If you like this report, you may be interested in some of my other trip reports.
AKL-YYZ with NZ/AC in F & C (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=182293) - my first trip report
Europe to Iceland & return on Icelandair (FI) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=312261) - somewhere different
Some FTers DO the Inaugural Worlds Longest Flight SIN-EWR vv 28 June 2004 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=333373) - 2 long flights back to back
7 Crazy Days (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=388543) - includes an almost inaugural flight
Champagne and figure eights on ice (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=395111 ) - Antarctica flightseeing
a Lit.tle sPRinG.Ly JoUrney (BUDding KiwiS Can zig-ZAG around Europe) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=413562) - mostly central and eastern Europe
Big DO DOs - or a Kiwi Flyer's Month of Madness (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=483205) - lots of flights
Another Manic Month for Kiwi (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=506310) - again lots of flights
Mini Tour of NZ (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=538043) - over 100 domestic flights in New Zealand covering all domestic routes (ongoing)
Across the Globe in 5 Continents (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=546261) - criss-crossing the globe
Auckland to National Park by Train (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=587740 ) - train in New Zealand's North Island
Across the Globe in 5 Continents Again (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=603485) - criss-crossing the globe, but this time mainly on One World
A Warm Embrace of the Tropics (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=628691) - short trips to the tropical South Pacific
Singapore (SQ) new first and business class, plus a medley of 12 F & C SQ flights (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=645907) - name says it all really
Across the Globe in 4 Continents (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=674391) - around the world on star alliance, including some unusual flights
Queensland And Northern Territory Aerial Sampler (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=687399) - a sampling of Qantas flights, domestic and international, in economy and business (ongoing)
Around the World in Under 60 Hours (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=692401) - around the world in a weekend
The Heat is On - another longhaul economy trip in under 60 hours (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=699422) - what a contrast, Asia and Qantas' new first class lounges
Fast on the ground and in the air - it must be Shanghai (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=703184) – a flying visit to Shanghai + Maglev
It's a Fine Line Between Pleasure & Pain: 4 wacky weeks 2 RTW C, inaugural longhaul Y (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=738003) – mostly One World
Back and forth across the Pacific on a variety of airlines in a selection of classes (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=763196) - 16 crossings of the Pacific plus some other related flights
It isn't every day that you witness a hijacking attempt + NZ's forgotten 4th island (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=788580) - a visit to Chatham Islands coincides with New Zealand's first hijacking attempt
There and back - first day Air NZ flies to Coolangatta (Gold Coast) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=806680)
A Run Around (part of) The Axis of Evil: A Perfect *A RTW in C? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=809334) - Axis of Evil 0 US Immigration 1 :(
Wellington to Auckland by train (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=845092) - self-explanatory title
A mad couple of days flying, including domestic international flights (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=847659) - a double longhaul inaugural, domestic international shuttle and domestic leg of an international flight
Regional C *A RTW & (hopefully) finishing flying every route (100+) for an airline (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=864638) - featuring new QF First on A380 special flight, "you have to get off now", and 105th different current route with NZ
One World Revolutions - Around Mostly the Southern Hemisphere (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=893299) - mostly Southern Hemisphere and mostly on One World on a mix of products
Cris-cros the Med & the Globe on Emirates, Qantas & Star Alliance in mix of F/C/Y+/Y (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=929302) – starting with EK First on A380 and ending with Qantas economy, with a lot of travel mostly on *A in between
An FTer flies to a Do (or Why take the nonstop when you can fly 10 flights instead?) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=954595) - combining an FT Do with an aerial tour of northern Queensland
The Ultimate Qantas Flight (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=963562) - short report on the ultimate flight
Premium Flying Across the Ditch (Between New Zealand and Australia) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=994896) - experiencing the forward cabins on Trans-Tasman flights (ongoing)
5 Boeings Straight to the Airbus Do - FTer feasts in first, business & economy (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=995703) - my journey to & from the *A / Airbus Mega Do (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=975877)
NZ route oddities & One World turns by night (redeye special) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1022519) - an odd collection of flight routes & schedules around the world
From my first low cost redeye to a first class trifecta - an insane fortnight (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1065728) - some firsts of all types
G'day, kia orana - it's another inaugural flight in Air New Zealand business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1102913) - a day & night tripping around the South Pacific on Air NZ
A Feast of First Class Flying on British Airways, Qantas and Emirates (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1164157) - long distance in style
A Weekend of Old and New - Lufthansa first & business, Air New Zealand business (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1208854) - a quick longhaul trip featuring some old and new products
Star Alliance tres primo, and tres biz (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1228918) - a trio of first and business on Star Alliance
A few flights to end 2011 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1294333) - a quick trip around the world + more
Frankfurt to Khartoum on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10605680)
Frankfurt to Khartoum business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10605703)
Khartoum to Addis Ababa on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10605747)
Khartoum to Addis Ababa business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10605756)
Transit in Addis Ababa (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10605783)
Addis Ababa to Khartoum on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10611051)
Addis Ababa to Khartoum business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10611119)
Khartoum to Frankfurt on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10611137)
Khartoum to Frankfurt business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10611143)
Frankfurt to London on Lufthansa 737-300 in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10613875)
Transit in London Heathrow (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10613903)
London Heathrow to Los Angeles on Air New Zealand 777-200ER in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10632017)
London Heathrow to Los Angeles business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10632151)
Los Angeles to Auckland on Air New Zealand 777-200ER in business class (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10656971)
Los Angeles to Auckland business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10657139)
Auckland to Christchurch on Air New Zealand 737 in economy space+ (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10751745)
Christchurch to Dunedin on Air New Zealand ATR 72-500 in economy (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10756733)
Dunedin to Melbourne on Air New Zealand A320 in economy space+ (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10771831)
Melbourne to Auckland on Air New Zealand A320 in business (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10771926)
Melbourne to Auckland business class menu (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10772002)
Latest summary
GCM map (http://gc.kls2.com/cgi-bin/gc?PATH=AKL-wlg-nan-chc-AKL-wlg-CHC-AKL-nzox-gbz-AKL-AKL-syd-sin-mle-sin-ktm-sin-dil-sin-CAI-fra-alg-fra-lju-prn-vie-fra-krt-add-krt-fra-lhr-lax-AKL-chc-dud-mel-AKL&path-units=mi), a google map of Great Barrier Island flights (http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&ie=UTF8&msid=103874903124698500382.0004588538d7c6f817160&ll=-36.569218,175.245667&spn=1.186756,2.109375&t=p&z=9) and google map of approximate flightpath of Qantas A380 (http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&ie=UTF8&ll=-36.430122,174.765015&spn=2.271658,4.21875&t=h&z=8&msid=103874903124698500382.000458ecdd879ab74cae7)
56,088 flown miles (incl approx 400 miles for QF A380)
38 flights
8 a/c types
737
A320
777
Britten Norman Islander BN-2B
A380
767
747
A300
8 airlines
Air New Zealand
Fly My Sky
Qantas
Singapore Airlines
Silkair
Lufthansa
Adria
Austrian Airlines
17 countries
New Zealand
Fiji
Australia
Singapore
Maldives
Nepal
Timor Leste
Egypt
Germany
Algeria
Slovenia
Kosovo
Austria
Sudan
Ethiopia
United Kingdom
USA
personal firsts and other trivia
shortest flight, 6 miles not many minutes
first A380 flight
first flight in Qantas new first class
9th airline flown in/out of Sydney, equal 3rd most for me
pass 750,000 flown miles on Singapore Airlines/Silkair, the most for me
41st destination on Singapore Airlines/Silkair, 2nd most for me
flown Lufthansa to all European Star Alliance hubs except for IST, MAD and LIS (LHR CPH ARN HEL MUC FRA LJU ZAG WAW ZRH VIE BCN)
pass 750k airline status miles (or equivalent) since 1 January 2008
flown 100th Air New Zealand flight of 2008
flown 105th and final current Air NZ route (plus several discontinued routes)
As at post #174
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 10, 08, 1:50 am
INTRODUCTION
As is often the case, when the opportunity arose for a brief break, I was thinking of another dash around the world stopping briefly in a few countries I have yet to visit. As time goes by this is getting harder and harder to achieve. While there are more countries I have not visited than countries that I have visited (just barely), many of the more accessible ones (easy connections, little or no visa issues, high frequency of flights, etc) I have already visited.
