Originally Posted by AndyFlyer

I think the OP has some very, very valid points. BA are slipping in the First Class stakes, which is a shame. There is willing amongst the staff to provide top levels of service, it is the tools they are given which can let the side down.

All the perks one used to have for First, from priority baggage and boarding to higher quality food seem to have evaporated in the name of cost cutting. Service in the CCR is mediocre at best, using untrained lounge staff in a setting which I find fantastic - private booths, but so private, the staff don't know you are there! Service to me is best when your needs are anticipated before you even know you need something - so a bread basket when soup is ordered should be a given, not a request item. It is all down to lounge training - and that seems to be lacking at the moment, which is a shame. On board, the service is generally good (no doubt fabulous if on one of Miss Pucci's flights, but when you ask what the shepherd's pie is like, and the crew reply "revolting", or you're told there is only one portion of cheese loaded per pax when you want more (ref CCaley), then you just get a below First Class feeling in your gut. And you certainly have not paid a below First Class fare.

I remember moons ago being escorted on the BA179 (evening departure) from the First Class lounge at T4 down to the gate - they made a call, and a lovely lady escorted all First passengers to the gate. When we arrived, it was in full boarding process, but we were escorted right through, down the jetway and right on board. That is First Class. When we got to JFK, having been lavishly fed and watered across the Atlantic, our bags were the first on the carousel. Sadly that doesn't appear to be the case anymore on BA, but that does not stop their competition from providing it. Qantas has a First Class concierge that meets every long-haul flight, to ensure that pax are provided with a complete experience. They even monintor the baggage belt to be sure F bags are off first, and bid farewell to F pax. What a nice touch. Leaves the passengers happy and willing to fly again, paying the premium.