i think the bean is flying mainly in F domestic. my experience on ua and us has been that they are a small step up, and have little value. they do well as an award for the loyal frequent flyers. but to pay 3 x Y class is ubsurd.

now, biz class, and first on tatl and tatp is(are) a different world, particularly for flat seats. on a 7-17 hour trip, we save a day in recovery on each end. the food is a bit better, the wine a bit better but it is still crap(ok word?), but the flat beds make all the difference in the world. we could not reserve se ats on BA until 24 hrs in advance(with 6K of ticket), and then NO advance reserve. "you must come to the check in desk" god bless you, ba, and all your ba wishers.