So the planning for the trip was trickier than normal. Matters were complicated by my tight schedule and a short window of opportunity to arrange necessary visas - for I have had ongoing frequent international travel lately.
Those who've read some of my previous reports will be aware I'm not content to just have one complicated ticket on the go, but I also have other tickets inter-woven into my travel itinerary. Some are for convenient side-trips, while others are in the pursuit of another travel goal of mine - to fly every route of an airline.
As I write this I have no idea if it will all work out. All I know is the schedule is ambitious/optimistic (even by my standards), for some reasons which will become apparent as this report unfolds, as well as some other reasons which will hopefully never see the light of day.
More later.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 10, 08, 5:36 pm
SOMETHING NEW
I aim to learn something new every day.
Today I discovered that the domestic Air NZ Manage Domestic Booking tool (bottom left of the homepage) which allows you to select/change seats on domestic flights, also allows you to select/change seats on international flights. I'm interested to see if it works, because until now I'd been under the impression the only way to select seats on Air NZ international flights was through the travel agent the booking was made with, or by calling Air NZ.
NZ_Flyer
Sep 10, 08, 8:08 pm
SOMETHING NEW
I aim to learn something new every day.
Today I discovered that the domestic Air NZ Manage Domestic Booking tool (bottom left of the homepage) which allows you to select/change seats on domestic flights, also allows you to select/change seats on international flights. I'm interested to see if it works, because until now I'd been under the impression the only way to select seats on Air NZ flights was through the travel agent the booking was made with, or by calling Air NZ.
Indeed KF you are correct. I tried it today for a NZ135 flight to Brisbane. Gives a seatmap of 777 and exactly the same seat select format as domestic seat selection. It retained my original seat selection via Air NZ call centre as well which is good to see.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 11, 08, 12:28 am
A link to discussion on NZ forum (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=864956). Amazingly I stumbled across this new feature some hours before it was launched. I did the same thing last year with the latest multi-city booking tool on the NZ website.
24.05.2004
Sep 11, 08, 6:01 am
One of the nice things of living on the other side of the world from KiwiFlyer is that I can have morning coffee and read his trip reports. Elation soon turned into disappointment when seeing new posts in this TR only to learn about seat assignment crapola! ;)
So get on the plane already, ok?
Your #1 fan (probably) in Central America.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 11, 08, 4:16 pm
FLY EVERY ROUTE
A couple of weeks ago I posted about some crazy travel ideas (http://theglobaltraveller.blogspot.com/2008/08/crazy-travel-idea.html) I have, one of which is to fly every Air New Zealand route (currently 107 routes). A few days later I posted (http://theglobaltraveller.blogspot.com/2008/08/fly-every-domestic-route.html) I had flown every domestic route.
This idea started a couple of years ago, when I was bored on a longhaul flight and looking at the route map in the back of the Kia Ora magazine (onboard all Air NZ flights). I realised I'd flown to almost all current Air New Zealand destinations, and had flown a high proportion of their current routes.
While I'd long been trying new destinations and routes I decided to step it up a gear and more actively seek out unflown ones on Air NZ, with an aim of flying them all. At the time I thought it might take a year. It has taken much longer than that, as new routes get added (the conversion of about a dozen trans-tasman routes from low cost subsidiary Freedom Air back to mainline has added several months to the "job") and the realities of inconvenient schedules have had to be dealt with.
At last, I'm now in sight of achieving this goal. Recently I thought I was just a few flights away until I was informed of a seasonal route that I'd overlooked. So instead of completing the job of flying all Air NZ routes in time for the Kiwi Mainland Do Two (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=793277) I will have one current route left unflown. I have of course since booked that flight when it's season resumes shortly afterwards.
This goal has gotten me into some trouble with immigration & customs. Somehow having 6 trans-tasman flights in 4 days is suspicious :rolleyes: I've enjoyed some inaugural flights for the last couple of new longhaul routes - Auckland to Vancouver (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=8667375) and Auckland to Beijing to Auckland (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=847659) (double inaugural). I've spent a lot of time flying around this corner of the world, mostly in economy. So far I've had no major problems with flights but a few minor ones - a few fog delays of some hours, narrowly missing an airport closure due to a snow storm, broken IFE, a trayful of smoothies in my lap :( I've also had some good luck with op-ups, rebooking on earlier flights with fees waived, equipment upgrades (a longhaul seat in place of shorthaul) and downgrades (losing a business seat on an all economy flight).
It's been a blast, but I am tiring of this pursuit and thinking about other goals. Hopefully the remaining 3 routes get flown without a hitch and I will move on.
Blackcloud
Sep 11, 08, 8:12 pm
[It's been a blast, but I am tiring of this pursuit and thinking about other goals. Hopefully the remaining 3 routes get flown without a hitch and I will move on.
No Kiwi Flyer cannot be serious!:eek::confused:
Oh what about ferries and trains in NZ, you have covered some of them....:p
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 13, 08, 4:20 pm
AUCKLAND to WELLINGTON (AKL-WLG) on Air New Zealand 737-300 in economy class (space+ zone)
I met up with serfty as planned at the airport and we headed through security together into the Qantas Club (since serfty had no access to the Koru Club while I had access to both lounges). As I wasn't the first person through the WTMD today, I did not get the "random" wanding. We chatted a while, and confirmed the suspicion that the latest changes to the Qantas website on the red-edeal page did not work on the Qantas Club computers (software version too old) :( Why is it that airlines don't think to upgrade their lounge computers at the same time as their websites to ensure they are usable in their own lounge? Air NZ has had similar issues in the past.
After a while serfty's flight was called for boarding and I headed landside then back through security in the Air New Zealand portion of the domestic terminal for the Koru Club. One of my favourite agents was on duty so we had a nice wee chat. I grabbed some fruit for breakfast - the hot offering today was unappealing baked beans and dried up scrambled eggs. Still, the cold breakfast options are always good in the Koru Club - muesli, cereal, fruits, juice and toast. I had enough time to check my emails, airfare websites and FT, and grab a copy of the newspaper to read later.
Boarding was called late in the lounge, as usual. There was plenty of room in the overhead bins for my little carry on and I found I was in luck - despite a very full flight I managed to score an empty middle seat yet again. For those who haven't flown Air New Zealand domestic recently, or don't read the Air NZ forum on FT, space+ is the forward zone in economy on 737, A320 and 767 (only 737 has been completed) with approx 35" of legroom. As I posted on my blog (http://theglobaltraveller.blogspot.com/2008/09/im-ungrateful-for-extra-space-in.html) recently, this is better than the longhaul seats and is available on flights as short as 45 minutes.
