Originally Posted by
mpk620
From my research, it seems it will depend on which *specific* 747 or 777 I am eventually destined to get, which won't be available until 72 hours before the flight? If that is correct, are there better odds of having a better product on one or the other (if there is any difference)? Or are the odds better for a particular route (to the NYC area, for example)? Or am I making this harder than it needs to be and I should just be picking what flight times work marginally better than the others?
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mpk620, welcome to the British Airways forum. It is always good when new people join us, and it would be even better if you continue to participate in this vibrant board. Welcome on board.
I can't add much to what has been said already, other than to give my own spin. These days, accidents and emergencies omitting, you will only get New First if you buy a First ticket. Most occasional travellers won't notice much difference between a 747 or 777 version of NF, the differences are subtle. There is a galley at the front of the 777 but not the 747. So consequently the 747 gets somewhat less footfall. Again most passengers wouldn't notice, it's not like there is a regular hokey-cokey run through First. The 777 is slightly more spacious, has mildly better storage space and more reliable IFE.
On the whole this is dancing on a pinhead and you should go for whatever times/prices best, unless you have a nostalgic reason for going on the 747, they are on their way out unfortunately. Though I am firm fan of 747s, that is from a CW perspective, and if I had 2 equal services open to me, I would narrowly go for the 777, but I wouldn't over-think it. If IAD is in contention, I would definitely prefer the A380 First, it's got real clunk to it, quieter, less dry and a good bit of kit.