Many thanks for your latest video. You are a braver man than me! I could not cope with 12 straight hours in economy. Hope you are having a fantastic time in Thailand. Take care!
I used British Airways LHR-BKK back in the 90's. A punishing 11 hour flight. The Gulf airlines have compltely changed the game. Now possible to go from regional airports - Glasgow, Edinburgh Newcastle, Manchester - to Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi with convenient connections to Bangkok and Phuket.
It's interesting to hear how air travel has evolved since the 90s! The competition definitely keeps airlines on their toes, and it's great that there are now more convenient options for traveling to Bangkok.
@@Swinn-FG When Boeing developed the 787 it was thought that travellers would fly direct from regional airports. But it never really happened and the hubs (because of the connection possibilities they offer) reign supreme.
I took this flight on Monday. I was in economy in a full plane. It was fine as essentially a night flight and everyone slept I’ve flown long haul many times in all classes and BA get a bad press but I am always happy to fly with them One point Gatwick south terminal was freezing 🥶 only duty free was warm 🤔
Thanks for sharing the video. I usually fly Emirates whenever I go to Thailand, I think the A380 experience in economy is better with more leg room, and a nice decent connection time in DXB
My flight was 729 pound there and back. If you don't pick a seat. Gatwick to bangkok. Bye bye thai Airways Ripped me of over 900 pounds one way bangkok to England
In-flight snacks/drinks are available from the galley on quite a few other airlines IME, this is certainly not unique to BA ! I agree that it's helpful, especially if you're trying to stay hydrated, on a long-haul flight. Even better when they regularly offer trays of water/soft-drinks to you at your seat, which saves disturbing other passengers next to you, to go down the back !
Thanks for the great review as I was completely unaware that BA had a direct flight once again. I would strongly recommend you wear shoes on your loo reviews though !
Thai Airways all the way staff on the plane are excellent and you can have as many drinks as you want just ask excellent food just got back from Bangkok
It sounds like you had a fantastic experience with Thai Airways! The service and food make all the difference on long flights. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Nice trip review and what a interesting change from your younger flight reviewers. I flew with BA to JFK back in 2017 with my son. I vowed never to fly long haul with them again. I live in Newcastle so even if I decide to give BA another chance to fly me to BKK I wouldn't fancy transferring from Heathrow. Anyway, I've subbed 👍🏼.
I’ve flown British airways once to Thailand (before they stopped flying) and it was the worst flight I’ve ever had… the plane was filthy, the cabin crew weren’t very professional and it was awful. I said I’d never fly with them again but watching this video, the cabin seemed really friendly, the plane look spotless so I’m possibly willing to give it another try in the future, my experience was hopefully a one off! Just a quick question, I’ve watched many of your videos and can’t recall you ever doing a video flying with Etihad airways, if you have ever flew with them, what were they like? as me and my wife are going back to Thailand in a few weeks to see her family and I’ve never flown with them before so I’d appreciate a little heads up, thanks for another great video😊
As Gulf carriers go you will find Etihad as good if not better than the others. Emirates would be my first choice though as it operates the A380 (but not from every UK airport so check).
Agree, sat at the back once and could hear the staff slagging off passengers, and they were all old unattractive women. Emirates are the best middle east line, forget Qatar these days
I think all the flights from different airlines are the same, similar food, and entertainment, what makes a good flight is hopefully no noisy people on board, and yes, a comfort seat is better.
Used to be a " regular" on LHR - BKK it was ok then covid and then they stopped. Using BA code share on Qatar so somuch better. Now BA flying from LGW - BKK making it extremely difficult to get to for me from Edinburgh as no direct BA flights only Easyjet if they bother to show up.
Thanks for the review. I was looking at this flight last year, but on BA's website the price increased at a rapid rate. It started off cheap for a direct flight but got stupid within a few hours so I left it. I also think BA crews are one of the best around, especially with what they sometimes have to work with. Good IFE but 31"/3-4-3 abreast is poor for long haul. Thai are still 3-3-3 but their IFE is ancient. Cheers!
@@wrightst8 Yes TG remain the exception with 9 across in Y on its 777s. But TG has ordered a very large fleet of 787s and, as sure as night follows day, TG's Y configuration will be 3-3-3 (787 has a narrower cabin than the 777).
@@alexmcwhirter6611 Yes, I think most 787's are 3-3-3 in economy. I've heard Japan Airways are 2-4-2 but that's a nice exception! (not practical to BKK from the UK though)
@wrightst8 Yes JAL is I believe the only 787 operator with 8-across Y seating but only for international routes. That 8-across seating was recommended by Boeing before the 787 entered service. But airline customers had other ideas ..they couldn't afford the revenue loss ! Note that JAL does not operate 787s for all international services.
Thai and eva airways are the best two to fly direct with,I just nudge thsi ad they have a early morning flight in lhr that better suits myself, I do not like stopping in other countries where your at the mercy of waiting for other connections from other airports for the onward flight to bkk ,
I flew with BA way back in 2013ish, out of T5 direct to bkk, it was awfull,. Expensive to £700+, late departures out & back, sat next to drunk passenger on way out, and row infront of screaming seat kicking kids on return, vowed i wouldn't use them again, and i have kept to my word so far,. What was the cost of this flight also departure/arrival times, flight crew seemed nice tho,.Would you use them again ? at least it gives thai & eva a bit of competition,. cheers,. ps, how much date did you have left on your passport ?