Being a weekend flight, the offering onboard was a choice of casava crisps or lollies (pineapple lumps and jetplanes). No banana chips this time. Drinks are tea, coffee and water. I read part of the paper, and watched the kiwi trivia quiz which plays on the bulkhead and overhead monitors. I think I zoned out for a while as before I realised what was happening we had touched down at Wellington.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 13, 08, 4:33 pm
WELLINGTON to NADI (WLG-NAN) on Air New Zealand A320 in economy class
I checked in for my onward flights. Air NZ does not yet have on line check in for international flights. However as I was checking in fairly early and Air NZ only had one international flight from Wellington this afternoon, there were no queues and I was quickly given 2 boarding passes. I had retained the seats I'd selected online a couple of days prior - so the new functionality passed the first test.
A quick stop by Travelex to pay the $25 departure fee. The clerk at first did not believe the boarding pass was correct as she thought there was no direct flight to Nadi.
Then, I headed up to the Qantas Club with blackcloud to pleasantly while away the time until immigration opened up.
DownUnderFlyer
Sep 13, 08, 9:30 pm
A quick stop by Travelex to pay the $25 departure fee.
Something I really love about NZ airports. Hopefully all of them will build this into the ticket price in the future.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 14, 08, 12:46 pm
AKL has the international departure fee included in the ticketing now (and also added an international arrival fee).
At the others normally the NZ Gold/Koru/Business class check in is happy to deal with the departure fee (cash or credit card), but for some unknown reason I've never been able to do so at WLG or DUD.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 16, 08, 12:52 pm
WELLINGTON to NADI (WLG-NAN) on Air New Zealand A320 in economy class continued
On the way out of the Qantas Club we had a brief chat with sixties chick, then a short wait at immigration and I went straight to the NZ international lounge. There, I was warmly welcomed back on sight (no need to show my boarding pass or card :D ) and advised the middle seat had again been blocked for me. I quickly checked my email on a lounge computer in the couple of minutes before boarding. This took longer than I expected due to the computer rebooting itself for system updates just after I'd logged in :( Given the lounge is only open for a few hours a day, why can't these updates be scheduled for a time that won't inconvenience passengers?
As a result I was last to leave the lounge, but didn't hold up boarding as I joined a queue of 2 in the airbridge. Perfect timing.
I was looking forward to the flight. The online seat selection map indicated I had space+ seating (plus AVOD IFE) when I selected my seat a couple of days before, and earlier in the day it was still showing as space+. Unfortunately, it was soon apparent as a non-refurbished a/c. I made a mental note that while the refurbishment programme is underway, the online seat maps may not be reliable. Instead of something new I'd get to watch Death Defying Acts yet again, with less legroom :(
The meal was offered less than an hour into the flight. It was a choice of crumbed chicken or a lamb pasta bake. Both with a little salad and a small cake, hot and cold drinks, soft or alcoholic (hic).
I was tired after a hectic week and little sleep the previous night and so I dozed off at the end of the movie. We landed in the warm tropical Fiji night.
Moomba
Sep 16, 08, 1:06 pm
I am looking forward to seeing where Kiwi Flyer ends up next.
Maybe there should be a thread on FT entitled "Where is Kiwi ???" :D
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 16, 08, 2:21 pm
NADI to CHRISTCHURCH (NAN-CHC) on Air New Zealand A320 in economy class
With a short connection I rushed down the airbridge and walked to transit. Security asked me to get the boarding pass reissued at the desk, as they did also for a number of passengers connecting from Sydney to Los Angeles on Air Pacific. This took several minutes and I got handed a new identical boarding pass.
That was good enough to get me through security. I headed downstairs to the Air NZ lounge and grabbed a towel at reception to use the shower. This is very basic and would have done the job nicely but for a total lack of ventilation - meaning the heat and humidity were terrible. So much for a refreshing shower :(
There is no computer and the lounge was rather full, with just a few spare seats. Air NZ has two departures tonight. I headed out to have a look at the duty free while waiting for boarding. The prices were higher than I expected, and much higher than for example in Rarotonga, so I did not end up buying anything.
By the time I reached the upper level boarding had started. The load was very light and they were soon making a final call. Back onboard I saw I'd gotten an empty row. We pushed back early and an early pa announcement was made reassuring passengers the score in the Bledisloe Cup and Tri Nations decider (against Australia) would be announced as soon as it was known.
The movie was Second Hand Wedding which was quite good. I hadn't seen it before having previously carefully avoided it in the AVOD selection on 777 flights in the expectation I'd see it this flight. Ah it is good that Air NZ publishes the monthly IFE listings both online and in the Kia Ora magazine.
This time the meal was served well into the flight, which I thought was odd given many passengers wanted to sleep. By the time dinner was served I'd already had several glasses of the Saint Clair sauvignon blanc (from business class) and was ready for another bite (especially after the less than palatable meal on the flight over). The offering was fish cake (when oh when will they get rid of this tray of foulness) or a herb crusted chicken. Again a small salad and cake, plus drinks.
I dozed for a bit, but did not get much sleep, and chatted a while with one of the FAs. Each pa announcing the score was either met with stunned silence (and the odd loud groan) or cheers and clapping. As we descended to Christchurch, some half an hour early, the final score was given. A narrow pulsating win to the All Blacks. Dang - wish I'd seen that game.
A brief stop at duty free before immigration. A few questions there, and again at customs, and I was through landside far earlier than I expected.
106 Air NZ routes down, 1 to go. As that last route is seasonal, completing the "task" will go on hold for a short while. But that just gives me time for a few more trips.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 17, 08, 7:40 pm
Transit in Christchurch (CHC)
With a late night arrival and early morning departure I was unsure what to do. I could book a nearby hotel and get a maximum of 2 hours sleep, likely less, (+ risk missing my flight by sleeping through alarm), or stay in the airport for the few hours it shuts down. I opted to stay at the airport.
As I'd arrived on the last flight of the night, all the best positions for resting had already been taken by the couple of dozen fellow travellers who were spending the night here. The domestic terminal and international terminal check in areas were both locked, which is a shame as the only truly comfortable seats in the building are by international check in. International arrivals area is kept unlocked through the night, with lights kept on and about every 30 minutes an announcement to keep an eye on our bags as this is a security conscious airport.
A tv showed some football with the volume fairly low. I noticed there was a lack of power points for using laptops or other devices - with just a few jealously guarded by those lucky enough to have nabbed them.
I didn't sleep but took the opportunity to catch up on some reading, pick up some bus timetables for the upcoming do, and go for a walk in the chilly night. The other landside parts of the building were opened up around 4am, but the domestic security didn't open until 4:30am and the Koru Club until 4:50am.
This was my third different airport that I've spent the night (or rather a few hours) at in recent weeks. It ranks last in my view, for having no real amenities and being the most difficult of the 3 to sleep in (if that is what you want).
NZ_Flyer
Sep 17, 08, 9:00 pm
Can I hazard a guess that your last NZ route is the seasonal DUD-MEL?
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 18, 08, 12:57 pm
good guess
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 20, 08, 3:07 pm
CHRISTCHURCH to AUCKLAND (CHC-AKL) on Air New Zealand 737-300 in economy class (space+ zone)
The flight was called not long after I'd entered the lounge. The load was moderately light, and I was the only passenger with lounge access. Most of the passengers were Japanese tourists connecting to Air New Zealand's flight to Tokyo.
