Recently flying from Newark to Frankfurt in Lufthansa's Business Class allowed us to experienced the airlines new Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This was after first checking into the Lufthansa Business Class Lounge in Newark. Having ordered 32 new Boeing 787-9's that will feature the newly designed 'Allegris', 5 of the new aircrafts (including our flight) feature a different Business Class product.

Originally intended for China's Haina Airlines, they feature a refurbished version of the Collins Aerospace Super Diamond reverse herringbone seats. With 26 Business Class seats in one cabin, the updated 1-2-1 configuration through the cabin gives direct aisle access for each seat - a good improvement for the airline.

With the new design, all window seats angle outwards towards the window and all middle seats angle inwards. To ensure there is still enough privacy between the middle seats, there is a divider which you can adjust to your liking. I was seated in 7G, a middle seat at the back of the cabin. Although I was seated near the galley, I still felt I had enough privacy in my seat.

In front of the seat there is ample led room, a deep footwell for sleeping and an entertainment screen. Under the screen there is a tray table which sits slightly out from the screen. This is ideal for using as an alternate table for your drink or any smaller items.

To the left of the seat is a bench for other items to sit on. This also lifts up to store a TV remote, charging ports and headphones. This was a very handy space to keep all electronics tucked away in. If you are looking to access charging ports for your devices, the cords will however need to hang out to allow your device to be accessible with the bench close. I personally didn’t find this an issue as it kept all my cords neat and tidy. Seat controls are located on a screen under the bench with a magazine holder located behind along with a reading light.

There is another armrest next to the aisle which also lifts up, making it a perfect storage section for small items. Having multiple storage options in this layout proved to be a great feature.

Upon arrival there was a pillow and blanket waiting on my seat along with the choice of champagne, orange juice or water. Shortly after arrival, a menu was provided in a neat booklet. You are given the option to choose from the main meals offered or an Express Service (a cold meal consisting of appetizer, salad, cheese and dessert at any time), instead of the multi-course dinner.

The amenity kit was provided in a neat, black mesh bag which included socks, ear plugs, a dental kit, a refreshment towel and eye mask.

Wi-Fi was also available for purchase through FlyNet from $27USD for the full flight.

After take off, another drink service was offered with a serve of nuts and a hot towel to freshen up. The staff went above and beyond with their service. They were prompt, helpful and always addressed me by name.

The entertainment screen was a large 18 inches while the controller was extremely user friendly. A great feature is you can permanently show the flight map through your controller so you don’t need to interrupt your movie to take a look.

The noise cancelling headphones provided were some of the best I’ve used and made a significant difference in blocking out outside noise. The cord plugs nicely into the storage section under the bench making it very accessible but also kept it out of the way during the flight.

When it came time for meal service the tray table was easy to release and set up.

For an appetizer I chose the spicy grilled shrimp with celery root and a side salad with green apple, caramelised dried fig and spiced candied pecans. Although I would have liked the shrimp to have a bit more spice, the overall mean was very pleasant and fresh.

For the main course I had previously selected the seared Veal Medallion, however due to a slight confusion I was brought the Almond Crusted Halibut with Yellow Thai Curry Vegetables along with a serve of basmati rice. Although it was not what I selected, it was still delicious.

For dessert I was given both the Haagen Dazs Dulce de Leche and cheese plate of Gloucester, Manchego and Rougette cheese, garnished with walnut halves and grapes. To finish the meal, a serve of chocolate was offered.

Once finished eating, I used the control panel on the side to lower the seat into a fully flat bed. The light from the control panel was nice and bright to read, however once turned off gave enough darkness for you to sleep. The bed was slightly narrow but allowed enough space for me to move through the flight.

Attendants came around and offered orange juice and hot towels to those who were awake.

A continental breakfast was then served which included fresh fruit, yoghurt, a croissant, acai and blueberry puree, diced kiwi, dried mango and dried pear, topped with toasted nuts and seeds. This was the great quality meal and had great options to pick between.

Overall, the updated seat design represents a good improvement for the airline with each seat now offering direct aisle access. The flight had friendly service and the quality of the food provided was good. With our experienced airfare consultants conducting some great fares to Europe via Asia or USA, Lufthansa is becoming a popular option.

Looking to book your next trip with Lufthansa? Contact an airfare specialist today.