V-Flyer

Hey guys,

Big Virgin Atlantic fanboy, like most us here, but having second thoughts about flying PE to St Lucia this January on VS. Hear the unloved Gatwick fleet is looking rather shabby these days, and boasts ancient IFE, small screens, no on-demand (non-demand?) etc. British Airways, on the other hand, is flying the 777 with modern IFE and it’s cheaper.

Would rather fly Virgin. Can anyone with experience of this route advise me for/against?

Cheers!

Welcome,

Everything you have said is pretty much correct. The LGW fleet are in the main in need of an update, which they are getting from late next year. The IFE is not an AVOD system although I wouldn't say the screens are small? The seats on the LGW fleet are the older PE seats, but I personally find them very comfortable.

As you are looking to fly PE, then I would still go VS. PE will be upstairs in the bubble, you get the extra luggage, priority boarding and baggage, and enhanced food service, none of which you get on BA WT+.

Ultimately I would say price could be the deciding factor, if one is a lot cheaper, then go with them.

Neil

Depends how much cheaper BA is if you ask me.

WT+ on BA is literally a larger economy seat, no more, no less.

PE on Virgin has rather more 'premium' to it.

It might be worth keeping an eye on the seat maps as an LHR 744 has operated to UVF many times this year.

:X

Thanks all round. Price difference is only £60 (for two), I’ll stay loyal!

I seem to remember that BA also doesn't offer dedicated check-in for WT+ at most airports either.

Also don't forget you have to pay to reserve your seat now with BA.

When in january you going mate? im flying out on the 14th for a break..

And of course, there's still the ever-present threat of strikes with BA.....

I was just wondering how much it would cost to just put replacement coverings on the seats of the LGW/MAN fleet as an interim measure. I too find the old PE seats quite comfortable and the additional benefits of VS PE always seem to outway against the dark side.