I got an empty middle seat, but did not get my preferred seating as the seat selection had been blocked out during the time I checked it in the days ahead of the flight.
There was an early morning fog building as we taxiied out. I managed to stay awake long enough to see the pre-dawn lightness shining on the snow-draped Kaikoura Ranges, and then was out until we touched down in Auckland ahead of time.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 22, 08, 9:22 pm
CHRISTCHURCH to AUCKLAND (CHC-AKL) on Air New Zealand 777-200ER in business class
Normally business class is not able to be purchased on this domestic leg of an international flight unless you have flown business class on the Tokyo/Osaka to Christchurch leg, or, as in my case, have booked it as part of a special business class ticket. Regular business class tickets ex-NZ to destinations other than Japan book into economy on this flight.
Anyway, I'd booked this in business class to not only maximise comfort should I actually be able to take the flight, as well as maximising flexibility if I should not be able to take the flight. It turned out that I could take the flight. I was looking forward to it, as it has been a while since I've flown it in business class despite my regular jaunts to Japan.
I arrived at international check in a couple of hours before departure only to find it closed with a sign indicating it would not be open for some time. Rather than hang around landside, perhaps at the cafe in the international terminal, I headed through security for the domestic lounge.
The nice agent inside checked me in. No need to show the photo ID that is required for the international flight (as opposed to domestic flights which require no ID) - she knows who I am. I was a bit sleep deprived and so didn't notice immediately that she'd forgotten to give me a "D" sticker and also forgotten to take the paper ticket coupon. When I remembered she slapped on the sticker over one end of the thin domestic boarding pass, and I realised then I'd forgotten to check which FFP I had entered and so had to ask her to look it up for me. Because domestic business class is not normally bookable the earning rate is rubbish on Air NZ Airpoints and I wanted the flight credited to another program.
The agent also let me know what time immigration was opening - in about 30 minutes time. I had enough time for a much needed 3 coffees and a quick check of email messages and it was time to head over to international terminal.
With no bags to check, and boarding pass with "D" sticker in hand I was soon past the departure fee checker (waived for domestic passengers) and up to immigration. A small delay there as the officer was thrown a bit by having a domestic boarding pass and an old style "D" sticker. I guess that is what you get when international check in desk is closed - whatever the domestic lounge has on hand is not the latest stock. I managed to avoid the random manual check at security and headed on up to the lounge.
This too, did not open very long before departure. It was shut when I arrived but opened soon after at 1 hour before departure. I was first in, but only narrowly ahead of the international through passengers.
I grabbed a bite to eat and managed to restrain myself - just a couple of glasses to drink. Boarding was called late in the process and I was one of the last to board. I hadn't long settled into my seat in the half empty business class cabin, and started watching some tv shows, when a ground staff came up to me asking for the coupon. That was easily dealt with. I thought about trying to watch a short movie - with gate to gate IFE there might just be enough time to see one. However, if the flight time was short I'd miss the tail end so I opted instead for some tv shows. No newspaper offered, but fortunately I'd grabbed one in the lounge.
We left a few minutes late. The first 30 minutes of the flight were rather turbulent with strong & gusty cross-winds - a classic nor'wester (aloft at least). Meal and all other service was suspended until we reached Cook Strait when our flight became more settled.
A snack was on offer - no menu card. A few bits of cold meat, cheese and rocket. Accompanied by some fruit or a sponge cake. Plus drinks.
IFE was turned off while we approached over AKL. So much for gate to gate :(
A good portion of the Air NZ longhaul fleet was parked up at AKL for the day - 3 747's at remote stands, plus a couple of 777's. We got a gate at the end, thus Air NZ did it's bit to help us work off the food and booze consumed onboard with the long walk to immigration. As a domestic passenger no point in stopping by duty free, and I rush to the shared domestic/APEC/aircrew line at the far right. I had a small wait for an officer to man the desk. Then through to customs and waved through there. The guy on x-ray may have been new as he wanted a completed arrival form from me (no immigration forms on departure or arrival for "D" passengers) and also wanted to x-ray my stuff. His supervisor waved me through.
It was a good time of day for non-"D" passengers too, with no queues at immigration or customs.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 23, 08, 12:19 am
VISAS
After a hectic few months of international travel I am now in a deliberate window free of international travel in order to sort out the necessary visas. My country does not allow secondary passports and so I have to carefully plan when I will get visas arranged in times that I do not need to use it. With my travel schedule and just a 3 month window before travel to each country to get a visa (other than places where I can get multi-visit visas and already have such), it is a delicate juggling act co-ordinating it all.
As regular readers of my trip reports may recall, I prefer to leave it to a specialist visa company to advise me of the requirements and manage the visas I need to get in advance. This saves me a lot of time and hassle, which can be considerable when you live in a country that has no official representation for many countries, or at least none that can issue visas and those that can are mostly in a different city.
I visited their offices and had a wee chat. They know me well. The lovely lady asked where I was off to this time, and I said "lot's of places - it is a bit complicated". She started printing out stuff for the first few countries I mentioned but then decided it was indeed complicated and they needed a more careful look at my itinerary.
"I've been working here for 15 years and have never seen an itinerary quite like this one" was the next comment :o
After more than an hour looking up stuff in their big book of visa requirements, various online databases and much scratching of heads, we had the visa requirements sorted ... except for a couple of countries. For those the expert said there was more than one interpretation, and I'd have to take my luck.
Just like some fare rules, some visa requirements are unclear in the treatment of multiple "and" and "or" conditions. Simply put, parts of my itinerary are so odd that the circumstances would not have been envisaged by those who write the rules.
As with my RTW earlier in the year when I visited Kurdistan (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=9612336), I also have a visit to a place not yet recognised as a country by all other countries, and whose status changes by the week, which naturally also complicates the visa requirements. That one, however, is not my main concern as I write this post.
Kiwi Flyer
Sep 28, 08, 6:29 pm
A bit has happened in the past few days.
I've changed my upcoming travel a little bit.
Air NZ has confirmed a previously announced new domestic route Auckland to Masterton starting 16 February 2009 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=870803). Flying every route of an airline is a never-ending goal!
I hunkered down in a hotel in my own city for a couple of days to try to beat, by eliminating most distractions, a major milestone that I was in danger of missing. I made it, and picked up a lot of points while doing so.
I have been invited by Qantas to fly a promotional A380 flight (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10375152) over Auckland! After hoping to fly the inaugural SQ flight and missing out due to a Oneworld RTW, then hoping to fly the inaugural EK flight and missing out due to commitments, then hoping to fly the inaugural QF passenger flight and missing out due to a Star Alliance RTW, then thinking my first A380 flights might be EK on AKL-SYD route next year; this is indeed a pleasant surprise (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10335317). It will be my first A380 flight :o Woohoo.
SQ421
Oct 1, 08, 9:51 pm
Gotta love the sweet irony that you missed the SQ A380 inaugural passenger flight due to a OneWorld RTW and you'll be missing the QF A380 inaugural flight due to a Star Alliance RTW...
