United First Class
 

I've managed to use my FF miles to get a United First Class ticket to Nashville (from Heathrow, via Chicago) - not having travelled First Class on United before, I'm not sure what to expect - any ideas?!

Cheers!

I think UA uses the 777 exclusively on the LHR-ORD routes, so you can look forward to the United First Suite:

http://www.united.com/page/article/0,6722,1932,00.html

I haven't flown international premium class on UA in a couple of years, so I can't speak to current meal quality.

Your Chicago-Nashville flights probably are on a regional jet -- so you can look forward to maybe priority boarding, a bag of pretzels, and a cup of juice if you're lucky. Fortunately it isn't a long flight.

You will get Red Carpet Club lounge access. There are four at O'Hare. Use either the one in the C concourse or the one near B7. They are the nicest; the other two are quite small.

Note that when arriving at ORD, you will need to change terminals from T5 to T1 or T2. This involves taking a train and going back through security. UA generally has maintained a priority security line for elites and first-class pax in T1, although I couldn't find on my trip a few weeks ago. On the return, this won't be an issue, as your flight to LHR will depart from T1.

One suggestion, make sure you have a comfortable cushion between flights in both directions. Even though the return flights will be in the same or connecting terminals, UA's regional service (United Express) at ORD isn't always noted for its on-time performance.

Enjoy!

Thanks for the info - I'm looking forward to the experience!

One other question, though. I'm travelling with a friend on same flights - but they only managed to conjure up enough miles for an economy seat - what are the chances of me being able to 'pull them through' with me in the First Class checkin lanes, etc. Technically, we're travelling together...albeit in different classes...

I have flown first class on AA and BA DFW - LGW on 777's - both outstanding.
M

Having your friend check in with you and use the same services is almost a no chance. Just let your friend do his own check-in and meet him at your destination.

I have used Continental's Elite check-in lines at IAH and CDG, when travelling with my elite parents. Nobody said a thing at either location. But I guess parents are a little different than just "friends". :D

My husband and I have flown in different classes on the same flights and checked in together at the FC counter. We don't share the same last name, so no way for anyone to determine whether we're spouses or just 'friends' :D I've done this when flying in different classes with other family members as well. No check-in agent has ever questioned it.

They may even let your friend go through the fast track security lane with you at LHR if you ask nicely ;)

And finally, I believe F pax are allowed to invite one guest into the FC lounges. A search on the UA or Star Alliance boards at flyertalk would probably give a definitive answer. Enjoy your trip!