Independent Taiwanese airline, EVA Air, has introduced a new generation business class cabin on flights from Taipei to London Heathrow.
The Royal Laurel Class seats were introduced on UK flights last Friday and will be available on all London flights by the end of July. First introduced in June 2012 on Eva Air’s Taipei to New York route, the new seats are part of a $100 million investment to upgrade the top cabins on the entire airline’s Boeing 777-300ERs.
Royal Laurel Class features 38 seats with a 180-degree recline in a reverse herringbone layout, enabling passengers at windows to look out without turning. Every passenger space includes features that include a coat hook, space for shoe stowage, retractable armrest, handy niches for water, glasses and reading material, and a convenient seat-side table for beverages, snacks or writing materials, all within easy reach.
In addition, Royal Laurel Class features the latest audio and video technologies, including 15.4-inch touch screens and noise-cancelling headphones. Passengers with personal electronic devices can work or relax using multi-function AV-input outlets, USB and iPod ports on a system equipped with software such as Media Player, Photo Viewer and PDF Reader.
Power sockets are 110V and pullout tables are designed to equip business travellers with personal in-flight offices if required.
EVA Air will offer its Royal Laurel Class passengers a special overnight kit provided by German luggage brand, Rimowa. This kit, contained in a racing-green box, includes Harnn home spa lotion and lip balm. Royal Laurel Class also includes brand new tableware from Noritake, as used by the Japanese Royal family.
Eva Air, which joined the international Star Alliance in June, flies daily from London Heathrow-Bangkok-Taipei.