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 1, 08, 10:00 pm
Yes there is a symmetry there, and it goes further. Flying QF on the SQ A380 inaugural and flying SQ on the QF A380 inaugural.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 12:22 pm
AUCKLAND to OKIWI (AKL-NZOX) on Fly My Sky Britten Norman Islander in couch class
Okiwi is so small it does not have a 3-letter IATA code, so I've used the 4-letter ICAO code instead
I'm not one to stay grounded for long so I decided to book a wee trip that should have some stunning views, and nicely contrast against the upcoming A380 flight.
I had a choice of two airlines for the trip, Great Barrier Airlines and Fly My Sky. Fly My Sky used to be called Great Barrier XPress but was forced to rename. (Apparently there was no love lost between the airlines - google brings some bizarre tales!) I chose Fly My Sky for being the underdog.
I also had a choice of destinations, Okiwi or Claris. Okiwi airfield is sometimes closed due to weather conditions, and so locals on Great Barrier Island tend to book to/from Claris since that is more of an all weather airfield. So I figured I'd select Okiwi to ensure I'd get to visit both airfields, weather permitting of course.
On the day, the weather was not ideal and with an approaching front I was unsure if we'd even be flying today. The air was warm-sticky with moisture, not yet summer heat but damp with rain not too far away. The wind was blustery from the northwest - cross winds for much of the trip.
I had a little time before departure so I went into the Qantas Club for a quick coffee. I noticed they'd finally repaired one of the computers that had been out of order for the past few months.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 1:42 pm
Mindful of the time, no boarding calls and flights not showing on any monitors (whether in Qantas Club or in the main terminal), I left the lounge early to check in.
I was checked off the passenger list by the pilot upon giving my name. No ID necessary. No boarding pass issued. No checked luggage. Boarding will be in 10 minutes.
A few Air NZ prop flights get called and then it is our turn. We group in front of the doors to the prop gates until we're all here, then the pilot escorts us through (since there is no boarding pass to check the Air NZ gate staff can't just let us through).
For this first flight there are just 4 passengers so we get a row each. This isn't the smallest aircraft I've flown in, but it has been a while since I've been in one this small. The seats remind me of couches you might have at a cheap seaside bach/crib. There are 4 rows of couches, plus a seat beside the pilot. No steps to help you inside, but I'm surprised their is overhead air vents as well as the little perspex circle in the window. Seat pitch is about 26" - my legs have to go on an angle to fit which would make it particularly uncomfortable if 2 adults share the same couch.
We taxi out on time, and right behind the Great Barrier Airlines aircraft. We take-off in a very short distance thanks to the strong winds. Even before we've passed the hangars we are airborne and seem to crawl through the air past the domestic and international terminals before turning sharply right to get off the flight path of the jet aircraft.
We fly low over the city at around 1000 feet (that is not a typo). Visibility is about 20km and it is rather humid so a good view of the vicinity but we cannot see distant islands and ranges. Nice views of the suburbs, beaches and cliffs. Even some seagulls flying below us are visible. Over Brown's Island and the Waiheke Island ferry. Past Rangitoto, Motutapu and Rakino Islands. Then the city recedes behind us and we head into the gloom. Despite the low cloud we are flying below it, gradually climbing across the Hauraki Gulf to 2500 feet. Great Barrier and Little Barrier Islands become visible out of the murk.
We fly over dense bush - so dense that only one river is visible in a couple of places were it widens into pools of deep green. Other rivers are invisible but for the crease in the rugged land, trees on both banks hugging and their tops blotting out all below. In the calmer waters of Port Fitzroy there is a tall ship at anchor, waiting out the weather in the lee of Kaikoura Island (there was some controversy about public buying this island a year or two ago for the conservation estate in the name of Sir Peter Blake). The view reminds me of the Marlborough Sounds, bush and highly variegated shoreline, but less settled and more rugged. Here and there a roof sticks out through the bush - the only signs of habitation.
As we descended over the ridgeline we suddenly emerged in a open farming area of Okiwi, circled the basin to land from the sea. But not before seeing one of the Great Barrier Airlines aircraft land off to our right. With a decent and gusty cross-wind we crabbed on a large angle over the harbour mouth, just clearing the small sand dunes and landed on a little grass strip.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 2:23 pm
OKIWI to CLARIS (NZOX-GBZ) on Fly My Sky Britten Norman Islander (BN-2B) in couch class
One passenger disembarks and a young family loads their luggage in the back and hops onboard. A few minutes on the ground and we take off in opposite direction to that which we landed. I guess that is one advantage of cross winds! As we took off I thought our take-off roll is probably shorter than the length of a 747 or A380.
As the map linked above shows, this is a short hop. Not quite as short as the Westray to Papa Westray inter-island 2 minute flight in the hebrides, but not particularly long either. By straight line it is about 6 miles, but we fly around the hills instead of over them, adding a good 50% to the distance.
I forgot to check the time when we took off so I'm not sure exactly how long the flight took, but it was not long. For this flight we kept at 600 feet around the headlands before landing at Claris again from the sea.
This is a bigger airfield, but still very small. It has one sealed strip seemingly no wider than a car, and a grass cross-strip. We land on the grass beside the sealed strip and then use the grass cross-strip to taxi up to the "terminal" (aka shack). It is a busy time of day with 2 other aircraft parked up in the process of boarding.
Gatwick Alan
Oct 5, 08, 3:05 pm
So did you fly to Claris just for the flight, or is it a place worth visiting?
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 3:42 pm
I can see myself visiting for a long weekend getaway. There's not much distractions on the island other than hiking, fishing. But this time I had no time for a stay.
Blackcloud
Oct 5, 08, 4:35 pm
Love it Kiwi Flyer.
"Couch Class a new way to fly!", a bit like SQ new J we give you the width but not the pitch!
Of course if you had to share it would be like several of my bus trips during my backpacking adventures through Asia.:eek:
Is this going to be linked to your Mini-Tour of NZ?
What about the other smaller airlines of NZ?:p
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 5:13 pm
Love it Kiwi Flyer.
"Couch Class a new way to fly!", a bit like SQ new J we give you the width but not the pitch!
Of course if you had to share it would be like several of my bus trips during my backpacking adventures through Asia.:eek:
Is this going to be linked to your Mini-Tour of NZ?
What about the other smaller airlines of NZ?:p
A new SQ J seat would take up a good portion of the cabin in the BN-2B.
Once I've posted the return flight I'll add it to the mini tour of NZ (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=538043). As for flying other smaller airlines, who knows? I've flown some (unreported on FT).
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 7:40 pm
CLARIS to AUCKLAND (GBZ-AKL) on Fly My Sky Britten Norman Islander BN-2B in couch class
A few passengers got out, and several more boarded. We had a full load of 7 adult passengers, 1 child, 1 infant and 1 pilot for the flight back. It took a while to sort out the baggage, and some more time rearranging seating (6 of the 7 adults were big guys so quite a squeeze fitting us all onboard). This takes 20 minutes or so to sort out, not the normal 5 to 10 minute transit, and so we taxi out rather behind schedule.
We takeoff in the same direction we landed this time, but on the tarmac strip instead of the grass. A steep climb to clear the ridge and then level flying at 1500 feet or so across the Hauraki Gulf. Near Cape Colville we pass the ferry - this will take a few hours to make the trip.
The weather seems to have worsened slightly so not much view until we approach Waiheke Island. One ferry is just coming into the dock at Matiatia while another is departing.
A low buzz over the sprawling eastern Auckland suburbs to land from the east. We taxiied into a stand near the hangars, for a long walk through the prop pier to get back landside.
