LATAM 787 Business Class Review
From the vibrant departure at Miami International Airport (MIA) to the early morning arrival in Santiago, Chile (SCL), LATAM 787-9 business class proved to be a compelling long-haul experience. Flying on a 7-hour, 25-minute redeye aboard one of LATAM’s newest Dreamliner cabins, I experienced firsthand how the airline has redefined its premium product across comfort, amenities, and service. Booked using British Airways Avios, this overnight flight allowed me to explore the nuances of LATAM’s updated business class.
Cabin Layout and Seat Design: Modern and Functional
Vantage XL Seats in a 1-2-1 Configuration
LATAM 787-9 aircraft featuring the newer cabins are outfitted with Vantage XL seats, laid out in a 1-2-1 configuration. This layout ensures every passenger enjoys direct aisle access—an essential feature for today’s business class traveler. The seats offer a clean, elegant aesthetic with a dark, sleek finish and refined detailing.
Privacy and Comfort in Bed Mode
The seat converts into a fully flat bed, ideal for overnight travel. The best position for sleeping is facing the fuselage, especially for side sleepers who need more flexibility in leg placement. While the design slightly restricts movement when facing the aisle, the bed’s padding and recline options make for a restful experience.
Comparisons with the 767 Fleet
Although LATAM also operates the Vantage XL product on its 767s, the Dreamliner’s wider cabin and improved pressurization provide a more spacious, breathable environment. This results in enhanced rest and a greater sense of privacy throughout the journey.
Read More: aeroLOPA: Best Site for Airplane Seat Maps
Exceptional Business Class Bedding
Plush Amenities for Restful Sleep
The bedding in LATAM business class exceeds expectations. Each seat includes a thick, high-quality mattress pad, a generously filled pillow, and a large, cozy duvet. This setup rivals even top-tier U.S. carriers like United, placing LATAM in elite territory when it comes to sleep comfort.
Additional Touches
Passengers receive a sleek amenity kit with all the essentials and a pair of slippers, further enhancing the bedtime experience. These details, though small, signal thoughtful planning and a genuine focus on passenger well-being.
In-Flight Entertainment: Excellent Content, No Connectivity
Impressive Library of Movies and TV Shows
LATAM’s IFE system on the LATAM 787 features over 240 movies and more than 740 TV episodes, displayed on crisp, high-resolution screens. The interactive map is among the best in the industry, offering multiple viewing angles and real-time flight data.
No Wi-Fi Available on the 787 Fleet
The notable downside is the complete lack of Wi-Fi on LATAM 787. For business travelers who rely on mid-air connectivity, this could be a drawback on longer daytime flights. While not an issue for this redeye segment, it limits productivity options during longer hauls.
Dining in the Skies: Efficient and Delicious
Streamlined Dinner Service After Takeoff
Shortly after departure, the crew efficiently initiated meal service, beginning with a choice of champagne or water and a small dish of mixed nuts. The main dinner was served on a single tray, keeping the process simple yet satisfying.
Appetizer and Main Course Choices
The meal started with a crab appetizer and a fresh, albeit basic, side salad. Four diverse main course options were offered, including a steak, salad, pasta, and fish. I selected the salmon, served with red pepper sauce, roasted bok choy, and black rice—a flavorful and balanced dish.
Delectable Dessert
The dessert included a brownie topped with toffee sauce, cream, raspberries, and pistachios. This added a satisfying sweet note to the meal without being overly heavy.
Breakfast Before Landing: A Pleasant Surprise
Substantial Morning Meal
About an hour prior to landing, breakfast was served—again on a single tray. Offerings included yogurt with granola, fresh fruit, and a selection of bread. The choice of hot mains featured traditional omelets, cold cuts, and a creative option—quesadilla.
Unique Hot Dish
Opting for the quesadilla proved to be a pleasant surprise. This alternative to the often repetitive airline omelet added a flavorful and unconventional touch to the morning meal.
Exceptional Crew: Personalized and Attentive
Warm Welcome and Personalized Introductions
LATAM’s flight attendants demonstrated remarkable professionalism from the moment of boarding. Andrea, one of the flight attendants, personally introduced herself to each passenger by name and explained key flight details—a thoughtful touch rarely seen outside premium airlines.
Consistently High Service Standards
Throughout the flight, service remained attentive and efficient without being intrusive. The cabin manager, Paula, ensured all needs were met promptly, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.
