I personally prefer the 744 over the 34C or 333.
But unfortunately since last year SYD will NOT have anymore 744 coming in.
I am actually doing hte same route you are doing LHR-HKG-SYD
I just find out the CX 254 is on a 34C!!! Therefore I eitehr have to put up with the 34C or take the earlier flight back to HKG CX250.
I don't understand why CX is switching the aircraft around? I would've thought there are more demand on the evening flights than the day flights (both direction)
I travelled on BA's NCW many times and when compared with the CX NBC my conclusion are as follows:
1) Seat comfort. BA = winner. No matter how people try to persuade you how COMFORTABLE sleeping on an angle will be, I still think Flat is the only way to sleep, and BA has a pretty good product.
2) Catering. CX is better (although it has slipper quite dramatically compared to PRe-SARS and when thye first introducted the NBC) and there are actually real SNACKS (not just candy bars) on the LHR-HKG runs.
3) Service (pretty much the same, although CX is slightly more consistent)
4) Lounge. BA is better @ LHR because of the Molton Brown Spa, But unless you have time to turn up 3-4 hours before your flight, it is unlikely you will get a massage (due to the # of pax). However in HKG CX has an excellent lounge (much better than the Terrace, and have really good snacks there!! - Noodles, Dim Sum, Nice Sandwiches, bottle water, all the drinks you want, juice bar, Haagen Daaz Ice Cream etc......)
I Will be travelling on the CX254 from LHR-HKG, I know I can connect straight on CX111 (dep @ 7:30pm) But i am giving myself a break and will catch the CX101 (dep 11:30pm) so I can take a proper shower, have a decent meal and maybe go back home as well (airport express = only 20 minutes to get home!)