British Airways has unveiled its revamped First Class cabin. With features like wider seats, 32-inch 4K TVs, and a sleek design, the British Airways New First Class certainly raises the stakes in premium travel. But here’s the thing: while this new cabin is impressive, are they just catching up?

With the £7 billion transformation, BA aims to reclaim its status in the market. The bespoke design, inspired by Concorde and steeped in British craftsmanship, is a step in the right direction. Passengers get luxury touches like buddy dining, personal luggage space, and sound-absorbing panels, which all add to the allure. But is it enough to steal the limelight from industry giants who’ve made private suites a standard in Business Class? It’s no wonder it’s commonly referred to the best Business Class in the skies.

The countdown begins; when will it all happen?

British Airways is set to overhaul its A380 fleet as part of a major refurbishment plan, with the new First Class suites expected to be installed by 2026. This will not be available immediately on all A380s, as the upgrades are phased in across the airline’s long-haul fleet. The current First cabin is downstairs, so will this be the same?

Let’s face it, Qatar Airways QSuites has been setting the standard with Business Class suites that rival First for years. From fully enclosed private spaces to dine-on-demand service, many carriers have been pushing the boundaries of comfort and privacy. Meanwhile, British Airways seemed to lag behind in First, let alone Business Class innovation.

With enhanced privacy and luxury features, the BA’s new First Class might just be the refresh the airline needs. It might not be groundbreaking, but it’s an exciting development for loyal BA flyers and a sign the airline is taking luxury seriously again.