SkyTeam - Virgin Atlantic 747 UC or Delta 757 Biz?

We will be traveling from NYC to Zurich, and then back to NYC from Rome. If we fly nonstop both ways, it's Biz class on a Delta 757 there and 767 back. Seriously, a 757????

Instead of this, we could fly Virgin Atlanic Upper Class to London and connect on British Airways in First Class within Europe. We'd have a 3 hour layover each way, though.

I'm leaning toward the second option. Thoughts?

I've heard (no personal experience, unfortunately) that Virgin Upper Class is much better than Business Elite, so that's definitely something to consider.

But I can say unequivocally that First Class on BA within Europe is a waste of money. The seats are the same as coach - all you get is early boarding and a seat at the front of the plane. I guess there might be a better food service, but I slept through that after my red eye.

While the 757 BizE is not as nice as on the wide bodies (recline not as good), being able to avoid the connection at LHR more than makes up for it.

Take the non-stop flights!

Although Business (not referred to as F in Europe) on BA is not bad, the lounge you will have access to at Heathrow in T5 are far better than any will have experienced in the US. Fully flat bed at VS, use of the Revivals lounge (incl. treatments) and the departure Club House Lounge (incl treatments) will far outpass anything on DL espc. the recliners on the 757.

If you have the extra time, I know what I'd do.

I do not think that the in-flight experience is better enough to justify the stopover in LHR. If you want the lounge experience then take the connection, but not for the in-flight.

The 752 to Europe from NYC is not uncommon and really isn't all that bad. The front cabin is small so service is quick and very personal.

Delta, American, Swiss (to ZRH) and Alitalia (from FCO) all provide direct service, and I would always pick a direct versus connecting somewhere - especially a large congested hub like LHR.

Not sure what the issue with a 757 would be...