The check-in staff at Heathrow were very friendly and helpful.

The lounge at Heathrow was somewhat out of the way, a little dark and generally needed updating, especially the kitchen, where some of the shelving was de-laminating.

The executive seating area was initially disappointing. The Air India web site announced that all the 747-400s had been upgraded with new fully reclining seat, whereas this plane still had the old seats in. Having said this, the seats were very comfortable, and as it was an afternoon flight, I did not need it fully reclined.

The in-flight entertainment was poor. There were no seat back TVs (just one overhead screen at the front of the cabin) and the audio channels repeated every 30 minutes.

The food was good, but the service a little slow.

The flight left and arrived on time.

The Air India Executive class is not up to the standard of other airlines, but as they charge the same as other airlines Premium Economy, I consider it to be good value.