Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons

Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Seat Configuration and Privacy in Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class

Turkish Airlines' Boeing 787 Business Class utilizes a 1-2-1 seat layout, accommodating 30 lie-flat seats in a staggered pattern across eight rows. This arrangement is specifically designed to maximize personal space and enhance privacy for travelers. The even-numbered window seats, positioned further away from the aisle and closer to the fuselage, are especially noteworthy for offering a greater sense of seclusion. The 787's cabin design, with its sleek, modern aesthetic and predominantly dark color scheme, fosters an atmosphere of sophistication and privacy, setting it apart from older business class configurations found on planes like the Boeing 777. While the seats might be slightly more confined compared to those on the A350, the 787's business class accommodations are still outfitted with premium amenities and intuitive seat controls, ensuring passenger comfort.

When considering the overall experience, the 787 Business Class holds its own in the transatlantic arena, standing out through a commitment to top-tier dining options and personalized service. It's a compelling choice for travelers prioritizing privacy and comfort, although those accustomed to larger business class seats may find the 787's dimensions a touch snug.

The Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class cabin's layout is based on a 1-2-1 seat configuration, offering each traveler direct access to the aisle. This is a marked upgrade from older arrangements where some passengers had to awkwardly maneuver past others. While this approach creates a more intuitive passenger flow, it also results in a staggered seating plan that creates a rather unique privacy scenario within the cabin.

The window seats, particularly in even-numbered rows, are perceived as more private due to their positioning closer to the window and further from the aisle. This spatial relationship creates a sense of seclusion, which many travelers appreciate, though it can also somewhat isolate passengers if they want more interaction. This seating design reinforces the sense of privacy that Turkish Airlines seeks to establish with their black cabin design. It is an interesting observation as the design intent creates a refined atmosphere, while, at the same time, the staggered seat layout contributes to a segmented cabin.

The 787's cabin environment stands out with its sleek and modern look, heavily influenced by the black color palette. Interestingly, this design language isn't just about aesthetics; it also appears to foster a more private experience compared to the older 777 Business Class layout. This leads to questions on how effective the color palette is in creating a psychologically private experience vs simply providing a visual cue.

One noteworthy aspect is that the Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class seats are relatively narrow in comparison to the airline's A350. Although some passengers may find this somewhat restrictive in comparison, the emphasis on modern design and amenities is clearly evident. The overall impression remains that the seats are both aesthetically appealing and functional, though one can sense that refinement and future design improvements might lead to slightly better comfort and a more substantial impression.

Beyond seat design, passengers consistently praise the culinary experience aboard the 787, including both the in-flight meals and the pre-flight experience within the Istanbul lounges. The interaction with chefs who explain the menu adds a personal touch to the experience, while the trolley service for food and dessert maintains a sense of attentive, personalized care. It appears Turkish Airlines does a lot of work in establishing an overarching impression of luxury which creates a higher perceived value on this flight.


While the seats on the 787 are undeniably comfortable and visually appealing, there's a consensus that they could benefit from future refinement. When considered with the aircraft's role in competing with transatlantic business class services, it's apparent that Turkish Airlines has focused on a modern approach and a personalized experience rather than simply replicating traditional business class standards. The future refinements, which should address potential discomfort caused by narrow seat width, would most likely help solidifying the reputation as a leading carrier within this niche segment of air travel.

What else is in this post?

1. Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Seat Configuration and Privacy in Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class
2. Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Comfort and Dimensions of the Business Class Seats
3. Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Window Seat Advantages and Drawbacks
4. Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - In-Flight Dining Experience and Menu Options
5. Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Entertainment System and Connectivity Features
6. Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Service Quality and Crew Performance

Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Comfort and Dimensions of the Business Class Seats

Turkish Airlines' 787-9 Dreamliner Business Class offers a comfortable seating experience with a spacious 109-inch seat pitch and a 193-inch lie-flat bed. The 1-2-1 staggered seating configuration ensures that every passenger has direct aisle access, a significant improvement over older designs. However, certain seats, specifically 19A and 19B, have been reported to have reclining issues due to potential installation problems. While the overall feeling of space might feel a bit confined compared to other aircraft like the A350, the stylish design and high-quality finishes contribute to a modern and luxurious atmosphere.

