ba world traveller plus choose seats

British Airways World Traveller Plus Review: Is it Worth It?

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 19/03/2024

In 2017 I flew premium economy with Qantas Sydney to Hong Kong return. It was a fantastic experience.

In fact, it was so good it made me question if I could really justify the extra amount to fly business class if it wasn’t an Australia – Europe/US flight.

So when was looking at flying from London to New York – and then Los Angeles to London return – I thought I would give British Airways World Traveller Plus a shot. Which I did back in 2018 and I recently flew with British Airways World Traveller Plus post-Covid in 2022.

I’m going to kick off with an update from 2022 when I flew from Portland to London Heathrow with British Airways in premium economy. My older review involved flying out of London Heathrow so it has quite a bit of information on checking in at Heathrow etc.

⇒ Click here for Prices and Deals on British Airways

British Airways World Traveller Plus 2022 update

After a long break flying with British Airways in World Traveller Plus I signed up again to try them out in July of 2022. I was flying from London to Washington DC, and then home to London out of Portland. I received an offer that was too good to refuse to upgrade to business class on the flight from Heathrow to Washington DC. This review update covers the Portland to London Heathrow leg in premium economy.

I somehow managed to end up on British Airways’s first (not sure if this is the first ever flight but it was certainly the first for a while) direct flight out of Portland to Heathrow. Everyone was in a great mood and there was even cake and sandwiches at the boarding gate for everyone!

As such, we had a very nice new 787 that I believe was a Dreamliner. Few things make me happier than realizing that I am on a relatively new plane as it always means a huge improvement in the premium economy experience.

When I mentioned to the crew that Virgin Atlantic offers its premium economy passengers prosecco the attendant even went and got me a glass of champagne from business class! As I said, all were in a joyous mood.

To be honest, not a lot has changed since the last time I flew World Traveller Plus with British Airways. The 787 I was on had only three rows of premium economy seats. I quite liked this as it normally means faster service and I feel more of a sense of space when the area is smaller. The seat layout was 2-3-2.

I had booked in my window seat when I booked the flight as I always do on overnight flights (I find it worth it to pay a bit extra at booking to achieve this).

One thing that has improved is the quality of the headphones in premium economy which are now noise cancelling. Also, the quality of the food on offer has improved. I enjoyed a very nice steak.

The Dreamliner 787 also has new touch-operated window screens and better cabin pressurization. If you are able to choose your flight and can see the different planes available, I suggest checking to find the Dreamliner 787 option for world traveller plus as it is definitely a step above premium economy on some of BA’s other planes.

British Airways World Traveller Plus Review (2017): Online Check-In

Unfortunately, things with British Airways World Traveler plus did not get off to a good start. Two days before my flight I went on to the British Airways app and was able to reserve one of the aisles British Airways Premium Economy seats – great.

The next day, when I went to actually check in online I was told that my passport number was wrong and that I wasn’t able to check in.

I then had issues with my uber so only arrived at the airport 90 minutes before my British Airways flight.

British Airways Premium Economy: Bag Drop and issues arise

I went and used the check-in machine for my premium economy British Airways flight and my seat had changed to a window – which was good news for me. Then I went to the desk for bag drop.

When the attendant is on the phone for some time when all you do is drop your bag, it is not a good sign. I was told by the attendant that I had been “sneaky” taking the window seat.

I was quite annoyed by this and asked how could I be sneaky when the app had done this for me. I was then told that they had overbooked business class and that seat had been meant for someone who was being downgraded to premium economy on British Airways – which meant they now wanted to move me to British Airways economy class.

I was so annoyed. It really makes me furious when airlines do this. Or should I say when British Airways do this as they are the only airline that has tried to bump me from flights several times due to overbooking.

In what other industry would an organization take your money ahead of time and then when you turned up to experience that service be told that you couldn’t as they had overbooked – and that apparently this was fine?

It is a major problem as a solo traveler as we are at the top of the list when it comes to who gets bumped first when it comes to air travel.

A British Airways staff member once told me that the safest people were those also flying with British Airways from a connecting airport eg Manchester to London and then on to say NY, followed by groups, followed by families and then by couples.

Only the male solo traveler is worse off than the female solo traveler. My annoyance was greater as I had injured my ankle in Nepal earlier that year and absolutely could not have sat in an economy seat for several hours without problems.

Luckily I had a letter from my doctor with me (I had it in case my ankle got worse and I needed medical treatment) so I was able to produce this and say I had to stay in British Air premium economy.

I ended up in British Airways Economy Plus but not without quite a bit of undue stress and frustration. This experience alone has been enough to really put me off flying with British Airways.

I do find it outrageous that you can be potentially bumped like this – and that the staff always seem to act like this is of no consequence and why are you getting upset? OK rant over!

British Airways Premium Economy Review: Getting to the Gate

Anyway, the flight was then at Gate A10 at Terminal 5, which means a very long bus trip. I thought we were driving to New York.

BA World Traveller Plus also means no lounge access and no priority seating.

British Airways World Traveller Plus Review: The plane and the seats

The British Airways World Traveller Plus 777 plane was a little old and compared to Qantas it felt a lot less spacious. The seat layout was 4 in the middle and 2 on each side.

I was on the side thank goodness. I would have been very unhappy to have paid for premium economy and to have had one of the extreme middle seats.

I often wonder who ends up in these seats – are they the people that don’t make sure they do early online check-in? Or maybe they are more tolerant than me.

