The Boeing 787 is being touted as the future of long haul air travel due to the long distances it can achieve compared to existing aircraft in its class. There are also a number of reasons why the flights might be more comfortable.

The cabin is pressurized to a lower altitude than conventional jets, lessening the effects of being high in the air, such as headaches and fatigue, because of a 6% improvement in oxygen absorbed by the body at 6,000 feet compared with 8,000 feet, according to a Boeing spokeswoman. Studies show big windows help reduce motion sickness, Boeing said, and LED lighting that can simulate sunrise, for example, can help ease jet-lag effects.

A new aircraft stability system that will make for smoother rides in turbulence is still only partially functional in the five 787s in service, but an updated software load planned within weeks will improve the ride even more, according to the aircraft maker. Fuel efficiency and emissions are 20% better than the Boeing 767, a similarly sized jet.

If you are traveling long haul then dont forget to take out decent travel insurance for over 85s to ensure you are well covered in case of emergency.