Korean Air not too long ago launched its new enterprise class on the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner, and I used to be invited to expertise it firsthand on a flight from Vancouver to Seoul.
With a smooth new seat design, upgraded know-how, and considerate facilities, I used to be desirous to see the way it stacks up towards different premium enterprise class merchandise.
Korean Air is understood for its consideration to element and hospitality, so I used to be keen to place this new cabin to the take a look at on this long-haul journey.
Floor Expertise
Earlier than boarding, I spent a while within the SkyTeam Lounge at Vancouver Worldwide Airport (YVR). This lounge is shared amongst a number of airways, however it didn’t really feel overcrowded.
The spotlight? A made-to-order noodle bar, serving up complimentary wonton noodles that hit the spot.
The lounge additionally provided an in depth buffet, comfy workspaces, robust Wi-Fi, and loads of energy retailers—a stable place to chill out earlier than takeoff.
I managed to seize a cushty spot by the window, catching glimpses of plane motion as I loved my meal.
Cabin
Korean Air’s Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner contains a 1-2-1 staggered configuration, making certain direct aisle entry for each seat. The cabin design is visually hanging, with suede finishes, brass storage covers, and deep blue upholstery including a contact of class.
Seat
I chosen seat 16B, a window seat in the direction of the again of the cabin. The window seats alternate between being positioned instantly towards the window (odd-numbered rows) or barely additional away (even-numbered rows).
In the meantime, the center seats alternate between being farther aside or positioned nearer collectively, also called the honeymoon seats, which are perfect for {couples} touring collectively. These center seats include an digital privateness divider, permitting passengers to decide on between an open or non-public setup.
The Collins Aerospace Horizon seat was significantly spectacular, with a 78-inch mattress size, a wi-fi charging station, and a 23.8-inch ultra-high-definition display.
There was additionally a sliding door for added privateness. Nevertheless, on the time of this flight, the doorways weren’t but useful as they have been nonetheless present process FAA certification.Â
The seat controls have been intuitive, permitting for straightforward changes, whereas the elegant brass storage cowl and suede finishes enhanced the cabin’s premium really feel. One of many standout design selections was the uniquely crafted fold-out tray desk, which easily popped out with a push of a button and folded into place.
I appreciated how Bluetooth connectivity was built-in, permitting me to pair my wi-fi headphones seamlessly without having an adapter.
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Storage was one other well-thought-out function on this seat. A devoted storage unit, situated inside the seat shell, offered a handy area to stow private belongings, from a pill to small journey necessities.
The wi-fi charging pad was a pleasant addition, eliminating the necessity for a charging cable, although I did discover that my cellphone often shifted off the pad as a result of turbulence. This function, mixed with 60W USB-C retailers, ensured that my gadgets remained powered all through the flight.
Facilities
The enterprise class amenity equipment included a watch masks, a dental equipment, and a number of Atelier Cologne skincare merchandise, together with lip balm. The inclusion of those high-quality skincare objects was a pleasant contact, serving to to maintain my pores and skin hydrated all through the flight. The packaging felt premium, and it was evident that Korean Air had put thought into their amenity choices.
Meal
Shortly after takeoff, lunch service started with a glass of Duval-Leroy Blanc de Blancs Brut Champagne, a staple on many premium airways in 2024. The meal began with a tuna tataki appetizer, which was contemporary and flavourful.
For the primary course, I opted for Korean Air’s signature bibimbap, that includes completely tender beef, a heat and nourishing soup, spicy gochujang sauce, and seaweed on the aspect, making for an interactive eating expertise.
Mixing the substances collectively mid-flight added a component of enjoyable, and I discovered myself savouring every chunk. The meal concluded with a fruit plate, cheese choice, and ice cream, which made for a refreshing and well-balanced ending.
Earlier than touchdown, the second meal service featured hen with bulgogi sauce. Whereas it was pleasurable, it didn’t fairly match the excellence of the bibimbap. Nonetheless, it was a well-prepared and hearty dish that saved me happy till I reached Seoul. The general meal service felt well-paced, and I appreciated the attentive refills of my drink all through the flight.
Snack Service
A couple of hours into the flight, I opted for a bowl of Shin Ramen, a easy but deeply satisfying snack. The wealthy broth and completely chewy noodles made for the proper mid-flight pick-me-up, including simply the correct amount of spice to maintain me refreshed and awake.
Whereas it wasn’t something extravagant, there’s one thing uniquely comforting about having fun with a sizzling bowl of ramen in the course of a long-haul flight, and Korean Air delivered on this basic favourite. It was a good way to maintain starvation at bay earlier than the second meal service.
Mattress
When it was time to relaxation, the seat reworked into a totally flat mattress with a 78-inch size.
The bedding included a thick wool-like blanket and a cushty pillow, although a mattress pad was not offered. Whereas the sleep expertise was comfy, the cabin temperature leaned on the nice and cozy aspect, and the dearth of particular person air vents made it a bit troublesome to control private airflow.
One standout function of Korean Air’s enterprise class is that the center seats could be transformed right into a double mattress, making it an amazing possibility for {couples} touring collectively. The crew can decrease the middle divider, permitting passengers in these seats to sleep aspect by aspect—a uncommon and spectacular perk for enterprise class, offering loads of area to stretch out.
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Wi-Fi
The Viasat Wi-Fi was obtainable for buy, although speeds have been noticeably unreliable over the Pacific. Whereas it was enough for fundamental looking and messaging, streaming or heavy work duties proved to be a problem.
I want they provided a free messaging plan like Air Canada does, since textual content messages don’t take up a lot knowledge and it gives an amazing worth of being linked to household and mates throughout flight.
Leisure
The in-flight leisure system was well-designed, that includes a 23.8-inch ultra-high-definition display with a broad number of films, TV exhibits, music, and magazines. The intensive library catered to a wide range of tastes, making certain there was one thing for everybody.
Bluetooth connectivity made it simple to pair wi-fi headphones, a small however much-appreciated function that added comfort to the in-flight expertise. Moreover, the intuitive interface and responsive touchscreen made navigating via the leisure choices seamless.
Conclusion
Would I like to recommend Korean Air’s new enterprise class on the Boeing 787-10? Completely.
The Collins Aerospace Horizon seat is a unbelievable improve, the bibimbap meal is a must-try, and the double-bed possibility for {couples} is a enjoyable bonus. The considerate seat design and fashionable tech options make for a extremely comfy journey, and the inflight catering does an amazing job of showcasing Korean flavors.
Nevertheless, there are areas for enchancment. The cabin temperature ran heat, and Wi-Fi speeds over the Pacific have been gradual, limiting connectivity. Whereas service was skilled, it lacked the heat and attentiveness seen on different main airways.
General, that is nonetheless among the best methods to fly from Vancouver to Seoul, and with Korean Air’s upcoming merger with Asiana Airways, I’m optimistic that the airline will proceed refining and enhancing its enterprise class expertise within the years forward.