Following the demise of BMI decided to book with BA for a Business trip to Glasgow. Caught the Gatwick Express service from Victoria which is very fast and efficient – every 15 mins and takes 30 mins. Unlike Heathrow Express they now have ticket barriers at both Victoria and Gatwick and with many people travelling on Internet purchased tickets there was a delay in getting on and off the platforms, which unless they provide more staff could be a problem in busy periods. Once off the station headed up to the North Terminal which has totally changed since my last visit. The BA check in area is very spacious and it literally took 5 mins to check bags in. Security was no problem either and within 20 mins of getting off the Gatwick Express we were “airside”. We had about 50 mins before boarding so had a good look round the place, must admit that it was nothing special and we ended up visiting the Costa for a coffee. Think VS has got a better deal with the South Terminal than BA at the North. Headed down to the Domestic Gate at the allotted time and boarding commenced at 1655. Aircraft was a Boeing 737 and beginning to look a bit tired. The flight was totally full. Departed from the Gate spot on time at 1715. Despite the fact it did not look very busy took 20 mins before we took off at 1735. There is no IFE and BA still offer “free” food and drink, this consisted of a choice of drink – alcoholic, soft drink or tea/coffee with a packet of crisps or a cookie. Flight was uneventful and arrival in Glasgow was less than 70 minutes after departing Gatwick. Arrival at the Gate was only 3 minutes after touchdown which is quite impressive. Both doors we opened so had a choice of disembarking via the jet way at the front or via steps onto the tarmac at the rear. Walked to baggage collection and bags duly arrived less than 10 mins after we had got off the aircraft. Got the Express Bus to Glasgow city centre – that time of day it runs every 15 mins and only takes 15 mins. We were at our hotel only 45 mins after landing.
In summary would BA was reliable and efficient and would use them again in preference to other “low cost” airlines.
