming second meal offerings, and limited amenities prevent it from standing out among the best Business Class products.
While it’s worth flying SWISS Business Class if you value aesthetics and privacy, those seeking comprehensive luxury and exemplary service might find better options with carriers like Qatar Airways, Etihad, or Singapore Airlines.
4. ITA Airways Business Class
ITA Airways, the flagship airline of Italy, provides a refined business-class experience on its flights to London, often with excellent prices for travelers from the USA.
Key Features:
- Seats: Lie-flat seats with direct aisle access and a wellness-focused design.
- Dining: Italian haute cuisine, including dishes by Michelin-starred chefs and regional wine pairings.
- Lounge Access: Lounges at major Italian airports featuring luxury amenities and dining.
- Entertainment: 17-inch screens with on-demand content and Wi-Fi for uninterrupted connectivity.
- Extras: Elegant amenity kits with premium skincare products and wellness items.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Search for tickets during promotional periods.
- Consider connecting through Rome or Milan to save on costs.
Review of ITA Airways Business Class: A Refined Experience in the Skies
ITA Airways Business Class is redefining the premium flying experience for European carriers with its sophisticated service, elegant design, and unparalleled culinary offerings. Whether on long-haul flights aboard the Airbus A330-900neo or shorter trips on the A321neo, ITA delivers a slice of Italy in the skies.
Cabin Design and Comfort
ITA Airways’ cabins are a celebration of Italian luxury. The A330-900neo features a 1-2-1 configuration with Thompson Vantage XL seats, offering direct aisle access, a fully flat bed, and a refined cream-and-blue color scheme reminiscent of high-end Italian sports cars. Notable features include:
- Wide seats (19.7 inches) with excellent padding and adjustable controls.
- Ample workspace, including a large side shelf and tray table.
- Functional USB-A and USB-C ports, noise-canceling headphones, and a high-quality reading light.
The A321neo’s reverse herringbone layout offers an intimate 1-1 configuration with expansive footwells, AC power outlets, and stunning aesthetics. For solo travelers, this setup is one of the most private and spacious available on narrow-body aircraft.
Culinary Excellence
ITA Airways excels in its in-flight dining, emphasizing Italian culinary tradition. Long-haul passengers enjoy multi-course meals, including:
- Aperitifs with authentic Italian beverages like Campari Spritz.
- Fresh pasta dishes, prepared with locally inspired ingredients.
- Main courses featuring expertly cooked Italian proteins and vegetables.
- Decadent desserts, such as lemon delizia sponge cake.
Shorter flights are equally indulgent. The A321neo offers full-course meals with options like mushroom goulash and handmade maccheroncelli. The inclusion of Italian espresso and wine pairings elevates the dining experience.
Onboard Amenities
Passengers are treated to a range of thoughtful amenities:
- Plush bedding and comfortable pillows, even on shorter flights.
- QC Terme travel kits, featuring luxurious spa products.
- An easy-to-navigate IFE system with Bluetooth pairing for personal headphones.
Wi-Fi is available but falls short in speed, making it one of ITA’s few weak points.
Service and Ground Experience
ITA’s service exudes pride and professionalism. Crew members are attentive, knowledgeable, and committed to showcasing the best of Italian hospitality. Ground services, particularly at Rome Fiumicino Airport, include:
- Lounge access to the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, known for its freshly cooked Napoli-style pizzas and Aperol Spritz.
- Priority check-in and boarding.
Pricing and Value
Business Class fares are competitive, often priced below industry leaders like British Airways or Lufthansa. Travelers can use Virgin Atlantic Flying Club points to secure excellent value redemptions, starting at 60,000 points one-way for long-haul flights.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impeccable Italian-inspired dining.
- Luxurious seating with thoughtful design details.
- Exceptional service and attention to detail.
- Affordable cash and award pricing for premium experiences.
Cons:
- Limited Wi-Fi functionality.
- Modest in-flight entertainment options.
- No Champagne offering, which might disappoint connoisseurs.
5. American Airlines Flagship Business
American Airlines’ Flagship Business service combines comfort and affordability for transatlantic flights to London.
Key Features:
- Seats: Fully flat seats with direct aisle access and privacy dividers.
- Dining: Multi-course meals curated by celebrity chefs with premium wine options.
- Lounge Access: Access to Flagship Lounges in major U.S. airports for exclusive amenities.
- Entertainment: Seatback screens with a broad selection of movies, TV shows, and music.
- Extras: Pillows, blankets, and amenity kits for added comfort.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Use AAdvantage miles or upgrade options for cost-effective luxury.
- Book during the airline’s flash sales for business-class tickets.
Review of American Airlines Flagship Business Class on the Boeing 777
American Airlines’ Flagship Business Class, especially on the Boeing 777, is a mixed bag of impressive perks and some areas needing improvement. Here’s a detailed analysis of the experience based on recent reviews.
Cabin and Seating
The Flagship Business Class cabin on the Boeing 777 offers a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for all passengers. The seats, a mix of Safran Cirrus and Safran Concept D designs, cater to privacy and comfort.
- Pros:
- Fully flatbed seats, spacious and ideal for long-haul flights.