Service Across LATAM Subsidiaries
Having flown with LATAM Chile, Peru, and Argentina (prior to its closure), I’ve observed that LATAM Chile continues to deliver the most consistent and warm inflight service. LATAM Brazil and LATAM Peru also offer high standards, though experiences can vary depending on the route and crew.
Pros and Cons Summary
Highlights
- Fully flat Vantage XL seats with direct aisle access
- Outstanding bedding with mattress pad, large pillow, and duvet
- Excellent entertainment system
- Professional and friendly cabin crew
- High-quality meals with diverse choices
Areas for Improvement
- No Wi-Fi on LATAM 787
- Side salad lacked creativity
- Some seat positions limit movement when sleeping
How to Book LATAM Business Class with Points
LATAM flights can be booked using multiple frequent flyer programs. For this trip, I redeemed British Airways Avios, offering solid value on a one-way Miami to Santiago flight. Other partner programs include American Airlines AAdvantage and Alaska Mileage Plan, both of which offer competitive redemption rates for LATAM-operated flights.
Award availability can fluctuate, and booking in advance is usually recommended for premium cabin availability. Taxes and fees are minimal when redeeming with Avios, making it a strong value proposition for long-haul South American travel.
LATAM’s Evolving Business Class Strategy
Upcoming Cabin Upgrades
LATAM has announced plans to continue updating its business class cabins, introducing a newer generation of premium seating to more aircraft in its fleet. This continuous evolution demonstrates the airline’s commitment to competing with global carriers, particularly on long-haul routes.
Competitive Standing in Latin America
Despite limited media coverage in North America, LATAM has solidified its position as the premier airline in South America. From the quality of its premium cabins to its extensive route network, it surpasses many competitors operating in the region.
Final Verdict: A Polished and Competitive Business Class
LATAM 787 business class is a well-rounded and thoughtfully designed product. From the modern Vantage XL seats and exceptional bedding to a flavorful meal service and genuinely caring crew, the airline offers a business class experience that punches above its reputation.
Although the lack of onboard Wi-Fi and some minor menu gaps could be improved, the overall journey remains smooth, restful, and refined. For travelers heading to or from South America, LATAM stands out as a reliable and comfortable option—especially when flying overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of seats does LATAM 787 business class offer?
LATAM uses Vantage XL seats in a 1-2-1 layout, providing direct aisle access and fully flat beds.
Does LATAM 787 business class have Wi-Fi?
No, LATAM 787 aircraft currently do not offer inflight Wi-Fi services.
How can I book LATAM business class with points?
You can redeem miles through programs like British Airways Avios, American AAdvantage, or Alaska Mileage Plan for LATAM flights.
Is the LATAM 787 business class bedding good?
Yes, LATAM provides plush bedding including a mattress pad, duvet, and pillow, offering one of the best sleep experiences in business class.
What kind of meals are served in LATAM 787 business class?
Passengers enjoy a full multi-course dinner and breakfast, with options ranging from seafood to quesadillas.
Are LATAM’s flight attendants friendly and professional?
Yes, LATAM crew members are consistently praised for their warmth, efficiency, and professionalism.
What is the entertainment system like in LATAM 787 business class?
It includes over 240 movies and 740 TV shows, plus a top-tier interactive flight map.
Can I choose my seat in LATAM 787 business class?
Yes, passengers can select seats in advance, including window or center seats for those traveling together.
Is LATAM a good airline for international travel to South America?
LATAM is the leading South American airline, offering competitive international service and high-quality cabins.
Are amenity kits provided in LATAM 787 business class?
Yes, LATAM offers stylish amenity kits with travel essentials and slippers on its long-haul flights.
Conclusion
LATAM 787 business class experience delivers a thoughtful blend of comfort, service, and value that makes it one of the most well-rounded premium products in the South American region. From the sleek Vantage XL seating layout and top-tier bedding to a well-curated meal service and genuinely warm flight attendants, LATAM provides a business class product that exceeds expectations in many key areas.
The absence of Wi-Fi and occasional menu simplicity are small drawbacks in an otherwise polished offering. For overnight flights in particular, LATAM’s emphasis on efficiency and rest is highly appreciated, and the airline’s consistent focus on cabin design and service improvement places it on par with many top-tier global competitors.
For travelers seeking a comfortable, stylish, and reliable long-haul business class flight between North and South America, LATAM stands out as a compelling choice. Whether booking with miles or cash, this experience justifies the investment—offering a restful journey marked by professionalism and refinement.
