Qatar Airway’s latest aircraft, the A350-1000, entered service today between Doha and London. The new aircraft is equipped with several measures to combat jet lag and thereby maximize passenger comfort. But are these gimmicks or game changers?
Qatar Airways and Airbus detail the following jet lag-figthing perks aboard the new A350-1000:
- Millions of ambient LED lights
- Lowest cabin altitude on the market (aircraft pressurized to 6,000 feet)
- Quietest twin-aisle aircraft in the sky
- Entire cabin air renewed every 2-3 minutes
- Better cabin humidity
- Individualized temperature controls
- Window in every economy class row
I’m excited to fly this new aircraft. I love quiet aircraft and suspect that pressurization at 6,000 feet will noticeably reduce jet lag symptoms. I do notice a difference when flying the 787 versus 777 and therefore imagine this aircraft will be even better. But I do have to wonder, though, whether these are just gimmicks.
The new A350-1000 will also have higher ceilings, larger overhead bins, and a new IFE system.
Other notes about the aircraft:
- First Airbus to feature Qsuites
- Business class overhead bins will allow for two larger rollerboards per passengers
- 25% more fuel efficient than 777-300ER
Qatar Airways is not only the launch partner of the A350-1000, but was the launch customer of the first A350 aircraft, a flight I had the privilege (of a lifetime) to be on.
> Read More: Qatar Airways A350 Inaugural DOH-FRA: First Economy Class Trip Report
While Doha to London is hardly enough to properly enjoy the new Qsuites cabin, Qatar now has a business class product far better than Emirates and Etihad.
> Read More: Qatar Airways 777-300ER Qsuite Business Class New York to Doha Review
I’d love to see you review this plane in economy, given that most people fly in the back.
Based on my experience on the Dreamliner, the lower cabin altitude is what really makes the difference. I definitely did notice a reduction in jet lag/general sluggishness on both ends of my last trip to Europe. The rest are gimmicks, but as they at least try to make the Y experience a little more comfortable, I welcome them.