Virgin Atlantic (Upper Class)

Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class cabin is something that differs from your average airline’s business/first class cabin. Their cabin takes innovation at the helm and along with first-class service, creates a unique air travel experience that has yet to be matched by other airlines. Oh and photos don’t do it justice, you have to be there to experience it. Plus my camera broke... which I was not at all happy about.

Picture this…

Upon arrival at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 3; you’ll find an exclusive check-in area just for passengers travelling in Upper Class. That being said, many people take advantage of the Chauffeur Service between your home and the airport; where you actually check-in for your flight from the car! This is usually available when you book a fully-flexible Upper Class ticket; however always check before you book!

Once I had received my boarding pass and dropped off my suitcase, it was time to step into a private elevator and enter the Upper Class Wing; which includes fast-track through security and access to the famous Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, details of which are below.

The fast-track security channel must have saved me a precious fifteen minutes or so on a busy Saturday morning. I stopped off at a couple of shops on my way to the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse; which is signposted as “Lounge H” in the airport. I walked up the staircase and was greeted by a host who will checked my boarding pass and escorted me in to the lounge.

The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

As you enter, you’ll find a large open space full of a separate games, dining, bar and quiet areas decorated using inviting colours and sublime tones. Why not start off your day with a fresh, cooked-to-order breakfast or choose from an array of fresh pastries, deli meats and fruits, then perhaps visit one of the longest bars to be found at an airport where you can order your favourite cocktail and then admire views of the runway in the distance.

I ended up enjoying a spot of breakfast and a couple of soft-drinks before my flight… it was such a relaxing way to start my trip; that I could have quite happily stayed there all day… but I had a plane to catch. When your flight is ready for boarding, an announcement is made over the public address system inviting you to proceed to the gate for immediate boarding.

The Upper Class Cabin

As soon as I stepped on board the aircraft, the cabin crew greeted me by name, took my coat and directed me to my allocated seat; or suite as I like to think of it. I was then free to sit back, relax, enjoy a “welcome aboard” beverage and then prepare for take-off.

The actual size and configuration of the Upper Class cabin varies depending on the aircraft, but usually it sports a features a 3-“suite” configuration. Each “suite” consists of a large and incredibly comfortable leather seat which can be adjusted by the touch of a button. There is also a small ottoman which provides a great footrest, storage space, and can also be used by any guests popping over for a visit. Other amenities include a pull-out large television screen and remote control. At the touch of a button the seat flips over to become one of the longest fully flat beds in the aviation industry, which is incredibly comfortable... like you are sleeping on clouds! You’ll find a magazine, complimentary bottle of still water and a dining menu located in the seat-pocket. Oh, and there is actually a walk-up bar on board... I'm not kidding, I couldn't believe it at first either!

About ten minutes after departing from Heathrow it was time for the signature Upper Class Service to begin.
The crew passed through offering hot-towels and a pre-dinner drinks service which was accompanied by some nibbles. I then took the opportunity to look through the menu.

There was a selection of 2-3 options for the Appetiser, Entrees and Dessert with at least one of each course that is suitable for vegetarians; plus if you had any dietary requirements the crew would have known this beforehand and could advise you accordingly on what it suitable. The dining experience at 30,000 feet was presented on a large table which comes out of the wall, set-out as though I was in The Wolsely rather than in the air.

I enjoyed a warm, hearty tomato soup for my first course and then a generous bowl of sweet chilli chicken noodles, both of which were good. For my dessert I thoroughly enjoyed the warm apple tart with a generous helping on vanilla ice cream. Once I had finished, my table was be cleared and then I decided to check out the V-PORT in-flight entertainment system, which was actually quite good with a lot of choice.

Throughout the flight, the crew were always on hand at the touch of a button and always passed through offering drinks since it is important that you stay hydrated when flying. A lot of passengers made-use of the bar located at the back of the Upper Class Cabin... however I decided to just rest in my suite.

If I was feeling hungry, all I had to do was take a look at the menu and order from a selection of light bites available which included burgers, sandwiches, or a slice from the cake of the day. Although the crew also passed through with a movie-time treat halfway through the flight which was well received.

Shortly before our arrival into Los Angeles, I was lucky to experience the airlines signature afternoon tea service consisting of freshly-made sandwiches, cakes, chocolate and a choice of tea and coffee.

My verdict

Overall my Upper Class experience between London Heathrow and Los Angeles in 2012 was rather impressive, needless to say I wish I could have experienced the “high-life” on the inbound journey and take full advantage of the flat-bed! The cabin crew were friendly and the food was of a very high quality. It has been a couple of years since I flew with Virgin Atlantic; therefore I am hopeful to be flying “red” in the future so I can see how the experience has changed and conduct a more in-depth review, similar to my more recent ones.

Disclaimer: I was able to experience Upper Class on a standby basis. Prior to this, I previously held a ticket in Economy.