Wow, sounds like you had the full “in-flight entertainment” package! Drunken passengers and seat-kicking kids should come with a warning label! I’ll definitely keep my fingers crossed for a more peaceful journey next time. 😂
The British flag carrier will operate three-times-a-week to the Thai capital city from London Gatwick. The route will see a further increase to five times per week in January and February 2025. In response to the pandemic, the British airline suspended flights from London Heathrow to Bangkok in 2020. My friend booked a ticket to take his girlfriend there along with his family and had to cancel it and get all the money back when they got the email saying that their flight had been cancelled which disappointed them. But luckily I went in August 2019 before the pandemic started.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It’s great to see British Airways expanding their flights back to Bangkok. Hopefully, more people can enjoy these beautiful destinations soon! Thanks for watching
LOL. As soon as you mentioned ''the plane pushing back shortly'' I thought, knowing BA they'll be at least an hour late setting off, and all the passengers with connecting flights out of BKK will be panicking. The world's worst airline....
Last year, my Daughter and I flew from our home in Thailand with Thai Airways International, direct to Heathrow and returned the same way at the end of our visit..Not only was the service excellent and the Boeing 777x clean and well presented, they were also about the cheapest too.. Incidentally Brits arriving in Thailand can stay Visa Exempt for up to 60 days currently..If you want to stay longer, it is better to apply for a 90 day Tourist Visa from the Thai Embassy in London before departure. There is no Visa on Arrival..this is a misnomer..
There is also no 90 day tourist visa.Maybe you are thinking of a single entry tourist(TR)visa that will grant you a stay of 60 day,s with the possability of a one time extension of 30 day,s for anouther 1900 Baht.
Thank you for sharing your experience with Thai Airways! It’s great to hear you had a fantastic trip, and your tips on visa information are very helpful for anyone planning to visit Thailand.
1 problem is the 10 across seating to cramped. Best use asian airlines they have 9 across. Normally i use Singapore to Bangkok from Manchester on a350 far better flying experience. Funny thing when the young lady asked when 1g was on the plane. Number 1 sort of gives it away
I picked 1a and I think 1c, do you guys have a better view of what seats to go for? Travelling with the wife so need to be together and she needs an aisle seat
I flew with them a few years ago to Bangkok. It was without a doubt the worst flight experience ever and that's saying something. The plane was filthy and the staff were very very rude. One made an off the cuff remark because I'm Irish. Take the better option and fly with any other airline.
There has been only TG and BR with direct LHR-BKK flights since the pandemic. Hence high fares so economy-minded customers having to route themselves via China ! So good to see BA reintroducing non-stop service.
A few years ago they where shit going from lhr, but i whent on the Gatwick flight before Xmas and was surprised with the improvement, no worse than any other airline,
@@user-ar94tre7huif5Indeed. In my above comment I noted "BR" which is the IATA code for Taiwan's Eva Air. BA also has 10-across Y seating on its 777s.
@alexmcwhirter6611 It's not too bad with 17 and 31, but it gets uncomfortable halfway through. Thai Air still have 3x3x3 but the planes are aging and they take 6 months for a refund atm. Air China knock out some bargains which you touched on.
I'm going on Tuesday Swinn and I was also wondering about the visa. Do you still have to fill in the small form usually handed out on the plane? Cheers for a nice video.
@@Swinn-FG Just pulling your chain on the stock footage - Made me laugh. I worked for ba from the 90s until 2008 and spent a fair bit of time on the BA9 and BA10. My first trip to Thailand was in 2001 and I went on BA9 on a 747-200, I made a few trips on staff travel over the years on the 747-400 and then the 777s. I remember the flight time of BA10 when it was a 747 was at about midnight which made for a stressful staff travel standby listing as looking for a hotel room in BKK at 0200 in the morning could be fun. I had a great trip in on staff travel in 2018 where I got stuck in BKK for an extra week, Eventually the station manager in BKK got so sick of us, she asked the captain to take some of us on jump seats to try and alleviate the queues of staff stuck in BKK, The captain was a great guy (Captain Kim), He came down to where I was sitting and we had a chat and he said that he had asked the crew to make us as comfortable as possible, The crew were great on that flights. I left BA in 2008 and moved to the USA in 2015. I have a Thai wife and we have a young son, We are heading to Thailand in May although we are heading in the opposite direction to you with ANA via Tokyo. hope you enjoy the trip in Thailand and thanks for making the video about the LGW-BKK flight, we enjoyed it.
@@Swinn-FG Just pulling your chain on the stock footage - Made me laugh. I worked for ba from the 90s until 2008 and spent a fair bit of time on the BA9 and BA10. My first trip to Thailand was in 2001 and I went on BA9 on a 747-200, I made a few trips on staff travel over the years on the 747-400 and then the 777s. I remember the flight time of BA10 when it was a 747 was at about midnight which made for a stressful staff travel standby listing as looking for a hotel room in BKK at 0200 in the morning could be fun. I had a great trip in on staff travel in 2018 where I got stuck in BKK for an extra week, Eventually the station manager in BKK got so sick of us, she asked the captain to take some of us on jump seats to try and alleviate the queues of staff stuck in BKK, The captain was a great guy (Captain Kim), He came down to where I was sitting and we had a chat and he said that he had asked the crew to make us as comfortable as possible, The crew were great on that flights. I left BA in 2008 and moved to the USA in 2015. I have a Thai wife and we have a young son, We are heading to Thailand in May although we are heading in the opposite direction to you with ANA via Tokyo. hope you enjoy the trip in Thailand and thanks for making the video about the LGW-BKK flight, we enjoyed it.