BA World Traveller Plus Review: In-flight amenities

British Airways Premium Economy 747 has good quality headphones which were nice. The British Airways premium economy product also does have a very good in-flight entertainment system.

The British Airways Premium Economy in-flight amenity kit was not bad – socks, eye mask, earplugs, toothbrush and a pen. Great idea to have a pen as everyone needs one on a flight.

There is a lot of legroom and the seats are comfortable on the British Airways 787 Premium Economy flight. I was also pleased to see that there were 2 USB ports in the seat ahead and then 2 power points between the seats.

The food was a big positive for this World Traveller plus review 777 writer. It did feel like an upgrade from economy. We were also offered a lovely glass of sparkling wine before take-off.

Premium Economy British Airways Review: Some Positives

One of my favourite features of British Airways premium economy 777 is that they have a very useful brochure which explains all the features and benefits of the world traveler plus seat – this is such a good idea.

Every premium economy and business class seat is different and you don’t want to miss out when good features can be used.

There was also a good-sized storage locker next to the window which was handy – another reason trying to get the window seat is one of my top tips.

World Traveller vs World Traveller Plus

In March 2018 British Airways made major upgrades to its World Traveller and British Airways Premium Economy 777 cabins at Gatwick on their Boeing 777s.

Both cabins have had their entertainment screens increased by 50% in size. I’m looking forward to checking out the new six-way headrest.

Interestingly these new planes will feature a considerable increase in the number of World Traveller Plus seats – coming from a reduction in Club World. Premium Economy is on the rise.

So what about the rest of the fleet? World Traveller Plus is a major improvement on World Traveller, which doesn’t offer the best seats. Also, there are few opportunities to upgrade within World Traveller – apart from the exit rows.

If you have a long flight or an overnight flight I think the upgrade cost is absolutely worth it.

Upgrading to British Airways Club World

Theoretically, being in BA World Traveller Plus means it is easier/more likely that you can be upgraded to Club World. BA does offer paid opportunities for upgrades but not all the time – and not necessarily at the best prices.

The best way to check if this is an option for your flight is to visit the Manage My Booking page. The price generally varies between 400 and 700 GBPs.

For frequent flyers, Avios points are a good option for upgrading – or combining Avios points with payment. It is not normally the best use of Avios to upgrade (they tend to be their most effective for less-visited longer trips in economy class in my experience) but it is a good option.

Finally, if you are a frequent flyer and flying World Traveller Plus there is a greater opportunity for an upgrade. This will most likely happen when World Traveller Plus has been booked out and business class has seats.

British Airways Premium Economy: The Verdict

Overall, the seat itself is the key difference between world traveller and world traveller plus on British Airways.

On Qantas and other airlines, there does feel like there is more of a difference between the two cabins – particularly when it comes to service.

I was flying with British Airways when they were having extensive problems as an airline so it could not have been fun to be working for them at that time.

However, I am paying the extra and in my view, I do expect a slightly better service. I would hesitate to take British Airways Premium Economy again – mostly driven by nearly being downgraded to economy.

I don’t want to have to worry about this when I am headed to Heathrow. I, of course, would fly with them if there was a good enough deal, but they have certainly moved down my list after this experience.

Here is BA’s full rundown on their premium economy offer and The Telegraph’s Comparisons of Premium Economy Offers including British Airways Premium Economy Reviews

⇒ Prices and Deals on British Airways

British Airways World Traveller Plus Frequently Asked Questions

What class is world traveller plus on ba.

World traveller plus on British Airways is premium economy. This is a class between economy and business class.

Do you get lounge access with British Airways World Traveller Plus?

No, you do not get lounge access with a British Airways World Traveller Plus ticket.

Does World Traveller Plus on British Airways get priority boarding?

Yes, World Traveller Plus travelers on British Airways get priority boarding and check-in.

Does World Traveller Plus on British Airways get to use the fast track queue for security?

No, World Traveller Plus customers on British Airways do not get to use the fast track queue for security.

How wide are the World Traveller Plus British Airways seats?

The seats in British Airways World Traveller Plus generally have a 38 inch pitch and are 18.5 inches wide. The seats are 1 inch wider than economy and the pitch is 7 inches greater than economy.

Booking Flights:

I use Skyscanner for all my flights – from economy through to business – click here to Check out SkyScanner 

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Who Paid for What in this British Airways World Traveller Plus Post

I covered the cost of my flights on British Airways Premium Economy. This post on British Airways world traveller plus contains affiliate links. That means if you click on them and end up making a purchase on that website I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

READ NEXT: American Airlines PREMIUM ECONOMY REVIEW

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Journeying John

Sunday 5th of March 2023

Glad your food was ok and an upgrade but I have to reportthe reverse, bith in and oit of India, there was no choice and what was actually served was worse than mkat carriers economy meals. As for BA's IT systems and contempt for customers who habe paid for a service they don't recieve. Your experience is far from unique and I wonder if you would ever have got any form of compensation had you not had the ankle injury. BA or the UK brand of IAG are #BestAvoided today.

Amanda OBrien

Wednesday 15th of March 2023

I doubt it on the compensation front John! Luckily BA seems to be getting better but I am still nervous about being kicked off flights when I am travelling solo

Jean-Pierre

Tuesday 21st of February 2023

Interesting you had problems with entering your passport information when checking-in. This has happened twice to me using the BA website. The two occasions have been years apart so BA have not fixed their website.

