This is going to be a picture report, with only small comments. Not to many La Premiere reports around, so I thought I’d at least post some pictures. Any questions, feel free to ask.
Looks like a 73H from 02A:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3335.jpg
Not a very impressive breakfast:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3336.jpg
FA asked me about my final destination, and she suggested to get the pilots to check if someone would meet me at the aircraft at terminal 2G. She later confirmed that the assistant would meet me with a car. Great service. Short drive to the separate security check, and then elevator to the lounge.
Dag
Jul 6, 12, 2:07 pm
Sofa part of the lounge:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3345.jpg
20 minutes the assistant picked me up, and walked with me to the plane. No need to drive, as it was only 3-4 minutes of walking from the lounge. He walked me onboard, and introduced me for the crew.
AF6 CDG-JFK Boeing 777-300ER (replaced the regular A388)
Foie Gras, Salmon and an excellent anise cream:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3427.jpg
Starter, salmon and caviar (caviar was not on the menu). Wine was Mersault, which needed a lot of air before drinking.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3428.jpg
Opted for the smallest dessert they had on their trolley, as I was very full. Accompanied by sweet wine from Loire:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3435.jpg
Excellent arrival service with assistant meeting me in the aircraft, taking me in front of the line in immigration and following me through baggage claim and customs.
JGfromOC
Jul 6, 12, 2:40 pm
Nice pics. Have to say though, that cabin looked pretty worn down. Can't believe those old headphones are what AF offers in a premium cabin and that IFE screen looked smaller than the one I had in Y+ on my recent AZ flight.
Eastbay1K
Jul 6, 12, 2:56 pm
Nice report. Too bad my AS miles can't be used for AF F.
CKinMD
Jul 6, 12, 3:01 pm
Very nice photo trip report, thank you for sharing. I have to agree about the headphones, they look more like something you would find in economy class.
May I ask what kind of camera you used?
Dag
Jul 6, 12, 3:15 pm
Very nice photo trip report, thank you for sharing. I have to agree about the headphones, they look more like something you would find in economy class.
May I ask what kind of camera you used?
Thanks. Camera is a Canon Ixus, 990 I think. Not a specially good camera, but it is small enough to carry around.
AA_EXP09
Jul 6, 12, 3:19 pm
I am surprised they couldn't offer better than Heineken. I would probably go for the Glenlivet anyways.
I would actually prefer AC J to this...
Not that the MLL in YUL is too much better than the AF lounge.
AS miles can be used on AA F though.
OTOH I smiled when they put the French word for breakfast in the lunch section.
Dag
Jul 6, 12, 3:26 pm
I am surprised they couldn't offer better than Heineken.
Same arrangement as 77W, but one extra seat. 1-2-1 for 2 rows, and one in front on the A side. As the first class cabin is on main deck, it is very airy. Most carriers have their first class cabin on upper deck, which is much narrower. 1-2-1 on main deck is almost comparable to 1-1-1 on upper deck.
Remote and headset, QC3. I still prefer my own:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3561.jpg
USB and power outlet:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3563.jpg
Dag
Jul 6, 12, 3:29 pm
Clear champagne?? No champagne before doors are closed, so this is Perrier:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3562.jpg
Flight delayed for over an hour, so I looked for some on-ground-entertainment.
Data for the flight:
Grossw: 451tonn, 98tonn FOB.
TO RW 13R with flex 65° and flaps 1
V1: 141kt
Vr: 154kt
V2: 160kt
Thrust reduction altitude 1510ft, same as acceleration altitude. Transition altitude as always 18000ft. Cruise FL370, optimum FL385 and max recommended FL398.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3630.jpg
Changing room has a window, restroom has not:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3632.jpg
Doors closed, and then champagne finally joined me in 02A.
Wing view, JFK in the sunset
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3599.jpg
Very hard to get good pictures, due to the distance to the window, and space between the inner and outer glass:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3603.jpg
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3601.jpg
White wine:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3604.jpg
Main, chicken. Strait for the Chateauneuf-du-Pape this time, and always some Lanson on the side.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3620.jpg
Cheese with sweet wine:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3622.jpg
Crackers in plastic??
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3621.jpg
Maybe it does not look very private, but the distance between seats and angle makes you hardly see your fellow passengers at all during the flight:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3623.jpg
Cake and port for dessert:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3628.jpg
Decaf and Glenlivet:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3629.jpg
Dag
Jul 6, 12, 3:31 pm
Buffet by stairs to upper deck. Lanson, chocolate and soda:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3636.jpg
Open door policy on Air France flights?
