Class Act 2013

CLass Act 2013

EVERYTHING you need to travel the world in style

Globility

Advertising

In the Know

W

e’ve reached out, researched, gathered data and crunched numbers to bring you this year’s Class Act Guide, a comprehensive collection of everything you need to know about the first- and business-class cabins of airlines around the world. Fully flat or almost-flat seats?

Check. WiFi? Check. Dedicated lounges?

In-flight programming? Amenity kits?

Check. Check. Check.

Since its inception 10 years ago, Global Traveler readers have relied on this annual guide to ascertain their best options for air travel. The user-friendly format makes it easy to compare airline to airline based on regions served, aircraft and amenities.

This year, we also bring you a retrospective on the evolution of luggage, from super-heavy steamer trunks to über-light Rollaboards. Plus, we take a look at the efforts airlines make to ensure their lounges offer a home-away-from-home respite from the hurry-up-andwait routine of modern travel, and we take a peek behind the galley curtains to reveal the secrets to overcoming the challenges inherent with serving world-class cuisine at 35,000 feet. We also take an around-the-world look at some of the most heralded hotel openings in the past year and, as usual, provide a round-up of airline premium-economy-class offerings.

Be sure to pack this year’s guide in your briefcase and download the GT App for easy access wherever your travels take you.

Publisher/CEO Francis X. Gallagher tel 267 364 5811 ext 200 fran.gallagher@globaltravelerusa.com Executive Vice President Danielle Hudena Pitonyak tel 267 364 5811 ext 205 tel 267 884 1650 danielle.pitonyak@globaltravelerusa.com Senior Vice President Richard T. Evans tel 267 364 5811 ext 203 dick.evans@globaltravelerusa.com Vice President CARLY N. ALLEN tel 267 495 6287 carly.allen@globaltravelerusa.com Advertising Manager MARK BRANLE tel 267 364 5811 ext 210 | cell 215 932 8328 mark.branle@globaltravelerusa.com Advertising Manager Doug Shingleton tel 267 798 6167 doug.shingleton@globaltravelerusa.com Regional Manager, Asia Felix Cheng tel 852 917 67 177 felix.cheng@globaltravelerusa.com Digital Coordinator and Account Executive Robert Setzman tel 267 364 5811 ext 212 | cell 215 301 6869 rob.setzman@globaltravelerusa.com Advertising and Editorial Coordinator MONIQUE BARRETT tel 267 364 5811 ext 201 monique.barrett@globaltravelerusa.com

International Representatives China Alexander Glos tel 86 21 6095 6570/71 | fax 86 21 6095 6574 aglos@i2i-m.com.cn

Scandinavia Will Nicholson tel 46 7 68 94 86 02 will@vision-network.eu

France, The Netherlands Jeremy Praderio-Regie tel 09 54 20 09 50 | cell 06 07 96 54 15 j.praderio@pema-group.com

South Africa margie ogilvy tel 27 44 384 0800 | ogilvy@mweb.co.za

Germany michaela justi tel 49 69 56 02 01 21 | fax 49 69 56 02 01 23 | cell 49 171 20 29 502 justi@mediasalescompany.de Greece nikos karambinis tel 30 21 0691 5650 n.karambinis@impact-media.gr

Lisa Matte, Editor in Chief

India Maitreyee B. Angelo tel 630 357 4833 | cell 630 631 3121 mbangelo@gmail.com Japan Hidetada Kochi tel 81 3 3222 7811 | fax 81 3 3234 1140 kochi@mediahs.com Mexico fernando palacios tel 55 3300 7815 | fax 55 3300 5510 cell 55 5217 7435 fernando.palacios@borderlinemx.com

Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter @GTmag

South Korea jeff hwang tel 82 31 703 7782 | fax 82 010 6347 9117 gng@gngcom.co.kr Spain Luis Andrade tel 34 91 4416 266 | fax 34 91 4416 549 landrade@luisandrade.com Taiwan debbi lee tel 886 2 25001201 | fax 886 2 25001598 debbilee@evergreen.com.tw Thailand nartnittha jirarayapong tel 6626 355185 ext 14 | cell 6681 6438923 noo@njintermedia.com Turkey Gurkan Kinaci tel 90 212 559 9670 | fax 90 212 661 7660 cell 90 532 213 0390 gurkan@divamed.net United Kingdom joanna percy tel 44 207 286 6048 | cell 44 778 556 3050 joanna@jpmediasales.com

Philippines lorie fernandez tel 632 687 5699 | fax 632 635 7882 lorie@eastgateph.com

CORPORATE OFFICE

310 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067 tel 267 364 5811 | fax 267 364 5796

contents

Globility

Class Act 2013

®

EDITORIAL Editor in Chief LISA MATTE lisa.matte@globaltravelerusa.com tel 781 331 5423 Managing Editor K imberly Krol kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.com Digital Media Manager KATIE SKRZEK katie.skrzek@globaltravelerusa.com Senior Editor J ANICE HECHT jan.hecht@globaltravelerusa.com Associate Editor/Copy Editor Patricia Vanikiotis patty.vanikiotis@globaltravelerusa.com eFlyer Editor MONIQUE BARRETT monique.barrett@globaltravelerusa.com

ART

6 33

Art Director TRACEY

CULLEN tracey.cullen@globaltravelerusa.com Staff Photographer CHRISTOPHER P. OTTAUNICK christopher@globaltravelerusa.com

6 Upper Class Airlines get creative with amenities and services to attract the most discerning passengers.

BY KIMBERLY KROL 30 Premium Economy Is the ‘something extra’ worth the extra price?

BY KARIN LEPERI

40

33 Home Away from Home Airport lounges transform into luxurious getaways for travelers in transit.

BY SUSAN FINCH 40 Hot Nights Hotel openings around the world offer travelers the right stuff.

BY LISA MATTE 44 The Things We Carry From steamer trunk to high-tech trolley, luggage evolved to meet the demands of travelers.

BY JACKIE IGNALL 47 Magic in the Air With teams of culinary experts, airlines overcome obstacles to offer world-class in-flight dining experiences.

BY BETH BLAIR COVER PHOTO: Etihad's First CLass Lounge at Dulles Airport, Washington, D.C. PHOTO: © Christopher P. Ottaunick

4 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

Special Events Video Editor VANCE PICCIN

Contributors BETH BLAIR SUSAN FINCH JACKIE IGNALL KARIN LEPERI For complete bios, visit globaltravelerusa.com

Circulation Specialists John Wroblewski, louie atsaves Managers JAYHAWK EVANS, MARK P. FORD, TERESA JACKSON, ANTHONY “SCRAPS" DIMERA Circulation Director Michele Shannon Circulation Manager Anna Pudzianowski Research Consultant Sharon Sterne

Advisory Board Chairman Michael Donahue President Carlos Cappuccio COO Michael Kiely Treasurer Kevin Ryan Secretary Stephen Doherty Vice President Asia Edward Jefferson Vice President Europe Wayne Tallman Vice President Latin America/Mexico/Caribbean Frank LoVerme Vice President Middle East/Africa Gary Oswald Vice President Special Events and Photography Christopher Ottaunick

Contact Us General Inquiries/Issue Requests tel 267 364 5811 Subscriptions tel 818 286 3134 | gbtcs@magserv.com Public Relations Kimberly Krol tel 267 364 5811 ext 202 | kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.com Letters to the Editor letters@globaltravelerusa.com Reprints Ed Kane | FosteReprints tel 800 382 0808 ext 31 edk@fosterprinting.com Global Traveler is published monthly by FXExpress Publications, Inc., 310 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067. The U.S. subscription rate is $42 for one year, $79.95 for two years, $121.95 for three years.

Postmaster: Please send changes of address to Global Traveler, 310 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067

globaltravelerusa.com

Upper Class

Airlines get creative with amenities and services to attract the most discerning passengers. By Kimberly Krol

I

n the never-ending quest to offer the very best premium cabins in the friendly skies, airlines continue to up the ante.

In a day and age where lie-flat seats, luxurious amenity kits and 5-star cuisine in flight are de rigueur, airlines must become even more creative to attract discerning passengers who know what they want when it comes to the world’s first- and businessclass cabins. Business travelers especially know the importance of a restful, comfortable flight; work demands they hit the ground running, and it all starts with the flight.

Those travelers are much like you, our readers, making an average of 32 flights per year both internationally and domestically and opting to fly first and business class on every flight.

In an effort to ease your decision-making process — and with so many airlines around the globe and so many varied offerings, it can be overwhelming — we have compiled the charts you’ll find on the following pages. Which airline’s amenities

6 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

TOP NOTCH: Japan Airlines' first-class cabin PHOTO: © JAL

and perks best suit your business — or leisure — travel needs?

You’ll find all your questions answered in our comprehensive charts. We know the specifics matter, and our annual first- and business-class surveys contain important information on aircraft type; configuration; seat pitch, width and recline; entertainment options; and lounge information.

Our 10th annual survey includes all the airlines flying between a U.S. destination and another point anywhere in the world. From the more popular airlines to the lesser-known carriers, all the information is in one convenient place. Along with the charts is more information on airlines that have implemented major cabin changes in the past year, and GT Tested flight reviews from some of these very same cabins, reviewed

by GT staff and writers.

EUROPEAN CARRIERS SAW a number of significant cabin changes in 2013. airberlin introduced a new level of comfort in its business-class cabin with the addition of lie-flat seats. Fully adjustable with an integrated massage function, the seat also features ample storage space, shelves and ambient lighting. The 19 seats in a 1-2-1 configuration offer direct aisle access from globaltravelerusa.com

Aircraft

Number of Seats

Layout

Seat Pitch

Seat Width

Recline

Power for Laptop

Adapters Required

Number of Audio Channels

Number of Movies

Number of News Channels

Number of Other Video Programs

WiFi on Board

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

Free WiFi in Lounges

Amenity Kits Included

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

777-200 777-300 A380

4 8 9

1-2-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

82" 82" 82"

21" 21" 21"

180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y

N N N

22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs

85 85 85

3 3 3

42 42 42

N N N

B B B

Y Y Y

Y Y Y

Upcoming Upcoming Upcoming

FIRST CLASS EUROPE AIR FRANCE LA PREMIÈRE

AMERICAN AIRLINES

FLAGSHIP SUITE 777-300 ER 8 1-2-1 63" 21/29" Staggered

777-200 16 1-2-1 64" HB 21/29"

BRITISH AIRWAYs

NEW FIRST

DELTA AIR LINES

FIRST CLASS

EMIRATES* FIRST CLASS

LUFTHANSA

FIRST CLASS

SINGAPORE AIRLINES FIRST CLASS

SWISS INTERNATIONAL AIR LINES

SWISS FIRST

UNITED

747 777

14 17

1-2-1 1-2-1

78" EST 78" EST

Y

N

350+

250

N/A

180+

Y

D

Y

Y

2013

Y

Y

18 + 30 CDs

47

0

140

N

D

Y

Y

Upcoming

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

50 400

100 70

N/R N/R

N/R 23

N N

D D

Y Y

Y Y

N/A 8

2 26

N/A N/A

N/A 2

Y D Y N Y D Y N

757-200 24 2-2 37–38" 21" 130° N/A N 767-300 30 2-2-2 37–38" 18.5" 130° Y N

2010 2010 2004 2006

777-300ER

8

1-2-1

82"

20.5"

180°

Y

Y

800

200

Satellite Updates

450+

N

B

Y

Y

Ongoing

747-800 747-400 A380-800 A340-600 A340-300 A330-300

8 8 8 8 8 8

1-2-1 1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

83" 80–90" 81" 81" 81" 81"

30.5" 31.5" 30.5" 30.5" 30.5" 30.5"

180° 180° 180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N N

30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs

50 30 50 30 30 50

2 2 2 2 2 2

110 110 110 110 110 110

Y Y Y Y Y Y

D D D D D D

Y Y Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y Y Y

2012 2010 2010 2010 2010 2010

A380-800 Suites 12 777-300ER 8

1-2-1 1-2-1

81" 71"

35.25" 35"

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

22 + 795 CDs 22 + 795 CDs

238 238

Multiple Multiple

80+ 80+

Y Y

D D

Y Y

Y Y

N/R N/R

1-2-1 1-2-1

83" 83"

22" 22"

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

16 + 400+ CDs 16 + 400+ CDs

40+ 40+

N N

B B

Y Y

Y Y

2009 2009

180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y 21 Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks

A333 A343

8 8

GLOBAL FIRST 777 12 1-2-1

767 6 1-1-1 * Airline did not reply. Survey 747 12 1-2-1 information was compiled with 777 8 1-2-1 GT research.

N/R N/R N/R N/R

every seat; joining the brand-new seats are individual 15-inch screens with more than 200 hours of entertainment. The menu was developed in conjunction with Sansibar restaurant on the island of Sylt, complemented by Sansibar wines.

Austrian Airlines launched an updated businessclass concept in January 2013. The fully flat seat-bed’s innovative air-cushion system allows passengers to adjust the seat comfort to their own personal preferences. The armrests can fold away for additional space. The individual touch-screen entertainment systems are easy to use, with an intuitive user interface and a plethora of options. An onboard Flying Chef highlights the restaurant-quality food service, and a Flying Coffee House offers 10 freshly prepared classic Austrian coffee specialties.

Currently being rolled out fleet-wide is Iberia’s New Business Plus cabin. Extra-wide seats and a touch screen 50 percent larger than the existing ones are just a few of the enhancements introduced by the Spanish flagship. WiFi and GSM texting capabilities globaltravelerusa.com

23" 23"

180° 180°

21.5" 22" 22" 22"

The Method

50 + TV Programs 15 Games 50 + TV Programs 15 Games

20+ 60 150 150

N/A N/A N/A N/A

6 150+ 150+ 150+

N D Y Y Upcoming Y D Y Y 2009 Y D Y Y 2009 Y D Y Y 2012

KEY

Global Traveler spent months contacting airlines and gathering B Both information.

D Dedicated If we were unable to obtain a response from an airline, we EST Estimate conducted independent research to complete the charts, gatherHB Herringbone ing information from airline websites and reputable sites such as N No SeatGuru.com and SeatExpert.com. All entries completed using N/A Not Applicable GT research are clearly marked with an asterisk after the airline’s N/R No Reply name on the charts. If an airline did not provide information in the form we requested, we used research to complete the charts.

OD On Demand In the event of no response, or if we were not able to accurately S Shared decipher information, we marked the column N/R, for No Reply.

SAT Satellite The relationship between seat pitch and recline is a continSP Special Programming ued debate. At GT, we define pitch as the distance between V Varies the back of your headrest and the headrest in front of you when W Wide Seat Concept the seats are fully upright. We adjust given reclines to meet our Y Yes definition of pitch, which states that based on the average height of an adult male, a seat pitch must be 70 inches or greater to offer a true lie-flat bed of 180 degrees. Airlines continue to reconfigure cabins to fit true lie-flat seats without a full 70-inch pitch; those exceptions are noted in the charts and include airlines with a herringbone, staggered or other unique layout.

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 7

GLOBAL FIRST

US AIRWAYS FIRST CLASS

777 767 747 777 A319 A320 A321 737-400 757 757 E190 E170 E175 CRJ700 CRJ900

N

N

10

11

0

12–15

Y

D

1-2-1 1-1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

12 2-2 12 2-2 16 2-2 12 2-2 14 2-2 12 2-2 11 1-2 9 1-2 8 1-2 9 1-2 9 1-2

VIRGIN AMERICA

FIRST CLASS A320 8 2-2

38" 19.6" 120–130° N/A 37" 19.6" 120–130° Y 37" 19.6" 120–130° Y 36" 21" 120–130° N/A 40–59" 19.4–21" 130° N/A 36" 21" 120–130° N/A 37" 21" 120–130° Y 38" 21" 120–130° Y 38" 21" 120–130° N/A 37–38" 21" 130° N/A 37" 21" 130° N/A 37" 21" 130° N/A 44–46" 21" 130° N/A 38" 21" 120–130° Y 37" 21" 120–130° N/A 37–38" 18.5" 130° Y 37–38" 18.5" 130° Y 36" 19.6" 120–130° N/A 37" 19.6" 120–130° N/A 37" 20" 120–130° N/A 37" 20" 120–130° N/A N/R N/R N/R N/R

21.5" 22" 22" 22"

180° 180° 180° 180°

36" 36" 36" 37" 36" 60" 36" 37" 37" 37" 38"

21" 102° EST 21" 102° EST 21" 102° EST 20.2" 105° EST 20.2" 105° EST 19.5" 160° 21.5" 106° EST 20" N/R 20" N/R 19.6" N/R 19.6" N/R

Y Y Y Y N N N N N Y N N N N N

N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N Y N N N

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 8 8 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 8 N/A 8 8 N/A N/A N/A N/A 21 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Amenity Kits Included

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

Free WiFi in Lounges

WiFi on Board

N 2000 N 2009 N Ongoing N 2009 Y 2008

Number of Other Video Programs

Y Y Y Y Y

Number of News Channels

Y D Y D S D Y D N D

Number of Movies

2013

Number of Audio Channels

Y

Adapters Required

Y

Power for Laptop

N/A

N/R

16 2-2 16 2-2 16 2-2 12 2-2 54 2-2 12 2-2 12 2-2 16 2-2 16 2-2 24 2-2 22 2-2 22 2-2 22 2-2 26 2-2 24 2-2 30 2-2-2 30 2-2-2 9 1-2 12 1-2 9 1-2 12 1-2

12 6 12 8

Y

21"

DELTA AIR LINES

UNITED

N/R

37"

FIRST CLASS A319 8 2-2 38" 22" N/R Y N 350+ 200 180 TV 15 Games

Programs

MD-80 16 2-2 38–40" 19.5" 115° Y Y N/A N/A N/A N/A

767-200 10 2-1-2 62" 20.5" 150° Y Y 16 + 30 CDs 75 0 50

757-200 22/24 2-2 38–39" 21" 115–121° Y N 12 1 0 1

737-800 16 2-2 40–41" 21" 115–121° Y N 12 1 0 1 FLAGSHIP SUITE 777-200 16 1-2-1 64" HB 21/29" 180° Y Y 18 + 30 CDs 47 0 140 DC9-50 MD-88 MD-90 A319 A319 A320 737-700 737-800 738-800 757-200 757-200 757-200 757-200 757-200 757-300 767-300 767-300 CRJ700 CRJ900 E170 E175

N

2-2

AMERICAN AIRLINES

FIRST CLASS

Y

Recline

12–16

Seat Width

737

Seat Pitch

ALASKA FIRST CLASS

Layout

ALASKA AIRLINES*

Aircraft

NORTH AMERICA

Number of Seats

FIRST CLASS

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 26 26 2 2 N/A N/A 2 26 2 26 26 N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 2 2 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 2 N/A 2 2 N/A N/A N/A N/A

Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N N

20+ 60 150 150

N/A N/A N/A N/A

6 150+ 150+ 150+

N Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

Upcoming 2009 2009 2012

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

Y D Y D Y D N D N D N D Y D Y D Y D N D N D

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N N N N N N N

Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing 2012 2011 2011 2011 2011

D D D D

2009 2011 2013 2009 2009 2009 2008 2008 2008 2004 2008 2008 2004 2006 2009 2006 2006 2010 2010 2011 2011

55"

21"

165°

Y

N

10 + 4,000 MP3s

25+

5

50+

Y

B

Y

Y

2007

1-1

62"

21"

170°

Y

N

14

60

N/R

14

N

B

N/R

Y

N/R

1-2-1 1-2-1

82" 82"

23" 23"

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

250 Hrs 250 Hrs

150 Hrs 150 Hrs

1 1

N/R N/R

N N

B B

N N

Y Y

N/R N/R

PACIFIC RIM AIR CHINA*

FORBIDDEN PAVILION

AIR INDIA*

Executive Class

747-400 COMBI 10 777-200LR 777-300ER

8 4

ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS

FIRST CLASS 777-300ER 8 1-2-1 76” EST 33" 180° Y N 100 N D Y Y 2010 Total 100 Movies, News and (Suites)

Other Video Programs

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

8 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

are coming soon. In addition to a cabin overhaul, Iberia is improving airport services at Madrid-Barajas Airport, implementing more intuitive check-in software and streamlined procedures.

