British Airways is to install what it describes as the world’s largest business class cabin on its Airbus A380, increasing the number of Club World seats while removing almost 90 standard economy seats.
The changes form part of a wider overhaul of the airline’s fleet and ground services, including lounges at its London Heathrow hub. They reflect the growing focus among airlines on passengers willing to pay more for additional space and luxury.
British Airways A380 business class cabin to expand
The revised A380 layout will contain 106 business class seats, up from 97 in the current configuration. The aircraft’s first-class cabin will also be refreshed, although the number of suites will fall from 14 to 12.
Premium economy will expand substantially, rising from 55 seats to 84. Economy capacity, meanwhile, will be cut from 303 seats to 215.
The changes will be introduced across British Airways’ fleet of 12 A380s, representing a significant commitment to the double-decker aircraft at a time when many airlines have moved towards smaller, more fuel-efficient jets.
Airbus delivered the final A380 to Emirates, the aircraft’s biggest operator, in late 2021. British Airways’ refurbishment therefore amounts to a bet on continuing demand for the superjumbo, particularly among higher-spending passengers.
Airlines have been expanding premium cabins for years, with roomier seats commanding sizeable additional charges. Extra legroom on transatlantic flights can cost more than 200 US dollars each way, while premium economy surcharges of more than 1,000 dollars can apply after a ticket has been purchased.
The most expensive seats can cost 5,000 dollars or more, and exceed 10,000 dollars on longer journeys when selected at the time of booking.
British Airways’ joint-venture partner American Airlines unveiled a 70-seat business class cabin on its largest Boeing aircraft last month, underlining the competition for customers prepared to pay for a more comfortable journey.
The push into more elaborate premium seating has also created delays to deliveries of new aircraft, as airlines have waited for components or certification for some of the redesigned cabins.