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3637.jpg
My bed was made up, and I had 3-4 hours of solid sleep. Had planned to sleep until landing and have breakfast in the lounge, but woke 1 hour before landing. Why not have some more food?
Best airplane breakfast I’ve had.
Excellent arrival service at CDG. Assistant met in the aircraft, took me down to her car, and drove me to the passport control. Put be in front of the line, and after that to the lounge.
Breakfast menu in the lounge:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012/IMG_3350.jpg
Table setup in the sofa area of the lounge:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3646.jpg
Omelet with ham and bacon on the side:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3647.jpg
exilencfc
Jul 6, 12, 4:01 pm
That's definitely one of the more edible looking breakfasts i've seen in a TR
fieldeng
Jul 6, 12, 4:01 pm
Seinheissers are generally very nice headphones. They have a distinct look that almost makes them seem old.
One thing I saw was Foie Gras everywhere on the menu. WOW.
vandiemen
Jul 6, 12, 7:21 pm
Finally!! So nice to have a report on La Premier in English, as opposed to the French trip reports. Looks interesting, the lounge especially seems like a class act. I assume they would have given you PJs on the overnight, but did you receive them on the way to JFK?
On a side note, was the changing room anything special? To me, it just looks like a bathroom without all the fixtures.
Cheers!
will2288
Jul 6, 12, 7:45 pm
Great trip report from a seldom seen F class on FT. Thank you.
You have improved my impression of AF first class. Too bad it is very difficult to use miles for it. (If I am not mistaken, only AF elites can redeem for AF F, and even then it is at very high mileage rates)
The AF chefs sure like to use foie gras. :p
The 380 with new first came from LAX this day, to bad I did not get to try it.
I was not aware of a new F. Does anyone know?
tagv12
Jul 6, 12, 9:37 pm
The pictures speak for themselves. ^
Robt760
Jul 6, 12, 11:35 pm
Thank you for sharing this. Tres Chique !
FlightNurse
Jul 6, 12, 11:39 pm
I have to comment, for a FC flight why in god name did the FA served the crackers in the package and the lemon sauce served in a foil container, very cheap for a nice flight.. Other then that, very nice.
blackmamba
Jul 7, 12, 1:04 am
These pictures are magnifique!
amolkold
Jul 7, 12, 2:21 am
Thanks for this report, don't get to see AF F much. Too bad Skypesos can't be used for AF/KE F :(
For those wondering, the A380 started coming to LAX over Memorial day weekend. From the press release, "new F" is just a refresh, nothing spectacular. Just newer IFE, but same design. Same thing with "new J", still the same angled ****.
Moomba
Jul 7, 12, 3:00 am
Seinheissers are generally very nice headphones. They have a distinct look that almost makes them seem old.
One thing I saw was Foie Gras everywhere on the menu. WOW.
I noticed that too and a lack of choice. Only 2 main options on each flight!
I have to comment, for a FC flight why in god name did the FA served the crackers in the package and the lemon sauce served in a foil container, very cheap for a nice flight.. Other then that, very nice.
Yes I have seen this on other carriers too, it really doesn't exude First does it.
Thanks for the report Dag
GetSetJetSet
Jul 7, 12, 3:43 am
Who cares about beer in first class?
Probably people who like drinking beer...
To the OP: What was your overall assessment? I was op-uped from a paid J fare to F once on AF and not all that impressed. Given the usurious mileage redemption rates for F, the high price in real money and the relative shabbiness of the product as compared to other, higher quality F products easily booked with miles, I give AF a solid :td:. Agree?
view
Jul 7, 12, 5:08 am
Great pictures, thanks for sharing this. Food and beverage does look very good, especially interesting to see the various Champagnes they have in La Premiere. I agree the focus should be on fine wines and Champagne rather than extensive beer selection, something I think suits the average customer in La Premiere just fine.
Dag
Jul 7, 12, 9:18 am
I told the assistant that I wanted to be the last onboard. 20 minutes before departure, she picked me up and drove me to the aircraft, and followed me onboard.