KLM’s new World Business Class is impressing passengers with a warm look and ambience that makes travelers feel right at home. The Boeing 747-400 premium cabin features 35 180-degree seats in a 2-2-2 configuration.

Aeroflot Russian Airlines took delivery of new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft this year, launching an updated President Class.

Six hundred music albums, 166 movies, 25 games, 32 docum e nt a r i e s , f i v e TV shows and 10 serials accentuate lie-flat seats. The onboard cuisine is a blend of Russian culinary classics and modern European food trends, paired with sommelier-selected wines and Champagnes.

THE BIGGEST CHANGE to come to United in the past year was the introduction of its Boeing Dreamliner 787, available on flights throughout North America and to the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The BE Diamond Flat Bed cabin’s 36 seats convert to a fully flat 6-foot, 6-inch bed. In addition to flying on the aviation industry’s newest, most innovative aircraft, passengers enjoy an on-demand music selection, 150 movies and 185 TV shows.

American Airlines also took delivery of several new aircraft in the past year, including Boeing 777-300ERs and Airbus A319s. The Boeing aircraft feature American’s signature Flagship Suite, one of the most popular first-class designs in the industry. The seat transforms into a 6-foot, 8-inch bed with drop-down armrests for more space while resting.

Updated interior trim and finishes add a modern feel to the cabin, offered on routes to Latin America, Europe and the Pacific Rim. JAPAN AIRLINES UPDATED both its business and first cabins in 2013. JAL First Class offers eight suite seats with a bed length of 78.5 inches. A Tempur mattress and pillow are provided, as well as turn-down service for each passenger. The liquid-crystal LCD touch-panel hand-held controller makes adjustments and enjoying the onboard entertainment convenient. JAL Business Class, also offering lie-flat suite seats, features new 23-inch personal monitors that are among the largest in the industry.

Formerly Air Pacific, the newly rebranded Fiji Airways debuted a new business class as well. The overnight sleeper globaltravelerusa.com

service (lie-flat seats have an 8-degree angle) is offered on flights to Hong Kong and Los Angeles; the new Yadra Vinaka — Fijian for “good morning” — breakfast service caters selections to travelers’ personal requests, served up to an hour and a half before landing.

Also upgrading in the South Pacific was Air Tahiti Nui. Eliminating its first-class cabin, the airline updated its Poerava

NEW AND IMPROVED: Iberia’s Business Plus (top) and American Airlines’ first class PHOTOs: © Iberia, © American Airlines

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 9

WiFi on Board

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

Free WiFi in Lounges

D

Y

Y

N

D

Y

Y

Upcoming

21"

180°

Y

N

18 + 9 OD

58

4

65

N

B

Y

Y

N/R

FIRST CLASS 777-300ER 6 1-1-1 81–87" 36"

180°

Y

N

22

100+

1

500+

N

B

Y

Y

N/A

FIRST CLASS 747-400 12–14 2-1-2/2-2-2 83" 22"

180°

Y

N

15 + 220 CDs

30

N/R

100

N

Y

N/R

FIRST CLASS A340-600 8 1-2-1 82" 29"

180°

Y

N

23 + 170 CDs

30

N/R

100

N

B

N/R

Y

N/R

PLATINUM FIRST CLASS CABIN A380 8 1-2-1 82" 29"

DELTA AIR LINES

180°

Y

N

10

30+

N/R

40+

N

S

Y

Y

2012

FIRST CLASS 767-300 30 2-2-2 37–38" 18.5"

130°

Y

N

8

26

N/A

2

Y

D

Y

N

2006

FIRST CLASS A340-600 8 1-2-1 80" 25.2"

180°

Y

Y

400 CDs

50

N/R

120

N

S

Y

Y

N/A

JAL FIRST CLASS 777-300ER 8 1-2-1 78.5” EST 33"

180°

Y

N

30

55

N/R

N/R

Y

D

Y

Y

2013

KOSMO SLEEPER

SLEEPER

KOSMO SUITES

ASIANA AIRLINES

FIRST SUITE 777 8 1-2-1 81"

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS CHINA AIRLINES*

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES*

CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES

HAINAN AIRLINES JAPAN AIRLINES KOREAN AIR*

N/R N/R

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Number of Other Video Programs

Amenity Kits Included

Number of News Channels

Y

140

Number of Movies

180+

0

Number of Audio Channels

Adapters Required

N/A

47

AMERICAN AIRLINES

FLAGSHIP SUITE 777-300 ER 8 1-2-1 63" 21/29" Staggered

777-200 16 1-2-1 64" HB 21/29"

Recline

250

18 + 30 CDs

Seat Width

350+

Y

Seat Pitch

N

Layout

Y Y

Number of Seats

180° 180°

PACIFIC RIM cont.

Aircraft

Power for Laptop

FIRST CLASS

2013

747-400 777-200ER 747-400 A330-200 A330-300 777-200 777-300ER A380-800

10 8 12 6 6 8 8 12

1-2-1 1-2-1 2-2 2-2-2 2-2-2 1-2-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

83" 83" 83" 82" 83" 83" 83" 83"

21.1" 21.2" 20.6" 20.1" 20.1" 26.5" 26.5" 26.5"

180° 180° 180° 180° 180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N N N N

500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs

54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+

3 3 3 3 + Text 3 + Text 3 + Text 3 + Text 3

70+ 70+ 70+ 70+ 70+ 70+ 70+ 70+

N N N N N N N N

B B B B B B B B

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

2005 2011 2005 2012 2012 2009 2011 2011

747-700

12

1-2-1

75"

20.5"

180°

Y

Y

12

40

1

2

N

B

N/R

Y

2003

83.5"

29"

180°

Y

N

1,000 CDs

100

0

500

Y

D

Y

Y

N/A

81" 71"

35.25" 35"

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

22 + 795 CDs 22 + 795 CDs

238 238

Multiple Multiple

80+ 80+

Y Y

D D

Y Y

Y Y

N/R N/R

GLOBAL FIRST 777 12 1-2-1 N/R 21.5"

767 6 1-1-1 N/R 22"

747 12 1-2-1 N/R 22"

777 8 1-2-1 N/R 22"

180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y Y

Y N N N

21 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks

20+ 60 150 150

N/A N/A N/A N/A

6 150+ 150+ 150+

N Y Y Y

D D D D

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

Upcoming 2009 2009 2012

180°

Y

N

350+

250

N/A

180+

Y

D

Y

Y

180°

Y

Y

18 + 30 CDs

47

0

140

N

D

Y

Y

N/A N/A 2 2 N/A N/A 2 2

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

D D D D D D D D

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N N N N

2011 2009 2008 2008 2008 2004 2006 2006

70+ 70+

N N

B B

Y Y

Y Y

2011 2009

MALAYSIA AIRLINES* FIRST CLASS

QANTAS

QANTAS FIRST SUITE A380-800 14 1-1-1

SINGAPORE AIRLINES FIRST CLASS

A380-800 Suites 777-300ER

12 8

1-2-1 1-2-1

UNITED

LATIN AMERICA AMERICAN AIRLINES

FLAGSHIP SUITE 777-300 ER 8 1-2-1 63" 21/29" Staggered

777-200 16 1-2-1 64" HB 21/29"

DELTA AIR LINES

FIRST CLASS

KOREAN AIR* KOSMO SLEEPER KOSMO SUITES

MD-88 A320 737-700 737-800 737-800 757-200 757-200 767-300 777-200ER 777-200

16 12 12 16 16 24 26 30

2-2 37" 19.6" 120–130° Y N 2-2 36" 21" 120–130° N/A N 2-2 37" 21" 120–130° Y N 2-2 38" 21" 120–130° Y N 2-2 38" 21" 120–130° N/A N 2-2 37–38" 21" 130° N/A N 2-2 38" 21" 120–130° Y N 2-2-2 37–38" 18.5" 130° Y N

8 8

1-2-1 1-2-1

83" 83"

21.1" 26.5"

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

N/A N/A 8 8 N/A N/A 8 8 500 CDs 500 CDs

N/A N/A 26 26 2 2 26 26 54+ 54+

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 3 3, Text

2013 Upcoming

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

10 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

Fly China Southern Airlines An Experience Beyond Your Expectations

Offering Daily Direct Service from Los Angeles to Guangzhou • The Largest Airline Carrier in Asia and only Chinese carrier to operate the Double-Decker Airbus A380 • Offering free add-on flights to select cities in China (Beijing, Shanghai, etc.) for U.S. to China routings • Honored with the Five-Star Flight Safety Award by the CAAC and a SKYTRAX Four-Star Carrier

us.csair.com China Southern Airlines Los Angeles Office 6300 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1510, Los Angeles, CA 90048 Tel: 1-323-653-8088 Fax: 1-323-653-8066

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Amenity Kits Included

Free WiFi in Lounges

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

WiFi on Board

Number of Other Video Programs

Number of News Channels

Number of Movies

Number of Audio Channels

Adapters Required

Power for Laptop

Recline

Seat Width

Seat Pitch

Layout

Number of Seats

Latin America cont.

Aircraft

FIRST CLASS

TAM

First Class

UNITED GLOBAL FIRST

A330-200 4 1-2-1 81" 777-300ER 4 1-2-1 81" 777 767 747 777

12 6 12 8

1-2-1 1-1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

N/R N/R N/R N/R

747 777

12 2-2 82" 12 2-2-2 77"

26" 180° Y N 29.5" 180° Y N 21.5" 22" 22" 22"

180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y Y

Y N N N

11 11

21 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks

111 111

N/A N/A

60+ 60+

N N

B Y Y 2008 B Y Y 2012

20+ 60 150 150

N/A N/A N/A N/A

6 150+ 150+ 150+

N Y Y Y

D D D D

20+ 20+

N N

D Y Y Annually D Y Y Annually

N N Y

B Y Y Ongoing B Y Y Ongoing D Y Y Ongoing

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

Upcoming 2009 2009 2012

MIDDLE EAST/AFRICA EL AL ISRAEL AIRLINES FIRST CLASS

21" 180° Y Y 21" 180° Y Y

10 10

16 37

FIRST CLASS 777-300ER 8 1-2-1 82" 20.5" 180° Y Y

777-200LR 8 1-2-1 82" 20.5" 180° Y Y

A380 14 1-2-1 82" 21.6" 180° Y Y

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

800 800 800

200 Satellite Updates 450+ 200 Satellite Updates 450+ 200 Satellite Updates 450+

FIRST CLASS

SAUDI ARABIAN AIRLINES* FIRST CLASS

EMIRATES*

DIAMOND FIRST CLASS 777-300ER 8 1-2-1 82" 29.75" 180° Y N 16 345 CDs

KUWAIT AIRLINES*

UNITED

GLOBAL FIRST

Airline did not reply. Survey *information was compiled with GT

A340 A300 777

18 2-2-2 18 2-2-2 24 2-2-2

2 2

97 Live News Texting

196 TV Programs

Selected Aircraft

61" 61" 61"

N/R N/R N/R

160° N/R N/R 160° N/R N/R 160° N/R N/R

12 10 12

20+ 20+ 20+

N/R N/R N/R

5 5 5

N N N

B

Y

Y

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

2013

N/R N/R N/R

777-268

24

2-2-2

70" EST

21"

180°

Y

N

30

10

0

27

N

B

Y

Y

2009

777 767 747 777

12 6 12 8

1-2-1 1-1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

N/R N/R N/R N/R

21.5" 22" 22" 22"

180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y Y

Y N N N

21 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks

20+ 60 150 150

N/A N/A N/A N/A

6 150+ 150+ 150+

N Y Y Y

D D D D

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

Upcoming 2009 2009 2012

research.

(black pearl) business-class cabin. At 160 degrees, the angled lie-flat seats are a highlight of the new cabin — bright, light and airy with a décor in the colors of the Tahitian islands. The on-demand, touch-screen system offers 20 audio channels, 14 movies, 24 other video channels and 15 games.

HOME AWAY FROM home is the philosophy behind TAM’s first-class cabin concept. Passengers on flights to and from Miami and New York to São Paulo are in the lap of luxury with a dining room table, a full-flat bed, a couch and a closet. It’s like they never left home! Also featuring a personalized entertainment system, other amenities include a library, an awardwinning wine list, a menu designed by Brazilian chef Bel Coelho, Nespresso service and a luxe amenity kit. The “home away from home” concept also translates to the new TAM VIP lounge at Guarulhos Airport.

then experience the grandness for yourself. No matter the amenities, each airline brings a unique character and cultural element worth experiencing on your next trip. And we’ll turn our attenFIRST RATE: Etihad tions to 2014 — we can’t wait to see what the Airways’ Diamond First Class next wave of upgrades brings.

PHOTO: © Etihad Airwyas

ROYAL AIR MAROC introduced a brand-new business class this year featuring fully flat leather seats with electric in-seat massage functions. The upgrades also include USB ports for smartphones and tablets, electrical outlets, a 15.3-inch personal video screen and a wide selection of entertainment.

Abu Dhabi’s national carrier, Etihad Airways, updated Diamond First Class and Pearl Business Class in 2013. In addition to all the typical leadingedge amenities, first class features a 57-inch sliding screen door, an electrically operated privacy divider on center seats, a personal illuminated wardrobe with mirror, a beverage compartment and minibar, a built-in massage function and 23-inch personal screens.

With so many options, where to start? With our charts and feedback, 12 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

Better than the real thing Indulge in the best wine cellar on board Awarded “Best International Business Class Wines on the Wing� for the second consecutive year

Best International Business Class Wines on the Wing

Brussels Airlines 2012-2013

brusselsairlines.com/experience

Layout

Seat Pitch

Seat Width

Recline

Power for Laptop

Adapters Required

Number of Audio Channels

Number of Movies

Number of News Channels

Number of Other Video Programs

WiFi on Board

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

Free WiFi in Lounges

Amenity Kits Included

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Number of Seats

EUROPE

Aircraft

Business CLASS

2-2-2

58"

21"

163°

Y

N

1,000+ MP3s

18

0

60+ Hrs

N

B

V

Y

2011

AER LINGUS BUSINESS CLASS

A330

24

AEROFLOT PRESIDENT CLASS 777-300ER 30 2-2-2 60" HB 22" 180° Y N

767 30 2-2-2 58" 22" 166° Y N

A330 34 2-2-2 60" 26" 166° Y N

600 CDs, 30 Video Clips, 20 Audio Books 8 + 150 Hrs 600 CDs, 30 Video Clips, 20 Audio Books

166

N/R

72

Y

S

Y

Y

2013

16 166

N/R N/R

30 72

Y Y

S S

Y Y

Y Y

2010 2012

150 CDs + 15 Audio Books

39

N/R

100

N/A

B

Y

Y

2013

150 150 150 150

1 1 1 0

200 200 200 200

N N N N

B B B B

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

2008 2008 2009 2013

150

1

200

N

B

Y

Y

2009

Y

N/R

Y Y Y Y Y Y

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

AIRBERLIN BUSINESS CLASS A330-200 19 1-2-1 41" 20" 180° Y N

Staggered

AIR CANADA

EXECUTIVE FIRST 767-300 24–25 1-1-1 43.5" HB 20.35" 180° Y N/A 12 + 100 CDs

777-200LR 42 1-2-1 43.5" HB 20.35" 180° Y N/A 12 + 100 CDs

777-300ER 42 1-2-1 43.5" HB 20.35" 180° Y N/A 12 + 100 CDs

777-300 (77W) 36 2-2-2/1-2-1 44" HB 20.6–22.5" 180° Y N 12 + 100 CDs + 5 Audio Books + 5 Podcasts

A330 37 1-1-1 37.5" HB 20.35" 180° Y N 12 + CDs

AIR EUROPA* BUSINESS CLASS

A330-200

24

2-2-2

56"

20"

170°

Y

N

N/R

N/R

N/R

N/R

N

N/R N/R

49 2-3-2 14–67 2-3-2 40 2-2-2 36 2-2-2 40 2-3-2 80 2-2-2

61" 61" 61" 61" 61" 61"

21" 21" 21" 21" 21" 21"

176° 171–176° 176° 176° 176" 176°

Y Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N N

22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs 22 + 300 Hrs

85 85 85 85 85 85

3 3 3 3 3 3

42 42 42 42 42 42

N N N N N N

50" 60" 50"

20" 180° Y N 26" 170° Y N 20" 180° Y N

45 45 45

7 7 7

16 16 16

N B Y Y 2011/2012 N S Y Y 2008 N B Y Y 2011/2012

AIR FRANCE AFFAIRES

777-200 777-300 A330 A340 747-800 A380

MAGNIFICA

A330 A330-2 777

B B B B B B

Y Y Y Y Y Y

ALITALIA 28 1-2-1 20 2-2-2 30 1-2-1

12 12 12

AMERICAN AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS 777-300ER 52 1-2-1 43" HB 20/25" 180°

777-200 37 2-3-2 60" 21–26" 170° EST

757-200 16 2-2 58–59" 21–26" 170° EST

767-300 30 2-2-2 59" 20–23.6" 170° EST

Y Y Y Y

N Y N Y

350+ 18 + 30 CDs 18 + 30 CDs 18

250+ 47 47 75

N/R 0 0 0

180+ TV Shows 140 140 50

Y N N N

D D D D

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

2013 2008 2009 2007

BUSINESS CLASS 777-200ER 48 1-2-1/2-2-2 44" Staggered

767-300ER 36 1-2-1 44" Staggered

AUSTRIAN AIRLINES

21"

180°

Y

N

150 CDs

26–30

0

34

N

D

Y

Y

2013

20"

180°

Y

N

150 CDs

26–30

0

34

N

D

Y

Y

2013

50 400 iPad with 70 Hrs

100 70 iPad with 70 Hrs

N/R N/R iPad with 70 Hrs

N/R 23 iPad with 70 Hrs

BRITISH AIRWAYS

CLUB WORLD 747 52 2-4-2 N/R 25" 180° Y N

777 70 2-4-2 N/R 25" 180° Y N CLUB WORLD LONDON CITY A318 32 3-3 75" 25" 180° Y N

N D Y Y 2006 N D Y Y 2006 Y D Y Y 2009

BRUSSELS AIRLINES

BUSINESS CLASS A330-200 22 1-2-1 44" Staggered

A330-300 30 2-1-2 44" Staggered PREMIERE A330-200 30 1-1-1 49" Staggered

A330-300 34 1-2-1/2-2-1 45" Staggered

22.5"

180°

Y

N

12+ CDs/50 Hrs

40

Coming 2014

32

N

B

Y

Y

2012

22.5"

180°

Y

N

12+ CDs/50 Hrs

40

Coming 2014

32

N

B

Y

Y

2012

23"

180°

Y

Y 330+ CDs, 50 Compilations

130+

0

155+

N/A

D

N/A

Y

N/R

20.2"

180°

Y

Y 330+ CDs, 50 Compilations

130+

0

155+

N/A

D

N/A

Y

2012

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

2013 2013 2006 2013 2006 2013 2013

DELTA AIR LINES

BUSINESSELITE

* Airline did not reply. Survey

information was compiled

with GT research.

