come into operation on Bermuda/UK DC10 flights by the end of the year.

At a special presentation at the Hamilton Princess last week, travel officials and invited guests were able to try out for themselves, the six-foot six-inch bed which has revolutionised long-haul and trans-Atlantic travel.

While many other airlines have dropped or combined First Class with Business Class, BA has "bucked that trend'' by investing millions in setting new standards for premium passengers, said local manager Philip Troake. He noted that the First and Club sections of the Bermuda/UK flights had been especially profitable during the past year.

The interior of the First Class cabin has been completely transformed with the introduction of 12 individual modules. Years in the planning, and designed by London-based yacht interior experts, Design Acumen, each unit provides total privacy for sleeping. The completely flat bed also converts into an armchair with a `buddy' seat opposite which allows passengers to invite a guest for a business meeting, drinks, or dinner for two at any time during the flight.

Each module is also equipped with a personal video entertainment system.

Also featured were the new Club World `flying cradle' seats (already in service on the Bermuda route). Extensive research has provided a unique tilting mechanism that moves from hip level, thus ensuring even distribution of weight. An extendible seat base stretches out, at the touch of a button, out to match the passenger's thigh length, with an adaptable foot rest, air lumbar bag to support the lower back and adjustable `ears' on the top of each seat which support the head during sleep.

BA has also introduced what Mr. Troake calls "the first real a la carte restaurant in the sky, with passengers able to order what they like when they like, from a huge menu ranging from caviare to apple crumble''.

Cabin crews have been re-trained to serve passengers by top chef Michel Roux at his famous English Waterside Inn, with new menus reflecting the best food from around the world.

A very popular innovation for Club World travellers has been the new bistro-style meal service and an invitation to "raid the larder'' for snacks and drinks any time during the flight.

"We are all snackers and nibblers at heart,'' said Mr. Troake, "and this is what BA now offers its Club passengers -- with a tempting array in the galley of every long-haul flight.'' BA has revealed that it is also investing around US$120 million on the world's most advanced in-flight entertainment and information system. Interactive video screens, control panels, telephone and card card swipes will be linked by satellite to mainframe databases on the ground.

There will be a choice of 24 movie and entertainment channels, and eventually, live television and radio broadcasts. A wide selection of video games, and even gambling will be available.

Mr. Troake also promised Bermudian travellers that a complete re-launch of the World Traveller cabin (Economy) is planned for next year. Details at the moment, however, are still "top secret''.