AF1640 CDG-AMS Airbus A321
Wingview on the ground from 02F
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3650.jpg
Not much of a legroom
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3648.jpg
Terminal 1 where you can see SQ388, UA752 and 763, TG77W and BR77W
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3652.jpg
JL77E just took off from 27L a few seconds after us, and climbed out below
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3655.jpg
Food? I don’t know what to call it. At least they had some champagne.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3665.jpg
Not much of a service, crew did not seem to care
Had some time in Amsterdam, and went to the lounge. Big and crowded lounge, it was hard to find a free seat:
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3667.jpg
Beer and soup in the lounge. Not really La Premiere standard anymore. Crappy Heineken, wish they had Lanson.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3666.jpg
KL1147 AMS-OSL Boeing 73W
Wing view from 02F
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3669.jpg
Nice and new cabin
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3671.jpg
Decent legroom, and blocked middle seat
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3672.jpg
Feeding time, a large sandwich. Did not finish much of it. Swapped to coke, trying to get back to the real world.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3670.jpg
Excellent service from the purser, she really cared and made us all feel welcome.
And that was really it.
Dag
Jul 7, 12, 9:37 am
Nice pics. Have to say though, that cabin looked pretty worn down. Can't believe those old headphones are what AF offers in a premium cabin and that IFE screen looked smaller than the one I had in Y+ on my recent AZ flight.
Yes, 02A on the 77W looked a little worn. I guess several travelers choose 02A by default, so the seat is almost always taken. The seat across the aisle looked almost new ;) Cant comment on the IFE screen, as I hardly ever use those.
Finally!! So nice to have a report on La Premier in English, as opposed to the French trip reports. Looks interesting, the lounge especially seems like a class act. I assume they would have given you PJs on the overnight, but did you receive them on the way to JFK?
On a side note, was the changing room anything special? To me, it just looks like a bathroom without all the fixtures.
Cheers!
Got PJ's both ways, but they were a little different both in color, size and the bag they came in. Light light grey in color, and pretty good overall.
The changing room was nothing special, but it was better than to have 2 restrooms. The toilet in the restroom makes it harder to change clothes than in a changing room, so this solution works well. With 9 passengers in first, you need 2 rooms, and we did not have any waiting time for most of the time.
Great trip report from a seldom seen F class on FT. Thank you.
You have improved my impression of AF first class. Too bad it is very difficult to use miles for it. (If I am not mistaken, only AF elites can redeem for AF F, and even then it is at very high mileage rates)
The AF chefs sure like to use foie gras. :p
I was not aware of a new F. Does anyone know?
Foie grais is good, but in moderate portions. I guess it's a signature french dish they like to promote.
Link to the "new" La Premiere, looks improved to me:
http://corporate.airfrance.com/fileadmin/dossiers/documents/press_releases/CP_A380_05.2012-en.pdf
Probably people who like drinking beer...
To the OP: What was your overall assessment? I was op-uped from a paid J fare to F once on AF and not all that impressed. Given the usurious mileage redemption rates for F, the high price in real money and the relative shabbiness of the product as compared to other, higher quality F products easily booked with miles, I give AF a solid :td:. Agree?
I'll make a sum-up and comparison in the next next post, and you will be surprised.
Dag
Jul 7, 12, 9:45 am
A few videos from the trip, sorry for the quality:
La Premiere lounge:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Db9YB0SZN-E
Climb-out from CDG:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxTDE_f5jfo
So, its time for a little comparison and sum-up. Based on the comments, I think it is needed.
My comments are based on my limited first class experience, I have not tried that many airlines.
-The narrowbody intra-Europe flights were not impressive. Food was pretty bad, and seat comfort was not good. Just like Lufthansa business I would say. KLM was better than Air France, both in service and comfort.
-Ground services at CDG are better than other that I’ve tried in first class, (ANA at NRT, Lufthansa at FRA, Swiss at ZRH, Thai at BKK). CDG has a bad reputation, but traveling in first is as smooth as it can be. Pickup and transport to the lounge both on inbound and outbound trips is a big plus. The assistants were magnificent, very caring, polite, and good at speaking English. They gave you the feeling that they would personally take care of you from arrival to departure at CDG, a better follow up than at FCT in FRA. Only one person in each car, even if several passengers were going to the same airplane or lounge. The assistant was yours for the stay, and if they went off shift, they came and introduced their successor. Of course there were no time spent standing in line for anything, as the assistant would put you first in the lines for public immigration.
-Assistant service at JFK was also very good, but of course there were no cars. Anyway, the service was good, I was followed from the airplane to outside the terminal, and from check-in to a chair in the lounge, and then from the lounge and on to the aircraft. Same pleasant and service minded attitude as in Paris, impressive.
-Lounge in Paris was as good as any. Not as big as FCT, but very nice overall. Waiter-service both in the sofa and at the tables. Excellent service, and the food from the menu was better than other lounges I’ve been in, including FCT. The buffet was not as big, but the quality and taste of the food was superb. The lounge at JFK were not good at all, and they should have had a dedicated first class section. A “dine on the ground” option would be very welcome, as the flight to Paris is short, and thereby maximizing time for sleep.
