Go First Class with Studio William

2019 is the centenary year of Britain’s national air carrier. And to mark the occasion they’re investing £6.5 Billion for customers over the next five years, including new routes, new aircraft, cabins, catering, lounges, Wi-Fi, and shiny new Studio William cutlery!

One of the world’s best known and best loved airlines is set to deliver significant changes to the on-board products and service in its First Class cabin as part of its £6.5 Billion investment. To mark one hundred years in the sky, the new look and feel, which took to the skies on March 31st 2019, includes new bedding, amenities, tableware and menus that would not look out of place in a revered five-star British hotel.

William Welch, Founder and CCO of Studio William said, “It's a tremendous honour and a very proud moment in the history of our company. For a British design brand, partnering with our national airline carrier is an endorsement of our product on a global scale. It's also a reflection of how we've matured in recent years as a Great British brand. We've supplied No. 10 Downing Street since 2009 when we were first chosen to showcase the best of British design to visiting dignitaries. This collaboration between our great British airline and Studio William Cutlery introduces our extensive design experience within fine dining and foodservice to the discerning traveller.”

The airline was keen to achieve a parallel in fine dining on-board and in their lounges, to that of 5-Star hotels and Michelin Starred restaurants. But how do you even begin designing a range of cutlery for a restaurant in the sky? “My inspiration was the flowing wind paths over the wings and the sweeping frames and enduring forms of the dinnerware, to create a curvaceous personality and a memorable dining experience for First Class passengers.” William Welch explains. “It was also imperative that the cutlery met stringent aviation safety requirements and logistical requirements whilst perfectly complimenting the beautiful dinnerware created by William Edwards.

In true British fashion, the airline will also be introducing a new signature afternoon tea service, showcasing the great British tradition of high tea. The menu will include a selection of sandwiches, delicate pastries and scones, as well as a wide selection of tea infusions.
As part of the on-board changes, new Dartington glassware has also been introduced. Travellers will now be able to enjoy the airline’s fine wines and champagnes from sophisticated stemware, while soft drinks and spirits will be served over ice in dazzling cut-glass tumblers.

The airline’s First customers will also benefit from an improved turndown service for the perfect night’s sleep thanks to new, luxurious 400 thread count bedding and a foam-fibre mattress topper, dressed with a stylish new day blanket and bolster cushion.