NigerianFLIGHTDECK Travel and Business Reportage
BRITISH Airways has opened its exclusive new check-in area for First customers and Executive Club Gold cardholders, including a dedicated two-lane security channel with direct access for the first time to British Airways’ flagship Concorde Room or Galleries First lounge.
The First Wing gives First customers far greater privacy and exclusivity with a dedicated combined check-in and Fast Track space. This is thanks to a specially designed 29-metre long, three metre high, fluted curved wall made up of hundreds of individual pale gold-coloured steel scallop forms to wrap around the enhanced check-in area.
The centre-piece is a chandelier wall – a glass and mirrored feature carrying the British Airways coat of arms, at the entrance to The First Wing, which leads to two entrances; one for Executive Club Gold card and oneworld Emerald members, and one for First customers.
The two new Fast Track security lanes also reduce the number of travellers passing through the current Fast Track security lanes, helping to speed up the journey for Club World customers. A relaxed seating area is located after security for customers to gather their possessions in a relaxed atmosphere.
British Airways, Country General Manager, Nigeria, Mr. Kola Olayinka said, “Terminal 5 is our flagship home and The First Wing delivers an exclusive airport experience, as our First customers rightly expect. “Now they can enjoy a discreet and private check-in area, with new security lanes offering direct access to our exclusive Galleries First Lounge and Concorde Room for the first time.”
Mr. Kola further said, “We are delighted to be enhancing the passenger experience in Terminal 5 with an extension of our Fast Track security service within the British Airways premium check in area. The new space gives passengers a smooth and enjoyable experience every time they fly through Heathrow.”
British Airways also offers customers flying in First a sophisticated and stylish suite, featuring a contemporary British design, allowing them to work, relax, dine and sleep in comfort. As well as a bespoke service from attentive cabin crew, à la carte dining, fine wines and champagne, customers can also unwind in their 6’ 6” fully-flat bed to feel revived and refreshed once their flight arrives at its destination.
Last year British Airways introduced its new enhanced First cabin on its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, offering a more exclusive cabin, with just eight suites on board.
