Newark (EWR) to London (LHR)
On the Ground: I arrived at the airport a little earlier than usual, expecting a celebration at check-in. I was boarding Air India’s new service from Newark (EWR) to Ahmedabad (AMD) via London (LHR), which also marked the airline’s first U.S. Dreamliner operation. The arrival area reflected the occasion: a step-and-repeat, journalists, balloons, candy and an Air India mascot welcomed passengers and crew.
After a quick check-in at the dedicated business-class counter, a courteous Air India representative escorted me through security and directly to the lounge entrance.
Pre-Flight: Executive Class customers departing Newark Liberty International Airport are provided access to the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse. The lounge was dimly lit and calm, so I claimed a quiet corner on a cushioned banquette to charge devices and relax before the late-evening transatlantic departure. I ordered one of the lounge’s signature cocktails and a bowl of noodle soup, both of which were satisfying while I cleared a few last emails and messages.
I tend to leave for the gate earlier than boarding announcements, preferring to avoid waiting with a large crowd and uncertain about whether I’ll shop en route. At the gate I found boarding slightly delayed and a big gathering of passengers eager to board. The ribbon-cutting and general buzz added to the excitement of the inaugural service.
In-Flight: With the Executive Class cabin not full, I moved from my aisle seat to a window seat. The business-class cabin felt bright and spacious, and the Boeing 787’s redesigned overhead bins made the cabin feel roomier than many premium configurations. Shortly after reaching cruising altitude I settled in with a movie. Since the flight was overnight and I planned to spend a free afternoon in London before heading home, I ate a light meal and then tried to rest. The lie-flat seat was comfortable and allowed me to sleep for much of the journey. Welcome drinks, comforters, pajamas and amenity kits were distributed prior to takeoff, which added to the overall comfort.
Top Takeaways:
◆ The airport celebration for Air India’s inaugural Boeing 787 service from Newark to Ahmedabad via London created an upbeat, memorable start to the trip.
◆ On a personal level, the flight felt significant: nearly nine years earlier I flew Air India’s inaugural nonstop between New York (JFK) and Mumbai (BOM), so this marked another milestone.
◆ This trip was my first time flying the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and the experience lived up to expectations.
◆ Onboard, business-class crew presented each passenger with a small commemorative gift, a thoughtful touch for the inaugural service.