- Ample shoulder room and semi-open footwells, a perk compared to cramped designs on other airlines.
- Adjustable privacy shields, perfect for solo travelers or those seated in the center.
- Easy access to USB and universal power ports for charging.
- Cons:
- The seats’ age shows, especially in tech features like the entertainment screens.
- Some seats “rock” when the adjacent seat moves, which can be disturbing for light sleepers.
- Limited storage options, which might inconvenience passengers with multiple carry-ons.
Entertainment and Wi-Fi
American Airlines scores well in its entertainment offerings:
- In-Flight Entertainment (IFE):
- An extensive library of movies, TV shows, and music.
- High-quality Bang & Olufsen headphones provided.
- However, some passengers reported issues with malfunctioning screens or headphones.
- Wi-Fi:
- Panasonic Wi-Fi available for $35 for the entire flight with no data caps.
- Speeds are reliable, a marked improvement over earlier feedback.
Dining Experience
The dining service in Flagship Business Class is a highlight, especially for U.S.-based airlines:
- Meal Quality:
- Pre-departure champagne and post-takeoff mixed nuts set the tone.
- Multiple-course meals with appetizers like Caprese salad or shrimp.
- Entrées such as pistachio-crusted lamb or golden roasted chicken were generally well-received.
- Desserts:
- The iconic ice cream sundae is a crowd favorite, with customizable toppings.
- Improvements Needed:
- Some inconsistency in meal quality, with certain dishes appearing overcooked.
- Service hiccups, like wrong orders, though these were usually resolved.
Service and Amenities
Service quality can vary significantly based on the crew, but exceptional experiences stand out:
- Highlights:
- Attentive flight attendants like “Arthur,” who ensure a seamless and pleasant experience.
- Regular drink refills and proactive service.
- Amenities include a well-stocked kit with D.S. & DURGA products and plush bedding by Casper.
- Drawbacks:
- Inconsistent service quality across flights, with some crews perceived as disengaged.
- Missing perks like pajamas or mattress toppers, which competitors often provide.
Ground Experience
- Lounges:
- Access to the Flagship Lounge offers premium dining and quiet spaces to relax.
- Complimentary champagne and high-quality food make the lounge a strong pre-flight perk.
- Check-In:
- Priority check-in and boarding streamline the process but are sometimes marred by indifferent staff.
Overall Verdict
American Airlines’ Flagship Business Class on the 777 is a competitive transatlantic product, particularly in its:
- Comfortable seats (despite their age).
- Extensive entertainment and solid Wi-Fi.
- Exceptional dining options and attentive service (on good days).
However, it falls short in consistency, with occasional service lapses and outdated cabin features. The upcoming fleet updates with Flagship Suites promise to elevate the product further.
Rating: 4/5
For passengers who prioritize comfort and service, American Airlines’ Flagship Business Class offers excellent value, particularly on routes where it competes with European carriers. For the best experience, carefully select your seat and temper expectations for consistent service.
6. Delta Air Lines Delta One
Delta Air Lines’ Delta One class offers a seamless luxury experience for flights to London, often with competitive pricing.
Key Features:
- Seats: Lie-flat seats with adjustable settings and privacy partitions.
- Dining: Farm-to-table-inspired meals paired with curated wine lists.
- Lounge Access: Access to Delta Sky Clubs with premium dining and workspaces.
- Entertainment: Extensive library of movies, shows, and music with seatback screens.
- Extras: High-quality bedding and amenity kits from premium brands.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Use SkyMiles to reduce ticket costs.
- Monitor Delta’s international fare promotions, especially during off-peak travel seasons.
7. United Airlines Polaris Business
United Airlines’ Polaris Business Class provides a luxurious yet cost-effective option for travelers heading to London.
Key Features:
- Seats: Fully flat seats with direct aisle access and Saks Fifth Avenue bedding.
- Dining: Multi-course meals with regionally inspired flavors and premium beverages.
- Lounge Access: Polaris lounges in select airports with private workspaces and gourmet dining.
- Entertainment: State-of-the-art seatback screens and noise-canceling headphones.
- Extras: Custom amenity kits with skincare products and travel essentials.
Best Tips for Booking:
- Use MileagePlus points for upgrades or discounted fares.
- Keep an eye on Polaris-exclusive sales for transatlantic flights.
Tips for Finding Affordable Business-Class Tickets
- Book Early: Airlines often offer the lowest fares several months in advance.
- Use Points or Miles: Redeeming loyalty points can significantly reduce the cost.
- Monitor Flash Sales: Airlines frequently host short-term sales with substantial discounts.
- Consider Stopovers: Indirect routes can offer cheaper business-class options.
- Check Travel Apps: Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track price trends.
- Look for Bundles: Packages combining flights and hotels can reduce overall costs.
- Travel Off-Peak: Fly during less busy times of the year for lower fares.
Conclusion
Traveling in business class to London doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for a few. By choosing the right airline and following smart booking strategies, you can enjoy premium travel experiences without overspending. Whether it’s the elegance of British Airways, the culinary delights of ITA Airways, or the all-around comfort of Delta One, there’s a business-class option to suit your needs and budget. Happy travels!
