Polish Airlines Business Class Review: Is LOT's Premium Offering Worth Your Journey?

Considering a premium travel experience with a distinctly European flair? For many travelers, the allure of business class lies in the promise of comfort, elevated service, and a seamless journey. But when it comes to Polish Airlines (LOT), does their Business Class truly deliver on these expectations? If you're weighing your options for an upcoming flight and wondering what to expect from a LOT Business Class review, you've come to the right place.

This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of the LOT Polish Airlines Business Class experience, from the moment you arrive at the airport to your arrival at your destination. We'll explore the comfort of their seats, the quality of their dining, the attentiveness of their service, and the overall value, helping you decide if this premium offering is the right choice for your next trip.

The Pre-Flight Experience: A Smooth Start?

Your premium journey with LOT Polish Airlines Business Class begins long before you step onto the aircraft. Passengers are typically afforded a range of priority services designed to streamline the airport experience.

Priority Services at the Airport

With a LOT Business Class ticket, you can expect:

• Priority Check-in: Dedicated counters ensure a quicker and more efficient check-in process, bypassing the longer economy lines.
• Fast Track Security Screening: Expedited security access helps you navigate busy airport checkpoints with ease.
• Priority Boarding: You'll be among the first to board the aircraft, allowing you to settle in comfortably without the rush.
• Expedited Baggage Handling: Upon arrival, your luggage is prioritized, often being among the first to appear on the carousel.
• Generous Baggage Allowance: LOT Business Class generally offers a higher baggage limit, allowing for up to 3 x 32 kg of checked baggage on intercontinental routes.

Lounge Access: Relaxation Before Takeoff

One of the most anticipated perks of flying business class is lounge access, and LOT Polish Airlines doesn't disappoint. Business Class passengers have access to LOT Business Lounges at major international airports, including their flagship Polonez and Mazurek lounges at Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), as well as lounges at Chicago O'Hare (ORD).

These lounges provide a quiet and comfortable space away from the bustling terminal, offering:

• Complimentary snacks and a variety of hot and cold food options, often including Polish and international cuisine.
• A wide selection of beverages, including coffee, tea, soft drinks, wines, and spirits.
• Business workstations and Wi-Fi, allowing you to catch up on work or stay connected.
• Comfortable seating, and sometimes even showers and quiet areas for relaxation.

While some reviews note that the lounges can be busy, especially at peak times, they generally offer a pleasant environment to relax and prepare for your flight.

The Onboard Experience: Comfort in the Skies?

Once you step aboard a LOT Polish Airlines Dreamliner (which operates all intercontinental flights), the focus shifts to your in-flight comfort and amenities.

Seating and Cabin Comfort

LOT's Boeing 787 Dreamliners typically feature a 2-2-2 business class seat configuration. These seats are fully lie-flat, offering ample space to stretch out and sleep comfortably on long-haul flights. While the seats are generally wide and comfortable, some reviews indicate that the 2-2-2 layout, while once cutting-edge, is now considered somewhat outdated compared to newer 1-2-1 configurations with direct aisle access for every passenger. This means window seat passengers may need to step over their seatmate to access the aisle, which can be a minor inconvenience if traveling alone.

However, if you're traveling with a companion, the 2-2-2 setup can be quite enjoyable, allowing you to sit side-by-side. The cabin itself is designed for comfort, with dimmable windows and LED mood lighting that can help minimize jet lag. You'll also find soft pillows, blankets, and often a sheet to cover your seat for enhanced sleeping comfort.

In-Flight Entertainment & Connectivity

Each LOT Business Class seat is equipped with a personal entertainment screen, a power socket, and a USB port. The in-flight entertainment (IFE) system offers a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. While the library is decent, some travelers suggest bringing your own entertainment as the selection might not be the most updated.

A notable point for many modern travelers is Wi-Fi connectivity. Currently, Wi-Fi is not available on LOT's 787 Dreamliners, which can be a drawback for those who need to stay connected during their flight. However, some sources mention Wi-Fi availability on select flights, so it's always good to check for your specific route.