A330-200 A330-300 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-300ER

32 34 30 36 36 36 26

2-2-2 60" 21" 2-2-2 60" 20" 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21"

14 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

170° Y N 170° Y N 160° Y N 180° Y N 160° Y N 180° Y N 180° N/A N

16 16 8+ 16 8+ 8 16

100 100 27 350+ 27 100 350+

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

2 2 2 2 2 2 2

N N N N N N Y

D D D D D D D

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

globaltravelerusa.com

Better than the real thing Discover the best in taste

brusselsairlines.com/experience

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Amenity Kits Included

Free WiFi in Lounges

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

WiFi on Board

Number of Other Video Programs

Number of News Channels

Number of Movies

Number of Audio Channels

Adapters Required

Power for Laptop

Recline

Seat Width

Seat Pitch

Layout

Number of Seats

EUROPE

Aircraft

Business CLASS

EMIRATES BUSINESS CLASS 777-300ER 42 2-3-2 72" 20.5" 180° Y Y 800 200 Satellite 450+

Updates

N B Y Y Ongoing

BUSINESS CLASS

A330-300 42 2-2-2 62" A330-300 3–45 1-2-1/2-2-1 45"

20.5" 170° EST Y N 20.6" 165° Y N

46 46

33 33

3 3

100 100

N B Y Y 2009 N B Y Y 2010

BUSINESS PLUS

NEW BUSINESS PLUS

A340-600 A340-300 A340-600 A330-300

22" 22" 26.37" 26.37"

15 15 200 200

12 12 50 50

0 N/R 0 N/R

18 18 78 78

N

10

V

V

V

N

B

Y

Y

2008

Y Y

Y Y

330+ CDs 330+

130+ 130+

0 0

155+ 155+

N/A N/A

D D

N/A N/A

Y Y

N/R N/A

Y

N

N/A

80

N/A

N/A

N

B

Y

Y

2013

FINNAIR IBERIA

42 36 46 36

2-2-2 2-2-2 1-2-1 1-2-1

74" 74" 79" 79"

ICELANDAIR* SAGA BUSINESS CLASS 757 22 2-2 38"

180° Y N 180° Y N 180° Y N 180° Y N

20–22" 110° EST Y

N S N/R Y N S N/R Y Coming S N/R Y Coming S N/R Y

2009 2009 2013 New

JET AIRWAYS PREMIERE A330-200 30 1-1-1 49" HB

A330-300 34 1-2-1/2-2-1 45" HB

KLM

23" 180° 20.2"/20.5" 180°

WORLD BUSINESS CLASS 747-400 35 2-2-2 63" Angled

26"

180°

ELITE CLUB 787 18 2-2-2 78"

LUFTHANSA

23" 180° Y N

LOT POLISH AIRLINES

BUSINESS CLASS

OPENSKIES BIZ BED

747-800 92 2-2-2 64" Angled 747-400 66 2-2-2/2-3-2 57–60" A380-800 98 2-2-2 57–60" A340-600 48 2-2-2 57–60" A330-300 48 2-2-2 64" Angled 757

20

2-2

4

16

0

21

N B Y Y New

19.68" 19.68" 19.68" 19.68" 19.68"

180° 178° 178° 178° 180°

Y Y Y Y Y

N N N N N

30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs 30 + 200 CDs

50 30 50 30 50

2 2 2 2 2

110 110 110 110 110

Y Y Y Y Y

D D D D D

Y Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y Y

2012 2004 2010 2004 2012

73"

20"

180°

Y

N

33

24

N/A

44 TV Shows

N

S

Y

Y

2012

61" 61"

20" 170° Y N 20" 170° Y N

28 28

26 26

SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES (SAS) SAS BUSINESS

A330-300 34 2-2-2 A340-300 46 2-2-2

1 1

18 18

N B Y Y 2007 N B Y Y 2007

80+ 80+ 80+

Y Y Y

B B B

Y Y Y

N N N

N/R N/R N/R

15 Games

N

B

Y

Y

2009

15 Games

N

B

Y

Y

2009

SINGAPORE AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS 777-300ER 42 1-2-1

A340-500 100 1-2-1

A380-800 60 1-2-1

SWISS INTERNATIONAL

55" W 55" W 55" W

34" 30" 34"

180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y

N N N

22 + 795 CDs 22 + 795 CDs 22 + 795 CDs

238 238 238

Multiple Multiple Multiple

AIR LINES

SWISS BUSINESS A333 45 1-2-1/2-2-1 45" 20.5" 180° Y N 16, 400+ CDs 40+ 50 +

Staggered TV Programs

A343 47 1-2-1/2-2-1 45" 20.5" 180° Y N 16, 400+ CDs 40+ 50 +

Staggered TV Programs

TAP PORTUGAL TAP EXECUTIVE TRANSAERO*

A330-200 24 2-2-2

60"

20" 160° Y N

IMPERIAL 777-300 4 1-2-1 80"

777-200 12 1-2-1 62"

747-400 11 1-2-1 80"

TURKISH AIRLINES

27" 20" 20"

Business Class

22" 177° Y N

777

28 2-3-2

78"

180° N/A N/A 170° EST N/A N/A 180° N/A N/A

12 10 + 92 Hrs 10 + 92 Hrs 10 + 92 Hrs 550+

34 37 37 37 350

3 N/R N/R N/R 4

2 10 10 10 300+

Y S Y Y N/R Some N Y

B B B

Y Y Y

Y Y Y

V V V

Y B Y Y 2010

UNITED BE DIAMOND FLAT BED BusinessFirst

* Airline did not reply.

787-8 36 2-2-2 60" HB 21" 180° Y N 344 CDs 777 49 2-3-2 55" 20.5" 147° Y Y 20 777 40 2-4-2 N/A 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 777 50 2-2-2 N/A 23" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 767-400 20 2-1-2 55" 21" 156° Y Y 20 757-200 16 2-2 N/A 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 767-300 26 2-2-2 N/A 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 747 52 2-4-2 N/A 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 767-400 39 2-1-2 N/A 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 767-300 30 2-1-2 N/A 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks

150 N/R 185 TV Shows N S N/A Y New Delivery 9 N/A 9 N D Y Y Upcoming 150 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2010 150 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2010 16 N/A 16 N/A D Y Y In Process 60 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2011 60 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2009 60 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2009 150 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2012 150 N/A 150+ Y D Y Y 2012

Survey information was compiled with GT research.

16 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

Better than the real thing Discover the best in comfort

brusselsairlines.com/experience

Adapters Required

Number of Audio Channels

Number of Movies

Number of News Channels

160° 180° 170° 180°

Y Y Y Y

N N N N

10 + 75 CDs 10 + 100 CDs 10 + 75 CDs 10 + 100 CDs

90+ 90+ 90+ 75

N/A N/A N/A N/A

747-400 A340-300 A330-343

44 34 33

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Power for Laptop

19.5" 20.5" 19.5" 20.5"

Amenity Kits Included

Recline

60" N/R 62" N/R

Free WiFi in Lounges

Seat Width

2-2 1-2-1 2-2-2 1-2-1

WiFi on Board Lounges Shared or Dedicated

Seat Pitch

12 28 18 20

Number of Other Video Programs

Layout

757-200 A330-300 767-200 A330-200

Aircraft

EUROPE cont.

Number of Seats

Business CLASS

Y Y Y Y

Y Y Y Y

2007 2011 2008 2009

US AIRWAYS ENVOY

45 Hrs 50 Hrs + 10 Games 45 Hrs 50 Hrs + 10 Games

N N N N

D D D D

VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS UPPER CLASS

1-1/1-2-1 1-1-1 1-2-1

79.5" 79.5" 79.5"

22" 180° Y N/A 22" 180° Y N/A 22" 180° Y N/A

150 150 150

53 53 53

0 0 0

53 53 53

N D Y Y N D Y Y N D Y Y

2012 2007 2012

N/R

NORTH AMERICA AEROMEXICO CLASE PREMIER

787-8

32

2-2-2

65"

N/R

180°

Y

N

9 + 100 CDs

20

N/A

36

N

D

Y

Y

E190 E175 CRJ-705 777-300ER 777-200LR 767-300 A330 A321 A320 A319

9 9 10 42 42 24–25 37 20 14 14

1-2 1-2 1-2 1-2-1 1-2-1 1-1-1 1-1-1 2-2 2-2 2-2

38" 38" 37" 43.5" HB 43.5" HB 43.5" HB 37.5" HB 37" 37–38" 38–39"

20" 20" 21" 20.35" 20.35" 20.35" 20.35" 21" 21" 21"

120° 120° 120° 180° 180° 180° 180° 124° 124° 124°

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N N/A N/A N/A

12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs

63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63 63

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200

N N N N N N N N N N

B B B B B B B B B B

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

N Y N N N N N N N N

777-200 767-200

37 30

2-3-2 2-2-2

60" 49–50"

21–26" 170° EST Y 18.5" 140° Y

Y Y

18 + 30 CDs 18 + 30 CDs

47 75

0 0

140 50

N Y

D D

Y Y

Y N

2008 2009

TRAIN

N/R

2-2

42"

N

N

N/A

N/A

N/A

Y

Y

N

Ongoing

16 8 8 16 8+ 8 16 8 16 16

350+ N/A 26 N/A 27 N/A 350+ N/A 27 N/A 100 N/A 350+ N/A 100 N/A 350+ N/A 350+ N/A

AIR CANADA EXECUTIVE CLASS

AMERICAN AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS

2005–2008 2005 2005–2006 2009 2008 2008 2009 2008 2009 2008

AMTRAK* ACELA BUSINESS CLASS

21"

109°

Y

DELTA AIR LINES BUSINESSELITE

747-400 757-200 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-300ER 767-400ER 777-200ER 777-200LR

48 1-1/1-1-1/1-2-1 82" 20.5" 180° Y N 16 2-2 54–55" 21" 155° Y N 30 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 160° Y N 36 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° Y N 36 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 160° Y N 36 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° Y N 26 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° N/A N 40 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° Y N 45 1-2-1 78" 21" 180° Y N 45 1-2-1 78" 21" 180° Y N

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

N D Y Y Y D Y Y N D Y N N D Y Y N D Y Y N D Y Y Y D Y Y N D Y Y N D Y Y N D Y Y

2011 2008 2006 2006 2013 2006 2013 2013 2011 2008

UNITED BE DIAMOND FLAT BED BusinessFirst

787-8 777 777 777 767-400 757-200 767-300 747 767-400 767-300

36 49 40 50 20 16 26 52 39 30

2-2-2 2-3-2 2-4-2 2-2-2 2-1-2 2-2 2-2-2 2-4-2 2-1-2 2-1-2

60" 55" N/R N/R 55" N/A N/R N/R N/R N/R

21" 180° Y N 344 CDs 20.5" 147° Y Y 20 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 23" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 21" 156° Y Y 20 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks

150 9 150 150 16 60 60 60 150 150

N/R N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

185 TV Shows 9 150+ 150+ 16 150+ 150+ 150+ 150+ 150+

N S N/A Y New Delivery N D Y Y Upcoming Y D Y Y 2010 Y D Y Y 2010 N/A D Y Y In Process Y D Y Y 2011 Y D Y Y 2009 Y D Y Y 2009 Y D Y Y 2012 Y D Y Y 2012

PACIFIC RIM AIR CANADA EXECUTIVE FIRST

767-300 24-25 777-200LR 42 777-300ER 42 777-300 (77W) 36

1-1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1 2-2-2/1-2-1

43.5" HB 20.35" 43.5" HB 20.35" 43.5" HB 20.35" 44" 20.6–22.5"

180° 180° 180° 180°

Y N/A Y N/A Y N/A Y N

12 + 100 CDs 150 1 200 N B Y Y 2008 12 + 100 CDs 150 1 200 N B Y Y 2008 12 + 100 CDs 150 1 200 N B Y Y 2009 12 + 100 CDs 150 0 200 N B Y Y 2013 + 5 Audio Books + 5 Podcasts

AIR CHINA* CAPITAL PAVILION 747-400 Combi 24 2-2 62" 21" 170° Y N 13 N/R N/R N/R N B N/R Y N/R

777-300 35 2-3-2 62" 21" 170° Y N 13 N/R N/R N/R N B N/R Y N/R * Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

18 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Amenity Kits Included

Free WiFi in Lounges

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

WiFi on Board

Number of Other Video Programs

Number of News Channels

Number of Movies

Number of Audio Channels

Adapters Required

Power for Laptop

Recline

Seat Width

Seat Pitch

Layout

Number of Seats

PACIFIC RIM cont.

Aircraft

Business CLASS

AIR INDIA

EXECUTIVE CLASS

777ER 35

2-3-2

N/R

20" 178° Y N

1-2-1

79"

33"

OD

OD

1

OD N B N Y 2007

AIR NEW ZEALAND* BUSINESS PREMIER

777-300

44

180°

Y

N

500 Hrs

72

N/R

900

N

D

Y

Y

2011

AIR TAHITI NUI Poerava Business A340-300 32 2-2-2 60" 20" 160° Y N/R 20 14 0 24 Channels, N S Y Y 2013

15 Games

ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS

BUSINESS CLASS 787-8 46

44" 19.4" 180° Y N 100 Staggered

Total 100 for Movies, News, Other Video Programs

N

D

N

Y

2010

777-300ER 52 1-1-1 or 44" 19.4" 180° Y N 100

1-2-1 Staggered

AMERICAN AIRLINES

Total 100 for Movies, News, Other Video Programs

N

D

Y

Y

2010

TV Shows Y 140 N

D D

Y Y

Y Y

2013 2008

BUSINESS CLASS

777-300ER 777-200

52 37

1-1-1 or 1-2-1

1-2-1 2-3-2

43" HB 60" HB

20/25" 180° 21–26" 170° EST

Y Y

N Y

350+ 18 + 30 CDs

250 47

180+ 0

ASIANA AIRLINES BUSINESS SMARTIUM 777 24 1-2-1 80.2" 21" 180° Y N 18 + 9 OD 58 4 65 N B Y Y N/R Staggered

CATHAY PACIFIC

AIRWAYS

BUSINESS CLASS 777-300ER 53 1-2-1 N/R 21" 180° Y N

22

100+

1

500+ N B Y Y N/R

CHINA AIRLINES* BUSINESS CLASS

747-700

64

1-2-1

60–62"

19"

140°

Y

N

12 + 750 CDs

47

N/R

123

N

B

Y

Y

2008

58"

20"

169°

Y

N

N/R

N/R

N/R

N/R

N N/R N/R

Y

N/R

87"

19" 180° Y N

10+

30+

N/R

40+ N S Y Y 2012

16 16 16 8+ 16 8+ 8 8 16

100 100 350+ 27 350+ 27 100 100 350+

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

CHINA EASTERN AIRLINES* BUSINESS CLASS

A330-300

38

2-2-2

CHINA SOUTHERN AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS A380 70 1-2-1 Staggered

DELTA AIR LINES BUSINESSELITE A330-200 32 2-2-2 60" 21" 170° EST

A330-300 34 2-2-2 60" 20" 170° EST

747-400 48 1-1/1-1-1/1-2-1 82" 20.5" 180°

767-300ER 30 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 160°

767-300ER 36 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180°

767-300ER 36 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 160°

767-300ER 36 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180°

767-400ER 40 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180°

777-200ER 45 1-2-1 78" 21" 180°

EVA AIR

Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N

ROYAL LAUREL CLASS 777-300ER 38 1-2-1 79"

Reverse HB PREMIUM LAUREL CLASS 747-400 36 2-2-2 61"

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

N D Y N D Y N D Y N D Y N D Y N D Y N D Y N D Y N D Y

Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

2013 2013 2011 2006 2013 2006 2013 2011 2011

36"

180°

Y

N

20 + 300 CDs

90

0

120+

N

B

V

Y

2012

22"

169°

Y

N

20 + 300 CDs

80

0

80

N

B

V

Y

2007

Y

N

16

34

N/R

10

N

S

Y

Y 2013 New

BUSINESS CLASS A330-200 36 2-2-2 74" 21" 180° Y N 400 CDs

A340-600 60 2-2-2 60" 22.5" 150° Y Y 400 CDs

787-8 36 2-2-2 74" 23" 180° Y N 750

JAPAN AIRLINES

60 50 100

N/R N/R N/R

150 N S Y Y N/R 120 N S Y Y N/R 48 N S Y Y 2013 New

JAL BUSINESS CLASS

55

N/R

N/R

FIJI AIRWAYS BUSINESS CLASS

A330

24

2-2-2

60"

27" 172° EST

HAINAN AIRLINES

777-300ER

49

2-3-2

N/R

25.5"

180°

Y

N

50

Y

D

Y

Y

2013

KOREAN AIR* PRESTIGE PLUS

PRESTIGE SLEEPER

747-400 61 2-3-2/2-2 777-200ER 26 2-3-2 777-200 28 2-3-2 777-300ER 56 2-3-2 A380-800 94 2-2-2 A330-200 24 2-2-2 A330-300 18 2-2-2

58–60" 60" 74" 74" 74" 74" 78"

21.6" 167° 20.1" 167° 20.1" 180° 20.1" 180° 21" 180° 20.1" 180° 20.1" 180°

Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N

500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs 500 CDs

54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+ 54+

3 3 3, Text 3, Text 3 3, Text 3, Text

70+ N B Y Y 70+ N B Y Y 70+ N B Y Y 70+ N B Y Y 70+ N B Y Y 70+ N B Y Y 70+ N B Y Y

2005 2011 2009 2011 2011 2012 2012

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

globaltravelerusa.com

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 19

Number of Seats

Layout

Seat Pitch

Seat Width

Recline

Power for Laptop

Adapters Required

Number of Audio Channels

Number of Movies

Number of News Channels

Number of Other Video Programs

WiFi on Board

Free WiFi in Lounges

Amenity Kits Included

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

PACIFIC RIM Cont.

