Iberia Business Class: New York - JFK to Madrid Barajas - MAD
On approach to Madrid on the hop across the Atlantic from JFK, with a look at the impressive flex of the A350 wingtip flex.
What’s it like to fly @iberia Business Class transatlantic? Overall, a decent option. No particular standouts and on the other hand not necessarily at the bottom of the pack either.
The hard product: This particular flight was operated with their flagship A350-900 aircraft (note, the other option would typically be the older A330), so it was a quieter and generally more comfortable ride, owing to nextgen technology on these aircraft series.
The soft product: While ironically I’ve had much better, more personable service on previous flights, in Economy, the crew on this flight seemed mostly disinterested—performing their duties adequately though somewhat remotely.
In the same vein, meal and beverage offerings were mostly fine though nothing terribly earth shattering. Once again, ironically, I’ve had just as good in the back of the plane.
Overall, a decent option especially if priced right. At times discounted upgrades are offered close to departure. It could be well worth it if for nothing else at least, the chance to have a sleeper suite.
Aeromexico: The Better Option to/from Mexico
View of our chariot for the afternoon which will be whisking us away to Mexico City, the Boeing Dreamliner 787-8. This is a view from the American Express Centurion Lounge at JFK.
Aeromexico Meal Service: MEX —> JFK, Economy.
Given the choice, and supposing schedules align w/ your preferences, I would suggest electing to fly Aeromexico to Mexico and vice versa (at least from and to NY) over Delta or for that matter, any major American carrier. Their jets tend to be in much better shape (read typically newer and much more pleasant—flew a #787 Dreamliner on the outbound leg, and returned on a #737 Max jet—fully appreciate of course the precarious nature of the latter), hot meals are served from nose to tail (as pictured), and service is personable and friendly (if a tab bit not as enthusiastic on the return leg).
From a US carrier perspective, I can never understand why these flights are treated as ‘domestic’ executions. On a ~5-hr duration it’s the standard snacks and uninspiring offerings for purchase in the back (even on codeshare flights). Typically a fan of Delta’s though this is an area improvements can be made.
For bespoke itineraries to Mexico, please do not hesitate to get in touch. And check-out our full feature on Oaxaca City in our On Location section.
Virgin Atlantic: Special Meal Service - LHR to JFK
Our bird awaits - the A330-300 - to whisk us away to London (from JFK). Though not the latest aircraft - technologically, you’d want the A350 or A330neo, it still does the job and the comfort onboard is quite satisfactory.
The is a view from the second (newish) Delta Sky Club in the A Concourse.
Tasty and enjoyable plant-based meals from Virgin Atlantic — likely the best I’ve had in any cabin.
Pictured: The vegan veggie curry (the curry itself is nestled beneath the rice, in case you’re wondering ☺️), and prior to landing, the vegan afternoon tea which included a delicious chickpea wrap, an apple and elderflower bar, and a chocolate brownie; both gluten-free as well (just really thoughtful catering). And all served by some truly friendly flight attendants (makes quite the difference).
Plus, extra marks for having oat milk! onboard (again, a good example of keeping one’s finger on the pulse of changing attitudes). 🙌🏿
[Honorable mention to KLM who also had a decent offering on a flight I took last summer].
For bespoke itineraries to the UK, please do not hesitate to get in touch. And check-out our Brighton and Hove feature in the On Location Section.