I eventually found a telephone number to call for website support and after about 40 minutes the agent was able to get my passport info to take. It was very frustrating, especially after paying for the upgrade to World Traveler Plus, the taking more money part of their website works very well.

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World traveller plus: what do you get for your money in british airways' premium economy cabin.

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• World Traveller Plus offers upgraded seats with more space & comfort, ideal for long-haul flights.
• British Airways provides premium dining, extensive entertainment, & technology enhancements.
• World Traveller Plus balances cost and comfort, making it a popular choice for travelers.

British Airways' World Traveller Plus offers an enhanced flying experience between standard economy and business class. It is an attractive option for travelers seeking extra comfort and amenities without the premium cost of business class. We're taking a closer look at what passengers can expect when flying in British Airways' premium economy cabin, covering seat specifics, in-flight services, and overall value.

Seat specifications and comfort

Seat dimensions and layout.

One of the standout features of World Traveller Plus is the upgraded seating compared to standard economy. The seats offer more space and comfort, which are highly desirable attributes on long-haul flights.

• Seat Pitch: 38 inches
• Seat Width: 18.5 Inches
• Seat Recline: Approximately 7-8 inches
• Legroom: Increased legroom compared to standard economy, providing approximately 7 inches more space.

British Airways operates World Traveller Plus on several long-haul aircraft, each offering a slightly different experience due to their unique configurations and features. According to British Airways :

Boeing 777-200ER and 777-300

• Configuration: 2-4-2 layout
• Unique Features: The Boeing 777-300 offers mood lighting and advanced air filtration systems in an effort to reduce jet lag and deliver a comfortable cabin environment.

Airbus A380

• Configuration: 2-3-2 layout
• Unique Features: The A380 is known for its quiet cabin, which is particularly appreciated during long-haul flights. The more spacious cabin layout also contributes to a more relaxed atmosphere.

Boeing 787-8 and 787-9

• Unique Features: The Boeing 787 Dreamliner series has larger windows, providing more natural light and a better view. The advanced humidity control and improved air quality systems on the Dreamliner fleet also enhance passenger comfort on long-haul flights.

Enhanced Comfort Features

Seats in World Traveller Plus come equipped with several features specifically designed to enhance passenger comfort:

• Adjustable Headrests and Footrests: These allow passengers to customize their seating position for optimal comfort.
• Additional Recline: More recline compared to standard economy seats helps passengers relax better during long flights.
• Lumbar Support: Built-in lumbar support to reduce strain on the lower back during extended periods of sitting.

In-flight amenities and services

Dining experience.

World Traveller Plus passengers enjoy a more premium and refined dining experience, and it includes:

• Welcome Drink: A complimentary glass of juice or water upon boarding.
• Meal Service: Upgraded meal service with a multi-course menu. The meals are prepared with high-quality ingredients and include options tailored to various dietary needs, though they do differ substantially from business-class and first-class offerings.
• Complementary Beverages: An extensive selection of wines, spirits, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout the flight.

Sparkling wine may be available in-flight but is not typically available as a Welcome Drink while the aircraft remains on the ground before take-off.

World Traveller Plus On British Airways: 5 Things To Know Before Flying

A brief guide to the UK flag carrier's premium economy offering.

Entertainment options

British Airways ensures that passengers in World Traveller Plus have access to a comprehensive entertainment system:

• Personal Screens: Larger in-flight entertainment screens, typically 10 to 12 inches or more, compared to standard economy.
• Noise-canceling Headphones: These are provided to enhance the audio experience and reduce cabin noise.
• Extensive Content: A wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games with new releases regularly added to the mix.

Technology enhancements

British Airways offers in-flight WiFi on many of its long-haul aircraft. Passengers in World Traveller Plus can stay connected throughout their flight, whether for work or entertainment, but they'll likely still have to pay for the service. Also, each seat is equipped with both power outlets and USB ports, ensuring passengers can keep their devices charged and ready to use.

Additional amenities

Amenity kits ( made from recycled bottles ), which include essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, socks, an eye mask, and earplugs, are provided to passengers in the premium economy cabin. Additionally, high-quality blankets and pillows are provided to help ensure a comfortable sleep during the flight. World Traveller Plus passengers also benefit from priority boarding, allowing them to settle in ahead of the main cabin passengers.

Cabin environment and additional perks

Cabin atmosphere.

The World Traveller Plus cabin is designed to be more peaceful and spacious compared to the main cabin:

• Fewer Seats: The reduced number of seats per row and per cabin makes for a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere.
• Dedicated Cabin Crew: A dedicated team of cabin crew attends to World Traveller Plus passengers to ensure prompt and personalized service.
• Ambient Lighting: Mood lighting helps create a relaxing environment and reduces the effects of jet lag.

Extra luggage allowance

Passengers in World Traveller Plus can take advantage of an increased luggage allowance, making it easier to travel with all the necessities (and then some):

• Checked Baggage: Two checked bags, each up to 23kg (51lbs).
• Cabin Baggage: One cabin bag and one personal item, with a combined weight limit that offers more flexibility than standard economy.

British Airways Makes Great Changes To World Traveller Plus Cabin

Value for your money, cost comparison.