35

2-3-2

62"

18.5"

172°

Y

Y

12

40

1

2

N

B

Y

Y

2009

747-400

42

2-2

57"

21"

160°

Y

N/R

14

103

N/R

13

N

B

Y

Y

N/A

A380

72

2-2-2

80"

21.5"

180°

Y

N

20+, 1,000+ CDs

100+

1

500+

N

D

N/A

Y

2008

A380-800 A340-500 777-300ER

60 100 42

1-2-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

55" W 55" W 55" W

34" 30" 34"

180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y

N N N

22 + 795 CDs 22 + 795 CDs 22 + 795 CDs

238 238 238

Multiple Multiple Multiple

80+ 80+ 80+

Y Y Y

B B B

Y Y Y

N N N

N/R N/R N/R

777-200ER

60

2-2-2

61"

20"

170°

Y

N/A

OD

10

OD

OD

N/R

B

Y

Y

N/R

49 40 50 36 52

2-3-2 2-4-2 2-2-2 2-2-2 2-4-2

55" N/R N/R N/R N/R

147° 180° 180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y Y Y

Y N N N N

20 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks 20 + 3,000 Tracks

9 150 150 150 60

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

9 150+ 150+ 150+ 150+

N Y Y N Y

D D D D D

Y Y Y Y Y

Y Upcoming Y 2010 Y 2010 Y 2012 Y 2009

777

25

2-3-2

59"

20"

150°

Y

Y

9

3–6

N/R

N/R

N

B

Y

Y

N/R

777-300ER

33

2-3-2

77"

23"

180°

Y

N

11, 300+ CDs

54

1

151

N

S

N/R

Y

2009

24

2-2-2

60"

21.5"

170°

Y

N/A

12

8

0

301

N

S

Y

Y

2013

767-300 24–25 777-200LR 42 777-300ER 42

1-1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

43.5" HB 43.5" HB 43.5" HB

20.35" 20.35" 20.35"

180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y

N/A N/A N/A

12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs

150 150 150

1 1 1

200 200 200

N N N

B B B

Y Y Y

Y Y Y

2008 2008 2009

777-300ER 52 757-200 22/24 737-800 16 777-200 37 757-200 16 767-300 30

1-2-1 2-2 2-2 2-3-2 2-2 2-2-2

43" HB 20/25" 38–39" 21" 40–42" 21" 60" 21–26" 58–59" 21–26" 59" 20–23.6"

350+ 12 12 18 + 30 CDs 18 + 30 CDs 18

250 1 1 47 47 75

180+ 0 0 0 0 0

TV Shows 1 1 140 140 50

D D D D D D

Y Y Y Y Y Y

Y 2013 N Ongoing N 2009 Y 2008 Y 2009 Y 2007

30 23 23

N/R N/R N/R

30 27 27

N N/R N/R Y N N/R N/R Y N N/R N/R Y

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

2 2 2 2 2 2 2

N N Y N N N N

D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y D Y

Y 2013 Y 2013 Y 2008 Y 2006 Y 2013 Y 2006 Y 2013

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

Aircraft 777

Business CLASS MALAYSIA AIRLINES* GOLDEN CLASS

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES* MABUHAY CLASS

QANTAS QANTAS BUSINESS

SINGAPORE AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS

THAI AIRWAYS* ROYAL SILK CLASS

UNITED BusinessFirst

777 777 777 787-8 747

20.5" 19" 23" 21" 19"

VIETNAM AIRLINES* BUSINESS CLASS

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA* INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

LATIN AMERICA AEROLINEAS ARGENTINAS CLUB CONDOR

A330-200

AIR CANADA EXECUTIVE FIRST

AMERICAN AIRLINES BUSINESS CLASS

180° Y 115–121° Y 115–121° Y 170° EST Y 170° EST Y 170° EST Y

N Y Y Y N Y

Y N/A Y N N N

AVIANCA*

BUSINESS CLASS A330 30 2-2-2 65" 20.7"

A320 12 2-2 38" 22"

A319 12 2-2 38" 22"

170° 170° 170°

Y Y Y

Y Y Y

7 N/R N/R

N/R N/R N/R

BUSINESSELITE

180° 180° 155° 160° 180° 160° 180°

Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N Y N

PRESTIGE PLUS 777-200ER 28 2-3-2 60" 21"

777-200 28 2-3-2 74" 20.1"

167° 180°

Y Y

N N

500 CDs 500 CDs

54+ 54+

3 3, Text

70+ 70+

N N

B B

Y Y

Y Y

2011 2009

PREMIUM BUSINESS

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

1,000+ CDs 1,000+ CDs

111 110

N/A N/A

60 TV Shows 60 TV Shows

N N

N/R N/R

Y Y

Y Y

2012 2012

DELTA AIR LINES

A330-200 32 A330-300 34 757-200 16 767-300ER 30 767-300ER 36 767-300ER 36 767-300ER 36

2-2-2 60" 21" 2-2-2 60" 20" 2-2 54–55" 21" 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21"

16 16 8 8+ 16 8+ 8

100 100 26 27 350+ 27 100

KOREAN AIR*

LAN AIRLINES

767 787

30 30

2-2-2 2-2-2

74" 75"

20" 23"

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

20 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Amenity Kits Included

Free WiFi in Lounges

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

WiFi on Board

Number of Other Video Programs

Number of News Channels

Number of Movies

Number of Audio Channels

Adapters Required

Power for Laptop

Recline

Seat Width

Seat Pitch

Layout

Number of Seats

LATIN AMERICA Cont.

Aircraft

Business CLASS

TAM

BUSINESS CLASS 777-300ER 45 2-3-2 63" 20" 170° Y N 11 111 N/A 60+

A330-200 36 2-2-2 63" 20" 170° Y N 11 111 N/A 39

767 30 2-2-2 74" 22.2" 180° Y N 11 111 N/A 60+ UNITED BusinessFirst 777 49 2-3-2 55" 20.5" 147° Y Y 20 9 N/A 9

777 40 2-4-2 N/R 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 150 N/A 150+

777 50 2-2-2 N/R 23" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 150 N/A 150+

787-8 36 2-2-2 N/R 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 150 N/A 150+

767-400 20 2-1-2 55" 21" 156° Y Y 20 16 N/A 16

767-300 26 2-2-2 N/R 19" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 60 N/A 150+

767-400 39 2-1-2 N/R 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 150 N/A 150+

767-300 30 2-1-2 N/R 21" 180° Y N 20 + 3,000 Tracks 150 N/A 150+

US AIRWAYS ENVOY 767-200 18 2-2-2 62" 19.5" 170° Y N 10 + 75 CDs 90+ N/A 45 Hrs

A330-200 20 1-2-1 N/R 20.5" 180° Y N 10 + 100 CDs 75 N/A 50 Hrs

+ 10 Games

N N N N Y Y N N/A Y Y Y

B Y Y 2012 B Y Y 2008 B Y Y 2013 D D D Y D D D D

Y Y Y D Y Y Y Y

Y Upcoming Y 2010 Y 2010 Y N/R Y In Process Y 2009 Y 2012 Y 2012

N N

D D

Y Y

Y Y

2008 2009

MIDDLE EAST/AFRICA AEROMEXICO CLASE PREMIER AIR CANADA

787-8

32

2-2-2

65"

N/R

180°

Y

N

9 + 100 CDs

20

N/A

36

N

D

Y

Y

New

1-1-1 1-2-1 1-2-1

43.5" HB 43.5" HB 43.5" HB

20.35" 20.35" 20.35"

180° 180° 180°

Y Y Y

N N N

12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs 12 + 100 CDs

150 150 150

1 1 1

200 200 200

N N N

B B B

Y Y Y

Y Y Y

2008 2008 2008

EXECUTIVE FIRST

DELTA AIR LINES

767-300 24–25 777-200LR 42 777-300ER 42

BUSINESSELITE

EGYPTAIR

747-400 48 1-1/1-1-1/1-2-1 82" 20.5" 180° Y 757-200 16 2-2 54–55" 21" 155° Y 767-300ER 30 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 160° Y 767-300ER 36 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° Y 767-300ER 36 2-2-2 60" 18.5" 160° Y 767-300ER 36 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° Y 767-300ER 26 1-2-1 76.5–81.4" 21" 180° N/A 777-200ER 45 1-2-1 78" 21" 180° Y 777-200LR 45 1-2-1 78" 21" 180° Y

N N N N N N N N N

16 8 8+ 16 8+ 8 16 16 16

350+ 26 27 350+ 27 100 350+ 350+ 350+

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

N Y N N N N Y N N

D Y Y 2011 D Y Y 2008 D Y Y 2006 D Y Y 2013 D Y Y 2006 D Y Y 2013 D Y Y 2013 D Y Y 2011 D Y Y 2008

HORUS 777-300ER 49 2-3-2 78" 20" 180° Y Y

EL AL ISRAEL AIRLINES

73

30

N/R

35

N

S N Y N/R

PREMIUM BUSINESS CLASS

10 96+

16 37

2 2

20+ 20+

N N

D Y Y Annual D Y Y Annual

N

B Y Y Ongoing

N

B Y Y Ongoing

Y

D Y Y Ongoing

N

S

747 777

49 2-2/2-3-2 35 2-3-2

62" 62"

20" 173° Y 20" 173° Y

Y Y

EMIRATES*

BUSINESS CLASS 777-300 42 2-3-2 72" 20.5" 180° Y Y 800 200 Satellite 450+

Updates

777-200LR 42 2-3-2 72" 20.5" 180° Y Y 800 200 Satellite 450+

Updates

A380 76 1-2-1 79" 18.5" 180° Y Y 800 200 Satellite 450+

Updates

ETHIOPIAN AIRWAYS* CLOUD NINE 787 24 2-2 65" 21"

160°

Y

N

10

30

N/R

N/R

Y

Y

2012

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

PEARL BUSINESS CLASS 777-300ER 28–40 1-2-1 43.5" 22" 180° Y N 16 + 345 CDs 97 Live News 196 Available B Y Y 2013 Staggered Texting On Select

Aircraft KENYA AIRWAYS PREMIER WORLD

777-200ER 28 2-3-2

76"

31" 176° Y N/A

25

16

N/R

9

N

45" 45" 45" 45" 45"

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

12 12 10 10 12

20+ 20+ 20+ 20+ 20+

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

5 5 5 5 5

N N N N N

S Y Y N/R

KUWAIT AIRWAYS* OASIS

777 A320 A310 A300 A340

24 20 24 18 24

2-3-2 2-2 2-2-2 2-2-2 2-2-2

160° 160° 160° 160° 160°

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

globaltravelerusa.com

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 21

MIDDLE EAST AIRLINES* CEDAR CLASS

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Amenity Kits Included

Free WiFi in Lounges

Lounges Shared or Dedicated

WiFi on Board

Number of Other Video Programs

Number of News Channels

Number of Movies

Number of Audio Channels

Adapters Required

Power for Laptop

Recline

Seat Width

Seat Pitch

Layout

Number of Seats

MIDDLE EAST/ AFRICA Cont.

Aircraft

Business CLASS

A330 44 2-2-2 60" 54" 160° Y N 12 14 N/R 10 N B N N N/R A320 24 2-2 48" 57" 127° Y N 12 14 N/R 10 N B N N N/R A321 31 2-2 48" 57" 127° Y N 12 14 N/R 10 N B N N N/R

QATAR AIRWAYS BUSINESS CLASS

777-300ER 42 2-2-2 777-200LR 42 2-2-2

78" 78"

22" 22"

180° 180°

Y Y

N N

500 500

200 200

15 15

50 50

N N

D D

Y Y

Y Y

N/R N/R

ROYAL AIR MAROC BUSINESS CLASS

767-300

12

2-2-2

67"

20"

N/R

Y

Y

150

29

16

20

N

B

N/R

Y

2013

A340

24

2-2-2

83"

20"

180°

N

N/A

8

5

2

V

N

B

N/R

Y

2010

777-268L 38

2-3-2

70" EST

19.5"

180°

Y

N

30

10

0

27

N

S

Y

Y

2009

A340-300 38 A340-600 42

2-2-2 2-2-2

73" 73"

24" 24"

180° 180"

Y Y

N N

40+ CDs 40+ CDs

44 44

0 0

28 28

N N

B B

Y Y

Y Y

2006 2006

Y Y Y Y

N 344 CDs Y 20 N 20 + 3,000 Tracks N 20 + 3,000 Tracks

150 9 150 150

N/R 185 TV Shows N/A 9 N/A 150+ N/A 150+

N S N/R N D Y Y D Y Y D Y

Y New Y Upcoming Y 2010 Y 2010

Y

N

75

N/A

N

Y

ROYAL JORDANIAN CROWN CLASS

SAUDI ARABIAN AIRLINES* BUSINESS CLASS

SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS PREMIUM BUSINESS CLASS

UNITED BE DIAMOND FLAT BED

787-8 777 777 777

36 2-2-2 60" HB 21" 180° 49 2-3-2 55" 20.5" 147° 40 2-4-2 N/A 19" 180° 50 2-2-2 N/A 23" 180°

US AIRWAYS ENVOY

A330-200 20

1-2-1

N/R

20.5”

180°

10 + 100 CDs

50 Hrs + 10 Games

D

Y

2009

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

EVA Air | Royal Laurel Class Taipei (TPE) to New York (JFK)

Reviewed by Kimberly Krol On the Ground: I was eager to experience EVA’s Royal Laurel cabin, upgraded last year. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is one busy place; as the airline’s hub, many flights depart at the same time and even with several premium check-in counters, there was a wait.

The staff was friendly, courteous and extremely helpful.

Once I reached the counter, check-in was quick.

Pre-Flight: I did not see any priority security lanes, and the process was long and arduous — more a fault of the airport than the airline. After duty-free shopping, I headed to the EVA lounges, true oases of calm located upstairs. The Infinity lounge — recently renovated, clean and modern with twinkling lights in the ceiling — was crowded, but I found a seat and a plug and grabbed a drink from the large selection of beverages and food (Asian and Western options). I didn’t have much time there, but I got some work done and changed for my flight. With more time, I would have tried the shower facilities.

In-Flight: Each seat in Royal Laurel is private and personal, a step away from a suite with a high back and

22 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

side. I was happy to be in a window seat in the 1-2-1 configuration, pleased with the ample storage and large ledge by the window. I stowed my bags, keeping my laptop, reading material and other amenities accessible from my seat. The brand-new Rimowa amenity kit, a comforter and pillow were all waiting.

My flight passed quickly. I kept busy with movies from the generous entertainment options, work and sleep in the lie-flat bed. Before dinner, I enjoyed a glass of Dom Perignon Vintage 2003. The menu offers two regular dinner options and a healthy choice. The appetizer was a stuffed egg with caviar served aside a pan-seared scallop with tomato salsa on asparagus and lettuce, followed by Italian minestrone soup and a salad.

For my entrée, I selected braised pork spareribs wu shi style. Cheese, fruit and ice cream or mousse followed. I paired all with a Chassagne Montrachet Vielles Vignes 2010. Flight attendants provided snacks and small meals throughout the flight; I enjoyed a savory potato cheese tart when I woke up hungry. Before landing, another meal was served; I chose the Western selection: fruit, bread, penne with mushrooms in a pesto cream sauce with a chicken patty wrapped in bacon.

GT Checklist  Less than 10 minutes for check-in  Friendly and helpful agents  Priority tagged bags  Airport lounge  Complimentary in-lounge food  Priority boarding  Helpful and courteous flight attendants  Pre-flight beverage service  Pre-flight newspapers and magazines  Extensive on-demand menu  Self-serve in-flight pantry  Amenity kits  Slippers  Lie-flat seat/bed  Mattress and comforter  In-flight menu with three entrée choices  Top-shelf wines and liquors

The Experience: EVA, now a member of Star Alliance, met all my expectations. From beginning to end, my flight was top-notch. It’s a good sign when a long flight seems to pass in the blink of an eye.

globaltravelerusa.com

THE WORLD IS OUR HOME YOU ARE OUR GUEST

Look forward to the sort of relaxed, deep sleep in the air you’d usually only expect on the ground. We guarantee fully-flat beds with direct aisle access in Pearl Business Class on all long-haul flights. When you fl y Diamond First Class, retire behind the doors of a private suite, in a luxurious leather 6’8” bed with a turndown service. Why do we go to such lengths? Because you are our guest.

Washington, DC to Abu Dhabi daily.

