Regrettably I have to comment on a recent trip in NGCW, top deck 744 between ORD and LHR. However a prelude might be useful;

In August of last year I flew CW from LHR to ORD and was surprised to find NGCW fitted to that 744 (seated top deck). I’m guessing it could only have been a few months, maybe even weeks old although I remember seeing hairline cracks emerging in the plastic and thinking ‘this won’t stand the test of time’.

Last week I was on the same flight, same cabin, 744 (although the probability that it was the exact same 744 might be slim) and my initial fears have been realized. For a new product that is still rolling out across the fleet (777 refit) NGCW is proving to be sub standard. More cracks, loose, wobbly arm rests, TV screen latch not working (as was the AVOD needing a number of restarts), crumpled, creased seat cushion etc. Clicking sound from the actuators as the seat reclined..

Furthermore the general cleanliness of the cabin leaves a lot to be desired – scummy marks everywhere in addition to 3 (yes, three) old sticky coffee cup rings on top of the storage bins aside (as opposed to the overhead bins!) to the seats. I also found rubbish in the drawer plus two old hot towels (nice!) wedged in the compartment that holds the safety card.

In comparison I have flown ORD to LHR twice between then and now - both in older CW (i.e. 777 equipment). Although looking tired the state of the fittings was far far better than the recent trip in NGCW.

I’ll admit that I am, shall we say, “specific” but also reiterate that having paid good money makes it conducive to BA to employ cleaners that clean (as opposed to swift through as an imitation of someone who cleans). Are there not standards? Does the chief steward / purser not have a responsibility to cover the basics? Am I an incarnation of Howard Hughes complete with tissue boxes?

I’ll propose a distinction here – namely that BA’s way with premium class passengers (e.g. inability to request seat until OLCI) is a point of contention for some although this is BA’s policy. Conversely the standards of a premium class (including Terraces lounges) are purported to be clean, fresh, modern, new and both NGCW and the general BA service to premium passengers is falling very short. Personally I did not sign up (via paying money) for this and poor cleaning / equipment can never be described as 'policy'.

Now, the caveat, "standards" are a relative concept so I would be interested in others opinions. As I understand it a single 744 might only return to ORD a week or two later or this particular plane might have done the most common LHR to JFK route for the past six months. My comments are presently heresay until refuted / endorsed by more regular FTers and win, lose or draw, I honestly welcome those comments.