Though I’ve flown through London more times than I can count, usually on United or American, I’d always found a reason to skip British Airways. For years, I associated BA with the now-retired 747s and the unpredictable Heathrow shuffle, and somehow, that was enough to steer me elsewhere. But for this trip, I decided to try something new, and what unfolded surprised me in the best way.
As it turns out, British Airways retired their entire fleet of 747s in 2020. That was news to me, but it made sense when I saw the aircraft awaiting me at the gate: a sleek Airbus A380. I was in seat 12A, on the main deck in Business Class. The layout was familiar, alternating forward and backward-facing seats, just like the old 747s with a privacy divider between. But everything about the experience felt elevated. The ride was incredibly smooth, the cabin noticeably quiet, and once I settled into my little cocoon by the window, it felt like my own calm corner in the sky.
Heathrow, too, surprised me. I braced for the usual chaos moving from Terminal 3 to Terminal 5, but instead, everything worked in my favor. As I stepped out, the shuttle bus appeared as if on cue and the security was quick too. No rushing, no stress, just a rare sense of ease I hadn’t expected from that airport. Maybe it was Easter Sunday magic.
The best surprise of all? The food. I’d requested a gluten-free meal and didn’t expect much more than the usual tray of dry chicken and steamed vegetables. Instead, I was served a warm, tomato-based vegetable dish layered with spices, followed by coconut-spiced shrimp and rice. It was light, full of flavor, and completely satisfying. Dessert was a fresh bowl of fruit, simple, but refreshing. And here’s the funny part: I was so taken by the meal that I didn’t even think to take a photo until the plate was empty. So yes, all I have is a shot of the aftermath, but I’d say that speaks for itself.
This experience reminded me of something I often tell clients but needed to remember for myself: sometimes, you just have to let go a little. I didn’t over-plan this trip, I didn’t research it into the ground, I simply trusted the process. And because of that, I got to rediscover an airline I’d written off, and a journey that reminded me why I love what I do.
If there’s a destination, airline, or route you’ve avoided because of past experience, maybe it’s time to take another look. Travel is always evolving and sometimes, pleasantly so.