The quality of the experience extends beyond the seats, with personalized touches like pre-flight menu consultations with a chef and high-quality dining options. This personalized service, coupled with the thoughtful amenities and comfortable seating, creates a journey that goes beyond basic comfort. Although the seats provide a solid foundation for a comfortable experience, refinements to certain aspects could further improve the overall feel, particularly the seat width, which might feel slightly narrow for passengers accustomed to wider options. This could enhance the reputation for Turkish Airlines and solidify their position within the competitive landscape of transatlantic business class travel.

The Turkish Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner's Business Class offers 30 seats arranged in a 1-2-1 staggered configuration, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access. This layout, while effective in passenger flow, creates varying degrees of privacy across the cabin. The seats themselves offer a 109-inch pitch, a 193-inch bed length, and a width of 51 inches. These dimensions provide decent space for comfort during the flight, but it's worth noting that some passengers have found the width to be on the narrower side compared to other airlines' Business Class offerings. The 51 inches of width can feel snug for larger passengers, especially compared to the slightly wider seats found on the A350.

Despite the potential for a feeling of confinement for some passengers, the 787's Business Class cabin is designed to promote luxury. The overall impression is enhanced by the use of plush seating and a high-quality entertainment system, features designed for a premium experience. While the seats are comfortable, it is interesting to note that seats 19A and 19B do not recline as intended due to apparent issues during their installation. This minor issue highlights that even meticulously designed systems can have imperfections. The airline's commitment to top-tier service is highly regarded, particularly the in-flight dining experience with its personalized menu discussions and overall service quality, considered one of the best in the industry.

The use of advanced materials in the seat construction, like aircraft-grade memory foam, is another facet worth looking into. Understanding how the choice of material influences comfort is a fascinating area of study in the context of prolonged periods of sitting. It is intriguing that they have applied a modern design language and chosen a predominantly black palette to enhance the perceived sense of luxury, a design choice that has generated some interest. There is the perception that the black interior aids in creating a sense of refined isolation.

On top of the physical seat dimensions, cabin pressure also plays a part in the experience. The 787 is known for its more comfortable cabin pressure, thanks to a lower altitude equivalent (around 6,500 feet). Lower cabin pressure can contribute to a reduction in fatigue during long journeys. While the primary purpose of this pressure system is a more enjoyable experience for passengers, studies in passenger well-being in airplanes would reveal more information on how such a change can impact passenger behavior.

Another area worthy of note is the innovative cabin technology employed on the 787. This aircraft utilizes noise-reduction technology and features quiet engines that help improve the overall in-cabin atmosphere. While the noise reduction is definitely noticeable, it's worth noting that there are varying levels of sound reduction in the 787 which may be influenced by seat position and in-flight conditions. Passengers are offered noise-canceling headphones in conjunction with in-seat entertainment. All these factors contribute to the passenger experience and influence the overall perception of comfort and luxury within the Business Class cabin.

In summary, the Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class offers a pleasant experience. It has a distinct design language emphasizing luxury, comfort and innovation. While the seating width is not class-leading, the overall package offers comfort and an exceptional service. This approach has earned positive reviews for its modern design and high service quality, and it's a viable option for those seeking a comfortable and luxurious journey across international routes. However, based on current insights, the 787 Business Class still offers some potential for improvement in the seating design and layout, particularly concerning the width aspect. As the airline continues to refine this offering, further enhancements can solidify the Turkish Airlines 787 as a leader within the premium transatlantic travel segment.

Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Window Seat Advantages and Drawbacks

Choosing a window seat on Turkish Airlines' 787 Business Class presents a mix of benefits and trade-offs. The main advantage is the increased privacy, especially in the even-numbered rows. Being positioned further away from the aisle and closer to the window offers a sense of seclusion many find appealing. However, this privacy comes at a slight cost – you might encounter some hurdles getting to the aisle. The walkway can feel tight, which might be an inconvenience during meal service or when needing to use the lavatory. Furthermore, while the seats are generally comfortable, you should be aware that certain window seats, such as 19A and 19B, seem to have problems reclining properly. This variation in seat functionality is a small blemish on an otherwise generally polished cabin. Ultimately, window seats provide a tranquil spot for enjoying the views, but it's important to acknowledge these minor inconveniences when deciding your preferred seat.

**Window Seat Considerations**: The allure of a window seat, especially on a long-haul flight, stems from the captivating views during takeoff and landing, offering a unique perspective on the world below. However, this vantage point comes with its own set of trade-offs that are worth considering.


The 787's cabin pressure system, operating at a lower equivalent altitude, can contribute to a more comfortable and less fatiguing flight for everyone, but window seat passengers in particular might find it contributes to a more enjoyable experience as they take in the scenery.