-I like the layout in first class of Air France planes. Not a big fan of suites, I find the La Premiere to be a good trafe-off between open and airy cabin, and privacy. Lots of space for a computer on the desk next to the seat as well. Comfort for sitting and sleeping was good. The seat remind me of ANA’s first class seat, one of my favourites. It is not as good for sleeping as Lufthansa’s seat+bed, but good enough. I would only rate Lufthansa 744 upper deck higher than Air France 380.
-The food onboard is the main point that can be improved. Amuse Bouche, appetizer and desserts were of good standard. The main could use some improvement, as one was overcooked and the other tasted very standard chicken. The wines were good, so were the single malt. The breakfast was, as mentioned, very good. The assistant told me that the want the passengers to have some extra time for transit in CDG, so they can eat in the lounge instead. A good thought, but not everybody have a long connection. All in all, food was a little better than Lufthansa, about the same level as ANA, but not as good as Swiss. Plastic on crackers and sauce served in aluminum does really not count towards food quality, and is for the most part things that airplane geeks care about.
-Service onboard was good, even with 8/8 on the 77W and 9/9 on the 380. It was not as personal and overwhelming as with Swiss and ANA, but certainly good enough. The English of the FA’s were much better than on Air France flights I’ve been on earlier (both Affairs and Voyager)
-Boarding. Why would they board economy thorough first class?? We were first onboard, and then there was an endless stream of passengers entering the cabin going “whoooo, I love Airbus airplanes”. Wonder if they kept that impression after 7 hours in economy?
So, conclusion:
I have not been a fan of Air France, and certainly not CDG. I did not have to high hopes for this trip, but I was very pleasantly surprised. The ground service makes Air France go almost to the top of my list. In fact, I’d rather fly with La Premiere than Lufthansa first in the future. My only experiences that beats La Premiere is Swiss first. Swiss has of course a much worse ground experience, but since Zurich is such a small airport, transfer is a breeze. What gives Swiss the edge is the perfect combination of excellent food, superb wine and fantastic service.
I think Air France is under-rated, especially on this forum. La Premiere might have been bad earlier, but today it is very good, and the main point is the lounge and ground services.
francophile
Jul 7, 12, 3:16 pm
Merci, Dag! C'était une superbe rédaction!
SPBanker
Jul 7, 12, 4:25 pm
"Doors closed, and then champagne finally joined me in 02A."
Whew, had me worried for a second there! :p
Seriously, great TR.
Carfield
Jul 7, 12, 7:43 pm
Thanks for a wonderful Air France First class report!
This report is perhaps one of the best AF reports here - full of details and the meal services look wonderful especially the daytime departure from Paris CDG.
Yes some airlines do not serve alcohol prior to takeoff (door closed) here in the US due to high tax. Some top airline like SQ will pay tax on one or two bottles of champagne in the ground, but these days, most airlines choose to serve non-alcoholic beverages.
The intra-European flight look really bad though and that breakfast was basically an economy style meal. I honestly don't know why Air France cannot offer a proper premium product for intra-European flights. The seats are already pathetic and now even the food... most pathetic is the lack of proper glasses and coffee cups for beverage... unless they are slashing the price heavily, these kind of intra-European service just ends up turning away more passengers. KLM European Business Class looks more decent and that sandwich looks delicious.
However the ground service is excellent especially in CDG and JFK, which are very complicated airports with long lines everywhere. The transfer from your OSL arrival flight sounds good. The Lounge also looks excellent and the food looks delicious.
But how do you like the amenity kit and pajama? Are they offered on the daytime flights too?
Too bad, AF First is possibly not high on my list and doubt I am flying it anytime soon!
Thanks for sharing!
Carfield
hilltopper
Jul 8, 12, 4:49 am
That is the first comprehensive report of La Premiere that I see, many thanks!
The CDG lounge decor looks very impressive - looks also very empty?
As mentioned by others the inflight product is subpar is many respects. Even the breakfast tray with packaged items looks rather poor in terms of presentation.
And bad luck if you happen not to like foie gras (not me, I love that stuff!) :)
Thanks for the superb report!
KeepDiscovering
Jul 8, 12, 7:22 am
Pleasantly surprised about the furnishing, decoration and colour scheme of AF's lounge in Paris (those on page 1). The cream colour scheme gives a warm and comfy feeling.