While British Airways' World Traveller Plus tickets are more expensive than standard economy, they are significantly less expensive than business class. The added comfort, enhanced dining experience, and additional amenities serve to justify the cost difference for many travelers:

• Competitive Pricing: Often, the price of a World Traveller Plus fare is about 50% more than standard economy, but much less than the cost of a business class or first class ticket.
• Frequent Flyer Benefits: For British Airways Executive Club members, booking World Traveller Plus can earn more Avios points and Tier Points, contributing to faster tier progression and additional benefits in the future.

Passenger satisfaction

According to NerdWallet , feedback from passengers flying in World Traveller Plus is generally positive, with many highlighting the comfortable seats, better meal options, and overall enhanced travel experience. Customer reviews indicate that many travelers appreciate the balance of cost and comfort, making it a popular choice for long-haul flights. Typically, passengers who try World Traveller Plus often choose to book it again for future travels, indicating that they do, in fact, value the extra space and amenities provided.

Is World Traveller Plus worth it?

British Airways' World Traveller Plus offers a substantial upgrade from standard economy with enhanced comfort, better dining options, and additional amenities, making it a worthwhile investment for long-haul travelers. The cabin's spacious design, top-tier in-flight entertainment, and priority services enhance the overall travel experience, providing excellent value for the money.

Stay informed with our in-depth reviews and comparisons of airline offerings. Share your World Traveller Plus experiences with us in the comments, and follow us on social media for the latest updates and insights into premium travel options.

British Airways

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Elevating your travel

British Airways A350: Best Seats With Photos + Tips

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Basically, it’s quiet, it’s beautiful and you’ll feel better if you’re battling jet lag. And for anyone who cares about sustainability in air travel, this plane consumes 25% less fuel than the previous generation of airliners.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gilbert Ott | GSTP (@godsavethepoints)

Here are the best seats on the British Airways Airbus A350-1000 in World Traveller, World Traveller Plus And Club World Club Suites, and a few tips on how to reserve seats before others do. Hint: elite status is easier to achieve than you think, and it gets the best seats for free.

Best BA A350 World Traveller Economy Seats

The British Airways A350-1000 offers two World Traveller economy class cabins, separated by a galley area. The forward cabin on the plane is by far the smaller of the two, and if at all possible is definitely where any traveller will want to aim. Each BA A350 World Traveller seat offers 17.5” width, 31” pitch and a 10” HD screen.

Best BA A350 World Traveller Plus Premium Economy Seats

Premium Economy is the new “it” cabin for airlines, offering an experience that’s in line with what passengers expected in the so called “golden era” of air travel. Think: nicer drink service, better food, more checked bags and lots and lots more legroom, comfort, recline and amenities.

This new BA plane offers a huge step up for World Traveller Plus flyers, with both foot stools and seats which kick up extra leg support, almost like domestic first class. A350 World Traveller Plus offers 18.7” width, 38” of pitch and 12” HD screens.

Best British Airways A350 Business Class Club Suites

You didn’t think we’d leave without talking about these, did you? British Airways has introduced a completely new business class flying experience for the airline, moving away from forward and rear facing seats in a layout many would call ‘dense’; to a set up of all forward facing “suites” complete with privacy door. To put it lightly, they’re fantastic.

It’s sharp, it’s modern, it’s functional but most importantly, it’s downright comfortable and private. If there’s any fear with this sleek new seat, it’s the cannibalisation of first class. In fact, I doctored this photo above to mirror the colour scheme of the current “first” promo pictures. It’s a compelling look.

Big Thoughts On The British Airways A350 And Club Suites

If you want to track the roll out, including which routes will feature the new A350, or the new Club Suites, we’ve got the ultimate resource guide just for you, and no one else. Well, you and everyone with an internet connection.

Aside from a feature like an on-board bar – which would’ve been nice – this plane ticked all the boxes, and British Airways put in serious work to make it a world class aircraft in every cabin. All A350’s feature smaller galleys than previous planes, so don’t expect too much walking around room, but other than that, you really have to love it.

Here’s a review of the Club Suites . GSTP is a proponent of the A350 on any airline, and this airline now offers a fantastic option. If British Airways service standards continue to improve, this is definitely an experience to watch in 2020, and well beyond.

You can check out British Airways Latest Sale for opportunities to try the A350 out for yourself.

Gilbert Ott

Gilbert Ott is an ever curious traveler and one of the world's leading travel experts. His adventures take him all over the globe, often spanning over 200,000 miles a year and his travel exploits are regularly... More by Gilbert Ott

Join the Conversation

Great move and an undoubted improvement despite the cost cutting on things like individual air vents and external cameras. From BA’s PR machine you’d believe it was more significant than less than 2% of the fleet… eventually. 98% of 2020 customers will be on the same old seating in the same old cabins. Will BA also now start cleaning & servicing the cabins, delivering working WiFi and loading enough catering for all paying passengers? Perhaps most siginifcantly are they going to revert to offering real customer services rather than automated scripts weeks after a communication?

Please stop trying to spin not having individual air vents as a positive. It’s disgusting in this day and age for cabins that don’t have them, especially one this dense. I flew on the Cathay A350 and it was hot and stale as hell.

There’s no spin. I don’t think they’re nearly as important on the A350 as other planes and prefer the better flow at seat level.

As soon as the BA A350 was announced I changed a LHR-ORD ticket in J to connect via YYZ – so excited to try out the new suite!

• Pingback: British Airways Debuts the New A350 – We Love Beaches

Booked a long haul from Texas to London and managed to score seats 30a for both flights. I thought about changing them a couple times because there is no pocket to store stuff, but after reading this article, I’m glad I kept them!