The staggered seating design, inherent to the 1-2-1 configuration, leads to varied levels of noise within the cabin. Passengers seated in window seats, particularly those situated nearer the center, might experience quieter conditions compared to those closer to the aisle, influencing how they perceive the overall sound environment during the journey. It's worth exploring the extent of the sound difference and its impact on comfort.


While the seclusion offered by window seats is appreciated by some, it can lead to a diminished sense of interaction and connection with fellow passengers and crew. For travelers who value social engagement, this limited social interaction could turn into a feeling of isolation during a lengthy flight, making the experience feel more solitary.


The 787's signature dark cabin design, intended to amplify the perception of luxury and privacy, may not universally resonate with all passengers. Psychological research hints that darker spaces can facilitate relaxation, however, in a window seat, this effect might translate into a feeling of confinement for some, especially when combined with a potentially less dynamic visual environment during a flight.


The proximity of window seats to the exterior hull can result in noticeable changes in thermal comfort, with the temperature difference being more pronounced during long journeys. Passengers might find themselves dealing with temperature fluctuations as external conditions shift, which in turn could create an uncomfortable setting.


On the positive side, the natural light that streams in through a window seat can have a positive effect on a traveler's natural sleep cycle. The regularity of light and dark patterns, especially important for passengers traveling across time zones, can significantly impact jet lag symptoms.


Accessing the aisle for a window seat is inherently inconvenient. It requires asking other passengers to shift around. While aisle access might not be a concern on shorter flights, the need to repeatedly disturb others to access the aisle for bathroom breaks or to stretch one's legs could be disruptive for both the passenger and surrounding others.


There is a clear perception that window seats offer a sense of security, possibly due to the ability to see out and have a better awareness of the aircraft's environment. It is an interesting observation and likely tied to the human need to feel a connection to the external environment. It is worth exploring if this sense of security or safety is significantly different compared to other seat locations.

The flow of in-flight meal service prioritizes aisle passengers, making it possible that window seat passengers experience a slightly delayed meal delivery. This minor inconvenience could affect a passenger's perception of service quality, with the sense of possibly being less of a focus compared to other passengers.


In conclusion, it's clear that the benefits of window seats come with certain caveats. It is up to each passenger to weigh their own personal preferences and travel priorities to decide if the advantages of a window seat outweigh the drawbacks. Understanding these differences helps passengers plan a flight that best matches their preferred type of travel.

Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - In-Flight Dining Experience and Menu Options

The dining experience on Turkish Airlines' 787 Business Class is a key aspect of their effort to provide a luxurious journey. Passengers are presented with a digital menu before boarding for intercontinental flights, giving them the opportunity to select their meals up to 48 hours prior to departure. This pre-flight choice offers a personalized touch, setting the stage for a more tailored dining experience. The quality of food served in the air is further enhanced by the catering found in the Istanbul lounge, establishing a consistently high standard. A unique aspect of the service is the direct interaction with chefs who are happy to discuss menu choices with passengers. This adds a layer of personalization and enhances the overall impression of luxury the airline wants to portray. While the food and the intent to provide a luxurious experience are generally well-received, it's worth noting that the actual execution and details of the service can vary in quality. This can result in a mixed bag of experiences for travelers. Turkish Airlines' intent is clear: they strive to elevate the culinary journey into a prominent element of the overall Business Class experience on the Dreamliner. However, by refining the service aspect of the dining experience, and by paying extra attention to the consistency of execution, Turkish Airlines can truly make this offering an outstanding part of the 787 Business Class experience and further improve their position in the premium travel market.

## In-Flight Dining Experience and Menu Options


Turkish Airlines' Business Class on the 787 offers a dining experience that attempts to transcend the typical airline meal. They collaborate with renowned chefs and culinary specialists to create menus that blend regional and international cuisines. This approach, while ambitious, aims to introduce dishes more akin to what you'd find in a high-end restaurant than a standard airline offering.

It's worth noting their apparent emphasis on using free-range poultry and organic produce. While this aligns with growing consumer concerns regarding animal welfare and sustainability, one wonders if it consistently impacts the overall culinary experience or simply serves as a marketing angle.

The pre-flight culinary journey begins even before boarding in the Istanbul lounges. Passengers can enjoy a diverse array of freshly prepared dishes, highlighting Turkish Airlines' dedication to a premium experience from start to finish. This is interesting as it positions the airline's dining concept as an extended part of the overall passenger experience.