HOOOORAY for the south, what about flights direct from Manchester!! it must be viable, flying with emirates to Bangkok 4 times a year its FULL everytime....
Technical delay, bad food, Gatwick.... BA - no way!!! but thanks for the vid, very informative although you didn't say anything about the IFE, how was it?
@alexmcwhirter6611 I remember, it was BA and Air NZ when I flew out in 1993 on AIR NZ, Sabena also did a twice daily service to Brussels and Emirates had their A380 flights from the north terminal. BA were manly GB airways back then for the European departures. Gradually they moved most of the long haul flights to Heathrow, like phoenix and Pittsburgh. Ran the operation down for years. Now seeing what Gatwick can do they have started a few long haul flights again. Some one world partners as well.
@@jimbo6059 Yes I remember that. Air NZ was another airline who transferred to LHR. Interestingly Air NZ was planning to return to the UK this summer. It couldn't obtain LHR slots. so applied to LGW and was provided slots to start in July. However that date will be put back now as Air NZ, in common with some other airlines, is suffering with the RR engines on its 787s. Hence Air NZ is short of aircraft so London has been placed on the back burner for now.
Good video. Cabin looks in decent shape though the food looks bang average, a known issue with BA long haul in economy. I would stick to EVA Air, though haven't used their economy cabin for a while so it might not be appreciably better than BA's and the aircraft type and seating layout is the same, plus staff can be robotic. Surprised you would take risks with the passport and visa. I wouldn't go anywhere with at least 9 months left on my passport. Apply for a 60 day SETV ahead of travel if you're in any doubt about getting a visa on arrival, not that it should be an issue - the too many entries in one year has been dropped, though you could always come up against an immigration officer having a bad day, and you clearly aren't going there to work on the side.
Hi there, I'm doing the same trip in the beginning of march, but after reading the comments I'm wondering if it's a mistake 😮, I would really like to know your experience of this trip on B A economy from Gatwick. Was it at all comfortable, legroom, etc ? I hope it was a good journey for you. Many thanks 👍
BA spent millions building their own terminal at Heathrow, Terminal 5, for their exclusive use, now they're flying out of Gatwick !!! can anyone explain ??
Ive flown BA but most of the time I fly with Emirates but last year I flew with Qatar airways and I didn't like it, the food many things so my next trip will be with Emirates
They are good! But Phil seems to never look at his phone when the football season is on. I try not to put personal stuff here on youtube, but I will pass on your regards. Thanks
You really must leave nothing to chance or hope regarding passport and visas. My advice..do not even book a flight unless you still have several months validity on your passport.
@Swinn-FG absolutely. I'm always getting a booming headache on board BA's old bangers. Thankfully the older GE90 birds are gone I think... Those were seriously loud in the back of povertY class
I appreciate your comment! Emirates has a fantastic reputation, and it’s great to hear you’ve had such good experiences with them. I just don't like the stopover
I never understand why so many take the food on a flight. It’s ALWAYS disgusting. If served the same food in a restaurant then many would not pay or would not eat it. The producers also load it with salt (as we lose our sense of taste in the pressurised cabin). Not only do people eat the food, they get very worked up if the aircrew have run out of the option they want 😂 . Its as though they think they’re at some fine dining experience and they’ve paid £75 for it 😂
Wow BA have gone down hill, 10 abreast on the 777 at 31" pitch, shocking for a major airline, even TUI economy on there 787's are 33" pitch and only 9 abreast.
I stopped buying 'duty free' many years ago. I flew myself to the continent and obtained some whisky and cigarettes direct from the 'bonded store' at around 25% of the price that the terminal shops offered. Rip off of the highest order!
It's interesting to hear your experience! Duty-free can definitely be hit or miss, and it's great that you found a way to save money on your purchases.
i wont fly BA again as long as my back side points downwards! Awful service, Also those economy seats.......I could not even get in one! Im not fat, just tall and with muscular physique. As soon as the person in front reclined, I would be unable to move at all........nightmare. I always used Norwegian, premium economy, but they stopped during Covid. Also EVA is a much better option. Your welcome to BA mate.
Will never fly BA again shocking on board service. The food he was served looked inedible. A dreadful airline should be better seeing it is the National Carrier of the UK. Eva or Thai Airlines from Heathrow is much better if flying direct to Bangkok.
I have just watched this video and always new that BA was a poor airline it was a shame you did not go Thai Airlines. The service you got was very poor and that food you had was typical Engish rubbish 0/10. Glad you got to Bangkok ok now you can enjoy a proper way of life and great Thai Food
Just a point on arrival to bkk you dont get a visa, you get a 60 day visa exempt stamp in your passport, for 1.900bht you can extended by 30 day's at any immigration office
Sorry inaccurate. It is a lot more than 10 hrs to bkk. The video taken out of the window at night was a different aircraft. Read up online about the visa changes before booking your flight!