Hi, useful article, Thanks! One question, you say that in World traveller plus, row 26 is a good option as you can recline the seats with no problem. Seatguru seems to think that they might not fully recline, due to the bulkhead behind. Is there anyone with experience of these seats to advise? Thanks

I agree with the positive experience on the BA A35k.

I upgraded a $1600 CAD PE flight from YYZ to LHR return on a voluntary upgrade for an extra $552 each way. This second flight had just been reinstated and so fares were low. For $2700 , I did biz in style and it was still $100 cheaper than AC premium economy. (AC abused pax by only putting on a second flight earlier this month where economy was sold out every day with a long wait list where you weee held hostage to $2800 in PE and 7 grand in biz. BA need to up their game in wine. They have an overall budget of 5 quid a bottle and in biz it was very uninspiring. The food comes on one tray, which seems a little futile given the runs they already do for top ups. The flights were quiet, arrived early each way with a new combined group of SH, LH and mixed fleet crew who wanted to be there and delivered excellent customer service. It’s just a shame it’s not on the route for Christmas and even today, it’s been subbed with a 777 given there are only 8 x A35ks in the fleet. I suspect they will order more (or at least I hope so)

Does anyone know if the seats in row 26, premium economy, fully recline? I don’t trust what seatguru’s advice. Thanks

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The Guide to British Airways Premium Economy

As a digital nomad for nearly five years, JT is a freelance writer that proves through experience that credit card rewards can drastically reduce the cost of travel. After working as a tax accountant for a decade, JT turned his analytical skills to points, miles and credit cards. He published over 2,000 articles as a writer for The Points Guy.

Elina Geller is a former NerdWallet travel writer specializing in airline and hotel loyalty programs and travel insurance. In 2019, Elina founded TheMissMiles, a travel rewards coaching business. Her work has been featured by AwardWallet. She is a certified public accountant with degrees from the London School of Economics and Fordham University.

Meghan Coyle started as a web producer and writer at NerdWallet in 2018. She covers travel rewards, including industry news, airline and hotel loyalty programs, and how to travel on points. She is based in Los Angeles.

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Table of Contents

What is premium economy on British Airways?

British airways premium economy seats, food and drink in british airways premium economy, amenities and other perks of british airways premium economy, how much is premium economy on british airways, 4 ways to save money on british airways premium economy, use avios to book a premium economy ticket on british airways, is british airways premium economy worth it.

Flying in economy just isn't what it used to be. Over the decades, many airlines have reduced legroom, squeezed more seats into each row and cut back on services. Many travelers can't afford to pay for business class, but there is a Goldilocks middle ground: premium economy. Arguably, one of the better premium economy products available is British Airways premium economy, also known as World Traveller Plus.

Let's take a look at British Airways' premium economy, including what you'll find onboard, how the experience differs from economy and how you can save money on these seats.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

British Airways’s premium economy class is called World Traveller Plus. The other classes on its flights include economy (Euro Traveller and World Traveller) , business class and first class.

World Traveller Plus is situated in its own separate cabin, which is closer to the front of the plane than economy. The seats are wider and offer more legroom than the seats in economy. In addition, passengers receive priority boarding, a more generous baggage allowance, two meals, complimentary alcoholic beverages, noise-canceling headphones for the personal entertainment system and an amenity kit.

» Learn more: The guide to British Airways classes

For many passengers, the main reason to book premium economy instead of economy is the larger seats. And British Airways certainly delivers in this regard.

Compared with economy, British Airways World Traveller Plus gives you more space in all directions — more seat width, legroom and recline. Tall passengers can rejoice: British Airways premium economy provides 7 inches of additional legroom — measuring 38 inches of pitch vs. just 31 inches of pitch in economy.

(Photo courtesy of JT Genter)

In addition to a substantial recline, British Airways premium economy seats offer a fold-out leg rest and a fold-down footrest.

Throughout the cabin, you'll find a large, fixed armrest between each seat. Although this slightly reduces seat width, it means that you shouldn't need to battle your neighbor for control of the armrest. At the front of each armrest, a cup tray provides enough space for two glasses. And you'll find a water bottle holder between the footrests in each seat pairing.

Depending on the aircraft type, the British Airways premium economy cabin is either arranged 2-3-2 or 2-4-2. This means there are two seats by the windows and three or four seats in the middle column of seats. This arrangement makes British Airways premium economy a great option for couples traveling together who prefer to have their own two-seat row.

Each British Airways premium economy seat has a large, bright 12-inch touchscreen with seemingly endless entertainment options. This is a substantial upgrade from what British Airways offered prior to a recent cabin refresh.

Below the in-flight entertainment screen, British Airways installed a storage tray. This provides a convenient place to store your phone, passport, boarding pass or other items you want nearby — but not in your pockets — while in-flight.

» Learn more: Basic economy vs. main cabin

In addition to bigger and better seats, British Airways provides notably better food and drink service in premium economy compared to economy.

This elevated service starts before the wheels even leave the ground. Flight attendants pass through the cabin offering pre-departure beverages of orange juice or water, served in real glassware. Although sparkling wine is available in-flight, it's not available on the ground in the World Traveller Plus cabin.

In-flight, British Airways advertises that World Traveller Plus passengers get "two delicious meals, complimentary bar service including signature cocktails (or mocktail)."

Here's what that looks like in practice.

Flight attendants pass through the cabin shortly after takeoff to provide a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. In my experience, flight attendants proactively provide doubles of alcoholic beverages. Plus, you'll get a choice of wine to go with your dinner.