Etihad also flies to over 15 destinations in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 23

GT tested

Aer Lingus | Business Class

Boston (BOS) to Dublin (DUB)

On the Ground: I flew Aer Lingus round trip between Boston and Dublin, and after swift check-ins in both airports, I headed for the Aer Lingus lounges. Both have a similar décor, with the highlight being an Irish wall of fame. Boston’s lounge is small, somewhat spartan, but adequate, with restrooms located outside and down the hall. Dublin’s lounge sprawls over two floors, with an open balcony, restrooms and shower rooms. Boston’s lounge has no windows; Dublin’s has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the gates and tarmac.

Both feature a stone wall listing famous Irish events, but it’s far more dramatic in Dublin, where it soars two stories and doubles as a waterfall. Both have free WiFi, desk areas with outlets and lighting, and conversational seating arrangements; Dublin also has a quiet area, a TV area, and a second coffee bar upstairs. A small selection of self-serve, mostly packaged foods — including sandwiches, sweets and cheeses as well as coffee, tea, wines and alcohol — are available in each lounge. Dublin’s selection was more extensive and also included a hot soup. Reading material was limited to Cara, the Aer Lingus magazine, and Irish newspapers.

Pre-Flight: On both flights, attendants offered a choice of sparkling wine, orange juice or water, served in custom Waterford crystal glasses, upon boarding. Irish newspapers were available in a rack at the front of the cabin.

In-Flight: Aer Lingus flies Airbus A330s on its transAtlantic flights. From Boston to Dublin, dinner began with hot and cold canapés and progressed to a salad, a selection of warm breads and a choice of four entrées, all served on custom Wedgewood china. My pan-roasted Pacific cod was excellent; I wish more restaurant chefs would serve fish this moist and flavorful. Two red wines and three white wines were offered. For dessert, I opted for the fruit and cheese plate over the chocolate whiskey lava cake. After the meal was cleared, I activated the seat’s massage setting and then snuggled under a comforter and slept for a few hours on the angled-flat seat (58-inch pitch). I awoke in time for the continental breakfast.

24 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

PHOTO: © Aer Lingus

Reviewed by Hilary Nangle

On the return flight, lunch service began with canapés and again was followed by an appetizer, salad, choice of entrée and dessert. Although the selections on the cheese plate, served afterward, didn’t match those listed on the menu, I liked the choices. After lunch, attendants handed out comforters for those who desired to sleep. I debated watching a movie, but none appealed so I worked instead. My only disappointment was that the electric outlet at my seat didn’t work despite trying different adapters, including ones provided by the attendants. About an hour before landing, we were served an open-faced roast beef sandwich and a choice of warm scones, accompanied by jam and Devon cream, along with coffee or tea. It was a comforting last taste of Ireland.

The Experience: Business class on both flights was nowhere near full, and I easily could have changed seats if I’d desired. The seat next to me remained empty on both flights. Overall, a comfortable experience accented with better-than-expected food. Both flights departed on time and arrived early, always a plus.

GT Checklist  Less than 10 minutes for check-in  Friendly and helpful agents  Priority tagged bags  Airport lounge  Complimentary in-lounge food  Priority boarding  Helpful and courteous flight attendants  Pre-flight beverage service  Pre-flight newspapers and magazines  Extensive on-demand menu  Self-serve in-flight pantry  Amenity kits  Slippers  Lie-flat seat/bed  Mattress and comforter  In-flight menu with three entrée choices  Top-shelf wines and liquors

globaltravelerusa.com

GT tested

Turkish Airlines | Business Class

Los Angeles (LAX) to Istanbul (IST)

Reviewed by Carly Allen On the Ground: Flying out of LAX’s Tom Bradley International Terminal in the afternoon can be tricky when dealing with local traffic. Luckily, the roads were pretty clear, and I arrived a few hours before my flight. After a few moments’ wait in the business-class line of Turkish Airlines, I was quickly checked in and given my boarding pass.

The security checkpoint was a mess as usual, but I got through in about 15 minutes and headed to the Star Alliance lounge. I am very familiar with the lounge; and as I was so early for my international flight, I commandeered a club chair near a plug and enjoyed free WiFi, fresh fruit and strong coffee for a few hours.

PHOTO: © Turkish Airlines

Pre-Flight: Business-class passengers have their own check-in line at the gate.

After a quick second screening of carryon luggage, I was led to the front of the plane. I lucked out by getting an aisle seat with no one seated next to me, allowing me to spread out my personal items, including iPad, magazines, cords, you name it. While passengers boarded, flight attendants offered us hot cleansing towels, lemonade or Champagne, and a sweet treat of Godiva chocolate.

One of my favorite things about my Turkish Airlines flight was that the flight attendants did not require passengers to turn off electronic devices. I do not know if this is against regulations or policy, but it was nice to listen to calming music on my iPod during takeoff while staring down at Los Angeles.

In-Flight: Once we reached 30,000 feet, I removed my seat belt and explored my area a bit more. The business-class seat was comfortable and stretched to a 180-degree fully reclined position, making it excellent for sleeping during the 12-hour flight. I had to get some work done first, so I used my swivel table from the center console to set up my laptop. The table was large enough to work on, and the onboard power sources kept my computer and iPad charging at the same time. Each seat has a 15-inch screen with a sharp picture and easy-to-navigate controls. There was an abundant choice of movies — new releases to comedies to dramas — along with a variety of television shows and every form of music and artist. I must admit I watched The Sound of Music and enjoyed every minute of it.

The dining menu catered to those looking for traditional globaltravelerusa.com

Turkish delights or American tastes. As I often do when traveling on an international carrier, I chose their national dish and was not disappointed: beef kebabs with baked eggplant, yellow rice and lentil soup. The entire dinner was elegantly presented and made me feel like I was already in Istanbul.

Soon after dinner was cleared, I perused the amenity kit. The Crabtree & Evelyn lotions and lip balm had a fresh scent, and I used them throughout my flight. The kit also came with a full-sized toothpaste and toothbrush set, a foldable bristled brush, socks and ear plugs. It was very warm in the cabin, which disrupted my sleep often and kept me watching more movies and taking advantage of the snack bar. A few hours before we touched down in Istanbul, the flight crew turned on the lights and started serving breakfast.

Their Turkish coffee was strong but certainly woke me up in time to eat my omelet, which was so-so and seemed a bit like a packaged meal. While we started to descend, I enjoyed listening to my iPod again and looked forward to seeing the new CIP lounge.

The Experience: Turkish Airlines did a wonderful job of keeping me fed, entertained and rested during the 12-hour flight from Los Angeles. Although the attendants were not overly friendly, I felt catered to and safe during my trip. The onboard WiFi was great for work purposes, and the expanse of movies was even better for relaxing. The best part of flying business class with Turkish Airlines is access to its newly renovated CIP lounge in Istanbul. It’s a must-see!

GT CHECKLIST  Less than 10 minutes for check-in  Friendly and helpful agents  Priority tagged bags  Airport lounge  Complimentary in-lounge food  Priority boarding  Helpful and courteous flight attendants  Pre-flight beverage service  Pre-flight newspapers and magazines  Extensive on-demand menu  Self-serve in-flight pantry  Amenity kits  Slippers  Lie-flat seat/bed  Mattress and comforter  In-flight menu with three entrée choices  Top-shelf wines and liquors

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 25

GT tested

Finnair | Business Class

Helsinki (HEL) to New York (JFK)

Reviewed by Debra Bokur

Pre-Flight: Finnair’s Helsinki lounge is a study in minimalist design and comfort. The generous space is arranged into intimate groupings and private corners, with a narrow upper deck with deep chairs and ottomans overlooking the runway.

The area was flooded with natural light, with plenty of electrical outlets within easy access. Felted walls buffered airport sound, and the buffet had a nice selection of hot and cold dishes served on beautiful Marimekko dinnerware.

I had no trouble connecting to the complimentary WiFi and spent a pleasant two hours catching up on emails and reading. I found the earthy colors, soothing creams and light-colored woods throughout the space extremely soothing and was very relaxed by boarding time. Once my flight was announced, I was ushered on board with no waiting and quickly offered a refreshing drink. The boarding process in all cabins went quickly and smoothly, and we left the gate on time.

In-Flight: My window seat was spacious and comfortable with ample storage space. My seat converted into a bed but wasn’t completely flat. Though there was a slight angle and my feet were lower than my head, I still found it easy to fall asleep for the middle part of the flight following lunch service. Sleeping was made easier thanks to soft sheets, a fluffy quilted comforter and an excellent pillow. Amenity kits were serviceable but packaged in an eco-friendly paper covering. The entertainment selection was quite broad, with first-run international movies,

26 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

PHOTO: © Finnair

On the Ground: Check-in at Helsinki’s Vantaa Airport Terminal 2 was easy-breezy. I was ticketed through to my connecting flight from New York to Washington, D.C. The gracious and efficient counter agent, who had information that my onward flight to D.C. on a separate airline was canceled due to a winter storm, was already prepared to help me make alternate arrangements and secured a train ticket for me. I was then whisked through the priority security line. From there, the lounge was a short stroll away between Gates 36 and 37. I had only a carry-on bag; had I checked luggage, it would have been tagged priority. games and music from around the world. I occupied myself by intermittently watching our progress on the flight map while finally finishing a novel I’d begun months before the flight.

As this was a day flight, lunch was served. After an amuse bouche of organic root vegetable chips, I was offered a salad and creamy chanterelle soup served with a small platter of Baltic herring roe, smoked elk and Lappish baked cheese. For the main course, I chose salmon with a pepper crust served with a potato-leek ragout, one of three dishes offered. To accompany the salmon, I had the Schlumberger Riesling, an Alsace Grand Cru. Though I skipped it, dessert was either fresh fruit, cheeses or a slice of a beautiful strawberry cake. Nearly as impressive as the food was the dinnerware: The glassware was specially designed for Finnair in 1969 by Tapio Wirkkala of the famed Finnish glassware firm Iittala. The design, called Ultima Thule, has remained in continuous service and is recognized as a Finnish design classic. It was a lovely touch to cabin service.

The snack bar in the galley had light fare available throughout the flight, and when I later requested a cup of tea, it was served promptly — hot and freshly brewed.

About an hour and a half before landing, the crew offered a light meal consisting of a Scandinavian shrimp sandwich with fresh fruit on the side.

GT Checklist  Less than 10 minutes for check-in  Friendly and helpful agents  Priority-tagged bags  Airport lounge  Complimentary in-lounge food and beverages  Priority boarding  Helpful and courteous in-flight staff  Pre-flight beverage service  Pre-flight newspapers and magazines  Amenity kits  Slippers  Lie-flat seat/bed  Mattress pad and comforter  In-flight menu offering choice of three entrées  Top-shelf wines and liquors

The Experience: The flight was a positive experience from start to finish, accentuated by an airport staff and onboard service team that actually appeared to enjoy the delivery of friendly customer service. globaltravelerusa.com

Fully flat beds for your restful flights in Executive First®.

Fly the difference More ways to experience the difference • Nonstop intercontinental flights from 8 Canadian gateways • Access to award-winning Maple Leaf ™ Lounges and worldwide partner lounges • Air Canada Altitude™ recognition • Aeroplan® Mile accumulation

Executive First Suites are available on overseas flights on all Air Canada-operated wide-body aircraft. ®Executive First is a registered trademark of Air Canada. ™ Maple Leaf is a trademark of Air Canada. ™Air Canada Altitude is a trademark of Air Canada.

PHOTO: © Air Canada

GT tested

Air Canada | Executive First Suite Philadelphia (PHL) to Hong Kong (HKG) via Toronto (YYZ)

Reviewed by Francis X. Gallagher On the Ground: For years I have suggested travelers who do not live close to an airport with direct service should look to Air Canada as an option. If you have to transfer through an airport in the United States to connect to your flight to Asia, Canada might be a better option. I found it easy and less congested than many of the airports in the United States. My flight was a quick 55 minutes from Philadelphia to Toronto Pearson International Airport, where you land and connect in the same terminal. All I had to do was go through the connecting immigrations desk and walk to my gate, no additional security. The flight out of Philadelphia was at 6 a.m., and checking in online was easy with aircanda.com. I was at the gate in plenty of time, checking emails.

Pre-Flight: When I arrived in Toronto, I exchanged some U.S. dollars for Hong Kong dollars before heading to the Maple Leaf Lounge. Having eaten breakfast on board, I was good to go but took notice of the offerings available, including hard-boiled eggs, fresh fruit, cereals and pastries. The lounge has a great deal of reading material; I picked up a Globe and Mail for the flight and selected one of the work stations to do a little business on my laptop. In less than an hour, I walked to the gate and was on board in a jiffy through the business-class access lane. In seat 2A, I put my hand luggage away and sat down to get organized. My jacket was immediately taken by Christian, who along with his team looked out for me during my entire flight. They served juice, water and sparkling wine and distributed more papers; this gave me a few minutes to catch up on the South China Morning Post. I liked the way the headsets were all pre-plugged — great idea, as I often scramble in the darkness of the cabin to find the outlet. Amenity kits, pillows and blankets were pre-distributed on the seats.

In-Flight: At first glance, I was not sure if the Air Canada Executive First Suite (business-class) seat was long enough. I am over 6 feet tall and can have some issues fitting into some seats. When fully reclined, however, I had more than enough room, and the back portion of the seat where your shoulders lie is very roomy. As 28 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

we were preparing for takeoff, the crew took drink orders for cruising altitude and distributed menus. In the menu, Air Canada was proud to have Chef Jonathan Goodyear’s winning appetizer from Top Chef Canada — a seared albacore tuna.

The choices for lunch were stir-fried pork loin strips, braised chicken, sautéed Atlantic salmon and grilled beef tenderloin. I chose the pork, which was tasty but filling, with the salad and appetizer prior. The meal was accompanied by a selection of wines purveyed by Ken Chase, whose selections always fare very well at Global Traveler’s Wines on the Wing airline wine competition. I selected the Santa Ema Terroir Estate Sauvignon Blanc, which went well with my lunch. The meal was followed by a cheese course and a warm chocolate pecan brownie with a dollop of whipped cream.

After eating, I decided it was time to nap on the flat-bed seat, which was comfortable. Kudos to Boeing for continuing to keep air vents controllable to passengers on the Boeing 777; I was able to remain cool GT Checklist during the flight. After my nap,  Less than 10 minutes for check-in I attacked business for many  Friendly and helpful agents hours and was pleased with the  Priority tagged bags easily reachable power outlet.  Airport lounge I remember the days when I  Complimentary in-lounge food used to travel with three back Priority boarding up batteries for my laptop.  Helpful and courteous After I completed my work flight attendants while watching a few films, I  Pre-flight beverage service took another nap until breakfast  Pre-flight newspapers and magazines was served and we prepared for  Extensive on-demand menu landing.

The Experience: Seems like a nobrainer to me — easy connections through Toronto; a fine businessclass flat-bed seat; and a seasoned, professional and friendly crew. I would recommend Air Canada for your next flight to the Pacific.

 Self-serve in-flight pantry  Amenity kits  Slippers  Lie-flat seat/bed  Mattress and comforter  In-flight menu with three entrée choices  Top-shelf wines and liquors

globaltravelerusa.com

Life is for

BEING CARED FOR On board Finnair we make sure that you arrive at your destination refreshed and ready for the day ahead. Our new full-flat seats offer you the best in travel comfort and more privacy than ever before. For food, you can pre-order one of our ‘Meals designed for you’ options or select your favourite from the award-winning on-board menu. And of course, we provide personal, multilingual service.

At Finnair, your business is our business.

Experience it on board Northern Europe’s best business class. finnair.com

COMFORT CLASS: Japan Airlines’ premium-economy seats PHOTO: © Japan Airlines

Premium Economy Is the ‘something extra’ worth the extra price? By Karin Leperi KEY AB Alcoholic beverages AK Amenity kits AVOD Audio/visual on demand B Bedding (blanket, pillow or both) BW Bottled water CP Continuous programming CS Coffee service EST Estimated G Games HP Headphones LP Learning programs M Movies MU Music N News programming NP Newspaper n/r No response PO Power outlets RL Reading light RM Reading material S Slippers SMS Messaging TV Television VS Personal video screen WiFi Onboard Internet

J

ohn Geigert, president of BioPharmaceutical Quality Solutions based in Carlsbad, Calif., figures he has flown more than 200,000 miles and about 20 premium-economy flights in the last year. In fact, he spends so much time on airplanes that he will not fly economy. “As a frequent flyer of United and American Airlines, I automatically get seated in Economy Plus [United] or Main Cabin Extra [American Airlines]," he says. “When I fly internationally on other airlines, if I don’t purchase business class, I purchase premium economy."

Premium economy first hit the scene when Virgin Atlantic Airways introduced an upgraded economy fare in 1992. Many international carriers followed suit by offering roomier seats, upgraded meals and additional amenities for a price point geared toward gap service: the delta between business and economy. It didn’t take long for carriers to recognize premium-economy service as a marketing opportunity catering to cash-constrained business travelers and cramped economy travelers looking for just a bit more. Though Lufthansa initially resisted the move over fears that premium economy might dilute business-class revenue — concerns shared by Emirates, Etihad Airways and Singapore Airlines — it is slated to roll out premium-economy service in 2014.

Features in premium economy differ depending on airline and plane type, but generally speaking for international flights, the class usually translates to one

30 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

to two inches more seat width than economy class, with two to three inches more recline and a larger personal video screen with power ports for laptops. Meals are upgraded and usually include complimentary drinks. So, should it be called “business minus" or “extra legroom" — or is it a “class in between"?

For some travelers, premium economy is nothing more than an economy seat with more legroom. This may be particularly true for domestic flights, where even JetBlue calls its domestic service “Extra Leg Room." (This does not necessarily equate to additional seat width.) In fact, some feel legroom in economy has decreased over the years and is the basic reason premium economy emerged. The bottom line is not all seats are created equal, and seat pitch and width vary widely from airline to airline, with international flights usually offering better benefits, food and service.

Cathay Pacific and Virgin Atlantic call their inbetween class Premium Economy, while Delta Air Lines calls it Economy Comfort. British Airways labels it World Traveller Plus. Whatever the name, travelers should be prepared to pay a premium for trans-Atlantic flights. According to a SeatGuru.com study, by booking in advance, these seats can cost 85 percent more than normal economy-class tickets. However, by booking closer to departure, a premium-economy ticket can drop to about 34 percent more than economy. This is not true for premium economy on cross-Pacific flights, where you can expect to pay about 95 percent more despite when booked. Yet because of the time in air, the long haul to Asia/Australia may well be worth the price.