Many thanks for your latest video. You are a braver man than me! I could not cope with 12 straight hours in economy. Hope you are having a fantastic time in Thailand.
Take care!
12 hours is nothing, I did 14 1/2 hours from Singapore in economy, absolute killer.
If it meant escaping the grim UK and its monetary and meteorological misery, I would happily sit in the loo for the entire journey to Bangkok.
Thank you for your kind words! It was definitely a long flight, but the adventure in Thailand make it all worthwhile.
I used British Airways LHR-BKK back in the 90's. A punishing 11 hour flight. The Gulf airlines have compltely changed the game. Now possible to go from regional airports - Glasgow, Edinburgh Newcastle, Manchester - to Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi with convenient connections to Bangkok and Phuket.
It's interesting to hear how air travel has evolved since the 90s! The competition definitely keeps airlines on their toes, and it's great that there are now more convenient options for traveling to Bangkok.
@@Swinn-FG When Boeing developed the 787 it was thought that travellers would fly direct from regional airports. But it never really happened and the hubs (because of the connection possibilities they offer) reign supreme.
@@alexmcwhirter6611 I believe that Tui fly 787s from Manchester, not sure about Gatwick, direct/non-stop to Phuket every winter ?
@@richardincmyes they do, we fly on Tuesday. 11+ direct flight
I just did a 14 hour SFO to Taipei and then another 4 hours to Bangkok. The 14 hours was brutal.
I took this flight on Monday. I was in economy in a full plane. It was fine as essentially a night flight and everyone slept
I’ve flown long haul many times in all classes and BA get a bad press but I am always happy to fly with them
One point Gatwick south terminal was freezing 🥶 only duty free was warm 🤔
Sorry to hear that
Thanks for sharing the video. I usually fly Emirates whenever I go to Thailand, I think the A380 experience in economy is better with more leg room, and a nice decent connection time in DXB
Yes, Emirates are very popular.
This reinforces my thankfulness that my days in airports and airliners are over.
Haha, right? Airports can be a real drag. Enjoy the freedom to travel without leaving your couch!
How much was the flight please
My flight was 729 pound there and back. If you don't pick a seat. Gatwick to bangkok. Bye bye thai Airways
Ripped me of over 900 pounds one way bangkok to England
In-flight snacks/drinks are available from the galley on quite a few other airlines IME, this is certainly not unique to BA ! I agree that it's helpful, especially if you're trying to stay hydrated, on a long-haul flight. Even better when they regularly offer trays of water/soft-drinks to you at your seat, which saves disturbing other passengers next to you, to go down the back !
You can always ask for snack. Or go to galley and ask nicely they will give you something on long haul.
How does the price compare to other carriers direct flights
They were all within a £100 each other and depended when you wanted to travel - cost £803
I flew to Bangkok last June arrivals really easy and quick now
Thanks for the great review as I was completely unaware that BA had a direct flight once again. I would strongly recommend you wear shoes on your loo reviews though !
Good Idea! Thank you!
Thai Airways all the way staff on the plane are excellent and you can have as many drinks as you want just ask excellent food just got back from Bangkok
It sounds like you had a fantastic experience with Thai Airways! The service and food make all the difference on long flights. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
In the old days the best thing about BA direct to BKK was the 3pm flight and LHR that was it .
True! Thanks for commenting
Nice trip review and what a interesting change from your younger flight reviewers. I flew with BA to JFK back in 2017 with my son. I vowed never to fly long haul with them again. I live in Newcastle so even if I decide to give BA another chance to fly me to BKK I wouldn't fancy transferring from Heathrow. Anyway, I've subbed 👍🏼.
Younger fighter reviewers are terrified of upsetting the airlines
What time did you land after the delay? Due to fly in Feb so wondered if they still landed at 4pm local time or was it late?
The pilot put his foot down and we were only 15 minutes late on arrival in Bangkok
Was internet available to purchase on the flight?
No! The plane is too old I think
@@Swinn-FG thanks for letting me know. On the BA site it says most of their LGW fleet now offers onboard wifi but i guess not all it it..
I’ve flown British airways once to Thailand (before they stopped flying) and it was the worst flight I’ve ever had… the plane was filthy, the cabin crew weren’t very professional and it was awful. I said I’d never fly with them again but watching this video, the cabin seemed really friendly, the plane look spotless so I’m possibly willing to give it another try in the future, my experience was hopefully a one off! Just a quick question, I’ve watched many of your videos and can’t recall you ever doing a video flying with Etihad airways, if you have ever flew with them, what were they like? as me and my wife are going back to Thailand in a few weeks to see her family and I’ve never flown with them before so I’d appreciate a little heads up, thanks for another great video😊
As Gulf carriers go you will find Etihad as good if not better than the others. Emirates would be my first choice though as it operates the A380 (but not from every UK airport so check).
Agree, sat at the back once and could hear the staff slagging off passengers, and they were all old unattractive women. Emirates are the best middle east line, forget Qatar these days
@@alexmcwhirter6611 thanks for the comment mate👍🏻
I have never flow Etihad, but I have heard good things about them
@@Swinn-FG cheers, can’t wait to get back to the land of smiles for some warm weather, it’s horrible here!