For meal choices, menus aren't provided to passengers. Instead, flight attendants note the meal options as they pass through the cabin. British Airways offers two options — typically one vegetarian and one meat-based meal. Meals are generally served with a salad, a packaged roll, a dessert and a choice between several types of wines — typically two reds and two whites.

While the first meal is hot and meets premium economy standards, the second is generally a cold, packaged meal served in a brown paper bag. Although perfectly adequate, I haven't found this meal to be particularly "delicious" — falling short of what British Airways advertises.

British Airways premium economy doesn't just provide bigger seats and better meals. British Airways World Traveller Plus passengers also get better amenities and additional perks like priority boarding.

British Airways premium economy amenity kit, pillow and blanket

At boarding, World Traveller Plus seats are typically stocked with a small pillow, blanket and a plastic-wrapped package including noise-canceling headphones and an amenity kit.

The British Airways premium economy amenity kit includes socks, an eye mask, lip balm, a pen, a toothbrush and toothpaste. Earplugs are available on request.

Other perks of British Airways premium economy

Extra baggage allowance: British Airways premium economy typically allows two free checked bags at no additional cost. Comparatively, some British Airways economy fares are "hand baggage only" and charge up to $175 each way for two checked bags.

Priority boarding: British Airways World Traveller Plus passengers board no later than Group 3 boarding. Meanwhile, economy boarding groups stretch to Group 9.

Universal power outlets: The recent refresh to British Airways economy cabins only provides USB power outlets in economy. However, you'll still find two universal power outlets between each pairing of World Traveller Plus seats in addition to a USB outlet.

Unsurprisingly, you can expect to pay more than economy — but less than business class — if you want to fly in the premium economy cabin on British Airways.

We did a fare search for a roundtrip flight from New York-John F. Kennedy to London and found that on the 7:35 p.m. flight, premium economy ($1,162) is more than double the cost of economy ($532) and only slightly cheaper than business class ($1,222).

A flight departing just 30 minutes later (and landing in London-Gatwick) was an even worse deal, offering a $608 premium economy seat, which was nearly triple the cost of economy ($233). Business class was significantly more expensive at nearly $3,000.

On the return leg, premium economy was $851, compared to $504 in economy and $1,540 in business class.

If you chose the more affordable outgoing option in premium economy, you’d be looking at $1,459 total for the round-trip flight, compared to $737 in economy. The cheapest round-trip business class option would cost $2,762.

There are a few ways to save money when booking the Traveller Plus cabin on British Airways.

1. Get $65-$200 off as an AARP member

If you’re a member of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), when you book a roundtrip transatlantic flight on British Airways, you can save $65 off economy or premium economy seats and $200 off business class. Although $65 isn’t a huge discount, it could help offset the difference between economy and premium economy.

Although AARP is a nonprofit organization that offers money-saving benefits for Americans over 50, you do not need to be 50 to join. You just need to sign up and the benefits are yours to enjoy. The standard cost of the membership ranges is $16 per year, but the price could be lower depending on how long you want to commit.

Check Cashback Monitor to see if there are any shopping portals offering bonus points for signing up for an AARP membership.

2. Book a British Airways flight through a shopping portal

Another way to save money on your premium economy fare on British Airways is to purchase the ticket through a shopping portal. Browse through Cashback Monitor to see what the current savings are.

The search result shows that Top Cashback is offering up to 1.51% cash back on British Airways. However, you need to look at the details to make sure that the flight qualifies for the discount.

Clicking on the Top Cashback link shows that the discount on long-haul flights is only 1.01%. So, if you were to book a $1,000 premium economy ticket and click through Top Cashback, you would earn $10.10 in cash, which isn’t much but still provides some savings.

» Learn more: How to earn extra points & miles shopping online

3. Use a British Airways credit card to save 10% and statement credits

The British Airways Visa Signature® Card offers several money saving perks on purchase of British Airways flights.

Cardholders get a 10% discount on all British Airways flights originating in the U.S. You would need to book the flight on ba.com/chase10 and use the promotion code CHASEBA10. Assuming you book a $1,000 premium economy ticket, you’d save $100 off that flight.

Cardholders who book award flights to London can earn statement credits of $100 in economy and premium economy and $200 in first and business class. The statement credits can be earned three times per year, maxing out at $600. To earn the credits, cardholders will need to use the British Airways Visa Signature® Card to pay for award taxes, fees and carrier surcharges on the award flight.

This is a useful benefit, especially since taxes and fuel surcharges on British Airways award tickets can be extraordinarily high.

If you have British Airways Avios, you can also use those points to book an award flight. Here’s an example flight search from New York-JFK to London-Heathrow showing three available classes:

If we compare the pricing, in economy, the ticket costs 25,000 Avios + $100 in taxes. Premium economy costs 42,500 Avios + $280 in taxes. British Airways adds on high taxes and fuel surcharges so you’ll need to weigh the price in miles (+ taxes) against a cash ticket.

Using our $608 premium economy flight example from above, if you were to pay for this seat in Avios, you’d extract 0.8 cent per mile ($608 - $280 / 42,500). NerdWallet values British Airways Avios at 0.8 cent per mile when redeemed for economy fares. This probably isn’t the highest value per point you’ll find at the premium economy level, but it’s about the same number of points that you would expect to pay in economy. If the flight in cash was more expensive, using Avios for the award ticket would be much more justifiable.