LH738
Jul 8, 12, 1:20 pm
Great pictures! Thanks for sharing.
GreatDane
Jul 9, 12, 9:40 am
Great pictures! Thanks for sharing.
GREAT TR. ^
I also flew AF La Premiere a few times and was especially impressed with the ground service. Makes a world of difference from regular affaires class where you have to navigate your own way through the maze that is CDG ...
But a question: Was the wine selection really much better on the A380 than the B777 service? it seems far better - or did you abbreviate the report (perfectly understandable )? The B777 selection actually rather inferior and with suboptimal vintages.
geo1005
Jul 9, 12, 12:50 pm
-Boarding. Why would they board economy thorough first class?? We were first onboard, and then there was an endless stream of passengers entering the cabin going “whoooo, I love Airbus airplanes”. Wonder if they kept that impression after 7 hours in economy?
REALLY!?!? AF boards the economy cabin on the A380 through the First Class cabin? Wow! :eek:
fly747first
Jul 10, 12, 8:30 am
Outstanding report!!!!
CMK10
Jul 10, 12, 4:25 pm
Excellent report thanks for posting!
Btw, only two entree selections in F on JFK-CDG is a little off-putting to me. Even though you can eat in the lounge, you'd think they'd have at least three.
yerffej201
Jul 10, 12, 5:44 pm
Excellent TR!
Questions:
Was there an amenity kit and do you have pictures? (I see Lanvin but I thought they also had Clarins)
Was this a rev/award ticket?
THanks!
onefasteuro
Jul 10, 12, 7:30 pm
all looks really nice... especially the food... but those headphones are... hmm... weak :p
MileTex
Jul 10, 12, 9:15 pm
Excellent report. Flying SIN-CDG-JFK in a few months and upgraded to La Premiere even on the cheap RGN ticket. Really looking forward to the 20+ hours now on the 380. I have almost 7 hrs connection in CDG. (I wanted the 380 CDG-JFK) Do they have sleeping rooms in the lounge at CDG?
pansted00
Jul 11, 12, 7:31 am
Excellent trip report . Obviously the lounge experience far surpasses the in-flight experience. Pretty much sums up why AF is a doomed airline .
Seat 2A
Jul 11, 12, 9:29 am
Very nicely photographed and presented report. Thanks!
stimpy
Jul 16, 12, 2:28 pm
Thanks Dag. I posted my most recent La Premiere experience earlier this year in the AF forum but without all the great pictures you took. I agree it is, for the most part, the best F experience in Europe. I fly BA F often and have done LH F many times, but I haven't tried Swiss in recent years.
hugolover
Jul 17, 12, 1:29 am
A nice report! What opened my eyes was the limited selection on an F menu! Quite surprised, but then it makes sense with what the AF budget is.
Connecting flights terrible as always. Thank goodness the FA on the OSL-CDG asked about the transfer, you'd think it would be done automatically or by OSL station.
noniron
Jul 17, 12, 12:12 pm
Great report, just loved it, and yes Air France is severely under reported on this board.
Your meal and drinks choices are exactly what I've chosen, especially the foie gras treats!
Merci
nwmgc
Jul 18, 12, 9:15 am
Enjoyed the whole report and great to read about AF as I've not flown with them for an age. A pleasant change from the many reports on LH F!
Dag
Jul 27, 12, 4:51 am
Thanks for all the comments
But how do you like the amenity kit and pajama? Are they offered on the daytime flights too?
Carfield
I'm not that into amenity kits, but I guess they were ok. Kits and PJ's on flights in both directions, I'll put in pictures in the next post.
The CDG lounge decor looks very impressive - looks also very empty?
As mentioned by others the inflight product is subpar is many respects. Even the breakfast tray with packaged items looks rather poor in terms of presentation.
Lounge was busy from 9:30 to 10:15, then almost empty.
The inflight product might look subpar, but compared to Lufthansa (which so many have flown and seem to like, it is slightly better)
The presentation was not the best, but I tend to care more for the taste.
But a question: Was the wine selection really much better on the A380 than the B777 service? it seems far better - or did you abbreviate the report (perfectly understandable )? The B777 selection actually rather inferior and with suboptimal vintages.
Selection was the same, but the 380 menu contained all the La Premiere wines, not just the one for actual flight.
REALLY!?!? AF boards the economy cabin on the A380 through the First Class cabin? Wow! :eek:
Kind of wierd, and something AF should improve. Could be just this flight, or could be standard procedure.