Appears this flight has triggered a lot of reviewers to comment. As always Swinn i enjoyed watching your experiences.😊
Hi, did you have to show a return or onward ticket?
I had a return ticket, but they didn't ask to see it.
They never ask
However when the new ETA comes into force you have to upload proof of a return ticket
I think all the flights from different airlines are the same, similar food, and entertainment, what makes a good flight is hopefully no noisy people on board, and yes, a comfort seat is better.
All true 👍 plus a reasonable price
Definitely @@Swinn-FG
Used to be a " regular" on LHR - BKK it was ok then covid and then they stopped. Using BA code share on Qatar so somuch better. Now BA flying from LGW - BKK making it extremely difficult to get to for me from Edinburgh as no direct BA flights only Easyjet if they bother to show up.
I understand the frustration with the changes in flight routes and the challenges of getting to London. Hopefully, more options will open up soon!
@@jeffrey01UK Indeed. Problem with EZY is that it doesn't interline with BA.
You should try Singapore airlines
Maybe I will next time
Thanks for the review. I was looking at this flight last year, but on BA's website the price increased at a rapid rate. It started off cheap for a direct flight but got stupid within a few hours so I left it. I also think BA crews are one of the best around, especially with what they sometimes have to work with. Good IFE but 31"/3-4-3 abreast is poor for long haul. Thai are still 3-3-3 but their IFE is ancient. Cheers!
@@wrightst8 Yes TG remain the exception with 9 across in Y on its 777s. But TG has ordered a very large fleet of 787s and, as sure as night follows day, TG's Y configuration will be 3-3-3 (787 has a narrower cabin than the 777).
@@alexmcwhirter6611 Yes, I think most 787's are 3-3-3 in economy. I've heard Japan Airways are 2-4-2 but that's a nice exception! (not practical to BKK from the UK though)
@wrightst8 Yes JAL is I believe the only 787 operator with 8-across Y seating but only for international routes. That 8-across seating was recommended by Boeing before the 787 entered service. But airline customers had other ideas ..they couldn't afford the revenue loss ! Note that JAL does not operate 787s for all international services.
Thai and eva airways are the best two to fly direct with,I just nudge thsi ad they have a early morning flight in lhr that better suits myself, I do not like stopping in other countries where your at the mercy of waiting for other connections from other airports for the onward flight to bkk ,
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Direct flights definitely make traveling so much easier, especially when you're looking for convenience.
Only LHR though
I flew with BA way back in 2013ish, out of T5 direct to bkk, it was awfull,. Expensive to £700+, late departures out & back, sat next to drunk passenger on way out, and row infront of screaming seat kicking kids on return, vowed i wouldn't use them again, and i have kept to my word so far,. What was the cost of this flight also departure/arrival times, flight crew seemed nice tho,.Would you use them again ? at least it gives thai & eva a bit of competition,. cheers,. ps, how much date did you have left on your passport ?
Wow, sounds like you had the full “in-flight entertainment” package! Drunken passengers and seat-kicking kids should come with a warning label! I’ll definitely keep my fingers crossed for a more peaceful journey next time. 😂
I always fly with Emirates. Much cheaper than BA, and a much better experience, and more enjoyable, and more leg room on an A380.
your so right........
Thanks for sharing!
you'll get 2months on arrival anyway so you can always change it as long as your passport has long enough validity!
Thanks for the tip!
Can still be a trek at LGW
Very good vid! Oz.
Glad you enjoyed it thanks
Would be great to know how much the flight cost??
£803 GBP
@@Swinn-FG Thats a good price,.
I wish they had a nonstop from USA to Bangkok
Lets hope!
The British flag carrier will operate three-times-a-week to the Thai capital city from London Gatwick. The route will see a further increase to five times per week in January and February 2025. In response to the pandemic, the British airline suspended flights from London Heathrow to Bangkok in 2020. My friend booked a ticket to take his girlfriend there along with his family and had to cancel it and get all the money back when they got the email saying that their flight had been cancelled which disappointed them. But luckily I went in August 2019 before the pandemic started.
Thanks for sharing your experience! It’s great to see British Airways expanding their flights back to Bangkok. Hopefully, more people can enjoy these beautiful destinations soon! Thanks for watching
LOL. As soon as you mentioned ''the plane pushing back shortly'' I thought, knowing BA they'll be at least an hour late setting off, and all the passengers with connecting flights out of BKK will be panicking. The world's worst airline....
LOL, right? I swear BA has a secret motto: "Better late than never!" Hope your next trip is on time!
@@Swinn-FG It always is. Thai Airways always depart on time... and they serve decent food, have polite staff etc
I agree, BA are bloody awful, I will only use them now as a last resort. For flights to Bangkok, Seoul etc I highly recommend Finnair.
Last year, my Daughter and I flew from our home in Thailand with Thai Airways International, direct to Heathrow and returned the same way at the end of our visit..Not only was the service excellent and the Boeing 777x clean and well presented, they were also about the cheapest too..
Incidentally Brits arriving in Thailand can stay Visa Exempt for up to 60 days currently..If you want to stay longer, it is better to apply for a 90 day Tourist Visa from the Thai Embassy in London before departure.
