British Airways 787 economy review Flight Duration: 6 hours 55 minutes
Departure Time: 10:45AM, lands at LHR Terminal 5 at 14:40 local time (-4 hours)
Aircraft: Boeing 787 Dreamliner (3-3-3 seat configuration)
Flight Number: BA0072
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To read a similar review, then you can find our Etihad Airbus A380 Economy Class review here.
Booking and Value: British Airways 787 Economy Review
For our British Airways 787 economy review, return tickets cost £520, which is solid value compared to the hefty £1,200 for premium economy and an eye watering £2,700 for business class. Only two airlines operate direct between London Heathrow and Abu Dhabi, Etihad and BA. Etihad offer four flights per day, while BA run one daily service. Given the limited competition, £520 return with a full-service airline feels fair value for money.
Boarding Process and Timing
I really do love Abu Dhabi Airport. It is an excellent terminal which always looks spotless, with impressive architecture. The boarding process was seamless and the departure was right on schedule.
We reviewed the Pearl Lounge at Abu Dhabi’s terminal A. You can read this review here.
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London Hotel Options
If you are flying early, arriving late, or connecting through Heathrow, staying nearby keeps things simple. If you are heading into the city, Central London is best for sightseeing. See below for excellent hotel deals on Booking.com, filtered based on our top picks.
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Seat Comfort on British Airways Boeing 787 Economy
The cabin was spotless and well presented during our British Airways 787 economy review. Economy seats feature a standard 31 inch pitch and 17.5 inch width, identical to Etihad on this same route. This seat pitch is also identical to BA’s main trans-Atlantic competitor, Virgin Atlantic. You can read our Virgin Atlantic economy review here. A pillow, blanket and earphones were provided at every seat, although there was no amenity kit which was available on Etihad. While serviceable, the lack of a footrest did make it a little less comfortable for a seven hour flight. Adjustable headrests helped, but overall space was average for long haul economy. It is worth noting that BA’s newer A350 aircraft offer a slightly wider 18 inch seat, but this flight’s Dreamliner sticks with the narrower fit.
In-Flight Entertainment British Airways 787 Economy Review
The IFE system was a little sluggish and the content was actually quite limited in comparison to other airlines that I have reviewed, such as China Southern and Qantas. The interactive map was also disappointing and unresponsive. There were no aircraft cameras or timezone information, which was available when I reviewed Etihad’s Economy Class.
Food and Drink on British Airways 787 Economy
BA’s bar service is always one of their strong points in economy. Around 15 minutes after the seatbelt sign went off, the first drinks service began with a wide selection, aviation gin, wines, beers, soft drinks, all available except champagne. They also served pretzels with this drinks service. I had the Speedbird Brewdog IPA which was delicious (plus I loved the BA branding)! The staff were generous, never hesitating if you asked for two drinks, and they came round again promptly with dinner. A further drinks service followed, keeping passengers well looked after.
During our British Airways 787 economy review, the food itself was presented on one tray and was edible, though not memorable. To start was a pretty flavourless chickpea salad. The main course options consisted of either a Chicken Biryani curry or pasta with tomato sauce. The curry was quite dry as there was not enough sauce, but it was tasty enough. Desert was a little pot of cheesecake which was by far the highlight of the meal. There was also a cold bread roll and some cheese and crackers, so there was plenty of food to fill you up. The second service was disappointing, a cup of tea or coffee accompanied by a small dry chicken tikka wrap hardly filled the gap before landing. This is where BA cuts corners a little on shorter long haul flights. This is no different to Etihad though, which is the only airline competitor on the London to Abu Dhabi route.
Cleanliness and Onboard Facilities
The toilets were well maintained throughout our British Airways 787 economy review, with crew keeping everything tidy and stocked. The Dreamliner’s cabin mood lighting made for a pleasant environment and contributed to a calm atmosphere. On this route, I would personally choose Etihad as their food and entertainment systems far exceed the British Airways economy offering.
Judging Parameters British Airways 787 Economy Review:
Overall, this British Airways 787 economy review shows a perfectly serviceable long haul product that does the job but rarely impresses. Strong bar service and a tidy cabin are let down by underwhelming food and a weak in flight entertainment system, making it a reasonable option rather than a standout choice on this route. Our Etihad economy review on the same route outperformed the British Airways offering and our Virgin economy review also scored higher on a different route.
• Value for Money: 8/10
• Staff: 7/10
• Food and Drink: 5/10 (Great bar service, underwhelming meals)
• Entertainment: 4/10
• Seat Comfort: 6/10
The Airport Lounge Bro Flight Rating: 6/10
British Airways 787 Economy Review FAQs
Is British Airways 787 economy worth it?
This British Airways 787 economy review shows a solid but unremarkable long haul product. Seat comfort is average, the bar service is strong, but food quality and in flight entertainment fall behind competitors such as Etihad on the same route.
What is the seat pitch on British Airways 787 economy?
British Airways Boeing 787 economy seats offer a standard seat pitch of around 31 inches with a seat width of approximately 17.5 inches. This is typical for long haul economy but can feel restrictive on flights over six hours.
Does British Airways serve alcohol in economy class?
Yes, British Airways provides complimentary alcoholic drinks in economy class on the Boeing 787, including beer, wine, spirits, and signature options such as Speedbird Brewdog IPA on long haul routes.
How does British Airways 787 economy compare to Etihad?
In this British Airways 787 economy review, Etihad generally offers better food quality and a stronger in flight entertainment system on the Abu Dhabi to London route, while British Airways performs better with its drinks service and consistency.
Does British Airways economy include an amenity kit?
British Airways does not provide an amenity kit in economy class on the Boeing 787. Passengers receive a pillow, blanket, and headphones, but no additional toiletries.
To explore our ever growing list of flight reviews, you can find them here.
To access VIP airport lounges even with an economy class ticket, compare Priority Pass membership (up to 20% off through our link) versus a one-off lounge booking at LoungePass using the buttons below.
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