Flights Heathrow to New Orleans

Hi, I need to book flights from Heathrow to New Orleans but not sure what airline to use - Delta, BA, Iberia, Finnair etc etc. I would welcome any opinions out there, experiances or things to consider. Thanks

When booking a flight from Heathrow to New Orleans, you have a variety of airline options, each with its own pros and cons. Here's a breakdown of the airlines you mentioned, along with factors to consider for your journey:

  • Delta Airlines - Delta offers direct flights to New Orleans, typically with a layover in Atlanta (ATL). Delta is known for its good customer service and a solid in-flight experience. Their economy class is comfortable, and they offer a variety of entertainment options. Delta’s SkyTeam alliance also provides flexibility if you're looking for connecting flights or using frequent flyer miles. However, layovers in Atlanta can sometimes be lengthy, so it's worth checking connection times.
  • British Airways (BA) - British Airways is a natural choice for Heathrow, as they offer direct flights to New Orleans (with a layover in a U.S. hub like Dallas or Charlotte depending on the flight). BA offers a generally good in-flight experience, and you can benefit from their extensive network and frequent flyer program (Avios). However, BA’s economy class can sometimes feel less spacious compared to other airlines. On the plus side, if you're a BA frequent flyer, you can earn Avios points. BA also tends to have good customer service, but service standards can vary.
  • Iberia - Iberia is another option, particularly if you are okay with a layover in Madrid. The airline is part of the Oneworld alliance with British Airways, so you’ll have similar benefits if you're a member. Iberia tends to have competitive fares and good service, though some travelers report that their in-flight amenities can be less extensive than other major carriers. A layover in Madrid is a bit longer, but it can be a good option if you’re planning to break up your trip with a stop in Spain.
  • Finnair - Finnair offers flights to New Orleans with a layover in Helsinki or another European city. While this could be a longer journey overall, Finnair offers excellent service, modern planes, and great legroom in economy class. If you’re okay with a longer travel time and a European stop, Finnair could be an option, though it may not be the most direct route.
  • Other Airlines (Air France, KLM, Lufthansa) - There are also other European carriers like Air France, KLM, and Lufthansa that offer flights to New Orleans with layovers in Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt, respectively. These airlines are generally known for their reliability, excellent in-flight service, and extensive global networks. While the layovers can be longer, the overall flight experience is usually very comfortable.

Things to Consider:

  • Layover Duration: For a smooth journey, it’s best to ensure that you have a reasonable layover time in case of delays. Airports like Atlanta (Delta) or Dallas (BA) can sometimes be very busy, so having extra time between connecting flights is a good idea.
  • Flight Time: Direct flights are obviously the most convenient, but depending on the airline, most flights from Heathrow to New Orleans will require at least one layover, typically in major U.S. hubs.
  • In-Flight Comfort: Airlines like Delta, BA, and Lufthansa are known for relatively comfortable economy class with decent legroom and service. However, airline comfort can vary, especially in economy class, so it’s worth checking reviews for the specific aircraft used on your route.
  • Loyalty Programs: If you're part of any frequent flyer program (like Delta SkyMiles, BA Avios, or Oneworld), consider how each airline might help you accumulate points or provide upgrades. If you're a member of one of these programs, you may want to choose that airline for easier accrual of miles and perks.
  • Price and Flexibility: Prices can vary greatly depending on the season, time of booking, and route. Consider booking well in advance for the best rates. If you need flexibility (e.g., refundable tickets or the ability to change flights), be sure to compare policies for each airline.

Conclusion:

If you want a more direct and seamless experience, Delta Airlines or British Airways (with a layover in Atlanta or Dallas) would likely be your best options for ease and comfort. If you're willing to take a longer route with a European stop, then Iberia or Finnair could be alternatives. Ultimately, it depends on your budget, preference for flight times, and how much you prioritize comfort and service. Either way, you're likely to have a good experience with most major carriers.


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