There is no Visa on Arrival..this is a misnomer..
There is also no 90 day tourist visa.Maybe you are thinking of a single entry tourist(TR)visa that will grant you a stay of 60 day,s with the possability of a one time extension of 30 day,s for anouther 1900 Baht.
Boeing 777X hasn’t flown yet on a commercial flight, think you mean 777 300ER 👍
@christiancarre3650 yes indeed..my bad..60days plus 30 extension..!
Thank you for sharing your experience with Thai Airways! It’s great to hear you had a fantastic trip, and your tips on visa information are very helpful for anyone planning to visit Thailand.
1 problem is the 10 across seating to cramped. Best use asian airlines they have 9 across. Normally i use Singapore to Bangkok from Manchester on a350 far better flying experience. Funny thing when the young lady asked when 1g was on the plane. Number 1 sort of gives it away
Haha, I guess seat 1G really should come with a “VIP” sign! But hey, at least you can stretch your legs on those A350s, right?
@@markmitchell2658SQ and TG remain notable exceptions with 9-across in Y on the 777. But for how much longer ?
Interesting Video. Im doing this flight in February but going out in Business Class. Would like to see a video to see how BC is these days with BA
business class on ba from LGW is the old style ying Yang seats. not the best but adequate.
You’ll get the old style 8 across business class, rows 1-4.
I picked 1a and I think 1c, do you guys have a better view of what seats to go for? Travelling with the wife so need to be together and she needs an aisle seat
@@charlesscully6238 be aware that many seats have people stepping over them. We chose 4A & 4K.
I flew with them a few years ago to Bangkok. It was without a doubt the worst flight experience ever and that's saying something. The plane was filthy and the staff were very very rude. One made an off the cuff remark because I'm Irish. Take the better option and fly with any other airline.
There has been only TG and BR with direct LHR-BKK flights since the pandemic. Hence high fares so economy-minded customers having to route themselves via China ! So good to see BA reintroducing non-stop service.
A few years ago they where shit going from lhr, but i whent on the Gatwick flight before Xmas and was surprised with the improvement, no worse than any other airline,
Eva also have direct flights but the configuration is 3x4x3 and not 3x3x3 making the long journey uncomfortable
@@user-ar94tre7huif5Indeed. In my above comment I noted "BR" which is the IATA code for Taiwan's Eva Air. BA also has 10-across Y seating on its 777s.
@alexmcwhirter6611 It's not too bad with 17 and 31, but it gets uncomfortable halfway through. Thai Air still have 3x3x3 but the planes are aging and they take 6 months for a refund atm. Air China knock out some bargains which you touched on.
I'm going on Tuesday Swinn and I was also wondering about the visa. Do you still have to fill in the small form usually handed out on the plane? Cheers for a nice video.
No (Well not in November)
When I arrived there no forms - just face photo and fingerprints taken. For a 60 day stamp. Have a great trip!
@@thomasmeredith9124 no they haven’t done the visa waiver for since before covid 👍
@@thomasmeredith9124 form
@@robertjames538 👍
Seems that BA 777-200s have winglets that only deploy at night. 😂
Just a bit of stock footage, the besti could find at the time. Sorry about that.
@@Swinn-FG Just pulling your chain on the stock footage - Made me laugh. I worked for ba from the 90s until 2008 and spent a fair bit of time on the BA9 and BA10. My first trip to Thailand was in 2001 and I went on BA9 on a 747-200, I made a few trips on staff travel over the years on the 747-400 and then the 777s. I remember the flight time of BA10 when it was a 747 was at about midnight which made for a stressful staff travel standby listing as looking for a hotel room in BKK at 0200 in the morning could be fun. I had a great trip in on staff travel in 2018 where I got stuck in BKK for an extra week, Eventually the station manager in BKK got so sick of us, she asked the captain to take some of us on jump seats to try and alleviate the queues of staff stuck in BKK, The captain was a great guy (Captain Kim), He came down to where I was sitting and we had a chat and he said that he had asked the crew to make us as comfortable as possible, The crew were great on that flights. I left BA in 2008 and moved to the USA in 2015. I have a Thai wife and we have a young son, We are heading to Thailand in May although we are heading in the opposite direction to you with ANA via Tokyo. hope you enjoy the trip in Thailand and thanks for making the video about the LGW-BKK flight, we enjoyed it.
@@Swinn-FG Just pulling your chain on the stock footage - Made me laugh. I worked for ba from the 90s until 2008 and spent a fair bit of time on the BA9 and BA10. My first trip to Thailand was in 2001 and I went on BA9 on a 747-200, I made a few trips on staff travel over the years on the 747-400 and then the 777s. I remember the flight time of BA10 when it was a 747 was at about midnight which made for a stressful staff travel standby listing as looking for a hotel room in BKK at 0200 in the morning could be fun. I had a great trip in on staff travel in 2018 where I got stuck in BKK for an extra week, Eventually the station manager in BKK got so sick of us, she asked the captain to take some of us on jump seats to try and alleviate the queues of staff stuck in BKK, The captain was a great guy (Captain Kim), He came down to where I was sitting and we had a chat and he said that he had asked the crew to make us as comfortable as possible, The crew were great on that flights. I left BA in 2008 and moved to the USA in 2015. I have a Thai wife and we have a young son, We are heading to Thailand in May although we are heading in the opposite direction to you with ANA via Tokyo. hope you enjoy the trip in Thailand and thanks for making the video about the LGW-BKK flight, we enjoyed it.
