I always had a mental block against flying British Airways. I was told that Indians are not treated very well and the service is just average.
And much to my dismay when recently I had to travel overseas, the only airline available was British Airways. Since I had no choice I booked my ticket. On the day of the journey when I reached Mumbai airport, I was pleasantly surprised to see atleast 7-8 counters made available for passengers travelling by British Airways.The check in was smooth even for the economy class. But I pay that compliment entirely to the Indian Authorities who were managing very well (for a change).
I boarded the flight (which was right on time)and was given a window seat. Right from when the plane took off I was very very happy with the service I got. The meals were just perfect(hot and fresh)served with either hot coffee or tea..infact I think it is probably the only airline which even serves food for those who are fasting because I saw someone having sabudana khichadi ( a dish made by sago)...i was thoroughly impressed.(of course, one has to specify for the choice while booking) Even the crew was so helpful and always smiling (which I have found missing in some other airlines).They also serve a variety of hard and soft drinks to the traveller which again is limited in most other airlines.
The choice of entertainment was equally good. They have personal videos for each seat where we can choose our own choice of entertainment (12 channels of video and 13 of radio). They showed the latest movies and serials (Friends, Legally Blonde, Style etc).
The seats, I have yet to find comfortable seats in any airline. But the advantage BA has is that it gives you this adjustable headrest if you want to turn and sleep and a leg rest which allows you to stretch your legs.
I had a break in London for an hour, where again the service for the connecting flight was quick and efficient.
I was also told (by my numerous well wishers) that the second leg of the journey normally is more uncomfortable as there are more europeans than indians on the flight and they are given preference. So you can imagine my mental wariness as I boarded the flight. But again here I was pleasantly surprised since the service was equally excellent. I did not at all feel any kind of bias or thought that I was treated differently.
And the best surprise on landing on NY airport was that there is a completly separate terminal for British Airways. (i am not sure about other countries).I was out of the airport in exactly 20 mins which is a far cry to what we experience when we get back home.
Though on landing I found that both my bags were lost in transit, the crew at the airport were very helpful and assured me that the bags would be found and delivered at my door-step that very evening. And true to their word, at 8.00 pm my bags were delivered all intact.
And I experienced the same quality of service on my return journey.
All in all, I found my experience with British Airways very pleasant so much so that I have decided to only fly BA when I travel overseas. There are people who have had a different experience which I find very unfortunate and hope they have an experience like mine next time.