Austrian Airlines' Business Class: Lie-Flat Seats?

Austrian Airlines offers lie-flat seats in business class on its Boeing 777 aircraft, which are in a staggered configuration. This means that in each row, the position of seats alternates between 1-2-1 and 2-2-2, with the window seats alternating between being against the window or against the aisle. These seats are known as throne seats and offer more privacy and space, as well as direct aisle access and a window view. However, it's worth noting that the footwells for these seats are on the smaller side. On other aircraft, such as the Boeing 767, Austrian Airlines does not offer throne seats, but the business class seats are still lie-flat and are configured in a 1-2-1 layout.

Austrian Airlines' business class seats are lie-flat on Boeing 777s

Austrian Airlines' Boeing 777s feature lie-flat seats in business class. These seats are in a staggered configuration, with each row alternating between 1-2-1 and 2-2-2 seating arrangements. This layout optimises space utilisation as each seat extends into the area beside the seat in front.

In every other row, specifically the odd-numbered ones, there are two "throne" seats that offer passengers enhanced privacy and space, as well as direct aisle access and a window view. However, the footwells of these throne seats are relatively small. While Austrian Airlines typically charges extra for selecting throne seats during booking, they can be assigned for free during online check-in if you are a business class passenger.

The business class cabin on Austrian Airlines is designed with a fresh white, pale blue, and red colour scheme, complemented by soft furnishings that showcase Austrian Alpine style through gingham fabrics and embroidered deer motifs. The seats are equipped with two sets of controls, one on the table/armrest and another in the bedhead, making it convenient to adjust your position whether seated or reclined.

Upon boarding, business class passengers are welcomed with a pillow, blanket, noise-cancelling headphones, and an amenity kit containing essential items such as an eye mask, socks, a toothbrush, earplugs, face cream, and lip balm. The onboard meal service is another highlight, with a choice of champagne or a welcome cocktail, followed by a multi-course meal presented on a trolley, allowing passengers to select dishes that suit their preferences.

The seats are in a staggered configuration

Austrian Airlines' Boeing 777s feature fully flat seats in business class, which are in a staggered configuration. This means that the seats are arranged in an alternating pattern, with each row alternating between a 1-2-1 and 2-2-2 configuration. This layout maximises space utilisation, as each seat occupies the area beside the seat in front of it.

In the staggered configuration, window seats are staggered, with odd-numbered rows against the window and even-numbered rows against the aisle. This arrangement creates a sense of privacy and provides direct aisle access for passengers in the window seats.

The staggered configuration offers a unique seating experience, providing passengers with a combination of privacy, space, and convenience. The alternating layout also allows for efficient use of space, ensuring that each passenger has ample room to relax and enjoy their journey.

The staggered configuration of the business class seats on Austrian Airlines' Boeing 777s offers a blend of comfort, privacy, and functionality. With direct aisle access and a window view, passengers can enjoy a seamless travel experience. The arrangement of seats in the 1-2-1 and 2-2-2 pattern maximises space, ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers.

The cabin is configured in a 1-2-1 layout

For example, a passenger seated in 4K may initially think it would be better to be seated closer to the window. However, the side table is quite bulky, and when the seat is converted into a bed, it sits quite low to the ground, which may feel claustrophobic. On the other hand, it does provide more privacy. The footwells are also quite small, as they utilise the space between the seats in front.

The seats are comfortable with extra legroom

Austrian Airlines offers a comfortable and spacious business class experience, with seats that provide ample legroom and extra space. The business class cabins are designed with a 1-2-1 layout, giving every passenger direct access to the aisle. This staggered seat arrangement also allows for extra room for your feet, with a well created by the table in front.

On short-haul flights, the forward business class cabin offers a generous amount of legroom, as observed by a reviewer who is 6'2". The bulkhead row in particular provides plenty of space to stretch out, and even the second row behind has ample legroom.

On long-haul flights, the business class seats offer a similar level of comfort and space. The "throne" seats, located in odd-numbered rows, are highly sought-after for the added privacy and direct aisle access they provide. While these seats offer a narrower footwell, the extra space and privacy are considered a worthwhile trade-off by many passengers. The front bulkhead row "throne" seats are especially desirable due to their larger footwells.

In addition to the comfortable seats, Austrian Airlines also provides various amenities to enhance your flight experience. Upon boarding, you'll find your seat decked out with a pillow, blanket, noise-cancelling headphones, and an amenity kit that includes an eye mask, socks, a toothbrush, earplugs, face cream, and lip balm. The attentive crew will also offer refreshing towelettes and proactive updates on your flight's progress.

The seats can be reserved for free at check-in

Austrian Airlines offers lie-flat seats in business class on its Boeing 777s. These seats are in a staggered configuration, with each row alternating between 1-2-1 and 2-2-2 layouts. Every passenger has aisle access, and the seats are spacious with direct aisle access and a window view.

While throne seats, which offer more privacy and space, can be reserved in advance for an additional fee, they can also be reserved for free at check-in. This is a great option for business class passengers who don't want to pay extra. The check-in process for these seats is simple and straightforward. Once online check-in opens, usually 47 hours before departure, business class passengers can select these seats at no extra cost. It is important to check in as early as possible, as these seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The availability of throne seats at check-in may vary depending on the flight and the number of passengers. In my experience, most of the throne seats were empty, and I had my choice of them when checking in around 36 hours before departure. However, this may not always be the case, and availability will depend on the specific flight and demand for these seats.

In addition to the lie-flat seats, Austrian Airlines business class offers a range of amenities, including noise-cancelling headphones, amenity kits with eye masks, socks, toothbrushes, earplugs, and toiletries. The onboard service includes a choice of meals, drinks, and snacks, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable flight experience for passengers.

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