HOOOORAY for the south, what about flights direct from Manchester!! it must be viable, flying with emirates to Bangkok 4 times a year its FULL everytime....
I should drop a line to BA :-)
Technical delay, bad food, Gatwick.... BA - no way!!! but thanks for the vid, very informative although you didn't say anything about the IFE, how was it?
I was very similar to all the airlines now. I didn't get round to usung it much.
Gatwick South is the nicer terminal. Gatwick North is more the budget one; EasyJet, Ryanair and TUI. The North terminal is more of a cattle shed.
Yet originally North Terminal was the posh terminal and used almost exclusively by BA. How things can change !
Ryanair are based out of Gatwick South. They are doing 11 flights a day out of LGW these days.
@alexmcwhirter6611 I remember, it was BA and Air NZ when I flew out in 1993 on AIR NZ, Sabena also did a twice daily service to Brussels and Emirates had their A380 flights from the north terminal. BA were manly GB airways back then for the European departures. Gradually they moved most of the long haul flights to Heathrow, like phoenix and Pittsburgh. Ran the operation down for years. Now seeing what Gatwick can do they have started a few long haul flights again. Some one world partners as well.
@@jimbo6059 Yes I remember that. Air NZ was another airline who transferred to LHR. Interestingly Air NZ was planning to return to the UK this summer. It couldn't obtain LHR slots. so applied to LGW and was provided slots to start in July. However that date will be put back now as Air NZ, in common with some other airlines, is suffering with the RR engines on its 787s. Hence Air NZ is short of aircraft so London has been placed on the back burner for now.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It’s great to hear different perspectives on the terminals at Gatwick.
Flew with ba a few years ago , absolutely terrible 😢 would not fly with them again if they offered free tickets
Good video. Cabin looks in decent shape though the food looks bang average, a known issue with BA long haul in economy. I would stick to EVA Air, though haven't used their economy cabin for a while so it might not be appreciably better than BA's and the aircraft type and seating layout is the same, plus staff can be robotic. Surprised you would take risks with the passport and visa. I wouldn't go anywhere with at least 9 months left on my passport. Apply for a 60 day SETV ahead of travel if you're in any doubt about getting a visa on arrival, not that it should be an issue - the too many entries in one year has been dropped, though you could always come up against an immigration officer having a bad day, and you clearly aren't going there to work on the side.
My passport says it expires in 2026, so I though it was ok. Thanks for your comment
@@Swinn-FG Apologies, thought it was showing 2025 when it appeared on screen but was half asleep when I was watching. My bad. Glad it got sorted
Although it’s kind of a piece of string, you could’ve said what you paid for your flight and when it actually was.
£803 plus string extra
Hi there, I'm doing the same trip in the beginning of march, but after reading the comments I'm wondering if it's a mistake 😮,
I would really like to know your experience of this trip on B A economy from Gatwick.
Was it at all comfortable, legroom, etc ?
I hope it was a good journey for you.
Many thanks 👍
Overall it was quite a nice trip, as the BA staff on board were really good
Just used them for BKK - all good apart from freezing cold!.
Good to know!.sorry about the cold 🥶
BA spent millions building their own terminal at Heathrow, Terminal 5, for their exclusive use, now they're flying out of Gatwick !!! can anyone explain ??
The lading fees are far cheaper at Gatwick
@@trevorhalliday793 Not true. Other airlines use T5 nowadays.
Thai Airlines I always use
Good airline!
Ive flown BA but most of the time I fly with Emirates but last year I flew with Qatar airways and I didn't like it, the food many things so my next trip will be with Emirates
Thanks for your comments I am flying back qatar
Nice travel vlog
Thank you
nice vid
Thank you
How are Phil and Suree?
They are good! But Phil seems to never look at his phone when the football season is on. I try not to put personal stuff here on youtube, but I will pass on your regards. Thanks
@@Swinn-FG I'm the same. Phils a Spurs fan if I remember. Have a good trip.
EVA for me everytime to BKK !
Budget airline
EVA - a good airline
You really must leave nothing to chance or hope regarding passport and visas. My advice..do not even book a flight unless you still have several months validity on your passport.
You dont need any visa, 30 day on arrival can extend another 30 days
At least 6 months i believe ,.
@@clivebaxter6354 Now 60 days on arrival ,.
@@clivebaxter6354 It's now 60 days, not 30 days. Extend another 30.
60 days exemption from U.K.
Those old 777s are noisy as hell.... That looked like a looooong flight
I totally get what you mean! The older 777s can be quite loud, and a long flight can feel even longer when you're dealing with that noise.
@Swinn-FG absolutely. I'm always getting a booming headache on board BA's old bangers. Thankfully the older GE90 birds are gone I think... Those were seriously loud in the back of povertY class
I NEVER FLY BA. EMIRATES FOR ME ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC
I appreciate your comment! Emirates has a fantastic reputation, and it’s great to hear you’ve had such good experiences with them. I just don't like the stopover
Maybe that’s the only one decent the the big three. Delta. United and American
I wondered why you go to Thailand so much, but the penny dropped when you said you were heading for Pattaya.