The Boeing 787's noise reduction technology is certainly an interesting feature for the in-flight dining experience. Lower noise levels theoretically contribute to a more peaceful dining environment, although how this impacts the perception of the food quality and the overall dining enjoyment remains debatable.

Interestingly, the in-flight menus are crafted depending on the flight route. This means that passengers traveling to different destinations are presented with meal options that reflect the local cuisine. It's a creative approach to enhance the journey with a taste of the region you are traveling to.

Beyond food, the beverage aspect is emphasized too. Their wine program, recognized with multiple awards, is curated by expert sommeliers, highlighting a dedication to a globally consistent culinary experience. There is the implicit understanding that this elevates the overall dining quality beyond simple meal service, however, it is arguable whether all passengers recognize the subtle nuance in taste and understand the value added through this selection.

Turkish Airlines accommodates a variety of dietary needs. Passengers can request gluten-free, vegan, or other specialized meal options. This inclusivity ensures that a wider range of passengers can enjoy a curated dining experience, demonstrating a more holistic approach to travel.

The presentation of the meals in itself can be considered a remarkable effort. The attention to detail, utilizing high-quality cutlery and dishware, significantly contrasts with standard airline practice. This, perhaps, is an effort to reimagine the concept of meal service and create a more refined visual experience. It would be interesting to see if this approach actually results in a more positive impression and if passengers genuinely value the effort and attention to detail put into visual cues.


For the ultimate personalized touch, passengers can schedule a consultation with a chef prior to their flight to discuss their preferences. This individualized approach is a significant deviation from the typically standardized service on airlines, showcasing a potential commitment to a unique dining experience. However, it remains to be seen whether this aspect becomes a truly valued aspect for a broader group of travelers.

While the meals are crafted for enjoyment, the airline also emphasizes nutritional balance with a focus on mitigating jet lag and fatigue. The idea of linking food with passenger well-being is a fascinating development. It would be interesting to see more research into how in-flight food selection impacts passenger well-being and if this focus translates into real benefits for the passenger.

In conclusion, Turkish Airlines makes a notable attempt to elevate the inflight dining experience in their 787 Business Class. Their approach incorporates partnerships with chefs, an emphasis on free-range ingredients, and a globally consistent beverage program. While a commendable endeavor, the effectiveness and true value for the broader passenger base remain a question for future evaluation. It's fascinating to see an airline explore ways to enrich the passenger experience through such unique aspects as meal service.

Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Entertainment System and Connectivity Features

Turkish Airlines' Boeing 787 Business Class features an entertainment system called Planet, providing a diverse library of films, both new releases and classics, a substantial music collection spanning thousands of songs, and a range of interactive games. The system is regularly updated to ensure a continually evolving selection of content, striving to maintain a dynamic and enjoyable entertainment experience throughout the flight. Each seat includes noise-cancelling headphones designed to enhance the entertainment experience and create a more immersive environment within the cabin. This combination of features aims to complement the 787's sleek and modern cabin aesthetic. While the range of entertainment options is vast and often praised, some passengers have mentioned occasional inconsistencies in the system's performance or interface. This points to a potential opportunity for refining the overall user experience, ensuring that the entertainment system consistently delivers a seamless and enjoyable journey.

### Entertainment System and Connectivity Features on Turkish Airlines' 787 Business Class

The Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class boasts a modern entertainment system, referred to as "Planet," equipped with high-resolution touchscreens for a sharper viewing experience. It's interesting to note the inclusion of live TV channels on select routes, which is a feature not commonly found on airline entertainment systems. It provides a glimpse into the evolution of in-flight entertainment, where the experience is increasingly geared towards on-demand media and real-time access.


Connectivity is provided via a satellite-based Wi-Fi system, offering a more reliable connection compared to some systems, which can struggle with signal stability over long distances. However, this technology isn't without its limitations, as some passengers have noted occasional slowdowns or interruptions during periods of high usage.


Turkish Airlines' app further integrates with the entertainment experience, allowing passengers to browse and choose content prior to boarding. This is a noteworthy element of personalization, catering to a desire for more control over the in-flight experience. It's also a tactic that likely increases passenger satisfaction, as it provides a sense of agency prior to even boarding the aircraft.


Another noteworthy aspect is the inclusion of high-quality noise-canceling headphones, enhancing the audio experience for passengers and mitigating the disruption of cabin noise. This helps foster a more focused and immersive entertainment experience. It's interesting to consider how headphone design and noise cancellation influence passenger perceptions and comfort.


