The First Class Wing – The Best Way to Start a Long-Haul Trip 

One of the biggest perks of flying BA First, if you are flying from Heathrow Terminal 5, is the First Class Wing. Private check-in, private security, all away from the main hustle and bustle of the airport. (Although I did have an interesting check-in on a LHR to DXB in the First Wing when the check-in staff member asked me how much I earned. #awkward). 

You glide through security, pass the Business lounge, and head straight to the Concorde Room — BA’s flagship lounge and one of my favourite places. Some say it is looking a bit dated, which could be fair, but I always really enjoy this lounge. 

Concorde Room Review – Breakfast & Bubbles 

I was starving and inhaled my breakfast before remembering to take a photo. Typical. But I had the California Eggs — poached eggs, crushed avocado, chilli, toasted sourdough, and coldpressed English rapeseed oil. And of course, a Bucks Fizz made with Le Grand Siècle.  

I sat out on the veranda overlooking the runway, complete with an actual Concorde nose. More fizz. No stress. And certainly no regrets. 

I didn’t use a cabana room this time (see my LHR–DXB review for that experience), but I did pop into the Concorde Room toilets — and here comes the rant. Why do they look like a hospital? For a flagship lounge, the loo aesthetic is… clinical. Functional, yes. Fabulous? Absolutely not. Only luxury here is the Elemis soap and hand cream. 

The Dreaded Bus Gate – A First Class Experience Killer

When the gate was called, my heart sank. C Gate. Bus boarding. I hate bus gates. 

We were driven what felt like the entire length of Heathrow. As a First passenger and a BA Silver member, I boarded the bus first… only to wait for everyone else. So much for priority. First world problems and all that! 

But — silver lining — I do love walking across the tarmac. You get that full, glorious view of the aircraft. And yes, I took the obligatory photo of the RollsRoyce engine. They’re just epic pieces of kit.

Onboard the BA005 Boeing 7879 Dreamliner – Seat 2E

I was in Seat 2E, not a window seat, but honestly? Not an issue. 

Thinking back…..  

On BA I have flown first – from recollection 4 times. And three of those were in aisle seats. The one time I did fly first on a window seat I was flying LHR to DXB during covid. It was my first time flying first with BA and the inflight experience was adjusted due to the pandemic so really I only paid for a seat.  

Actually, the first time I flew first class with Emirates was also during covid and on a LHR- DXB route and really I only had the seat – dinner was served in a box!  

The BA LHR-DXB flight that I had was also not great as the IFE was limited to 4 films on my unit for some reason and also the seat was pretty dirty which given it was during the pandemic was pretty gross. I did complain about that and I received 10,000 Avios.  

There was a beautiful electric storm as I flew on that flight whilst flying over Saudi Arabia and have included this in the imagery for this review as I won’t be writing a blog on that particular journey.  

First Impressions of BA First Class Cabin 

There are eight suites in First on the 7879. No doors, but the privacy is excellent — you can’t see anyone, and no one can see you. The design is sleek, spacious, and elegant. Plenty of storage, a cosy lamp, and a fully lieflat bed. 

And of course, a predeparture glass of Lanson Noble Brut Vintage 2008. One of my favourite longhaul rituals. 

The crew member introduced himself, crouched down to chat at eye level, and made me feel genuinely welcomed. That’s the kind of personalised service you simply don’t get in PE or even biz. 

Amenity Kit & Pyjamas – Temperley London Treats 

I received the female Temperley London amenity kit, filled with Elemis goodies. The Frangipani Monoi hand & nail cream is one of my alltime favourites. 

Then came the female Temperley pyjamas — soft, stylish, with a pretty silk Vneckline — plus slippers. A small detail, but it makes the whole experience feel special. 

Dining in British Airways First Class – A Proper Culinary Experience 

Once changed into my PJs, lunch orders were taken. 

PreLunch Cocktail 

I chose the Gin Zing — premium gin, citrus, bubbles, served over ice. Fresh, sharp, delicious. 

The amuse bouche was a beetroot rose with whipped Tunworth cheese, bee pollen and honey dressing. Beautiful and tasty. 

I then had the roasted Jerusalem artichoke soup — BA soups in First and Business are consistently excellent, and this one didn’t disappoint. 

Main Course 

I opted for the handmade pappardelle with courgette ribbons. I’m not vegetarian, and looking back I’m baffled why I didn’t choose the Okinawan shoyu beef. But the pasta was fresh, light, and comforting. Like the soups I always find the pasta a safe option on biz and first. 

Cheese Course 

I skipped dessert (no sweet tooth) and went straight for cheese: 

Baron Bigod 

Mrs Bell’s Blue 

Godminster Vintage Cheddar 

A solid selection. 

Sleep, Entertainment & More Food 

The bedding in BA First is genuinely comfortable. I got a decent amount of sleep, watched a couple of films, and enjoyed the peaceful cabin atmosphere. 

Breakfast Before Landing – Surprisingly Excellent 

Breakfast can be grim on flights, but BA nailed it. I had the full British breakfast, and everything was hot, fresh, and delicious. 

A Surprise Highlight – Mount Fuji from the Sky 

My friend in Osaka messaged me as he was tracking my flight to say we were approaching Mount Fuji. I asked the crew, and the steward checked with the captain. A little later he came to get me and walked me to the door window. 

There it was — a perfect, unobstructed view of Mount Fuji. A moment I’ll never forget. 

Was the Upgrade Worth It? My Honest Verdict 

I have a rule: I only upgrade if it works out at £100 per hour of flight time. This upgrade broke that rule — but it was a double upgrade from PE to First, so I’m calling it justified. 

And honestly? Worth every single penny. 

I was even offered an upgrade on the return flight from Business to First for well below my budget. Did I take it? You’ll have to read my return flight review soon. 

Final Thoughts – A BucketList Flight 

This flight had everything I love about longhaul luxury travel: great service, great food, great fizz, and a sense of occasion. British Airways First Class on the Boeing 7879 Dreamliner is a refined, elegant experience — not flashy, not over the top, but quietly indulgent. 

And for a 14hour journey to Tokyo? 

It turned what could have been a slog into a genuine highlight of my travel year. 

Things to Know About British Airways First Class (LHR–HND) 

The First Class Wing is one for the travel bucket list. The Concorde Room is a must — especially the veranda. If you want additional privacy in the lounge, ask to book one of the cabanas.  

Keep an eye on the BA app for lastminute upgrade deals. And ALWAYS ask for upgrade options at check in.  

If you’re flying to Japan, ask the crew about Mount Fuji views.