The reasons Geigert chooses premium economy have more to do with comfort and productivity, as well as maintaining his frequent-flyer status on United and American. Next he focuses on the price, then on seat pitch. “Amazing what every inch of added space can mean to a long flight. Not being a tall person, I don’t need the legroom, but the extra inches mean the difference between using a computer or not during the flight."

For Ted Bravos, president and CEO of the International Tour Management Institute, purchasing premium economy is something he sees as a vetting process based on a combination of convenience, price, service and reputation. Foremost, Bravos books a flight on the basis of convenience, such as direct flights and potential frequent-flyer upgrades. He wants to spend the least amount of time in the air as possible. And though he says “inches and meals" are important, Bravos acknowledges his love of Virgin’s flights because the plane has a mood.

However, for the year 2013, Skytrax World Airline globaltravelerusa.com

Date Cabin Was Introduced

PREMIUM VOYAGEUR

Entertainment

AIR FRANCE

Food Service

AIR CHINA*

Premium Economy

Amenities

PREMIUM ECONOMY

Recline

AIR CANADA

Seat Width

AM PLUS

Seat Pitch

AEROMEXICO

Layout

COMFORT CLASS

Number of Seats

AEROFLOT RUSSIAN AIRLINES

Aircraft Type

Premium ECONOMY CLASS

777-300ER

48

2-4-2

38"

19"

123°

AK

Y

AVOD, G, M, MU, TV

2013

737-800

18

3-3

34"

N/R

94° EST

N/A

Y

AVOD, M, MU, TV

2013

777-300 (77W)

28

2-4-2

38"

20"

125°

AB, AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL, VS

Y

AVOD, M, MU, N, TV

2013

A330-300 777-200

16 63

2-4-2 2-5-2

36–37" 36–37"

18" 18"

N/R N/R

PO PO

Y Y

AVOD, MU, VS AVOD, MU, VS, WIFI

N/R N/R

777-200 777-300 A330 A340 A380

24 28 21 21 38

2-4-2 2-4-2 2-3-2 2-3-2 2-3-2

38.2" 38.2" 38.2" 38.2" 38.2"

19" 19" 19" 19" 19"

123° 123° 123° 123° 123°

AB, AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL, VS AB, AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL, VS AB, AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL, VS AB, AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL, VS AB, AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL, VS

Y Y Y Y Y

AVOD, G, HP, LP, M, MU, N AVOD, G, HP, LP, M, MU, N AVOD, G, HP, LP, M, MU, N AVOD, G, HP, LP, M, MU, N AVOD, G, HP, LP, M, MU, N

2009 2009 2009 2009 2011

AIR NEW ZEALAND*

PREMIUM ECONOMY 777-300ER 44 2-2-2 N/R 20" N/R AB, AK, HP, PO Y 500 Hrs, VS 2010

(Updated 2011)

ALITALIA

CLASSICA PLUS

777 A330

24 21

2-4-2 2-3-2

38" 38"

19" 20.1"

120° 120°

AB, AK, B, BW, CS, NP, PO, RL AB, AK, B, BW, CS, NP, PO, RL

Y Y

G, HP, M, MU, N, TV, VS G, HP, M, MU, N, TV, VS

2011 2010

PREMIUM ECONOMY 787-8 21 2-4-2 38" 19.3" 115° AB, B, BW, CS, NP, PO, RL, SMS, VS Y

777-300ER 24 2-4-2 38" 19.3" 115° AB, B, BW, CS, NP Y

AVOD, G, HP, M, MU, N, RM, TV, VS AVOD, G, HP, M, MU, N, RM, TV, VS

2013

ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS

AMERICAN AIRLINES

MAIN CABIN EXTRA

BRITISH AIRWAYS

WORLD TRAVELLER PLUS

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS PREMIUM ECONOMY

Delta Air Lines

ECONOMY COMFORT

2012

757-200 767-300 777-300 737-800 MD-80 A319

52 21 30 52 25 24

3-3 2-3-2 3-3-3 3-3 2-3 3-3

36–37" 36" 36" 35" 34" 34"

17.2" 17.8" 18" 17.2" 17.3" 17.7"

108° EST 108° EST 114° EST 108° EST 114° EST 108° EST

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

N Y Y N N N

N/R N/R M, MU, TV, VS, WiFi N/R N/R N/R

N/R N/R 2012 N/R N/R 2013

777-300ER

Up to 44

2-4-2

38"

18.5"

N/R

NP, PO

Y

M, MU, TV, VS

2000

777-300ER A330-300

26 34

2-4-2 2-3-2

38" 38"

19.3" 19.3"

N/R N/R

AB, AK, B AB, AK, B

Y Y

AVOD, G, M, MU, TV AVOD, G, M, MU, TV

2012 2012

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

N N N N N Y

WiFi WiFi WiFi WiFi WiFi AVOD, G, M, MU, TV

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV N AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi N AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi N M, TV, WiFi Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV N M, TV, WiFi Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi N M, TV, WiFi N M, TV, WiFi N M, TV, WiFi N AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi N M, TV, WiFi N AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi N AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi Y M, MU, TV Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV Y M, MU, TV Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, WiFi Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV Y AVOD, G, M, MU, TV N WiFi N WiFi N WiFi N WiFi

DC9-50 14 2-2 and 2-3 MD-88 15 3-2 MD-90 15 2-3 A319 18 3-3 A320 18 3-3 A330-200 30 2-2-2 and (332) 2-4-2 A330-300 (333) 32 2-2 and 2-4-2 737-700 (73W) 18 3-3 737-800 (73H) 18 3-3 737-800 (738) 18 3-3 747-400 (74S) 42 3-3 and 3-4-3 757-200 (757) 20 3-3 757-200 (75E) 25 3-3 757-200 (75M) 18 3-3 757-200 (75N) 19 3-3 757-200 (75V) 21 3-3 757-200 (75X) 26 3-3 757-300 (753) 23 3-3 767-300 (76P) 28 2-3-2 767-300 (76Q) 28 2-3-2 767-300ER (76G) 38 2-3-2 767-300ER (76L) 32 2-3-2 767-300ER (76U) 31 2-3-2 767-300ER (76T) 29 2-3-2 767-300ER (76Z) 29 2-3-2 767-400ER (76D) 28 2-3-2 777-200ER (777) 36 3-3-3 777-200LR (77B) 36 3-3-3 CRJ700 8 2-2 CRJ900 12 2-2 E170 12 2-2 E175 12 2-2

35" 34" 34" 34" 34" 34–35"

18.1" 115–117° 18.1" 115–117° 18.1" 115–117° 17.2" 115–117° 17.2" 115–117° 18" 130–140°

34–35" 18" 130–140° 34" 17.2" 115–117° 34" 17.2" 115–117° 34" 17.2" 115–117° 35" 17.2" 130–140° 34–35" 17.2" 115–117° 35" 17.2" 115–117° 34–35" 17.2" 115–117° 34" 17.2" 115–117° 34–35" 17.2" 115–117° 34" 17.2" 115–117° 34" 17.2" 115–117° 34" 17.9" 115–117° 34" 17.9" 115–117° 35" 17.9" 130–140° 35" 17.9" 130–140° 35" 17.9" 130–140° 35" 17.9" 130–140° 35" 17.9" 130–140° 35" 17.9" 130–140° 35" 18.5" 130–140° 35" 18.5" 130–140° 34" 17.3" 120° 34" 17.3" 120° 34" 18.25" 120° 34" 18.25" 120°

N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R N/R

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

globaltravelerusa.com

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 31

EL AL ISRAEL AIRLINES

ECONOMY CLASS PLUS 747-400 40–50 3-4-3 36" 17" 97–98° EST AB, AK, B, BW, CS, PO, RL

EVA AIR ELITE CLASS 747-400 56 2-4-2 38" 19.5" 127° AB, AK, B, NP, PO, S

777-300ER 71 or 103 2-4-2 38" 18.5" 127° AB, AK, B, NP, PO, S

ICELANDAIR*

ECONOMY COMFORT

JAPAN AIRLINES

JAL PREMIUM ECONOMY

KLM

ECONOMY COMFORT

LOT POLISH AIRLINES PREMIUM CLUB

NORWEGIAN AIR SHUTTLE PREMIUM ECONOMY

OPENSKIES PREM PLUS

QANTAS*

PREMIUM ECONOMY

SCANDINAVIAN AIRLINES (SAS) SAS PLUS

THAI AIRWAYS* PREMIUM ECONOMY

UNITED

ECONOMY PLUS

VIETNAM AIRLINES* PREMIUM ECONOMY

VIRGIN AMERICA MAIN CABIN SELECT

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA*

INTERNATIONAL PREMIUM ECONOMY

VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS PREMIUM ECONOMY

Date of Last Major Cabin Overhaul

Entertainment

Food Service

Amenities

Recline

Seat Width

Seat Pitch

Layout

Number of Seats

Aircraft Type

Premium ECONOMY CLASS

Y

HP, M, MU, N, RM, VS

2012

Y Y

AVOD, G, M, MU, RM, SMS, TV AVOD, G, M, MU, RM, SMS, TV

2007 2005

757-200

14

2-2

33"

20"

111°

AB, AK, CS, PO, RL

Y

AVOD, G, HP, M, MU, TV

2008

777-300ER

40

2-4-2

42"

19"

N/R

AK, S

Y

AVOD, M, MU

2013

777 MD-11 A330

34–40 34–40 34–40

3-4-3/3-3-3 3-4-3/3-3-3 3-4-3/3-3-3

35" 35" 35"

17.5" 17.5" 17.5"

116° 116° 116°

AB, AK, B, NP AB, AK, B, NP AB, AK, B, NP

Y Y Y

AVOD, G, M, MU, TV AVOD, G, M, MU, TV AVOD, G, M, MU, TV

2009 2009 2009

787

21

2-3-2

38"

19.5"

132°

AB, AK, PO

Y

G, M, MU, VS

2013

787-8

32

2-3-2

46"

19"

N/R

N/R

N

M, MU, TV, VS, WIFI

2013

757

28–40

2-2

47"

20.5"

130°

AK, B, BW, NP, PO, RL

Y

G, HP, M, MU, RM, TV

2012

A380

32

2-3-2

38–42"

19.5"

105° EST

AB, AK,B, PO

Y

G, HP, M, MU, SMS, TV, VS

2008

A330-300 A340-300

35 28

2-3-2 2-3-2

38" 38"

18.3" 18.3"

105° 105°

AB, B AB, B

Y Y

AVOD, G, M, MU, N, TV, VS AVOD, G, M, MU, N, TV, VS

2001 2001

A340-500

42

2-3-2

42"

19"

122°

AB, PO

Y

AVOD, G, M, MU, TV, VS

N/R

787-8 A319 A320 737 747 757 767 777

70 40 36–42 40–51 88 39–45 56–63 63–104

3-3-3 3-3 3-3 3-3 3-4-3 3-3 2-3-2 2-5-2/3-3-3

35" 35" 35" 34–37" 34" 34–37" 34–36" 34–36"

17.3" 18" 18" 17.3–17.9" 17" 17–18" 17.3–18" 17–18.25"

N/R 111° 111° 111° 111° 111° 111° 111°

B, HP HP, RL HP, RL HP, PO, RL HP, RL HP, PO, RL HP, PO, RL HP, PO, RL

Y N N Y Y Y Y Y

AVOD, M, MU, TV M, MU, WiFi M, MU, WiFi M, MU, TV M, MU, WiFi AVOD, M, MU, TV AVOD, M, MU, TV AVOD, M, MU, TV

NEW 1999 1999 2012 1999 1999 1999 1999

777-200ER

54

3-3-3

38"

N/R

N/R

AB, CS

Y

N/R

N/R

A320 SERIES

12

3-3

38"

19.7"

N/R

AB, BW, CS, G, HP, PO, RL

Y

AVOD, CP, M, MU, N, TV, VS, WiFi

2007

777-300ER

40

2-4-2

38"

19.5"

N/R

AB, AK, B, BW, CS, NP, PO, RL

Y

AVOD, CP, G, HP, M, MU, RM, VS

2009

A330-300 A340-300 747-400

48 or 59 35 62

2-3-2 2-3-2 2-4-2

38" 38" 38"

21" 21" 21"

98° EST 98° EST 98° EST

AB, AK AB, AK AB, AK

Y Y Y

AVOD, M, MU, TV AVOD, M, MU, TV AVOD, M, MU, TV

1992 1992 1992

* Airline did not reply. Survey information was compiled with GT research.

Awards selected Air New Zealand as the best for all three premiumeconomy categories: Best Premium Economy Class, Best Premium Economy Class Seat and Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering. The World Airline Awards represent the global benchmark of airline excellence and are determined through surveys of more than 18 million airline passengers from more than 160 countries. The study covers 200 airlines and measures customer satisfaction on 40 key performance indicators such as onboard seat comfort, food and service.

There may be unintended consequential benefits to purchasing premium economy not obvious at first blush. Bruce Tepper, a partner and marketing consultant with Joselyn, Tepper & Associates, found himself flying from Chicago to Warsaw in March of this year on board LOT Polish Airlines.

He purchased a premium-economy ticket because of the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for inaugural service in February. Later, when the 787 was pulled due to battery design issues, Tepper was upgraded to business class for the price of a premium-economy ticket.

Yet Arthur Painvin, director of operations at The Orchard in New York 32 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

City, doesn’t feel the price for premium economy is worth it. “The difference in price is about midway between business and economy, but the service and comfort is much closer to economy. The price difference is not met with the experience that one would desire or expect." Though he has flown premium economy multiple times on Air France international flights, he says, “In all honesty, I would not pay the going rate for premium-economy seating."

According to Painvin, there is the good, the bad and the ugly side of premium economy. “The seats are more comfortable and the additional space is a great plus, especially when traveling internationally." That’s the good. As for the bad, “The food and overall quality of service is similar, if not identical to economy." But the ugly? “Companies market this as a ‘premium’ service, making travelers believe that the service and overall experience is far superior, but in reality it really isn’t."

Annemarie Osborn, a consultant based in Germany, says, “On a long flight it is worth the extra expense." However, she also cautions, “You will be extremely disappointed with the service and that the ‘premium’ experience has been ‘over-promised.’ " globaltravelerusa.com

AT EASE: Etihad Airways' Diamond First Class lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport PHOTO: © Etihad Airways

Home Away from Home

Airport lounges transform into luxurious getaways for travelers in transit. By Susan Finch

E

nduring long airport layovers often means turning a fastfood tabletop into an office or killing time at the duty-free shop. But long layovers are no longer a reason to sacrifice comfort.

More and more business travelers are looking to airport lounges as a home away from home. Airports around the world are responding to the call by transforming lounges into state-of-the-art getaways complete with personal assistants and comfortable beds in private cabanas. Instead of waiting to check in at the hotel, use your layover as a chance to get some sleep in a private suite, get a haircut or massage and enjoy a hot meal prepared by a celebrity chef.

SETTLE INTO VIRGIN Atlantic Airways’ Clubhouse at London Heathrow and ask for a haircut or manicure before taking a dip

globaltravelerusa.com

in the circular hydro-spa pool. Reserved for Upper Class passengers and Flying Club Gold members, the 12,000-square-foot lounge offers private cabanas complete with hotel-style rooms to catch a nap on a daybed or step into a hot shower stocked with toiletries. The lounge even offers complimentary pajamas so you don’t have to wear a soiled pair from a well-traveled suitcase.

Travelers who’ve been on the road for a week or even months at a time benefit from clothes pressed during a nap, hot showers or specialty drinks from the Grey Goose Loft. And if you need to buckle down and bury your head in work, look for the healthy supply of computer terminals and printers tucked into a far corner. There’s also plenty of seating in this spacious lounge with oversized windows facing the runway. Those headed through New York should stop by the JFK Clubhouse, which offers nearly identical amenities as its London Heathrow twin.

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 33

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. A golf cart whisks travelers to private bungalows for spa treatments including full-hour body massages, foot massages, and neck and foot rubs. Semiprivate living rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis for a more intimate setting to indulge in a quiet drink or a casual meeting.

If you need to squeeze in a meeting on the road, firstclass passengers can inquire about one of two VIP rooms for extra privacy or one of the six private corners in the lounge. The dedicated business space proves especially convenient for long-haul travelers who need to set up presentations and meetings. And guests with family can also take advantage of the family room with kids’ activities to keep the little ones occupied while the adults return calls or relax over a glass of Champagne.

TAKE A DIP: Virgin Atlantic Airways' spa at London Heathrow PHOTO: © Virgin Atlantic

AT FRANKFURT INTERNATIONAL Airport, Lufthansa’s First Class Lounge doubles as its own terminal at a staggering 11,840 square feet. A dedicated personal assistant escorts guests through passport and security control before heading to a lounge full of plush leather armchairs, sofas and daybeds.

Ask your personal assistant to arrange for a daybed for a nap, serve one of 80 brands of whiskey or premium spirits and help select a meal. Like most luxury lounges, the Lufthansa First Class Lounge offers hot showers, but frequent flyers needing extra creature comforts may be surprised by a full-sized bathtub complete with bath salts to enjoy while sipping a glass of Champagne. There’s even a rubber ducky to take home as a keepsake.

If you’re tired of setting up shop on a cramped airport table, ask for one of the lounge’s special office units arranged on a two-level gallery. The layout offers a discreet, quiet space for work and phone calls and comes with all the necessities like a large desk, a telephone, a netbook connection and electronic hookups. Ideal for meetings on the road, some units can also be closed with glass doors. After a long, hard day at work and relaxing in the lounge, guests may choose to be escorted right to the plane in a Porsche or a Mercedes.

GUESTS SKIP PAST the long lines and head to the exclusive check-in desk at the Thai Airways First Class Lounge at

34 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

TRAVELERS TAKING their kids on the road for weeks at a time will find refuge in the dedicated staff nannies at Etihad Airways’ Diamond First Class Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Kids unwind with books, toys and TV shows in a brightly colored family room with an attentive staff.

Meanwhile, parents indulge in a complimentary treatment from the Six Senses Spa. Customized treatments take 15 minutes to an hour or more for facials, foot detox and scalp massages.