The in-flight entertainment library offers a wide array of options, with thousands of movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, and games, which caters to various passenger tastes. However, the overall range of available options can vary depending on the route and aircraft configuration.


Furthermore, passenger convenience is addressed with the availability of USB ports and power outlets at each seat, making it possible for individuals to stay connected and charged throughout the flight. The easy accessibility of these outlets is critical for today's travelers who rely on devices for communication and entertainment.


The location of the screens is intelligently designed, ensuring a comfortable viewing angle even when the seat is fully reclined. This level of consideration reflects an emphasis on user experience and passenger comfort.


Lastly, the system is multilingual, a feature that is essential for a global carrier like Turkish Airlines. It makes the entertainment experience more accessible to a wider audience, enhancing the sense of inclusivity.


While Turkish Airlines has made a significant effort to integrate an advanced entertainment system, the Wi-Fi connectivity can be unpredictable at times, especially during peak usage. It's a limitation that highlights the challenges of delivering consistent connectivity in a dynamic environment like an airplane cabin.


The overall impression is that Turkish Airlines has invested significantly in their entertainment system. However, it remains a system with ongoing challenges in maintaining consistent connectivity. It would be beneficial to study user satisfaction concerning the available options and technical stability to understand the overall effectiveness of the integration.

Turkish Airlines 787 Business Class A Detailed Look at the Pros and Cons - Service Quality and Crew Performance

The quality of service and the performance of the crew are undeniably important for creating a positive experience in Turkish Airlines' 787 Business Class. Many travelers highlight the attentiveness and individualized attention they receive, noticing the crew's dedication to passenger comfort and their keen eye for detail. This dedication is a significant contributor to the feeling of luxury the airline strives for. Yet, there can be instances where the quality of service falls short of expectations, often during times when the cabin is extremely busy and the crew is dealing with high demands. This discrepancy in service levels can sometimes lead to a range of passenger experiences. The ability to offer consistently top-notch service while managing the practicalities of a full flight presents a challenge Turkish Airlines still works towards addressing.

Service quality and crew performance are intrinsically linked within the airline industry, and Turkish Airlines' 787 business class offers a case study of this dynamic. The crew's role in delivering a premium experience is evident in several areas.

Firstly, crew training and proficiency significantly impact passenger perceptions of service quality. The airline's commitment to training is reflected in their ability to offer individualized attention, like pre-flight menu discussions with chefs. This element sets the stage for a personalized experience and, when executed well, creates a higher sense of value for the passenger. However, inconsistencies in crew performance can lead to a less uniform service delivery. If crew members are not sufficiently trained or motivated, it might cause variability in service quality, impacting the overall passenger experience. This suggests that there is potential for further refinement and improvements in crew training and performance standards.

Furthermore, the efficiency of crew interactions with passengers is impacted by the cabin design. The staggered seating arrangement within the 787 business class not only enhances passenger privacy but also improves crew accessibility during meal service and other interactions. This optimized design contributes to a smoother and quicker service delivery, particularly during peak service times, potentially improving passenger satisfaction. However, the overall impact of crew efficiency on passenger perceptions needs more evaluation.

The connection between cultural sensitivity and service quality is also apparent. In a globalized environment, Turkish Airlines caters to a diverse clientele. Investing in crew training to understand and adapt to different cultural sensitivities becomes crucial for a positive and respectful service encounter. It remains to be seen if this aspect of crew training is optimized and how further optimization would impact passenger feedback.

Additionally, the utilization of technology, like in-flight entertainment and ordering systems, plays a significant part in crew performance. The seamless integration of technology can empower crew members to perform their tasks more efficiently. This not only elevates the passenger experience but also allows the crew to focus on other essential areas of service delivery, further contributing to a seamless travel journey. However, the technical reliability and the actual benefits for the passenger and the crew deserve further scrutiny.


Ultimately, the interplay between crew and passengers is multifaceted and can be influenced by several factors, including cabin design, service procedures, and crew capabilities. While Turkish Airlines has made strides in enhancing the passenger experience within its 787 business class, the dynamic between service quality and crew performance is a continuously evolving field. It remains an ongoing opportunity for refinement to better understand how to optimize both aspects to truly achieve a superior travel experience. Ongoing studies and research into these aspects would provide additional valuable insights into how airlines can continuously improve their service offering.