Newcastle NCL – London Heathrow LHR
I have flown two return journeys on this route over the last month and each time the flight was on time and very quick and enjoyable, with 45 minutes flight time being the quickest and the scheduled 1 hour 15 minutes the slowest.
Is it worth flying Club Europe on such a short flight? In my opinion, yes.
The advantages are:
1. Dedicated check-in
This was particularly useful at LHR where you can check-in and hand your luggage over to the same person. The economy check-in and bag label seemed to be by machine only although you could then speak to someone at the bag drop desks.
2. BA lounge access
Access to the lounges makes for a far more relaxing airport experience. Although the lounge at Newcastle is fairly small, the selection of drinks is excellent. The food selection is more limited than at Heathrow T5 but is more than adequate. There is plenty of strangely eclectic but comfortable seating and a pleasant work area too. This lounge never feels overcrowded.
I love the Galleries North lounge in T5 but it does get quite busy at times. Having said that, we have never been unable to find a seat. If you miss the airport buzz too much, the open terrace area allows just the right amount of background noise to remind you where you are.
3. Complementary food and drink onboard
This is a real bonus following BA’s decision to charge for snacks and drinks on short haul economy flights. The meals we were served were all good but the breakfast was outstanding. On such a short flight the cabin crew did a fantastic job of serving everyone quickly and efficiently with a smile. A very pleasant touch. The service starts with a hot towel and there is a choice of meal e.g. sandwiches, ploughman’s or coronation chicken on one afternoon flight and hot cheese and tomato panini or chicken salad on an evening flight.
4. Extra Executive Club tier points
If you are a member of BA’s Executive Club, flying short haul in Club Europe gives you 40 tier points.
To sum up, I really enjoy flying in Club Europe. The fares can be quite competitive and it does provide a few treats.
Do it if you can!
For more information about British Airways Club Europe, click here.