Another factor to consider is that British Airways used a distance based award chart , so the cost of the flight in Avios will depend on how far away your origin is from your destination.

» Learn more: The guide to British Airways Executive Club

British Airways premium economy is found on all long-haul international aircraft. This includes British Airways:

Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.

Airbus A380-800 aircraft.

Boeing 777-200 and 777-300 aircraft.

Boeing 787-8, 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft.

British Airways passengers can upgrade to premium economy using cash or Avios — either in advance or at the airport. However, you cannot purchase an upgrade once onboard. The cash upgrade price generally depends on the route and availability. However, Avios upgrade prices are set based on the Avios award price difference between the two cabins.

» Learn more: How (and why) to upgrade your British Airways flight using Avios

Thanks to a recent cabin refresh, the British Airways cabin now appears fresh and sharp. British Airways premium economy consists of four to nine rows of seating — depending on the aircraft — and is found between the business class and economy cabins. Each row is configured with two window seats on each side and either three or four seats in the middle section.

Yes, British Airways premium economy earns more British Airways Avios — or miles if you credit flights to another mileage program. When crediting flights to the British Airways Executive Club, you'll earn Avios at a rate of 100% or 150% of the flight miles, depending on the fare you book. Comparatively, you earn as few as 25% of flight miles when booking economy fares.

Likewise, American Airlines flyers earn up to four times more base AAdvantage miles when booking premium economy than economy. Since Loyalty Points are based on mileage earnings, you'll also earn quadruple the elite status credits. These extra miles and elite status credits can help justify the increased cost of premium economy for those debating if it's worth upgrading.

» Learn more: How to choose which airline miles to earn from your flights

» Learn more:

How (and why) to upgrade your British Airways flight using Avios

How to choose which airline miles to earn from your flights

British Airways premium economy represents a significant step up from economy. You'll get a bigger seat with extra legroom and recline. Plus, passengers get better food and drink options along with extra perks like priority boarding and extra baggage allowance. And mileage collectors and elite status members will appreciate earning extra miles and elite-status credits.

(Top photo courtesy of British Airways)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

The best seats on a British Airways Airbus A380

We continue our series looking at British Airways ' aircraft to help you pick the best seats and have the most comfortable flights. No matter which cabin you're traveling in, some seats are better than others.

Related reading: The best seats on a British Airways 747

British Airways has 12 superjumbo A380s in its fleet. It will start upgrading the existing Club World seat to the new Club Suite product on the A380 from 2023 , with all 12 having the new, superior business-class seat by 2025. BA's decision to install its newest seat on these aircraft indicates that, unlike some other airlines, it has no intention of retiring the A380 anytime soon.

British Airways flies one version of the A380 in a four-class configuration with 14 seats in First, 97 in Club World (business class), 55 in World Traveller Plus (premium economy) and 303 in World Traveller (economy class).

The Club World and World Traveller cabins are split across both levels, and the layouts and configuration are not the same. The upper level is more narrow due to the curvature of the plane, which actually gives passengers more space, as there is at least one — if not two — fewer seats across each row.

Best seats in First on a British Airways Airbus A380

Top picks: 1A, 1K, 2A, 2K

Though the first-class cabin on the BA A380 isn't the most special one — the 747 takes that award — nor the most elegant or modern — that goes to the First seats on the BA Boeing 787-9 — it is the best seat in terms of space and privacy.

Row 1 is usually only available to British Airways Executive Club Gold card members, but if you can secure either 1A or 1K, these can easily be the best seat. They are very private — one can't see any other passengers from the seat and no one can look at passengers seated in those seats. I also often find the temperature a bit cooler in those seats, which, in my books is a good thing, as there's nothing worse than a hot cabin.

Related reading: In love all over again: A review of British Airways first class on the A380 with its new soft product

There's a potential noise downside — a set of cupboards under the front set of stairs. It's worth noting that those stairs don't get used during the flight, and even the crew will rarely use them. But, if the cupboards are used frequently during the flight, you could experience noise issues. Most good crews I've had on this aircraft have emptied the bedding from the cupboards and stored it in the forward door so that access isn't needed during the flight.

Otherwise, I'd pick 2A or 2K as a solo traveler, as the galley — and noise from the crew and kitchen area — is at the back. For those traveling with others, I'd also go as far forward as possible. It's worth noting that buddy dining is possible in this seat, and the buddy seat (the footrest of the main seat) is the widest in the BA fleet. So if you are a lover of views and traveling with a partner, it might be worth selecting two window seats and dining/lounging together.

Best seats in Club World on a British Airways A380

Top picks: 53A, 53K, 59A, 59K, 15A, 15K

For those traveling in Club World on the A380, the big decision and difference in terms of comfort is upstairs vs. downstairs. The curvature of the aircraft means the upstairs cabin is narrower than the downstairs cabin, but that actually means that British Airways has adopted a 2-3-2 layout upstairs whilst sticking with the usual 2-4-2 layout downstairs.

For that reason, I would always pick a seat upstairs as the cabin is less dense. Additionally, and further helping with a feeling of a less-crowded cabin, the upstairs business-class cabin is split between two mini-cabins of four rows, whilst it's just one bigger section of six rows downstairs.

