TLDR: As crazy as it sounds LHR-USA AA F might actually be better than BA, if based on the typical service level rather than catering quality.

Just flew BA281 a couple of days ago. Disappointed if not to say irritated.

I always try to moderate my expectations when it comes to flying the glorious AA/BA duo across the pond but this…
First time in the “new” BA F. Having a door, I guess, is better than not having one. A bigger TV is a much needed improvement.
Other than that – do we really need to lose 10 inches of seat width just to have an in-suite wardrobe?
Also, any other airline with non-noise cancelling headphones in F?
No matter, this rant is supposed to be about service. That’s what really made me regret not choosing to book in BA J or AA on this flight.

A few minutes after settling into my seat, a cheerful youth pops up and, looking past me, cheerfully announces that he will be “taking care” of me on this flight. My heart sinks. The young man promptly disappears.
Mind you – it’s an 8-seat F cabin. With two FAs evidently assigned. 4 passengers per (I am great at math).

Ok, then. Perhaps, service will kick into gear after takeoff. No? Drinks were served, after all.
Refills – what refills? Ah – this must be one of those Cathay Pacific-style service concepts where you are supposed to hit the call button to get a helpful genie appear with your drink. Let’s try that.
Indeed, an instant reaction. The cheerful youth comes to hear your request, sparking confidence in immediate hydration. Then you wait. With the FA call light still shining above your seat like a beacon of hope. 20 minutes pass. With hopes crushed, I experiment with the call button.
FYI: pressing it once will extinguish the light, while pressing it again initiates a new call.

The youth quickly appears, rambling about something excuse-like. Again, no matter. I got what I needed.
But, do I still qualify for a refill? Another experiment – I do not press the FA call button again and let it stay on. No one comes for an hour (remember – 8 pax in F). Until a kind soul of an FA walks by from the back of the plane towards the F galley and sees an empty glass. Saved! She also subsequently acknowledges the call light, ending my impromptu experiment.

Needless to say, there were no “would you like anything else, sir” walks for the remainder of the flight, until the lights went on for the landing meal service. Below is the picture of the pre-landing meal.
Cheeseburger. Room temperature patty. Cold cheese and bread.

I never thought I’d say this but mildly superior food and, especially, wine quality in BA First does not compensate for crappy/indifferent service that is even worse than the low standards set by the American Airlines on the transatlantic routes. Gives you a reason to lament the demise of AA F.


Frosty