Btw, only two entree selections in F on JFK-CDG is a little off-putting to me. Even though you can eat in the lounge, you'd think they'd have at least three.
Could have been 3, or a dine-in-the-lounge option. But it looked like the other 8 in the F cabin were more into sleeping than eating a full meal.
Questions:
Was there an amenity kit and do you have pictures? (I see Lanvin but I thought they also had Clarins)
Was this a rev/award ticket?
Yes, pictures will follow in the next post.
It was an award. Paying for F to NYC, I'd go with Swiss or Singapore, since Air France is probably the most expensive option out there.
I have almost 7 hrs connection in CDG. (I wanted the 380 CDG-JFK) Do they have sleeping rooms in the lounge at CDG?
Not separate rooms, but relaxing area and couches which I think they can make a bed on. Just ask the assistant.
Obviously the lounge experience far surpasses the in-flight experience. Pretty much sums up why AF is a doomed airline .
It is not that the inflight product is so bad, it is the ground experience that is so good, far better than Swiss / Thai and even Lufthansa.
Connecting flights terrible as always. Thank goodness the FA on the OSL-CDG asked about the transfer, you'd think it would be done automatically or by OSL station.
The pick up at 2G was arranged automaticly, but the FA offered to get the pilot to confirm it via ACARS on her own intiative. Very good service. I've not had Lufthansa or Thai do the same without asking.
Anyway, it's kind of funny to see how hostile people on this board are to Air France.
Dag
Jul 27, 12, 5:27 am
Sorry for the delay, I've been gone for work for some weeks. Here are the pictures:
PJ. A380 to the right. Slightly different bag, and slightly different PJ. Liked the 380 better, since it was a little bit bigger.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3697.jpg
A380 PJ, not the best pic
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3625c.jpg
Got this kit when I requested a shower at JFK
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3695.jpg
Contents of the kit
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3700.jpg
The kit found in the washroom of the 380, grabbed a few since no one else did. Getting dusty already, lost in box.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3696.jpg
Contents of the kit
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3701.jpg
A kit was handed out on the A380, but I only kept this bag that was inside it.
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3694.jpg
Contents of the kit
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd459/festrus/USA%20juni%202012%20v2/IMG_3698.jpg
jacob_m
Jul 28, 12, 11:39 am
Thanks for the nice report and lovely photos!
Anyway, it's kind of funny to see how hostile people on this board are to Air France.
I agree. I tried Air France La Première earlier this week on Paris-Tokyo and found the whole first class experience better than many airlines frequently featured here (and I have tried about a dozen airlines in F). I don't think AF is a perfect airline but they don't deserve all the bashing.
The ground experience in CDG is truly wonderful, I'll rank it above LH FCT in FRA and probably above all other ground services I have tried (hard choice with the SQ Private Room in SIN which is pretty good too). The actual transfer works better than FCT and includes limo transfer also on arrival. The food in CDG beats FCT hands down, no competition. The drinks selection is obviously wider in the FCT but the drinks selection in CDG was still rather good and the staff knew what they serving and could give advice. The service was very elegant in CDG and I personally found it very attentive. My personal assistant was a lovely woman who made her outmost to make me feel comfortable.
I found the inflight experience to be excellent but obviously this depends on the crew. I fully enjoyed the food service and would rank the food pretty high compared to competitors. The drinks selection had a very French touch, as the food I guess. Lots of interesting liqueurs for example but for me who enjoys a whisky after a nice meal I would have prefered to see something else (JW Blue surely missing).
The seat is perfectly OK although not the most modern, they could have opted for something more modern when they launched the A380. I slept well in the seat and loved the very comfortable duvet offered as well as the pyjamas which wasn't too warm (which I have found a problem on some other airlines).
All-in-all I wouldn't hesitate a second to do it again.
CMK10
Jul 28, 12, 3:16 pm
Anyway, it's kind of funny to see how hostile people on this board are to Air France.
I WANT to like Air France and sometimes it's easy. Their trans-Atlantic J product is quite good in my opinion. But when this is your meal on a 1hr35 minute flight (VIE-CDG) and then the crew disappears for the rest of the flight you find yourself thinking "wow, had I been flying AA First on a similar length leg it would probably be better, more comfortable too". And don't get me started on the overcrowded CDG J lounges with no hot food :mad:
But when this is your meal on a 1hr35 minute flight (VIE-CDG) and then the crew disappears for the rest of the flight you find yourself thinking "wow, had I been flying AA First on a similar length leg it would probably be better, more comfortable too". And don't get me started on the overcrowded CDG J lounges with no hot food :mad:
All Euro airlines are bad on Euro legs nowadays. And the CDG T2E S4 lounge now has hot food.