Amenity Kit

LOT Polish Airlines provides an amenity kit to Business Class passengers, often presented in a compact bag. These kits typically include essentials like a lip balm, apple cream, a bamboo toothbrush, toothpaste, and an eye mask, with a focus on natural ingredients and recyclable packaging. Slippers and over-ear headphones are also usually provided.

Dining Experience: A Culinary Journey?

The dining experience in LOT Business Class aims to be a culinary highlight, offering a multi-course meal service on long-haul flights.

Meal Service

Upon boarding, you'll typically be welcomed with a drink, often champagne, and an amuse-bouche before takeoff. Meals are served on high-quality porcelain with elegant tableware, creating a restaurant-like atmosphere. The menu features a selection of appetizers, main courses, and desserts, often showcasing Polish flavors alongside international cuisine. Options might include dishes like chicken tagine, cheese ravioli, or various seafood options.

After the main meal, a highlight for many is the dessert trolley, which may offer a selection of cheeses and various sweet treats. Before landing, a second hot meal is typically served. Between meal services, passengers can usually find a selection of sweet and savory snacks and sandwiches available in the galley or brought around by the crew.

While the food quality is generally rated as quite good and competitive with other airlines, some minor inconsistencies in presentation or item availability have been noted. Special meals for dietary preferences, such as vegetarian options, can be requested in advance.

Beverages

LOT Business Class offers a wide range of complimentary beverages, including various juices, soft drinks, coffee, and tea. For alcoholic selections, you can expect a good variety of wines (red, white, rosé, and port), champagne, and spirits.

Service Quality: Polish Hospitality?

The cabin crew's service quality is a crucial part of any business class experience. Reviews of LOT Polish Airlines' Business Class service are generally positive, often highlighting the crew's friendliness and attentiveness. Flight attendants are often described as professional, well-intentioned, and eager to assist, contributing to a pleasant flight atmosphere. While some minor "rough edges" or less personalized interactions have been mentioned, the overall impression tends to be one of warm Polish hospitality.

Is LOT Business Class Worth It?

So, after reviewing the various aspects, is a Polish Airlines Business Class ticket worth the investment?

The consensus suggests that LOT Business Class offers a solid premium product, particularly on its Boeing 787 Dreamliner long-haul flights. Key strengths include:

• Comfortable Lie-Flat Seats: While the 2-2-2 configuration lacks individual privacy doors, the seats are fully lie-flat and provide ample space for rest.
• Good Quality Dining: The multi-course meals, served on porcelain, are generally well-regarded for their taste and presentation.
• Attentive Service: The cabin crew is often praised for their friendly and professional demeanor.
• Excellent Ground Experience: Priority services and lounge access enhance the journey from the airport to the aircraft.

However, there are areas where LOT's Business Class might not match some competitors, primarily the lack of direct aisle access for all seats in the 2-2-2 configuration and the absence of Wi-Fi on their 787s.

Ultimately, the value of LOT Business Class often comes down to the price point. If you find a competitive fare, especially for long-haul routes, it can represent excellent value for a comfortable and enjoyable premium travel experience. It's particularly well-suited for those traveling with a companion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of aircraft does LOT Polish Airlines use for Business Class on long-haul flights?

LOT Polish Airlines primarily uses Boeing 787 Dreamliners for its intercontinental long-haul flights, which feature their Business Class cabin.

Do LOT Business Class seats recline fully flat?

Yes, the Business Class seats on LOT's Boeing 787 Dreamliners convert into fully lie-flat beds, providing a comfortable sleeping surface for long journeys.

Is Wi-Fi available on LOT Polish Airlines Business Class flights?

Currently, Wi-Fi is generally not available on LOT's Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. However, some sources suggest it may be available on select flights.

Does LOT Business Class offer lounge access?

Yes, LOT Business Class passengers receive complimentary access to LOT Business Lounges (such as Polonez and Mazurek in Warsaw) and other Star Alliance partner lounges at various airports worldwide.

Have you flown LOT Polish Airlines Business Class? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!