He has a house there and that's his wife in the seat next to him on the video .
We have a place here and have been coming for 20 plus years. I am only allowed on Fridays! :-)
Ive been 5 times im a year...no problem
I'll stick with EVA!
EVA are good airline
I never understand why so many take the food on a flight. It’s ALWAYS disgusting. If served the same food in a restaurant then many would not pay or would not eat it. The producers also load it with salt (as we lose our sense of taste in the pressurised cabin). Not only do people eat the food, they get very worked up if the aircrew have run out of the option they want 😂 . Its as though they think they’re at some fine dining experience and they’ve paid £75 for it 😂
You make a valid point! In-flight meals can be hit or miss, and it's interesting how our expectations change when we’re up in the air.
Wow BA have gone down hill, 10 abreast on the 777 at 31" pitch, shocking for a major airline, even TUI economy on there 787's are 33" pitch and only 9 abreast.
@Dreamweaver787 Indeed. But 787's cabin is narrower than that of the 777. Swings and roundabouts ?
Have a good trip, enjoy the lady boys
Looks a very poor flight hosted by BA...
Food looks awful
you cant beat EMIRATES
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It's always helpful to hear different perspectives on airline experiences.
I absolutely detest economy class....🙄
It's horses for courses and what you can afford
I stopped buying 'duty free' many years ago. I flew myself to the continent and obtained some whisky and cigarettes direct from the 'bonded store' at around 25% of the price that the terminal shops offered. Rip off of the highest order!
It's interesting to hear your experience! Duty-free can definitely be hit or miss, and it's great that you found a way to save money on your purchases.
i wont fly BA again as long as my back side points downwards! Awful service, Also those economy seats.......I could not even get in one! Im not fat, just tall and with muscular physique. As soon as the person in front reclined, I would be unable to move at all........nightmare. I always used Norwegian, premium economy, but they stopped during Covid. Also EVA is a much better option. Your welcome to BA mate.
Qatar or Emirates for me , would never fly BA .
No way in that economy squashed up hell ,, business class for us every year with Etihad far better airline than clapped out BA
Sounds good!
Will never fly BA again shocking on board service. The food he was served looked inedible. A dreadful airline should be better seeing it is the National Carrier of the UK. Eva or Thai Airlines from Heathrow is much better if flying direct to Bangkok.
I agree. The surprising thing was, BA staff were really great
I have just watched this video and always new that BA was a poor airline it was a shame you did not go Thai Airlines.
The service you got was very poor and that food you had was typical Engish rubbish 0/10.
Glad you got to Bangkok ok now you can enjoy a proper way of life and great Thai Food
Haha, I feel you! BA definitely has its quirks. But hey, Bangkok is waiting with some amazing food, so all is good! 🍜✈️
17" width seat not too bad!! Honestly ? Sorry but thats is bad!
My worst flight ever was with BA and I've flown with Aeroflot, Tarom and viasa. Never again.
Thanks for your comments
I flew with them to times never again not help full at all Thai airlines all the way 👍😎
Well, it seems British Airways didn’t quite take you on a joyride! Here’s hoping your next trip is a smoother flight!
Just a point on arrival to bkk you dont get a visa, you get a 60 day visa exempt stamp in your passport, for 1.900bht you can extended by 30 day's at any immigration office
Thanks for making that clear. Apparently, you can also fly back home and come back again, and do the whole thing again.
wrong! its 1,900 baht to extend for 30 days
@@Swinn-FG or...........just go into Laos or Cambodia for a day. That works as well. Seems like your not that clued up on visas mate.
plenty of room for a mouse more like
Haha, it definitely felt spacious enough for a little friend! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
@Swinn-FG 😊 welcome
Sorry inaccurate. It is a lot more than 10 hrs to bkk. The video taken out of the window at night was a different aircraft. Read up online about the visa changes before booking your flight!
you obviously missed the bit where it said 12 hours to Bangkok.
Eva Air are better
@@clivebaxter6354 Eva air are amazing, I’ve flew with them about 6 times in the past👍🏻
I compare British to the American carriers. And they aren’t anything special
Jet Blue is raising the bar with its transatlantic flights to LHR.
indeed they are.
I think BA has moved to be more like the US carriers - sadly
If jet blue can step up their international traffic they will do well
@@Swinn-FG Not really. Maybe in Y class but I wouldn't have thought that was true in the premium classes where the revenue is much greater.
Nothing special about British airways and especiallyvgatwick But great. Hope it was ok
All was good thanks. The BA crew were exeptionaly good
That safety briefing makes me feel sick. England is a land of muggles these days.
What's a muggle?
Never eat the bread...lol
Ancient 777
Oh dear, sitting with the poor people. I feel for you.
No Problem! I am one of the poor people
BA, awful airline. Gave them a second chance after 10 years and still awful. EVA if direct, middle east Airlines for 1 stop.
yes I agree!
Terrible airline
Gatwick north is budget airways no my knowledge
Emerates and Qatar quoted of flying from the North Terminal
B A Awful airline and are a mile behind all the Asian Carriers…..Miles!
I flew to Bangkok last June arrivals really easy and quick now
Yes they have done a good job