Eurobusiness seating - I don't get it.

[samh004]

Did a few flights in Europe about six months ago on TK and LH. It really is a bit of a shock to see what passes for European business class. Certainly not something that I'd pay for with my own money, or points for that matter. This was particularly so since I already have *A Gold and so already get pretty much all the other non-on board benefits anyway.

As far as QF earning I've heard the general idea is to wait for an email offering an upgrade for a lower overall price to J, simply to get the extra SC offered. Hardly the best reason though.

 

[anat0l]

Being a bit pedantic - but from flying 100s of intra-Europe flights in business class since 1985, it's always been called C-class.

Perhaps to differentiate between true long-haul J-class?

Perhaps. Most of us in Australia are used to seeing J in terms of Qantas and oneworld... I do know most of the rest of the world tends to use C. Force of habit (we are also one of the few countries to drive on the left side of the road, and use a fairly rare electrical plug type).

 

[smit0847]

It should be noted that, I believe across the carriers in the USA, with the possible exception of Virgin America, lounge access is not granted to pax who purchase a domestic First class ticket. In addition, elite members of a USA-based carrier's FFP (with one exception I know of) do not normally get lounge access on wholly North American itineraries. Once you get into a lounge, there isn't usually a lot in terms of food. The bar is usually adequate to quite good (don't forget to tip the bartender!).

This is a very interesting point. I read with horror this post on FT of what happened to an AA EXP on a paid F DOM ticket when he missed his connecting flight due to AA mechanical issues. FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - A Consultants life. Tales from the road at 35,000ft.

I've fortunately never been in this situation but I imagine that in Australia, for a pax with status on QF or VA (regardless of your fare), if you miss your connection because of the airlines issue I would be going straight to the Lounge/QP and letting them sort it out there. I certainly wouldn't be waiting on some newbie at the gate to try and help me.

I imagine with the fantastic MEL lounge angels you would be invited to sit down, have a drink and relax in the Lounge while they sorted it out - they would then come and tell you what was happening when they had sorted - none of this hanging around the gate waiting for a hotel voucher.

What status pax done in these situations?

 

[seanpodge]

As far as QF earning I've heard the general idea is to wait for an email offering an upgrade for a lower overall price to J, simply to get the extra SC offered. Hardly the best reason though.

True. About the only thing I missed was the points. Most of my flying is long haul international though, so I don't tend to worry much about points for short flights.

 

[BoyZeus]

Looks like IB are introducing a new business product for their medium-haul flights. Maybe more EU destinations to come?

 

[BoyZeus]

Iberia: Business Club class - YouTube

 

[anat0l]

Looks like IB are introducing a new business product for their medium-haul flights. Maybe more EU destinations to come?

Not quite holding my breath that they will roll the same product for shorthaul Europe, though if it happens it should be good. Would definitely eclipse their larger IAG partner.