Just flew DOH-EDI yesterday. Third time on the QR 787 and luckily again the flight was not full and a very kind Cabin attendant put me in a row of three myself.

You will definitely notice a difference on the 787 from BA Y on a 777/380 in terms of space. I probably noticed it more yesterday because I was very tired by the time I reached DOH and had just arrived from PEK on a 77W which to me (9 abreast version) seems to have more room than on BA.

The IFE box I found a bit more intrusive than on the 77W but I put that down to width of the seat (think a Cadbury Creme Egg looked massive when you were a kid compared to today's offerings) or in FT talk, different aircraft, one bigger than the other but same seating layout (3-3-3) you are bound to notice a difference. I did feel the 787 more cramped in width and leg room.

In short, if you are tall & broad like me, you will notice a big difference, the 787 layout I would imagine, is better suited to average height, average build pax but YMMV.

I only visited the Business Lounge for a short period and only used the smoking room so unfortunately cannot give you a concise and detailed report. It was busy but seemed to be a regular turnover of pax so people weren't left standing. I did see people getting food and I only had a couple of soft drinks so didn't explore the fully the food or drink offerings. I did see a couple of people in sleep mode although spending 8 hours there I could imagine being a bit of a push.

In all honesty, for the convenience of not having to do the LHR transit and having a local departure, QR wins but there is also the negative side of two (medium) long hauls as opposed to one domestic and one (long) long haul. Some people, they appreciate a break in the middle but I tend to sway towards getting the flight over with in doing a domestic and long haul connection.

The only advice I would give is, give it a try and see what you think yourself.

Safe & Happy Travels

S