Although the weather could have been better it was not too bad and a very enjoyable interlude.
NZ_Flyer
Oct 5, 08, 8:25 pm
Was this little hop caused by withdrawal symptoms from a lack of flying recently ;)?
WellingtonFF
Oct 6, 08, 3:00 pm
Goodness me KiwiFlyer. I seem to remember flying in a Britten Norman Islander somewhere in Western Australia almost 40 years ago. From memory it was small and very noisy. I presume it is the same maker, but a much more recent model.
WellingtonFF
Oct 6, 08, 3:18 pm
Goodness me KiwiFlyer. I seem to remember flying on a Britten Norman Islander somewhere in the Western Australian outback nearly 40 years ago. From memory it was small, had seats like hammocks, and was very noisy. I guess my experience was in a much older model.
WellingtonFF
Oct 6, 08, 3:19 pm
Goodness me KiwiFlyer. I seem to remember flying on a Britten Norman Islander somewhere in the Western Australian outback nearly 40 years ago. From memory it was small, had seats like hammocks, and was very noisy. I guess my experience was in a much older model.
Sorry for the double post
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 6, 08, 4:06 pm
I think it is over 20 years old. The a/c reg was ZK-DLA if someone can look it up.
Thai-Kiwi
Oct 7, 08, 7:59 pm
N2B-26 Islander ZK-DLA c/n 2131 also at Auckland on 13-07-2008. Built in 1982 it was delivered as G-BLOO to Taiwan to become B-12222. By April 1998 it was VH-ISL and toiled with several outfits in Queensland until it arrived in Auckland on 26-05-2006 for Sounds Air Travel & Tourism Ltd of Korimiko on 07-06-06. on 07-05-07 it was listed to Commercial Helicopters Ltd who trade as Mountain Air.
While I'm counting down until the A380 flight (QF6600 is now showing on departure information), I thought I'd check loads on the round the world flights.
An idea of loads can be obtained by using one of the availability tools (KVS, Expert Flyer or seatcounter). As the airlines generally only show a maximum of 4, 7 or 9 seats willing to be sold in each booking class, it is hard to get a definitive answer. C, D, J and Z are the typical booking classes for business class in *A. A flight showing C4D4Z4 is relatively empty in business class, whereas a flight showing C1D0Z0 may be oversold. This is a generalisation as other factors need to be taken into account when interpreting (how far away the flight is, married segment logic, point of sale, fare sub-class, etc). If I'm hoping for an op-up the latter is better, but otherwise the former is better for more space and better service levels.
As you'd expect, I have 4 longhaul flights on the RTW. The best availability is C1D0Z0J0. Unfortunately 3 of the 4 flights have no first class, so no op-up opportunity. I have several medium haul flights and these range from zeroed out to C9D9Z9.
I've also been checking out weather conditions at places I visit or transfer en route. It looks to range from cold showery & wet, not yet cold enough for snow, to blazing hot (well over 100F). As usual, I don't make it easy on myself when it comes to packing appropriate clothes.
Government travel warnings indicate a few not so safe places, but I'm not worried. I just have to remember not to mention them to certain nervous friends and family.
I have a few tricky transits that I have not yet worked out how I will get checked in, nor the back-up plan if it all goes horribly wrong. I'm aware at some places if I misconnect I have alternate routings, but other places have very few flights so a misconnection would be problematic. I also have, I think, less than normal access to internet, so the preparation will be important as well as having my wits about me if situations change (eg my next flight gets cancelled) while I'm en route.
Most nights will be spent either wholly in the air, or in part in transit. So I expect I'll have some deep sleeps aboard certain flights to catch up from any deprivation.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 9, 08, 12:06 pm
AUCKLAND to AUCKLAND (AKL-AKL) on Qantas A380
The A380 arrived last night and is now parked up hidden from sight, at least hidden from the general public. The new pier at the international terminal has no views from any landside area.
The front page of the NZ Herald (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10536756) has a picture of it parked up last night. The print edition has an error that is obvious to some, comparing the A380 with A320 flown by Qantas trans-Tasman. The online edition omits the reference to A320 being flown by Qantas.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 9, 08, 6:24 pm
I don't have enough time to do a post right now that will do the A380 flight justice, but suffice to say - woohoo.
Here is another NZ Herald article (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10536820) by someone onboard.
Slightly OT, but the photo on the blog brings back memories. I would have flown on a Tri Islander model around 1973 from I think Kalgoorlie to Kambalda, and I think it was being run by Barringer and we were using it for a magnetometer survey. So the GBI Britten Islander on the blog is obviously the same plane that I flew on almost 40 years ago. I am amazed that a nearly 40 year old plane has finished up in NZ.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 10, 08, 3:27 pm
AUCKLAND to AUCKLAND (AKL-AKL) on Qantas A380 in first class
We weren't given a lot of details in advance. Check in at 7:30am, sharp, from the international terminal. LAG rules apply so my "LIPSTICK, MASCARA and MAKEUP" must be placed in a 1 litre plastic bag. Flight would leave at 10am and expect to finish event 11:30am. Since I couldn't afford to lose the whole morning's work I headed to the airport early to do some work in the domestic Qantas Club before wandering over to the international terminal to check in.
smashley checked in early with little wait, but by the time I arrive the queue is long. No using the premium check in lobby this time, just a snake with perhaps 10 counters for the A380 flight. At least it moves quickly with so many check in counters open for just one flight, and no bags to check. I caught up with a couple of people I know while I shuffled forward.
When it was my turn the agent couldn't find my name. He tried a few times, swiping my passport, then my QFF card, then typing my name in. He got a supervisor over and she tried. I tapped my foot and resisted turning - I could feel the stabbing looks from others "who is this plonker who is trying to blag a seat on this flight?". I knew I was on the flight and not offloaded as the Qantas Club agent had known I was invited and checked I had a good seat (without telling me what it was). The supervisor went away and found my seat number. When she told the agent to enter 4K it confirmed I was in first which I had dared not to hope for (but couldn't help myself from dreaming of)! Thanks Qantas.
Alas they had no first boarding passes so just the black business class one for me. That finally sorted I headed off to find smashley.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 10, 08, 4:19 pm
We were directed to the crew lane at immigration (on the far right), and did not have to show our photo ID (but did at check-in). The "D" sticker on our boarding pass was enough to get through. At the WTMD the station directly in front of us had a small queue, but the next one over had no-one so we went through there. We have to go past it regardless so I am not sure why people feel compelled to queue at the closest station. Using my usual tricks I avoided the random wanding, but smashley wasn't as lucky.
We went to the lounge since smashley hadn't visited the Qantas ones at AKL before. I had intended grabbing a quick breakfast and coffee, since we still had a long time before departure and I was sure it was too early for speeches, etc. However on entry we were told that access to the gate was going to be closed in 10 minutes or so, so we shouldn't dally in the lounge :( I had a shot of espresso before heading back out.
Down left along right left right up. I can do this walk in my sleep, and given the early hours of some of my departures often do walk this and suddenly reach my gate with no awareness of having walked there. The new pier B (gates 15 & 16) is down a corridor that is almost hidden to the right, beside the first duty free shop on the top level and to the right. Signage certainly could be improved. There is a BP check at the entrance to the corridor to keep out the riff-raff/gatecrashers I suppose.
