Originally Posted by
BAMuc
Thanks to the eternal wisdom of this platform here, I am well aware of the, erm, limitations of BA's 787 Y seating. Unfortunately, however, I have to go on a trip to AUS in January (from LHR) and the organisers will only reimburse Y tickets.
The outbound is no problem, since I can add a free JFK overnight stopover; getting into JFK by 8pm and not leaving until 4pm the next day. The return, however, is a dilemma:
1) Fly directly AUS-LHR, 11hrs overnighter, but 789 (which apparently is *slightly* better in Y than the 788).
2) Do a connection, either DFW; LAX; or JFK.
Price would be about the same; but timings for 2) are quite a bit worse and include long layovers (3-5 hrs lounge time each).
What would you recommend? Does the better Y option on a 747 or 777 (or even possibly 77W+MCE if AA) warrant the extra hassle of an additional connection? I've never flown on the 787-8 or -9, so grateful for any tips!
Since adding first class BA have had quite a few schedule changes between AUS and LHR. I've had several bookings change from 789 to 777 and back. They also normally offer an upgrade from Y to J for $1,000 at check in and nearly always have availability (although they wont let you do it too often).
AA have many flights from AUS->DFW often with at seat in flight entertainment on their newer Airbus planes. Only one flight per day to JFK so less options if there is a delay.
From DFW to LHR you can often get wifi (2Mbps download) for $19 on the 77W and the refurbished 772.
Here is how I would choose:
1) Book the direct one if prepared to pay for the upgrade, or if prepared to gamble on their being an equipment change a few months out.
2) Go via DFW if I want a non 789 and a longer overnight flight to sleep on.
3) Go via JFK if I can't sleep on planes and want to break the journey up a bit more.