Continental Airlines prides itself as being recognized by Fortune magazine as the Number 1 Most Admired Global Airline. The accolades and awards Continental has received are numerous, and most are given in response to the excellent customer service, in flight features and amenities.
Economy Class Amenities
Economy travelers have a wide range of amenities once on board their flight. This includes:
- Complimentary meal for any flight over two hours
- Pillows and blankets
- Overhead bins for carry-on luggage
- Complimentary video and audio entertainment on most flights (sometimes there is a charge of $1 for headsets, but complimentary if you bring your own headset)
- Complimentary water, juice, coffee or soda
- Alcoholic beverages for purchase.
The video/audio entertainment can widely differ depending on the type of aircraft you are flying. If you are traveling on a B777-200 you will have access to Audio/Video on Demand, over 70 channels of DIRECTV accessible on an individual monitor with remote, and video games for kids. International travelers will receive the complimentary headset, and have access to the On-board Duty Free Program.
First Class and Business Class Amenities
First Class and Business Class travelers receive more amenities, but Continental tries to treat all guests equally. First class passengers are privy to leather seats with spacious leg room, 6-way adjustable headrest and maximum reclining abilities. Complimentary alcoholic beverages are served preflight and during, including a premium wine selection. Other amenities that set First Class and Business Class apart include:
- Fine dining
- Hot towel service
- Free checked baggage
- Bonus miles for Elite members
- Amenity kits
All travelers flying on any Continental operated flight have access to the Sky Mall magazine located in the seat pocket in front of them. On-board shopping can be a great way to pass the time, as well as earn frequent flyer miles on every dollar spent towards Sky Mall purchases.
Baggage
Most airline companies have adopted a new policy to start charging for checked baggage. Continental has not been immune to this. There are many ways to get your baggage to your destination without paying: Continental Airlines Chase Card members get their first checked bag fee waived, and Continental Airlines Presidential Plus Card members now get their first two bags checked for free. If you are part of the One Pass Frequent Flyer program and reach Elite Silver, Gold or Platinum status you can count on always getting two checked bags on the flight without paying a cent.
Small domesticated pets are still allowed in the cabin of Continental flights in lieu of carry-on baggage. Continental does, however, charge a $125 fee for carry-on pets. One pet per passenger.