LOT Embraer 190 Business Class offers a straightforward yet comfortable option for short-haul travel within Europe. With efficient boarding, decent catering, and a quiet cabin, it provides a solid option for regional flights. In this review, we’ll cover everything from the airport lounge to the onboard service to help you decide if it’s worth choosing for your next trip.
In this review:
Flight Details
Flight No: LO273
From/To: Vilnius (VNO) to London City (LCY)
Departure time: 17:15 (18:33 actual)
Ticket Class: Business
Flight time: 2 hours 23 mins
Frequent Flyer Points: 1,119
Status Points: 1,119
Aircraft: SP-LMB
Aircraft type: Embraer 190STD
Number of classes: 2
Number of seats in flying class: 9
Seat: 4A
Position: left hand side of the aircraft, 4 rows from the front
Airport Experience
Vilnius Airport is an exceptionally small airport, perfect for travellers who value efficiency. Given its size, there’s rarely a need to arrive more than an hour before your flight – unless you’re travelling during rush hour, in which case some extra time for the drive is wise.
Fast track security was nearly deserted, and I was through in an impressive two minutes. Turning left immediately after security, I found the lift to the Narbutas Lounge, the only business lounge at Vilnius Airport. My LOT Embraer 190 Business Class boarding pass granted me access without issue, although the lounge also accepts Priority Pass and paid entry for other passengers.
Boarding & Welcome
Although scheduled for a 17:15 departure, regular announcements advised of delays due to a late inbound aircraft. I waited in the lounge until 20 minutes before the updated departure time but, noticing the aircraft had already landed via Flight Radar, decided to check the gate status.
The gate, though marked as “open,” was not actually ready, with the departure time still incorrectly showing as 18:15 even at 18:08. Boarding finally commenced at 18:12, and thanks to the small size of the Embraer 190, the process was completed quickly. The aircraft pushed back at 18:30.
Once seated, a welcome drink of juice or water was offered to all business class passengers.
Seat
Originally booked in economy, I decided to submit a low upgrade bid after noticing how quiet business class was on my outbound flight. Two days before departure, I was notified that my bid had been accepted.
The seat itself was a standard Embraer 190 economy seat with the adjacent seat left empty. Slightly wider than those on A320 or 737 aircraft, it featured a rounded headrest and minimal recline. The lack of footwell dividers provided ample space under the seat in front, easily accommodating a cabin-sized suitcase – a benefit given the small overhead bins, which fit cabin-sized cases only sideways, limiting their capacity.
Amenities included a seatback tray table, magazine pocket, adjustable air nozzles, and a reading light. A single international mains power socket was provided, but no USB charging options were available, so bringing an adapter is essential.
What’s the best seat on LOT Embraer 190 Business Class?
Seat 1F is the standout choice, with two windows and extensive legroom thanks to its bulkhead position. Seat 1A is a close second, though it’s more exposed to crew traffic. Avoid the back row (row 5), as the curtain divider can be a distraction, particularly if children are seated in the row behind.
See the seating plan on SeatGuru.
Onboard Experience
Once airborne, the cabin crew promptly closed the curtains at the front and rear of the business class section, providing an intimate and quiet environment. With only eight passengers spread across five rows, the cabin maintained a peaceful atmosphere throughout the flight.
Tablecloths were placed on tray tables, and menus were distributed shortly after takeoff. The sole washroom at the front of the aircraft was dedicated to business class passengers, though it was identical to those in economy. With so few passengers, there was never a queue.
Food & Drink
The service began with drinks and a small bowl of nuts. I opted for a Cabernet Sauvignon, served in a 187ml glass bottle. Other options included beer, white wine, sparkling wine, and a range of soft drinks and water.
The meal service followed, presented on a tray from a trolley. The catering was provided by Do&Co, known for its premium airline meals. My starter was a shiitake mushroom and cream cheese salad, accompanied by cucumber and lettuce. While enjoyable, it lacked a vinaigrette, and the olive oil provided didn’t quite suffice.
For the main course, I chose pork tenderloin, which was served with gnocchi, carrots, and kale. The pork was perfectly cooked, tender, and flavourful. Dessert was a highlight—a praline cake with hints of white chocolate and lemon, garnished with pistachio crumbs and redcurrants.
Coffee was available, but the aroma suggested it was instant, so I stuck with wine and water for the remainder of the flight.
In-flight Entertainment
There was no inflight entertainment on this flight, which is fairly standard for short European routes. However, the lack of Wi-Fi was more noticeable, given its growing availability across other carriers in the region. LOT will need to address this to remain competitive.
BG1 Verdict
LOT Embraer 190 Business Class offers a solid option for travel between Vilnius and London, particularly as it’s the only direct service from a major London airport. The catering was exceptional for EU business class, and the seating was comfortable with ample space under the seat in front. While the overhead bins were small, the overall storage was manageable in the business cabin.
The absence of Wi-Fi and USB charging options highlights the need for cabin updates, but the private jet-like feel of the small business class cabin, coupled with attentive service, made for a highly enjoyable experience. Despite the delayed arrival, I’d happily fly this route again.
BG1 Tip
Put in a low bid for an upgrade – it’s worth the gamble!
Don’t forget to sign-up to our newsletter to get our latest updates delivered straight to your inbox. Why not also follow us on TikTok!
Leave a Reply