To go back to my original post in this thread and answer my question, the IAD-MAD flight uses the NW Worldclub - or at least it did the day we took it. This actually worked out quite well as we were able to board from the Worldclub directly to the plane. The NW staff in the lounge was very friendly - free drinks, minimal snacks.

We tried to go over to the BA lounge to check it out, but were denied access. I explained that we should be allowed in given that we had a same-day business clsas ticket on a OW carrier, but we were denied just the same. Not sure if I was in the wrong, or if the BA lounge agent was.

Looking at Iberia as an alternative to LH for a flight next month to FRA. Iberia Business Class prices are much better and the connection shouldn't be a big deal. Can anyone confirm that the flight out of IAD has what the Iberia website refers to as "Business Plus" seating (inclined flat bed). I would hate to book and then find old style BC seats. I have searched the forum but only gotten reviews of the Business Plus service and they seem pretty good. Couldn't find if ALL trans-atlantic flights had the new Business Plus seating or not. (finding flights on the US based carriers that have the upgraded BC seating is a mess on most of their websites too) My other alternative for a cheaper flight is SAS which offers a "new" BC seat and service.

CONFIRMED Business Plus bed seats from IAD to MAD.

Took this flight last month and it was indeed the new style seating on the A343. Left IAD a couple of hours late but other than that, very good flight. Dinner was good, light breakfast before landing, AVOD was good though the movie selection was somewhat limited. Crew was attentive. Thought the seat was very comfortable and I slept soundly - the flight was too short to really get a good night's sleep, but I got a solid 4 or so hour nap. It was a pleasant experience.