If you’re passing through the airport every week or two, skip the dry cleaning at your hotel. Lounge staff can press your clothes and polish shoes to a shine in time for a meeting in the business center. Macs, printers and all the usual necessities like broadband Internet access are also readily available once you’re fully relaxed from a spa treatment and hot meal.

IF YOU HAVE THE OPTION to pick a home airport base, make it Kuala Lumpur International Airport. With a glassenclosed rainforest and a lounge with a tranquil river running through it, you can’t find a more exotic setting on a layover.

Malaysia Airlines’ Platinum Suite lounge is reserved for the carrier’s high-tier frequent flyers and comes with a personal assistant, meet-and-greet service for all Malaysia Airlines international flights, a putting green and a fine-dining menu.

There’s also a Kids Corner offering TVs, art supplies, toys, pint-sized tables and chairs, crafts and diaper-changing areas.

Though first-class passengers lounge in the lap of luxury, those with business- or economy-class lounge passes enjoy comfortable sofas and chairs, tasty food options and a business center with dedicated meeting space for traveling teams. globaltravelerusa.com

REGARDLESS OF THE CLASS of your ticket or airline, guests can access Qatar Airways’ Oryx Lounge at Doha International Airport and use the conference room, business center with PCs, shower facilities and smoking room. But first- and business-class passengers can also indulge in the Premium Terminal for dining options ranging from deli treats to fresh, handrolled sushi while relaxing in massage chairs.

Like other airport lounges, Doha offers privacy rooms with beds to allow travelers to catch up on sleep before heading to the business center and private meeting rooms. But unlike most airport lounges, the Oryx Lounge has a 24-hour clinic where travelers who forgot their medications or are running low on a prescription can get a quick refill.

STEP INTO CATHAY Pacific’s The Pier at Hong Kong International Airport for a decadent travel experience and local fare including freshly handmade Japanese noodles from its popular Noodle Bar. Private shower suites open at 6 a.m. for early-morning business travel and offer handheld or rainfall showerhead options. The shower’s back wall features embedded river rock, providing a spa-like aesthetic.

Guests at The Pier’s First Class Lounge get more than just a place to catch a nap. Skip your hotel altogether and snag one of the six Day-Break rooms including a private TV, an armchair, a wake-up call and waiter service. While the Business Class Lounge doesn’t offer the same privacy, both lounges boast Personal Living Spaces that offer spacious work areas to spread out and relax.

GET BACK IN TOUCH with nature and step into the Qantas globaltravelerusa.com

International First Class Lounge at Sydney Airport, where a vertical garden features more than 8,000 plants growing out of the wall. The lounge offers a Payot Paris day spa, Sony PlayStations and portable games for a quick fix.

Business travelers can settle in the separate business center with 11 work stations complete with a plasma display and plenty of PCs. But what makes this lounge unique is its own traditional library stocked with books for travelers needing some quiet time; allow yourself to settle in with a good book.

Finnair's VIA Lounge at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is designed around the home-away-from-home mentality, offering space to rest and work in peace and quiet. Guests needing a comfortable work space can choose from three cubicle-style layouts with an iMac and wireless charging system. Forget your charger? Request an adapter from reception and connect it to your phone, then place it on the PowerKiss button on the desk to start charging.

Travelers will also find all the usual perks like beer, wine and a buffet, with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the tarmac for an inspired view while working. After wrapping up work, wander into the living room, grab a book and ask reception for a pair of cozy wool socks.

WHETHER YOU’RE ON the road for a week or months at a time, take advantage of airport lounges as a place to recharge and relax in an environment where hospitality is at your fingertips. Who knows? With luxury amenities, customized massages and cozy beds, airport lounges might look better than home.

CURL UP: Finnair's Via Lounge at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport PHOTO: © Finnair

Cathay Pacific cathaypacific.com Etihad Airways etihad.com Finnair finnair.com Lufthansa lufthansa.com Malaysia Airlines malaysiaairlines.com Qantas qantas.com Qatar Airways qatarairways.com Thai Airways thaiairways.com Virgin Atlantic virgin-atlantic.com

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 35

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Spirit of Tahiti Experience the tranquility and hospitality of the South Pacific on board Air Tahiti Nui.

F

ollowing a two-year, $17 million refurbishment, Air Tahiti Nui unveils its renewed cabin interiors, featuring an expanded business class; more comfortable seats; a new touch-screen, on-demand, in-flight entertainment system; and other changes designed to ensure greater efficiency and enhanced comfort.

The upgraded cabins are now available on all flights departing Los Angeles to Tahiti.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Poerava Business Air Tahiti Nui looked to the natural beauty of its islands for inspiration when redesigning the cabins. Aspects of Polynesian culture are evident throughout the interior.

Imagine standing on the deck of your Tahitian bungalow overlooking the lagoon. Your experience begins on board with the look of hardwood floors and colors and textures invoking the warmth of the woods, the intensity of the blue sea and the lushness of the vegetation.

The color scheme is set against a backdrop of turquoise and ocean blue, much as the Tahitian islands themselves are.

Pearl-hued stitching brings to mind mother-ofpearl shells, and the whites and warm grays throughout the cabin remind passengers of white-sand beaches and the iridescence of the black pearl, a symbol of Tahiti.

Another symbol of Tahiti and of the airline is readily present throughout the cabin — the Tiare flower, found on the headrests.

Presented off-center and in varying sizes, the design lightens the cabin.

The tifaifai Tahitian handicraft method of mending or patching is embodied on the seat cushions. The technique of decorating fabrics by patchwork can be found throughout Tahiti. The green palm motifs on the business-class pillows bring a new pop of color to the space and symbolize the island’s vegetation. The complementary accent colors bring out the richness of the blue seats. The amenities are crafted in recyclable materials harkening to the textures of the Polynesian tapa bark cloth.

There is much more to be discovered beyond the colorful interior. Overall,

the renewal was aimed at greater passenger comfort more efficiently delivered.

With updated equipment, Air Tahiti Nui shares qualities with larger airlines while retaining its unique boutique feel and traditional hospitality. Moving away from a three-class cabin, business class expanded to include 32 seats in a 2-2 configuration. Both cabins are arranged in two- and four-seat configurations to accommodate the many honeymoon travelers en route to Tahiti.

The Poerava (meaning “black pearl”) business-class seats feature a shellseat concept that offers more privacy and intimacy. The Evolys seat is an angled lie-flat at 160 degrees, with a 60-inch pitch and a 20-inch width.

Power outlets and USB ports are offered at every seat, as are an amenity kit with L’Occitane products, a comforter and a pillow.

The 264 economy-class seats offer more space than ever before, with an 18-inch width, a 32-inch pitch and 118-degree recline. The Steezy seats by GEVEN also offer USB ports for power supply.

The innovative RAVE in-flight entertainment system is truly a highlight of the cabin. The capacitive touch-screen interface, HD resolution and reliability are just a few reasons passengers find the system easy to use. The RAVE system treats each seat individually, meaning a breakdown in one seat will not affect any other systems. The dockable seat display allows crewmembers to quickly replace systems at any point in flight. The slim, lightweight design requires low power.

The easy-to-use system allows passengers to select content as they would on any tablet device. The 12-inch business-class screen can also be operated by remote control. A plethora of options are available via the in-flight entertainment, including 14 movies, 24 television shows, the Tiare TV Tahitifocused channel, popular music, 15 games, a duty-free catalog, a Tahiti information guide and in-flight menus.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Partnerships Air Tahiti Nui recently expanded its codeshare agreement with American Airlines to include its Los Angeles to Auckland route. Originally initiated in June 2012, the codeshare also applies to the Los Angeles–Papeete route. The American Airlines code is placed on the two Air Tahiti Nui routes; and the ATN code is on AA flights from Los Angeles to more than 15 U.S. cities, including New York, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago, Boston, Dallas/Fort Worth and Miami.

Air Tahiti Nui’s joint venture with Air France, Delta Air Lines and the SkyTeam alliance on flights to Paris is currently pending government approval. The move will offer additional frequencies to France for travelers in the Southern California area.

The number of travelers to Tahiti from North America has increased by 30 percent in the last two years, from 40,000 to 60,000 visitors. Beginning in April 2014, Air Tahiti Nui will add an extra weekly flight to accommodate the ever-growing demand.

Tahiti Air Tahiti Nui calls the breathtaking islands of Tahiti home, and it’s nearly impossible to ask for a more beautiful land. Tahiti embodies calmness, relaxation, natural beauty and a serenity unattainable elsewhere in the world.

Honeymooners the world over are attracted to the 118 islands and atolls of the South Pacific, each uniquely different and stunningly beautiful. Private and exclusive, the islands are full of treasures, from the black pearl and the vanilla bean to the people and their diverse culture.

Above all else, the islands are welcoming. And full of experiences. Wherever you are in French Polynesia, be it Moorea, Bora Bora, the Society Islands or Marquesas, endless opportunities await. Dive among the bright rainbow fish. Relax in crystal-clear lagoons. Hike the tropical forests. Get a tan on the powdery white-sand beaches — or the exotic black-sand beaches, whatever your preference. Dine on unbelievable cuisine.

Experience Tahiti. And start with Air Tahiti Nui.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

About Air Tahiti Nui Celebrating 15 years of service, Air Tahiti Nui brings the world to Tahiti. Daily non-stop service from Los Angeles is available, with connections to Auckland, Tokyo and Paris. Codeshare partners, including SNCF Rail in France, American Airlines in the United States and Qantas in Australia, link the airline to 39 other cities worldwide, including Sydney and Marseille.

The dynamic crew brings the spirit of Tahiti to the onboard experience with a warm smile and a greeting of Maeva, Tahitian for “welcome.� The readers of Global Traveler have globally recognized the airline and its crew. Operating one of the youngest fleets of Airbus A340-300s in the world, the airline is also noted for its safety.

Learn more at airtahitinui-usa.com.

Reservations | Open 7 Days a Week | tel 877 824 4846

Hot Nights Hotel openings around the world offer travelers the right stuff. By Lisa Matte

W

ith hundreds of new hotels around the world making their debuts since this time last year, global travelers have more options than ever when it comes to choosing their perfect-fit accommodations.

IN THE MIDDLE EAST, the new JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai celebrated its grand opening in February, following a soft opening in late 2012.

The highly anticipated 5-star property is, for now, the world’s tallest hotel, topping out at almost 1,165 feet, just 85 feet shorter than the Empire State Building.

A world-class convention and business destination, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai boasts nine restaurants in addition to five bars and lounges. The hotel is located in the heart of Business Bay, minutes from Dubai World Trade Centre, the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre and close to Dubai International Airport.

“The JW Marriott Marquis will add significantly to Dubai in its drive to become the preferred choice for meetings, incentives, conference and events business,” said Rupprecht Queitsch, general manager, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. “We are working in tandem with Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing and the Dubai Convention Bureau to put Dubai on the global business destination map.”

LATIN AMERICA IS A HOTBED of hotel development, with Starwood an aggressive player in the market. Earlier this year, Starwood announced its Latin America growth plan, declaring its goal of having 100 hotels in UP AND UP: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai PHOTO: © JW Marriott

40 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

operation or development by the end of 2013.

When it opened last summer, Sheraton Tucumán Hotel became Sheraton’s ninth branded hotel and the 10th Starwood property in Argentina. Located in Tucumán, the capital of the province, the hotel overlooks the city’s beautiful 9 de Julio Park, named for Argentina’s Independence Day. It’s also just blocks from the city’s historic district and civic center.

“Sheraton is an icon in Latin America, having been the first international hotel brand to be established in major cities, including Buenos Aires, Santiago and Lima. Today, Latin America boasts several of the world’s fastest-growing economies and is one of the most promising for the Sheraton brand,” said Hoyt Harper, global brand leader, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “Sheraton continues to be one of the most sought-after hotel brands in Latin America and around the world; and as a result, we are experiencing record-breaking growth, with plans to open our 500th Sheraton hotel by 2015.”

Sheraton Tucumán Hotel offers 124 guestrooms, including six executive suites and a presidential suite. Sheraton Club Lounge, located on the top floor, boasts a panoramic view of the park and surrounding mountain landscape. An 8,600-square-foot spa, the first of its kind in the region, offers a full range of therapies, and with more than 28,000 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting space, Sheraton Tucumán is one of the largest convention centers in the region.

IN BRAZIL, SHERATON DA BAHIA HOTEL opened to rave reviews earlier this year. Located in Salvador, one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, the 284-room hotel, formerly the historic Hotel da Bahia, underwent extensive renovation prior to reopening under the Sheraton flag.

“We are thrilled to expand our portfolio of Sheraton hotels in Brazil and partner with GJP Hotéis & Resorts to open our first hotel in Salvador, one of the country’s most important cities,” said Osvaldo Librizzi, co-president, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Americas. “This additional hotel in Brazil highlights our distinctive positioning in this fast-growing market and the strength of the Sheraton brand in the upscale hotel segment.”

“This is a historic time for the Sheraton brand. Starwood has invested billions of dollars in renovating iconic properties and bringing the brand to the most important places in the world,” said Sheraton’s Harper. “Brazil is now a powerhouse economy whose prominence around the world will be permanently established with the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games, and Sheraton is thrilled to expand its presence there during these exciting times.”

Located in the city center with direct access to Sete de Setembro Avenue, one of Salvador’s major thoroughfares, Sheraton da Bahia Hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers. Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is second only to Rio de Janeiro in tourism traffic. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the city offers a kaleidoscope of cultural attractions, cuisine, music, beaches and architecture.

IN AUGUST, PALACIO DEL INKA in Cusco, Peru, opened its doors following an extensive $15 million renovation.

Owned by Libertador Hotels, Resorts & Spas, Palacio del globaltravelerusa.com

Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco offers discreet and personalized service in the ancient capital of Peru. Starwood’s Luxury Collection comprises a growing roster of unique hotels that span five continents, 60 cultural centers and seven centuries.

“Latin America has a vast landscape with unique destinations that are ideal for global explorers seeking one-of-a-kind experiences with exceptional service and style. As a result, The Luxury Collection brand portfolio continues to grow in the region, where we now have 11 hotels, from Argentina to Mexico,” said Starwood’s Librizzi. “We are honored to welcome Palacio del Inka, which embodies centuries of history, richness and indigenous charm into our Luxury Collection

portfolio. We are certain it will become the favorite of the new generation of luxury travelers visiting the region for years to come.”

Situated at the heart of Cusco, the historic Palacio del Inka is located across from the preserved ruins of the Koricancha, or Temple of the Sun. With a striking Spanish colonial façade, Palacio del Inka was originally part of the Incan civilization in the early 15th century and later designed and inhabited by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. The ancient walls are still part of the structure while the interior design, paintings and furnishings evoke Peru’s colonial past. The 203-room hotel includes 17 Casa de los Cuatro Bustos Suites. The suites boast 13-foot ceilings and rich textiles, and all guestrooms feature custom-designed carved wooden doors, chests and desks complementing vintage paintings and mirrors.

PARK SETTING: Sheraton Tucumán Hotel, Argentina PHOTO: © Sheraton

AMONG STARWOOD’S PANAMA debuts this year, The Westin Panama opened in early 2013, followed closely by Waldorf Astoria Panama. Located in Costa del Este, Panama City’s newest, upscale corporate and financial center, The Westin Panama boasts 218 rooms, including 45 suites, in addition to 14,460 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting and function space. The newly constructed hotel is a key element of the Costa del Este financial center, which includes several 2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 41

TOP OF THE WORLD: Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London PHOTO: © Shangri-La

high-end real estate developments, numerous multinational corporate offices and a boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants. Costa del Este is just 15 minutes from downtown Panama City and less than 30 minutes from Tocumen International Airport via the Corredor Sur. Located in the heart of Panama City’s entertainment area, Waldorf Astoria Panama offers 248 guestrooms, suites and luxury residences. The hotel’s design combines fresh, luminous tones and reflective materials, as well as high ceilings, rich exotic woods, metallic pieces, multidimensional panels, glass and crystals to create a sophisticated social atmosphere.

In addition to the hotel’s exclusive dining and wellness facilities, Waldorf Astoria Panama features Level 5, a multievent venue for meetings and social gatherings where Manhattan penthouse design blends with a trendy Latin American ambience. The more than 3,500 square feet of meeting space includes three multipurpose meeting rooms and a ballroom, complemented by a versatile business center where guests can access a variety of services.

“Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts are committed to a presence in landmark destinations around the world, so Panama is a perfect venue for our brand’s entry into Latin America,” said John T.A. Vanderslice, global head of luxury and lifestyle brands, Hilton Worldwide. “The Waldorf Astoria Panama is perfectly positioned to create the exceptional experiences and unforgettable moments that are hallmarks of the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts brand.”

42 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD, Shangri-La Bosphorus Istanbul opened in May, marking the luxury brand’s first foray into Turkey. Set on the European side of the Bosphorus Strait between the Dolmabahçe Palace and Naval Museum, Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul offers an expansive view of the city’s unique landscape, showcasing a panorama of colorful domes and minarets. Housed in a restored circa 1930s tobacco warehouse, the hotel features a Neoclassical façade; two carefully preserved sycamore trees (estimated at 150 and 350 years old) stand in the hotel’s courtyard, giving testament to its storied past.

Inside, Shangri-La Bosphorus is a modern oasis, taking design cues from the glamorous Dolmabahçe Palace with swathes of marble, glittering chandeliers and a mix of European, Asian and Turkish décor. Natural light illuminates a dome-shaped atrium, adding sparkle to a massive Bohemian chandelier. The hotel showcases more than 1,000 pieces of European and Asian art. One masterpiece, located behind the reception desk, is an exquisite southern China lacquer craft carving depicting a Bosphorus water scene.

WHILE SHANGRI-LA HOTELS & RESORTS has yet to confirm an opening date for its highly anticipated Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London, the hotel promises to become an icon on London’s hospitality landscape. Housed on floors 34–52 of The Shard, the city’s iconic crystalline tower — and currently reigning as the tallest building in Western Europe — globaltravelerusa.com

Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London will be the brand’s first hotel in the United Kingdom.

PARK HYATT IS ALSO ON THE MOVE with a number of new and soon-to-open hotels worldwide. Among them, Park Hyatt Sydney reopened last year following the largest and most comprehensive renovation in its history. The iconic harborfront hotel closed for 10 months during the extensive makeover, culminating in a big-reveal debut of upgraded guestrooms, remodeled public spaces and rooftop suites boasting almost-360-degree views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

Designers specified regional building materials to echo elements of Sydney’s past and present. The original 1990 foundation was rebuilt of traditional Sydney sandstone, historically used as a canvas for aboriginal rock carvings and as a building material by local architects dating from 1788. The boardwalk surrounding the hotel’s entrance was reconstructed using spotted gum, a timber native to a number of regions in Australia.

