EVA Air B777-300ER Royal Laurel Class

LONDON-BANGKOK

- Jeremy Tredinnick

BACKGROUND EVA Air has installed three different configurations on its B777-300ER aeroplanes. Both Royal Laurel Class and the premium economy seat products were introduced across these aircraft between 2014 and 2016, and the B777-300ER with the newest seats is most commonly used on the London route.

CHECK-IN I arrived early at London Heathrow Terminal 2. Check-in took only a few minutes at the A1 priority desk, getting through security took ten minutes via the fast-track lane, and I was quickly in departure area A.

THE LOUNGE EVA Air Royal Laurel Class passengers can use any of three lounges: Singapore Airlines, Air Canada or Lufthansa.

I chose the latter as I was warned the others might be busy (though of course, they are much closer to the departure gate which was over in Terminal 2B). The Lufthansa lounge in T2A is spacious and light, with lots of white walls, light-wood veneer and plentiful lighting. There are different types of seating, from lounge chairs configured in groups of four to small tables for eating, bar stools against high tables and easy chairs.

In a side area, 14 workstation booths plus three desktops are provided, and there is a free printing service. There are seven chaises longues in the left-hand corner of the lounge where you can recline and rest in reduced lighting. However, there are no shower facilities.

The free wifi was surprisingly fast, and there were plenty of electrical sockets. The food stations were somewhat underwhelming but adequate: there were only two hot dishes plus rice, a soup tureen with three bread options, plus sandwiches, cheese, cold cuts and crackers. There was a choice of two juices, tea and coffee machines, and the self-service alcohol section offered three beer types and a dozen or so harder liquors.