Virgin Atlantic Flying Club - questions about UC SFO to LHR

Hi,
I am pretty new to the site and am looking for any information and advice for our trip in August (post Olympics). The last time I flew VS was in 1991 in the back row in smoking!

We had originally booked BA CW with miles with stopovers and a $1900 fee for 2 tickets plus 100K in miles each. We decided to go with Virgin using Amex's 2 for 1 Business offer to fly direct both ways. Looking through all the reviews between BA and VS helped make the decision.

Both flights are the 747-400 and Amex booked us in seats 15A and 15K for the outbound and 2A and 2K on the return. I have seen many opinions on the best seats for enjoying each others company on the flight. I am not as concerned for the overnight in 15 but would like to be able to speak with my companion on the way back in 2. We are celebrating his 50th.

Also, I would love to hear how this route is in general in terms of service, food and entertainment with the recent changes.

Thanks so much!!

Sandi Paige

If 12A/K are available, they would be great for travelling as a couple.

Otherwise I'd go for either two seats next to each other anywhere on the lower deck (but preferably in the nose) or two seats opposite each other (like 15A/K) towards the front of the nose.

On the flight from LHR to SFO you could have lunch together if you wish although that can be a bit cramped. The afternoon tea may be more suitable for dining together.

I wouldn't recommend sitting upstairs on the 747 because the rear half of the upper deck has economy seating. This means that you'll be stuck behind them when disembarking, and thus could add significantly to the queue time at immigration. Also some say that the economy section adds noise and general clutter to the feel of upstairs.

A good place to look for reviews on the VS19/20 is here on V-Flyer (http://v-flyer.com/the-toolbox/trip-report-index).

Thanks, this is very helpful!

If 12A/K are available, they would be great for travelling as a couple.

Absolutely: I have found sometimes that 12A/K don't show up as available online when they are in fact free, so it is always worth asking at the check-in desk or bag drop (helps if you arrive early: the SFO clubhouse is quite nice, and before security so it's easy enough to kill time).

Thanks again. I was able to select 14A/15A on both legs. Great advice about avoiding the upper deck.