Park Hyatt Sydney also selected a small group of renowned Australian artists to create sculptures, paintings and photographs inspired by The Rocks and Harbour to connect public spaces and guestrooms to Sydney’s yesterday and today.

CLOSER TO HOME, HONG KONG-BASED Langham Hotels and Resorts is beefing up its U.S. presence with the September opening of The Langham, Chicago. Housed in the last office building designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, known for developing the modern skyscraper, the 316-room hotel sits in the heart of downtown Chicago, just minutes from the Loop business district and Michigan Avenue. It is the company’s first purpose-built hotel in the United States.

“After more than four years of planning and construction, we’re delighted to join the Chicago community and bring our brand of European hospitality to this great city,” said Bret Butcher, CEO, Langham Hospitality Group. “The Langham, Chicago was a labor of love for our chairman, Dr. K.S. Lo, who is passionately committed to developing luxury hotels in heritage buildings. The opportunity to build our hotel within this landmark building was a great privilege.”

Built in 1971 as IBM’s regional headquarters, the building was declared a Chicago Landmark in 2008 and entered into the National Register of Historic Places in March 2010.

The Langham, Chicago joins The Langham Huntington, Pasadena; The Langham, Boston; and Langham Place, Fifth Avenue on the company’s growing roster of U.S. hotels. What’s on the horizon? Katie Benson, CEO and executive director, Langham Hospitality Investments, Ltd., recently told Global Traveler Langham is actively on the lookout for additional opportunities in New York and Los Angeles, as well as Washington, D.C.; Miami; San Francisco; and other locations. globaltravelerusa.com

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai marriott.com The Langham, Chicago langhamhotels.com Palacio del Inka, Cusco starwoodhotels.com Park Hyatt Sydney hyatt.com Shangri-La Bosphorus Istanbul shangri-la.com Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, London shangri-la.com Sheraton da Bahia Hotel, Salvador sheraton.com Sheraton Tucumán Hotel sheraton.com Waldorf Astoria Panama waldorfastoria.com The Westin Panama westin.com ICONS: Park Hyatt Sydney (left), and The Langham, Boston (below) PHOTOs: © Park Hyatt Sydney © Langham Boston

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 43

The Things We Carry W

alk into any luggage shop these days and the choices are plenty: ballistic nylon garment bags; colorful, mod-looking hard-shell carry-ons; high-end monogrammed duffels; and sleek leather trolleys — a long way from the bulky trunks used centuries ago.

It’s reported that as early as the Crusades — soldiers used wooden boxes to carry weapons and armor — traveling trunks were essential to hold personal belongings for an extended period of time.

In the mid- to late-1800s, as long-distance travel became popular via steam vessels such as trains and ships, so did steamer trunks. The most popular and iconic steamer trunk was a large, rectangular model with a flat top, favored for its durability and ideal for being stowed vertically or horizontally for easy transport. Typically, these steamer trunks were adorned with leather, canvas or patterned paper and secured with brass or iron.

Two notable luxury French trunk makers, Goyard and Louis Vuitton, crafted steamer trunks for French royalty and wealthy customers during the travel boom in the mid-1800s. Typically covered in canvas to make them lightweight and waterproof, both brands added distinct patterns to protect from imitators — Goyard added a geometric pattern, and Louis Vuitton the famous LV monogram.

44 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

Steamer trunks stayed popular until about the 1920s but were replaced with more compact, portable suitcases as long-distance travel by plane emerged.

In 1920, the Shwayder Bros. Trunk Manufacturing Co. of Denver, Colo., launched its first affordable coordinated luggage and in 1941 developed Samsonite Streamlite, suitcases made with a revolutionary vulcanized material and tapered corners. The company’s ads claimed the luggage was “strong enough to stand on," and a few years later, owner Jesse Shwayder changed the company name to Samsonite, after the biblical giant, Samson.

As commercial air travel started to boom for both business and pleasure, so did the demand for better baggage. Amazingly, not until 1970 did we get the idea to put wheels on luggage. Bernard Sadow, the founder of U.S. Luggage (now the parent company of Briggs & Riley) was traveling from Aruba with his family, carrying two heavy suitcases, when he noticed a skid nearby and realized that what luggage needed was wheels. Sadow made a prototype of a suitcase with four caster wheels made from plastic and metal and a rope to pull it along.

Sadow’s “Luggage that Glides!" hit Macy’s stores in October 1970, but it was not until 1987 that Northwest Airlines Boeing 747 pilot Bob Plath globaltravelerusa.com

PHOTO: © Glyn Adams | Dreamstime.com

From steamer trunk to high-tech trolley, luggage evolved to meet the demands of travelers. By Jackie Ignall

invented the first rolled luggage with two wheels and an extending handle, changing the orientation of the suitcase from horizontal to vertical. “A major development in luggage, which changed the way people traveled, was the invention of the Rollaboard by Travelpro founder Bob Plath 26 years ago," says Michele Marini Pittenger, president of the Travel Goods Association.

Plath began selling his Rollaboard to flight crews, but travelers soon noticed airline personnel efficiently navigating the airport with ease, and a whole market for two-wheeled luggage was born. The Rollaboard became so successful most airlines reconfigured their overhead space to accommodate the 22-inch carry-ons. This also allowed people to carry their own luggage and sparked a trend to pack lighter. Bob Plath eventually left his job as a pilot and started the company Travelpro, which today is the premier luggage provider to flight crews and pilots of 90 airlines.

U.S. consumers spent an estimated $25.5 billion on travel goods in 2012, according to the Travel Goods Association.

Today, frequent travelers can choose from a slew of highperformance luggage options that are lighter, more durable and contain modern amenities such as TSA-friendly technology compartments and revolutionary wheels.

Carry-ons are the clear bag of choice these days for both frequent business travelers and leisure travelers, due to airline bag restrictions. “Over the past 18 months, we’ve seen countless developments emerge to make travel easier, smarter and more fun," says the TGA’s Pittenger.

“Even though one size rarely fits all, travel goods manu-

globaltravelerusa.com

facturers are coming as close as possible with compressible luggage — bags that expand or contract to fit what you’ve packed, leaving little extra room for the contents of your suitcase to shift in transit and enabling travelers to use the same bag for a weekend or two weeks away."

A leader in the compression category is Briggs & Riley’s Baseline CX luggage, which allows travelers to pack up to 34 percent more while staying within airline carry-on requirements. “We developed a mechanism that allows it to expand and contract without unzipping," says Richard Krulik, CEO of Briggs & Riley. “When finished packing, the bag goes down to the most compressed state."

Two-wheeled luggage used to be the norm, but over the past two years the travel goods industry has seen fourwheeled models gaining momentum. Spinner luggage features four wheels instead of the standard two and easily moves 360 degrees for easy access along airplane aisles and whisking through the airport at record speed. Samsonite’s newest collection, Silhouette Sphere, features four spinner wheels on a new, lighter, soft- or hard-sided frame and rolls upright for little weight on the arms and shoulders.

Travelpro recently launched the cutting-edge Platinum Magna collection, which won the new product innovation award at this year’s TGA show, featuring four innovative technologies, including an eight-wheel spinner system with removable and replaceable self-aligning magnetic wheels.

“The main problem with spinner luggage is it can veer to the left or right," says Scott Applebee, vice president of marketing at Travelpro. “Putting magnets in certain locations

‘Even though one size rarely fits all, travel goods manufacturers are coming as close as possible with compressible luggage.’

—

MICHELE MARINI PITTENGER President of the Travel Goods Association SPINNER WINNERS: (left to right) Samsonite Silhouette Sphere 21-inch Spinner, Briggs & Riley TORQ International Carry-On Spinner, Travelpro Platinum Magna Spinner PHOTOs: © Samsonite, © Briggs & Riley Travelware, © TravelPro

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 45

‘People are going to continue to travel more and will need to continue to bring their things in a more convenient way.’

— Richard Krulik

CEO of Briggs & Riley

PACKED WITH PERKS: Genius Packer (right), and Podpal (below) PHOTO: © Genius Pack, Visionair Luggage

causes the wheels to snap in place so the bag always rolls perfectly straight in the direction you want to go."

These days, it’s hard not to notice travelers toting shiny, hard-sided bags through airport terminals around the world. Hard-sided luggage has made a huge comeback and is known for being durable and lightweight — some weigh just more than 4 pounds — while also protecting valuables from temperature shifts and water.

“Hard-side luggage is a type of look that consumers are seeking," says Briggs and Riley’s Krulik. The new hard-side bags on the market today have added soft-sided features such as outside pockets and internal compartments.

Briggs & Riley launched its first-ever hard-sided collection this year. The new TORQ line took three years to make, featuring a crack-resistant frame made of Makrolon polycarbonBriggs & Riley ate, an outside lockable hinged pocket for easy access briggs-riley.com to belongings, an 80/20 lid opening (instead of a 50/50 clamshell opening), a flat packing surface and ultraGenius Pack strong, wide spinner wheels. geniuspack.com Manufacturers are also reaching out to today’s freGoyard quent traveler with innovative bags such as Visionair goyard.com Luggage Podpal, a sleek, hard-shell spinner containing a tablet docking station for a hands-free experience; and Louis Vuitton the Genius Packer by Genius Pack, a hyper-organized louisvuitton.com bag with labeled compartments, a portable charger and a place to compress and store dirty laundry so dirty Samsonite clothes never touch clean ones. samsonite.com While the steamer trunk won’t be making a comeTravel Goods Association back anytime soon, the need for specialized do-it-all travel-goods.org bags is as important as ever before. “People are going to continue to travel more and will need to continue TravelPro to bring their things in a more convenient way," says travelpro.com Krulik. “The future is very bright as long as companies keep up with changing demands and tastes and stay Visionair innovative with new ideas." visionairluggage.com 46 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

Magic in T the Air

With teams of culinary experts, airlines overcome obstacles to offer world-class in-flight dining experiences. By Beth Blair

globaltravelerusa.com

hanks to Jerry Seinfeld’s joke — “What’s the deal with airline food?" — traditional airline meals have had 15 minutes of fame on the comedy stage. However, today airlines are earning nods in the other extreme, and they’re anything but funny. This spotlight involves award-winning in-flight meals, savory desserts, celebrity chefs and, best of all, pleased passengers.

Yet the curious ask: How do airlines pull off palatable in-flight meals in such tight quarters?

How are these meals cooked to perfection? Do airline chefs actually cook on board?

With these questions in mind, we took a peek behind the galley curtains of three airlines to discover the various ways carriers accomplish such polished in-flight meals.

HAUTE CUISINE: Qatar Airways’ dishes are tested extensively.

PHOTO: © Qatar Airways

AKBAR AL BAKER, CEO of Qatar Airways, says, “Whether for business or pleasure, modernday travelers want to arrive relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated regardless of time zones or destinations. Yet as a truly global airline, we understand that beyond superior service, travelers also want to enjoy the journey of discovery, exploring new tastes and cuisines. That is why we’ve traveled the world to assemble a team of culinary experts to offer our passengers the very best dining experience available in the sky."

It comes as no surprise that Al Baker’s sen-

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 47

DELISH DISHES: Qatar Airways onboard meals PHOTOs: © Qatar Airways

timents shine through Qatar Airways’ onboard service. The overall goal is to provide passengers with a 5-star experience, which is accomplished by utilizing the highest-quality food and equipment and the right culinary authorities. In September 2012, Qatar Airways teamed with four award-winning, global chefs: Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Chef Ramzi Choueiri, Chef Vineet Bhatia and Chef Tom Aikens. The outcome was the new Qatar Airways Culinary World Menu, a rainbow of delectable international cuisine offerings. Qatar’s dishes are tested extensively in a simulated environment with altitude, pressure and heating times all taken into consideration as the recipes are honed to perfection. Only after thorough scrutiny do meals get included in the onboard menu.

The in-flight menu then lands in the hands of all businessclass passengers departing from Doha (the carrier’s hub) and includes a three-course meal service featuring gourmet classics and regional dishes accompanied by fine wines, coffees and chocolates.

Since Qatar Airways’ celebrity chefs don’t tend the flights in person, what’s the secret to the appetizing meals? Cabin service planners, knowing time and space are obstacles for the cabin crew, combined the work of the talented chefs with special multiple-zone ovens. The ovens, installed in every aircraft, are equipped with multiple heating zones and a selection of humidity levels. Because the ovens heat at different temperatures and different times, allowing specialty foods to be cooked to perfection, meal quality is not sacrificed.

ANOTHER AIRLINE THAT has brought in the expertise of well-known chefs is American Airlines. “American has a rich history of working with celebrity chefs to design premium and main cabin menu items," says Chris Isaac, director of inflight dining and retail, American Airlines. “In our international first-class and business-class cabins, we are proud to offer select entrées designed by Chef Richard Sandoval, Chef Cindy Hutson and Chef Maneet Chauhan. Our Hawaii first-class menus include meals designed by Chef Sam Choy. On domestic flights, customers in our main cabin can enjoy sandwiches and other items for purchase designed by Chef Marcus Samuelsson."

Since it’s not always practical for chefs to work their magic in the air, American Airlines relies on the cabin crew to provide outstanding service alongside their celebrity-crafted meals. “The meals offered on board our aircraft are catered and then prepared by flight attendants during the meal service," says Isaac.

“We recently introduced enhancements to our international premium experience, including more variety and menu choices for our international first-class and business-class customers.

Our premium customers now enjoy world-class dining options served on new modern china, with upgraded flatware and linens, and our signature build-your-own sundaes. International first-class customers are treated to a restaurant-style dining experience complete with an amuse bouche, a salad and soup course, a customizable entrée, the choice to participate in an in-flight wine tasting, and several dessert options."

That’s not all. American Airlines has also taken a social approach to service by extending a bar-like ambience to passengers. “Our Boeing 777-300ER aircraft features a walk-up bar 48 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

globaltravelerusa.com

that is available exclusively to our premium-class customers. It is stocked with a selection of snacks, sandwiches and sweets, available anytime between meal services," says Isaac. “In addition, first-class customers on our 777-300ER aircraft may enjoy an espresso or a cappuccino prepared in our first-class galley." Now it’s the passengers who feel like celebrities.

NOT ALL TOP-RANKED onboard meals have a celebrity name attached, but the end results prove much considerglobaltravelerusa.com

ation has been put into planning delectable in-flight dishes.

Turkish Airlines has wisely invested time in selecting ideal in-flight meals, which has earned the airline kudos for the best in-flight food via a Skyscanner panel of international travelers. The key to Turkish Airlines’ success? Flying chefs.

Turkish Airlines goes the distance to offer personalized service. Dr. Ali Genc, senior vice president media relations, Turkish Airlines, explains, “Business-class passengers enjoy first-class, restaurant-quality cuisine prepared by one of Turkish Airlines’ ‘Flying Chefs’ on all long-haul flights. As the next step, we have already started sending some Flying Chefs on selected routes to short-haul destinations."

“On board, two Flying Chefs work each North and South America flight. The first chef serves all of our passengers in the business-class cabin," continues Genc. “The second chef serves our guests in the Comfort or Y class. Our aim is to control all the food processes from the beginning of the production to the service to our guests on board. The largest number of passengers are in the Y class. Even with a more simple service, we want to have our chefs there to control the correct reheating of our dishes and to get feedback from our passengers."

Long before departure, meal planning is already in play along with the intention of ensuring pleased passengers.

Genc explains the process that goes on behind the scenes: “The preparation of these meals starts at Turkish Do & Co’s

PREMIUM SERVICE: A Turkish Airlines onboard meal (above), and American Airlines walk-up bar (left) PHOTOs: © Turkish Airlines, © American Airlines

Long before departure, meal planning is already in play along with the intention of ensuring pleased passengers.

2013 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 49

‘Our chefs are not only on board to cook, they are more like culinary ambassadors of Turkey.’

— Dr. Ali Genc senior vice president media relations, Turkish Airlines

American Airlines aa.com Qatar Airways qatarairways.com Turkish Airlines turkishairlines.com

Istanbul catering facilities, where more than 140,000 individual meals are prepared each day. What makes this service ever so impressive is the fact that much of this cooking is done by boutique production, and our Flying Chefs are working there as well. This makes sure that we have a direct link from the passenger feedback to our operations and chefs on the ground. To give our chefs the chance to create this restaurant experience in the air, we have a special loading process for our food.

With a separate loading of the individual dishes and side dishes, we can do the final meal preparation on board so that when it is served, it looks and tastes just like a meal that you would receive in a gourmet restaurant. The long ground training and the individual special chef loading gives us the possibility to cook steaks, eggs and other meals according to passengers’ preferences."

With chefs on board, the question regarding lack of elbow room in the galley arises. How do the chefs perform their cooking duties? “Despite being a small galley in the aircraft, the role for the chef has made a significant impact on the passenger’s dining experience," says Genc. “For safety reasons, we cannot have an open flame, so we cannot grill or fry anything. There are a few hot air ovens on board. Despite this, our Flying Chefs are expertly trained on the correct usage of this equipment.

The loading and the preparation of the food is arranged to give the chefs on board the chance to create the same

50 | Global Traveler’s Class Act Guide | 2013

MADE TO ORDER: Turkish Airlines offers personalized service.

PHOTO: © Turkish Airlines

type of cuisine and experience that a customer would expect from a 5-star restaurant. We aim to surprise our passengers with a delicious variety of foods, a unique way of serving and, of course, Turkish hospitality."

As for how Turkish Airlines accomplishes an upscale ambience and meal execution, “Most of the Turkish Airlines Flying Chefs have extensive experience in top Turkish restaurants," explains Genc, “To create the same experience like a customer would expect from a top restaurant, we offer extensive training. In an exact model of an aircraft galley we can provide a long training for the correct usage of the equipment and ovens so that our Flying Chefs understand the differences between the galley equipment and a regular kitchen, what the perfect way of finalizing the dishes is and what the correct way to serve them is. Serving is a very important part of this job, too, and we have to train the chefs accordingly. Our chefs are not only on board to cook, they are more like culinary ambassadors of Turkey. It is very important that the chefs are aware how important great food is and what a difference it can make in a passenger’s overall in-flight experience."

globaltravelerusa.com