CMK10
Jul 28, 12, 3:37 pm
All Euro airlines are bad on Euro legs nowadays. And the CDG T2E S4 lounge now has hot food.
I disagree, I think KLM is wonderful intra-Europe. I do retract my hot food comment as my information was a few months old.
stimpy
Jul 28, 12, 3:46 pm
I disagree, I think KLM is wonderful intra-Europe. I do retract my hot food comment as my information was a few months old.
Yeah, KLM has improved a bit lately, but I judge these airlines by how good they were in the late 90's. They have all fallen quite a bit.
gkbiiii
Jul 29, 12, 9:22 am
I thought my LOT flight WAR-BCN was outstanding and a better meal then F/J in most of the USA domestic market!
Dag
Jul 29, 12, 9:28 am
I disagree, I think KLM is wonderful intra-Europe. I do retract my hot food comment as my information was a few months old.
Wonderful compared to what? I find Swiss and SAS to be better, and maybe Lufthansa as well.
I WANT to like Air France and sometimes it's easy. Their trans-Atlantic J product is quite good in my opinion.
Long time since I flew Air France J, I remember I thought it was ok.
My comment about Air France hostility was mostly based on the comments on the La Premiere flights. Their intra Europe service was nothing to be proud about.
Thanks for the nice report and lovely photos!
I agree. I tried Air France La Première earlier this week on Paris-Tokyo and found the whole first class experience better than many airlines frequently featured here (and I have tried about a dozen airlines in F). I don't think AF is a perfect airline but they don't deserve all the bashing.
The ground experience in CDG is truly wonderful, I'll rank it above LH FCT in FRA and probably above all other ground services I have tried (hard choice with the SQ Private Room in SIN which is pretty good too). The actual transfer works better than FCT and includes limo transfer also on arrival. The food in CDG beats FCT hands down, no competition. The drinks selection is obviously wider in the FCT but the drinks selection in CDG was still rather good and the staff knew what they serving and could give advice. The service was very elegant in CDG and I personally found it very attentive. My personal assistant was a lovely woman who made her outmost to make me feel comfortable.
I found the inflight experience to be excellent but obviously this depends on the crew. I fully enjoyed the food service and would rank the food pretty high compared to competitors. The drinks selection had a very French touch, as the food I guess. Lots of interesting liqueurs for example but for me who enjoys a whisky after a nice meal I would have prefered to see something else (JW Blue surely missing).
The seat is perfectly OK although not the most modern, they could have opted for something more modern when they launched the A380. I slept well in the seat and loved the very comfortable duvet offered as well as the pyjamas which wasn't too warm (which I have found a problem on some other airlines).
All-in-all I wouldn't hesitate a second to do it again.
I agree 100%^
Abidjan
Jul 29, 12, 10:15 am
Agreed, well done. CDG lounge looked very nice. And there should be a better beer selection. Hope you post more reports in the future. The more pics, the better.
CMK10
Jul 30, 12, 10:13 am
Wonderful compared to what? I find Swiss and SAS to be better, and maybe Lufthansa as well.
I actually don't have too much to compare it to, just that I like it and I think it's a good product. I flew AMS-PRG last year in C and it was an all around great flight. One of the F/As insisted a Y passenger not store his bag in C, meal was good, plenty of refills, smiles all around. It's nice when you feel like the crew wants you on board.
G_G
Aug 1, 12, 10:47 am
Thanks Dag for sharing this great and extensive TR.
Very nice pictures too ^
AF seems to be the best airline for ground experience in First.
milesaddict
Aug 1, 12, 3:29 pm
Thanks Dag for sharing this great and extensive TR.
Very nice pictures too ^
AF seems to be the best airline for ground experience in First.
It's the best in the world for ground F service.
Only the inflight product remains poor regarding the seat and the catering.
Dag : I've been waiting the report for long time... 250k miles is hard...
JFK is too short.... I would have flown to LAX..
Very nice pics !
Well done !
Thomas
Dag
Aug 1, 12, 3:42 pm
Dag : I've been waiting the report for long time... 250k miles is hard...
JFK is too short.... I would have flown to LAX..
Thomas
I know, but the 388 LAX flight leaves CDG too early, so it would give no time in the lounge. I wanted 380 both ways, but equipment swap wanted it otherwise.
