As we search for flights to LHR, I am considering Virgin Atlantic's flights aboard their new 787-9. On their website, they describe that their economy seats and economy cabin have several advantages over their competitors. In your opinion and experience, how would you describe/compare VA's 787-9? The only hesitancy we have is that we love the seat layouts where there are two seats on each side, so we can be in our own little world during the transatlantic flights, and the 787-9 is a 3-3-3 layout. Thanks!
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
I haven't flown in the Boeing 787--however, given what you have said in your post, I would agree with you that your giving up the "2 seats on each side" layout, for a 3-3-3 layout, wouldn't that be a big sacrifice for a couple traveling together on a long flight?
For me, on a trans-Atlantic flight, the difference between 2 seats versus 3 seats--well, that would be a decisive factor in favor of the 2 seat layout, not a hesitancy.
Obviously, my remarks assume you can get a 2 seat layout, and that the airline doesn't change the aircraft type between the time you purchase tickets and the time of the flight--that sometimes occurs, and most airlines don't even notify you of the change, you find out when you get to the gate.
Posted by
Land of La
9261 posts
Haven't flown in the new 787-9 but I'd fly Virgin anytime. Outstanding service and comfort.
Posted by
New Paltz, NY
9110 posts
Back in November, I flew a United 787-9 from LAX to Melbourne. Be warned, these planes are very cold! I was dressed very warmly with a blanket around me, and I was still freezing my butt off. I asked one of the FAs if the heat could be turned up and was told that because these planes are so lightweight, they have minimal insulation and there was nothing they could do:( But on the flip side the air quality is much better with the 787. On a 777 my throat burns like crazy, and I can literally go through an entire package of Ricola; with the 787 I didn't even have to open up the package.
Posted by
Long Beach, California, USA
3398 posts
Any time I can fly on Virgin I take it! They are such a superior airline in every way and I recommend them 100%.
Bummer about the 3-3-3- layout though...that would be my only hang-up with this plane too. I guess you have to make the choice between better service and quality vs. having two seats together. Tough decision!
Posted by
Bainbridge Island
3298 posts
It is 2-3-2 if you go in Premium Economy.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
I generally fly alone, so the seat configuration is of no concern to me. But as others have said, I would choose VA above anyone - great food and service, tons of entertainment, and even the economy seats are comfortable.