Behind the scenes at The First Wing

In early April, British Airways opened The First Wing, a new and exclusive experience for Gold Executive Club Members, oneworld Emerald cardholders, and customers flying in First, to fast-track through Heathrow Terminal 5. The Club meets Yasmin Shahin from British Airways’ design experience team to learn about five key enhancements to look out for

A bespoke design

British Airways worked with Universal Design Studio, an award-winning London studio, to create The First Wing. The stylish oak marquetry inside is based on a BA heritage design, with a backlit glass mirror chandelier wall, which gives the area a touch of sparkle that’s light and contemporary. The design was inspired by the British Airways First cabin and elements of this design have been incorporated to give the area a seamless, bespoke feel.

An exclusive entrance

Customers are invited to enter The First Wing through a scalloped steel and glass enclosure, with the centrepiece chandelier wall carrying the iconic BA Coat of Arms. At the entrance,dedicated premium hosts are on hand to offer the highest standards of service. We want customers to feel recognised and special as they enter the area, and receive a warm welcome.

A dedicated security lane

Inside The First Wing’s check-in area, customers will be guided to a new, spacious, dedicated security channel, offering premium finishes. It’s then a direct route to the Galleries First Lounge and the Concorde Room. Our premium team have been fully briefed to look after the needs of premium customers at every stage of their journey – and they’re excited to do so.

Greater privacy

At three metres high and 29 metres long, a specially designed curved, fluted wall, keeps the area separate and private. Ambient lighting has been incorporated into the experience to create something softer within the context of the airport concourse.

Enhanced space

Responding to customer expectations, The First Wing check-in area alone is more than 250 per cent greater in size than what existed before. The First Wing also boasts a new, more spacious seating area, and includes armchairs, marble-topped side tables, power supply, and bespoke leather banquettes. Everything has been rigorously tested to ensure it’s of the highest quality and to provide BA’s most valued customers with a calm space to pause before continuing their journey.

Watch the video on the making of The First Wing

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This article has been tagged BA, Travel Tips