IF you’re going to spend 22 and a half hours on a plane, give or take, there are a few things you need.
Comfort, entertainment and friendly staff rank high among the list of must-haves. (Also WiFi – but more of that later.)
For these, a seat in Qantas’ premium economy cabin while taking the slog from London Heathrow to Sydney (with a 2-hour layover in Singapore) ticks the boxes.
As a 6ft 2in man mountain, I’ve had my share of uncomfortable experiences on long-haul flights.
So a trip to Australia – the longest I’d ever attempted – did give me a slight sense of dread.
An upgrade to premium economy on the upper deck of one the airline’s Airbus A380s made the journey bearable, though.
The seats were roomy enough to twist one way or another in sleep and also had the all-important extendable head-rest that adjusts from the sides for crucial extra support while dozing.
With a decent pillow from the cabin crew (plus blanket, eye mask and all the usual gubbins) it was about the easiest I’ve found it to get some kip on a plane.
The food was decent, and staff were more than happy to dig out an extra glass of wine when I was up to stretch my legs.
The usual array of films and TV shows were available to pass the time on the entertainment system, but for those of us who like to alternate movies with in-flight games the selection wasn’t the best.
Which kind of brings me to the biggest criticism of the service – no WiFi.
While I wouldn’t necessarily use it, I know for others it would be an absolute necessity.
Qantas say it’s in the process of being rolled out across the wider fleet and will be available on A380s in early 2026 (and free to all passengers).
With non-stop flights between Heathrow and Sydney planned for early 2027, it’s a good job it will be sorted.
With no stopover in Singapore to jump on WhatsApp and Instagram, how would you update your family on what a wonderful journey you’re having?
Return from Heathrow to Sydney from £1475 economy, from £3097 premium economy.
We’ve tried out some other amazing premium economy cabins as well.
The Sun’s Head of Travel Caroline McGuire raves about Norse Atlantic Airways’ – here’s why.
Her’e’s the airline that launched the first ever premium economy seat.
And one airline has revealed plans to ditch premium economy.