There is a steady flow of people in the corridor, with many stopping along the way to take pictures of the A380 sitting to our left parked at gate 16 on the end. There are some moving walkways, but as with the arrivals area which opened earlier this year these are short, too narrow to easily pass others and still leave a lot of walking in between. I much prefer the ones at SIN.
There are no shops in the new pier, although I guess they could be added fairly easily and with AKL's fetish for extracting maximum possible revenue out of passengers, airlines and shops alike I expect it will not be long before there are some along here. All EK A380 flights will use this pier, plus other a/c at busy times. Today is the official opening of the pier and it still has the unmistakeable new smell. The big windows provide a decent view of the A380, and show a reasonably fine day with scattered low puffs of cumulus (cotton wool cloud).
There is a large crowd as expected. I guess the flight will be almost full. The crowd is a mixture of minor celebrities, captains of industry, travel agents and other travel industry people, media and a few lucky Qantas staff. Some nice touches are invites for several Cure Kids kids, and also a couple of AKL bluecoats (volunteer staff that help eg with tea and coffee for international arrivals, man the airport info desks, etc).
There are some refreshments laid out (tea, coffee, juice, water) and mini muffins. It gets quite airless and noisy after a while. Eventually at 9am we have the speeches. Why the push for us to get to the gate area so early if we just stand around and talk amongst ourselves for 75 minutes? I had thought that we'd board early and get a chance to wander around the aircraft before take-off but clearly this will not be the case.
The speeches are thankfully short. There is an obligatory dig at Air NZ (our new business class seats can be reclined to flat without getting out of the seat). Then it is time to board. Business and premium economy first. Then economy, with first last. No priority boarding for status ;)
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 10, 08, 5:48 pm
If you'll forgive me I'll next post about the flight and then come back to the new Qantas first class and other product changes.
There was naturally a lot of excitement before the doors shut, and even after, as we all wanted to check out the new suites and see how everything worked. Media were keen to check it all out, plus travel agents, etc. It took some doing but eventually everyone was settled in their allocated seats and we pushed back a little early.
With a new aircraft type comes a new safety video, and this time a new brace position for first class passengers due to the suite design. The tail camera was set to default on our screens ^
We had a very slow taxi out to the runway. Amazing how many airport workers managed to find an excuse to be on the apron or some other vantage points to see the A380 lumber past. Every spot the full length of the airport had people watching. On the taxiway the wings hung over both sides, with grass being roughly where the outer engines are. As we passed the prop gates a little Beech 1900D lifted off immediately to my right. It seemed tiny. Even a 737 waiting at a hold point on the adjacent taxiway on the other side of us looked small as we rolled past.
A short pause at the end of the runway and we are in the takeoff roll before most people realise. It is very quiet inside. I remember from seeing the A380 outside (eg at Asian Aerospace show a couple of years ago) that it was quiet. There is applause as we lift off.
Flight time is announced as 45 minutes - much less than the advertised 75 minutes.
We do a low level flyover the central city with Skytower seemingly just outside the window. Once out over the Hauraki Gulf we climb and once high enough we are allowed out of our seats although not allowed to wander the a/c. We pass over Great Barrier Island in no time at all - much faster (and in much more comfort) than my flight from a few days prior. We turn and head for Whangarei. Nice views of the Gulf, islands, Coromandel Ranges, and Northland's rolling hills and harbours.
Service is of course not normal. Drinks of Charles Heidsieck, oj or water; and canapes are served. In the first class cabin, no one is in their seats for long (me included). Trying out functions, taking pictures, chatting. Media swarming everywhere making it difficult to move. I get missed in the drinks rounds :( and have to ask for one.
One the way back down the east coast of Northland we're told ATC has delayed our landing due to the many international arrivals at this time of day, and we are swinging past Piha on the way back to fill in the time (with nice views of the massive Kaipara Harbour en route and a low pass over the Waitakere Ranges before crossing the central city once more. The usual turn over the edge of the Hunua Ranges and in to land.
But wait, there's more.
We pull out with a quiet and seemingly gentle additional thrust. The pilot quickly comes on the PA to reassure us and explains instrument indications of wind shear are to blame. So we got a bonus pass over the city again, and put into a holding pattern near Rangitoto Island before we ultimately land about 1:40 after we started. Lots of people were watching us land from the road and bridge at the end of the runway. I'm surprised there wasn't an accident from the distraction. A slow taxi back to the terminal.
Here is a map of our approximate flight path (http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&ie=UTF8&ll=-36.430122,174.765015&spn=2.271658,4.21875&t=h&z=8&msid=103874903124698500382.000458ecdd879ab74cae7).
Before disembarking we walked through the entire aircraft, so I'll report on the other cabins, as well as the new first class hard product, shortly.
The walk through took some time, and with our later than expected arrival I was in a hurry so speed-walked down the pier to arrivals. Before reaching arrival duty free we were handed a QF A380 tote bag, with a poster, a first flight envelope by Australia Post + set of stamps in a display booklet, and a QF A380 2008 pin.
People were on hand to make sure we didn't buy any duty free. The far left lane at immigration had been reserved for us, more speedwalking past the baggage carousels and we took the left hand lane at customs for domestic passengers.
It was an enjoyable morning and I'm grateful to Qantas for inviting me aboard.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 10, 08, 8:12 pm
New QF IFE
I've been a critic of QF's AVOD systems (due to being unreliable and much less options available compared with the likes of NZ, SQ & EK), so I was keen to see the touted new improved system. Being a short flight I didn't get to try everything out. But in the interests of research I made a good stab at it.
In first and business class there is an armrest control as well as the touchscreen controls. I can't recall if premium economy and economy had an armrest control or not, sorry. First class passengers can also use the suite master controller (used not only for IFE but also seat positions, lights, blinds, call button, etc). I noted that even when I got a flash error message on the master controller (yes I broke it :o fortunately near the end of the flight when I'd already had a chance to test everything out, although I'd be mighty annoyed if I couldn't adjust my seat because of a master controller flash error) the armrest controller and touchscreen controls still worked.
We were told there are 1000 options loaded, being 100 movies, 300 tv shows, etc, even some business topics to learn while in the air. The menu system was intuitive and not much different to the current AVOD system, although this was much slower to operate. This slowness unfortunately seems to be common to all mega AVOD systems. I didn't like how the menus do not rotate back to start - if you scroll to the end you can only scroll back in the opposite direction.
We were not given headsets on this flight so I can't tell the quality of them or the audio.
The tailcam was a welcome addition. Flightpath has more functionality - either select the standard view which scrolls through varying levels of detail, or manual view (I forget the exact name used by QF) where you can zoom in or out, pan, etc. I noticed there was quite a pause though - with both options it takes a while for the screen to refresh after selection/adjustment.
The system seemed to be on from gate to gate, at least tailcam and flightpath were accessible during takeoff and landing. I forgot to check if other options were also switched on.
Edited to add - the new IFE also has email and chat functionality, and from next year some time, the ability to surf the internet also. I didn't check out how these work, sorry.
Next up, the new Qantas First Class (hard product).
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 10, 08, 9:14 pm
eoinnz has kindly posted interior pictures of QF A380 <here> (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10458439)
Qantas new First Class
First class is at the front of the lower deck, but with the cockpit in front (and slightly elevated) it is not in the nose as with 747. There are 14 seats in 1-2-1 format as shown below.
Each seat faces forward for take-off and landing, and swivels to the side for dining, using the ottoman or in bed mode. A & F seats swivel left, K seats swivel right.
