I just returned from several Iberia Business Class flights from Mexico City to Madrid, Spain, and then back, via their Airbus A330 and their A350 planes. By booking these flights a few years ago and then having to cancel them due to illness, I was able to rebook them without using all of the credit that I had from the original booking. That was great because I could use the rest for another trip to Madrid next year.
I have come to realize over the past year that business class is so different by airline and aircraft, that it did not come as a surprise to me with this configuration offered by Iberia Airlines on these aircraft. The single-side setup by the window can have the seat right next to the window with your storage and counter space to the right side or the storage space could be on the window side with your seat pushed away from the window more towards the aisle while the storage counter area is to your left.
On the flight going to Madrid, I was towards the window side thinking this would be more private, but it was a real hassle to get into the seat and then trying to get the seat to lie flat for sleeping was almost impossible and very uncomfortable. I was lucky to see that the seat across the aisle from me was open, so I arranged my bed there! On the way back to Mexico City I was in the seat closer to the aisle and that made my lie flat bed and sleeping a little easier. Combined with a privacy panel that could be closed, made it feel quite cozy and I was actually able to sleep about 4 hours; a rarity for me. The strange configuration allows you to not really look out the windows because you are sitting away from them. I am sure this is done to pack in more business class seats by staggering them to allow your feet to extend under the storage area of the passenger in front of you.
The tray table was different on each one with the A330 sliding down and towards you, while on the A350 it was under the television screen and pulled out. The storage area and private counter area on the A330 were very small and not plentiful like on the A350. The amenity kits from a few years ago were certainly downsized in selection as well as quality; I am sure to save money. It was not even worth keeping after the flight anymore!
Predeparture beverages of juice, water, or Cava were offered on both flights and the overall meal service was very similar. This included a menu presented upon boarding, so you could select entrees for dinner and breakfast, and the complete beverage list is included.
As per usual dinner service began about 1 hour after departure and since these are very late flights you end up eating dinner at midnight or later! The appetizer is served with the first beverage service along with a fresh hot dinner roll and then later the main course is served. Finally, a 2nd beverage service is accompanied by the dessert. It is all very efficient and quickly completed so that everyone can get some sleep.
As you can see from the menu, there are offerings in the galley area fresh fruit, snacks, sandwiches, and beverages during the time between meals for self-service. Restrooms are pretty much standard, unlike the larger ones I have seen on the Boeing 787 business class flights.
Due to the long distance to transfer from Terminal 2 to Terminal 4S in Madrid, I did not get to spend much time in their Iberia Lounge, but it was impressive in both size and selection of food!
While I will always fly these longer overseas flights in Business Class, they are not as comfortable as they used to be as I can see the demand for business class increasing, and therefore the airlines need to cram more seats into the same space. In the last year, I have flown in Business Classes on Iberia, United, American, Philippines, Air New Zealand, and Aeromexico. I like to see the comparisons and eventually will probably choose the airline that offers the most comfort at the best price!
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