I thought of going to JFK west, and from LAX east. Connecting flights to my final destination, MSP, did not match too well, and then the price for multi-city sky-rocketed. So I ended up having a whole day in Manhattan going east, which was pretty nice. Flying from LAX instead of JFK would give better time for sleep though.
Thanks for the comments.
milesaddict
Aug 1, 12, 4:00 pm
It makes sense.
Otherwise, you could have arrived at night in CDG have a good night and then going to LAX the next morning.
I don't know is FB is flexible at that point. Can't see why since it's not a layover longer than 24 hours.
tks again for sharing !
HIDDY
Aug 1, 12, 5:40 pm
Pleasantly surprised about the furnishing, decoration and colour scheme of AF's lounge in Paris (those on page 1). The cream colour scheme gives a warm and comfy feeling.
I think the decor is ruddy awful myself.....although the lounge food looks pretty decent.
Very nice report. ^
I am a fan of AF although it's been many years since I flew with them and even then mostly in economy class. I'd love to try their F product as they do seem to have concentrated on making the ground part of it top notch. However....there are a few airlines further up my priority list I'm afraid.
milesaddict
Aug 2, 12, 1:03 am
I think the decor is ruddy awful myself.....although the lounge food looks pretty decent.
Very nice report. ^
I am a fan of AF although it's been many years since I flew with them and even then mostly in economy class. I'd love to try their F product as they do seem to have concentrated on making the ground part of it top notch. However....there are a few airlines further up my priority list I'm afraid.
What ? HIDDY, fan of AF.....
it's bad to cheat on BA !!!!!! :D
Jokking ! :cool:
stimpy
Aug 2, 12, 2:06 am
Only the inflight product remains poor regarding the seat and the catering.
I completely disagree. The seating is excellent on AF especially the nice duvet which is far, far, better than what you have with BA and LH. The food and wine is better too. This is compared to other Euro carriers (note that I haven't tried LX F in many years). If we are talking Asian and ME carriers, then they have better food of course. But I'll say the AF seat with the duvet is among the best for sleeping.
Zembla
Aug 3, 12, 4:45 am
Nice trip report, and interesting addition. I also had that lamb in the lounge. Tasty isn't it? :)
The ones complaining about the headphones can osee the new ones in the addition. The new ones are actually Bose headphones and sound pretty good imho!
Only the inflight product remains poor regarding the seat and the catering.
I wouldn't call it poor! Perhaps not spectacular, but then, it's not supposed to be bling imho! It's a fine, classy, and very enjoyable experience. Who gets to get seated and dine like that in the sky?
FFlyerCDG
Aug 5, 12, 12:43 pm
As usual... Very poor food service on European flights ! Maybe it's the reason why they don't talk anymore about Business but Premium Voyageur which doesn't mean anything LOL
One question... What was the dessert you had for your P lunch ? Seems quite mysterious :-)
And please... Try the "baba au rhum" next time you'll be in the P lounge in CDG. It's to die for !!!! But with rhum... Not with armagnac ;-)
DrivingRain
Oct 19, 12, 5:06 pm
Best trip report in a very long time. Bravo.
Ahuch
Oct 19, 12, 9:14 pm
Great trip report! The lounges really look fantastic.
I flew two AF legs (DL Codeshares) in J last month ex-RGN ticket and wasn't overly impressed, although my first legs were TG(333) and SQ(772/388) in J so perhaps I was just feeling a little spoiled. ZRH-CDG was on either an E170 or E190 (forget which) and CDG-JFK on the A380. The regional flight had me situated beside a large, obnoxious frenchman who has yet to discover toothpaste or mouthwash, methinks. At least it was a short hop. The J Cabin on the 388 that particular day was lucky enough to feature multiple crying babies and a plethora of loud french children... I think I've had more relaxing flights flying UA Y+ LAX-NRT in that decrepit old 747.
Side note: Last week we got exactly the same Breakfast in Affaires-Class:
http://img3.fotos-hochladen.net/uploads/201305053843k7etjfznuo.jpg (http://www.fotos-hochladen.net)
Is this a good Point for Affaires Class or a bad Point for La Premiere? :D
But I have to say, that Affaires Class seems to improve over the last one, two years. Maybe I should write also a Trip Report.:D
Arcanum
May 15, 13, 9:05 am
All Euro airlines are bad on Euro legs nowadays. And the CDG T2E S4 lounge now has hot food.
I recall reading recently that the European airlines all lose money on their intra-Europe business class cabins, and they only keep them because connecting long-haul passengers wouldn't tolerate being seated in Y for those legs.