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British Airways to Open "First Wing" for First-Class Passengers and Elites
Emily McNutt
Contributor
Sept. 19, 2016
•
2 min read
British Airways to Open "First Wing" for First-Class Passengers and Elites
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British Airways' first class isn't necessarily at the top of the premium category when it comes to European airlines — especially when compared to the products of both Lufthansa and Air France. In first class with both of the latter carriers, passengers are entitled to elite perks prior to boarding the plane — planeside transportation at departure and arrival, as well as a premium lounge experience. Now, it looks like British Airways has taken notice, and is working to improve at least some aspects of the experience — albeit only for its most premium passengers.
British Airways just announced its "First Wing," which will be a dedicated walkway between check-in and the lounges at London Heathrow's Terminal 5. The First Wing walkway is set to open in April 2017, and it'll be available to British Airways first-class customers, Gold Executive Club members and Oneworld Emerald members. The walkway will serve as a more private way for premium passengers to check in to their flight and then head through security at two new dedicated security lanes, speeding up the process.
Once the passengers are through security, they can head straight for the Galleries First Lounge or the Concorde Room, which will be accessible through the private First Wing walkway. Ultimately, while this addition is not a game-changer for BA, it's definitely an added perk when flying BA first class, if you're a BA Gold elite or if you're a Oneworld Emerald member. The UK-based carrier is making strides, but still has a bit further to go in order to be up to par with its direct competitors.
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