Related reading: Flight review: British Airways A380 Club World — Washington, D.C. to London

That split also means there are more desirable seats upstairs as my advice is to pick a window seat in the last row of a cabin. For that reason, the best seats are upstairs and they are 53A and 53K as well as 59A and 59K. Now, if those are taken and 15A or 15K are available, I'd probably accept a denser cabin downstairs in return for the benefits of those window seats in the last row.

Other good seats on the A380 are actually the middle seats upstairs, as they give some extra privacy. Again, the best ones are in the last row — 53E and 59E, which avoid the issue of climbing over your neighbor.

Couples or those traveling together might find the downstairs middle seats good, as they are often described as couple seats. The yin-yang layout of the window and aisle seats also means that those in A and B seats pretty much face each other, so those are also good options for those wishing to be social with their travel companion.

Best seats in World Traveller Plus/premium economy on a British Airways A380

Top picks: 61A & 61K

The A380 is probably the best aircraft to be flying World Traveller Plus, BA's premium economy cabin. Given the mentioned curvature of the aircraft, the World Traveller Plus cabin is in a 2-3-2 layout upstairs, whilst all other premium economy cabins with BA are 2-4-2. The cabin feels both less dense and crowded, and there's plenty of extra space that's not normally the case in this cabin.

That extra space includes a side bin for extra storage, which is another reason why this is the best aircraft for flying premium economy. This side bin allows for ample extra storage but is also a handy space for things like drinks, books and laptops.

Applying the usual rule for premium economy and economy that front row window seats are the best because they give both extra legroom space and allow getting out of the seat without needing to climb over or disturb one's neighbor, my top picks are Row 61 window seats — 61A and 61K. In addition, 60D and 60F are decent seats for the same reasons — though they don't have a window.

For couples traveling together, those front row window pairs are great, though any other window pairs will also work.

Best seats in World Traveler/economy on a British Airways Airbus A380

Top picks: 70A, 70K, 80A, 80K, 20A, 20K, 35A, 35K

When looking at economy seats on BA's A380, a combination of factors from the above come into play.

The World Traveller cabin is also split over both floors with two larger sections in a 3-4-3 layout downstairs and two smaller sections in a 2-4-2 layout upstairs. Similar to World Traveller Plus, seats upstairs in a front row are arguably the best British Airways long-haul economy class seats, as they are in a less dense cabin and provide the same side bins for extra storage space.

Related reading: Review: British Airways A380 World Traveller economy — Johannesburg to London

My top picks are 70A and 70K as well as 80A and 80K. If upstairs is not available, though downstairs is denser and does not have the side bins, 20A and 20K, as well as 35A and 35K, provide similar front row window seats.

For couples or those traveling with companions, if front row seats are not available, any of the upstairs window pair seats (A&B or J&K) are great.

Bottom line

As we've said before, picking the right seat can help improve almost any flight in any cabin, so avoid being that person who gets randomly assigned a seat by the airline.

The British Airways A380 has — maybe not surprisingly, given the size and space — some of the best seats available in most cabins, so it should be a favorite if you have a choice. That's not because the airline was feeling generous when designing the layout, but because the nature of the plane and its curvature forced a certain setup, which we, as passengers, can benefit from if picking the right seat.

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• Boeing 777-200 (772) Four Class

British Airways Seat Maps

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• Boeing 777-200 (772) Gatwick Three Class
• Boeing 777-200 (772) Three Class Layout 1
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In-flight amenities

All seats have on demand video screens with hundreds of movies, TV programs, songs, and audio books to chose from.

All seats have on demand video screens with hundreds of movies, TV programs, songs, and audio books to chose from. Programming Information

First, Club World Business, and World Traveller Plus all feature in-seat laptop power connections. There are some connections in the standard World Traveller class, but it varies by aircraft and is not guaranteed on each flight. Read our guide to in-seat laptop power for more information.

British Airways is in the middle of introducing WiFi on all of their 777-200 aircraft. As of November 2018, 28 out of their 43 777-200s have WiFi.

More information

British Airways offers a variety of complimentary food and beverages, based on the time of day and departure location. An enhanced meal service is offered to Club Europe passengers. Click here for more information about food offered onboard.

Note that British Airways flies more than one version of the 777. There are four classes on this transatlantic aircraft, but BA also has a 3-class configuration. This aircraft type is based from London Heathrow.

Seats A,C,D,E,F,H, and K in World Traveller Economy Class have underseat entertainment storage boxes.  As a result, these seats have limited underseat storage and legroom.

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British Airways flies 2 versions of Boeing 777-200.

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Travel classes

Choose your perfect way to fly. Our cabins cater to everyone so you can expect the same great, and uniquely British, experience whether you’re flying First or economy.

Discover great value fares and family-friendly service. Fly to the UK and Europe in Euro Traveller or go long-haul in our World Traveller cabin.

Premium economy

Fly premium economy with World Traveller Plus and treat yourself to a wider seat, longer legroom and priority boarding - all in a separate cabin with an extra checked bag.

Work or relax in style with lounge access, dedicated check-in and fully flat beds on long-haul. Fly short-haul with Club Europe or to the rest of the world with Club World. Our new Club Suite is also available on selected flights.

Indulge in the most exceptional comforts from luxurious fine dining to your own private suite. With access to our elegant departure lounges and exclusive service as standard, First truly is the finest way to fly.

Travelling on partner airlines

If your flight number begins with anything other than ‘BA’ (e.g. AA123456X), you’re flying with one of our partners.

To learn about travel classes on our partner airlines, please use the links below:

American Airlines

Japan airlines, qatar airways, china southern airlines.