Maximizing Avios: A Guide to British airways Club europe Redemptions
For newcomers to the world of Avios, redeeming points for British Airways Club Europe business class on short-haul flights from Heathrow or Gatwick can be a rewarding experiance. While opinions vary, this option offers a taste of premium travel that many find worthwhile.
The Allure of Club Europe
For a relatively small increase in Avios, especially on off-peak dates to nearby European destinations like Germany, the Netherlands, or France, passengers can enjoy several benefits:
- Dedicated check-in desks for those wiht luggage.
- Priority seating at the front of the plane, facilitating quicker disembarkation adn faster immigration processing.
- Complimentary meals and premium beverages, including champagne, notably appealing on evening flights.
These perks can be EASILY worth an extra few Avios – usually £30-£50 worth
,especially for those without British Airways status.
London City Airport: An Exception
Though, redeeming Avios for Club Europe flights from London City Airport presents a diffrent scenario. A reader’s experience highlighted the drawbacks, particularly on routes to destinations like Spain, where the Avios premium is higher.
Here’s what you might miss out on when flying Club Europe from London City:
- Lounge access: London City airport does not have any lounges.
- An empty middle seat: The Embraer 190 fleet features 2×2 seating, meaning every seat is typically occupied.
- Guaranteed priority boarding: Due to the high number of status holders, priority boarding may not offer a meaningful advantage.
While you still get front-of-plane seating and enhanced dining, the gap in food quality between London City and Heathrow/Gatwick has narrowed. Economy passengers on London City flights continue to receive complimentary snacks and drinks.
While Club Europe offers more legroom, passengers can achieve similar comfort in Euro Traveller by selecting seats in front of the emergency exit rows.
Final Thoughts
redeeming Avios for Club Europe on short-haul flights, especially outbound from London and without British Airways status, remains a valuable option. I do recommend that you redeem Avios in Club Europe for short haul redemptions if you can, especially outbound from London and especially if you don’t have British airways status.
However, exercise caution when flying from London City Airport, unless other options are unavailable or you have specific needs like extra luggage.
Just don’t do it from London City …. unless there are no other seats available or you have a lot of luggage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Club Europe worth the extra Avios?
For flights from Heathrow or Gatwick,yes,especially for the outbound journey due to benefits like dedicated check-in and lounge access.
Why is London City Airport different?
London City lacks lounges, and the Embraer 190 aircraft have 2×2 seating, reducing the exclusivity of Club Europe.
What are the main benefits of Club Europe?
Priority check-in, front-of-plane seating, enhanced meals and drinks, and increased baggage allowance.
When shoudl I avoid Club Europe?
From London City Airport, unless you need extra baggage or want to be first off the plane.
