British Airways Reveals First-Class A380 and Heathrow Lounge Redesign with British Craft
British Airways is revamping the interiors of its A380 aircraft and lounges at Heathrow, emphasizing British craftsmanship. The first upgraded A380 will soon be operational, showcasing new seating across all classes, along with redesigned galleys and staircases. The First cabin, featuring 12 suites, includes dividers for a shared lounge and amenity kits from Swaine. Business class will have 106 Club Suites, the largest in its category, complete with communal spaces. Premium economy will introduce privacy wings, while economy class will benefit from wider seats. A new lounge at Terminal 5’s C Gates is set to open in late 2028, incorporating UK-sourced materials and a 17m bar. A Concorde lounge for First passengers will provide private concierge services, and the Arrivals lounge at Terminal 5 is expected to open by late 2027. Additionally, a dark-red First check-in area at Terminal 3 is scheduled to debut this winter.
Key facts
- British Airways announced a redesign of its A380 interiors and Heathrow lounges.
- The first refitted A380 will enter service in the coming months with new seats in all four classes.
- The First cabin has 12 suites with dividers that open to create a shared lounge.
- Business class on the upper deck has 106 Club Suites, described as the world’s largest business-class cabin.
- A new lounge at Heathrow Terminal 5’s C Gates will open at the end of 2028 with a 17m bar.
- Terminal 5’s Arrivals lounge is scheduled to open by the end of 2027 with 59 shower rooms.
- A dark-red First check-in area developed with American Airlines opens at Terminal 3 this winter.
- Swaine’s amenity kits launched on outbound First services from Heathrow on 6 October 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Sofia de la Cruz
- Richard Brendon
- Jancis Robinson
Institutions
- British Airways
- Swaine
- Wildsmith
- Studio William
- American Airlines
- Wallpaper*
- Chartered Institute of Journalists
Locations
- Heathrow
- London
- United Kingdom
- Miami
- United States
- Terminal 5
- Terminal 3
- C Gates