There are 2 toilets at the front of the cabin, and a galley behind the cabin.
For someone travelling alone, I think the best seats are 5A or 5K (assuming galley noise is not significant) for the improved privacy.
For a couple, no pairs of seats are particularly good. I think the best combination are 4A and 5A because you can then use 5A ottoman for dining or conversing with maximum privacy.
For someone travelling with an infant or young child, I do not think any seats are suitable. Sorry. You may understand when I explain more about the seat in the next post.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 10, 08, 10:36 pm
When Qantas released pictures of their new first class I was not impressed. Since my first first class flight with Air NZ (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=182293), I've been lucky enough to try some very nice first class products, as well as some not so nice ones. (Eg Emirates (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4735760) A345, Singapore (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4782534) 747 and 77W (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=645907) and , [url=http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4804565]Lufthansa (]leased from Malaysian 747[/url) 747 and A340 (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=9648688), Qantas (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=8957292) 747, Thai, and United (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=8996905) 747). The impression I got from the pictures was a nice product, better than the current Qantas first class (on 747), but not as good as I'd hoped. Perhaps upper quartile rather than top notch.
I'm happy to say the pictures do make it seem worse than it is. Unfortunately this is no leading first class product either, but I guess that is deliberate strategy on Qantas' part.
... to be continued ...
falconea
Oct 10, 08, 11:23 pm
We were told there are 1000 options loaded, being 100 movies, 300 tv shows, etc, even some business topics to learn while in the air.
So the business classes are now real! :D
Goldflyer should be proud of himself for predicting this so long ago.
Audrey
Moomba
Oct 11, 08, 1:11 am
OKIWI to CLARIS (NZOX-GBZ) on Fly My Sky Britten Norman Islander (BN-2B) in couch class
As the map linked above shows, this is a short hop. Not quite as short as the Westray to Papa Westray inter-island 2 minute flight in the hebrides, but not particularly long either. By straight line it is about 6 miles, but we fly around the hills instead of over them, adding a good 50% to the distance.
Ah yes memories. Incidentally for those of you wishing to try out the Britten Norman Islander in the UK you need to head up to Orkney and fly the route Kiwi mentions above.
When Qantas released pictures of their new first class I was not impressed. <snip>The impression I got from the pictures was a nice product, better than the current Qantas first class (on 747), but not as good as I'd hoped. Perhaps upper quartile rather than top notch.
I'm happy to say the pictures do make it seem worse than it is. Unfortunately this is no leading first class product either, but I guess that is deliberate strategy on Qantas' part.
Interesting as the same has been said about the pictures of the new F on CX where a picture definitely doesn't paint a thousand words. Those seats are so much more when you actually get to fly in them.
Thanks for the great reporting Kiwi Flyer.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 11, 08, 2:21 pm
Apologies for the interruption and not completing the posts about the new hard products in one go.
While not as private as the suites on Emirates or Singapore Airlines (railway carriage suites some call them), there is a suprising amount of privacy while seated or laying down. It is suprising because overall the cabin is of airiness. No overhead bins in the middle (which incidentally means those in middle F seats are likely to have inconvenience when the flight is full - can't put all carry on luggage for the F and K seated passengers in the bins accessible from their shared aisle :td: ). Wide aisles. Each seat has a reasonable amount of space within the high walls. But, it is not easy for couples or families to see each other, except when sitting on each others' ottoman.
The window shades are electric operated. There are buttons at the bottom, or you can use the master controller. They have an inner layer which reduces glare (a little) but allows most of the light to filter through, and an outer layer which provides shade. Touch once to start the blinds moving (up or down) and once more to stop (if you want them to stop half way). From both blinds up, the inner blind comes down first followed automatically by the outer blind, and in reverse order for bringing them up.
The seat faces forward for take-off and landing. There is limited legroom but with plenty of knee room in this position. Other than take-off and landing, there does not seem much point in the forward-facing position. All the other features of the seat are best used when the seat is swivelled. I wonder why they could establish a brace position for seating at an angle to the front (as with BA, NZ, VS, CX, AC, etc) and just leave the seat in the swivelled position?
The seat belt is a 3-point one with retractable shoulder belt hidden into the back of the seat. The clasp has a button to release instead of a latch. Based on the safety video I expect all classes have a button instead of a latch, although of course the other classes have only a lap belt.
In forward facing position there is a small tray table in front suitable for putting drinks on, or a book. It is not big enough for the main meal. There is also a small pocket with the safety card, Wine Guide, Australian Way magazine and room for some small personal items.
There are a few directional airvents around the seat, and also several lighting options from small spotlight, wall light and overhead lights.
There are plenty of places to put little things, but only 1 spot to put a laptop bag or similar - under the ottoman. There are two swivel triangular drawers under the small shelf at far right. A couple of cubbies up against the seat when swiveled. The lower one of these is partially blocked when in bed mode, but as a secure place to put things while sleeping it is inferior to BA first and business, or NZ business, for example.
The main table is inbetween the cubbies and the shelf and well positioned for eating alone or with someone else at the ottoman. The table however is not as large as NZ or CX business class, so it will be cosy for two.
There is a recessed drink/glass holder in the shelf, and also behind the head when in bed mode. Good for putting a water bottle in, but watch out if resting a glass on the shelf!
There is a pop-out coat hook to hang your jacket when you first arrive while waiting to hand it to an attendant, or on landing after being handed it back. There is also a hook on the seat wall to hang the headphones so you don't need to stuff them into a cubby or have them loose on the tray table or shelf.
In swivel mode there is decent legroom regardless of how far reclined the seat is. In bed mode the length is reasonable, the bed is flat (arm rests drop to lie fairly flush) and reasonably comfortable. I didn't try it with the mattress and blanket though. The flight was just too short.
The master controller is wall mounted, and can also be lifted out of its socket. It reminds me of the one Emirates has in first class on A345 aircraft. The controller operates IFE, seat positions, blinds, lights, privacy screen, etc. It is touch screen, but also has buttons for preset seat positions, overhead lights and a crew call button. There are 7 different directions the seat can be adjusted (including massage functions), and 5 preset seating positions.
As mentioned above, I got a flash error on mine halfway through the flight :(
Although I didn't need to go, in the interests of research I also popped into the first class toilet. It was okay but not markedly different from the current first class toilets on Qantas 747 aircraft, perhaps a little narrower? There is a window. I forgot to check for sure, but I assume there is some way to close it otherwise some people may be in for a suprise changing before takeoff :o The rubbish bin opening is too small I think - on long flights I'd expect the area might get a bit grimy from people missing the entrance. The handwash pump is angled directly towards where you stand and unable to rotate. I don't like this as it is too easy to end up with liquid soap on your clothes.
I'll post a bit about the other classes, but not in as much detail since I had extremely limited time to observe.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 11, 08, 2:24 pm
I forgot to mention we were told the LAX-AKL route will be reverting back to all 747-400 aircraft from early 2009. No more A330s or 747-300s.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 11, 08, 2:54 pm
eoinnz has kindly posted interior pictures of QF A380 <here> (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10458439)
Qantas new Business Class
There is a business class lounge onboard. It is small, dark, comfy. The seats are a real couch, not like the couch class on the Islander I flew a couple of days ago. Drinks, magazine and large screen all within easy reach. But, I think it is too small for it's intended use, at least on daylight flights. It only seats 4 or 5 and there is no room to stand around. It may be okay on overnight flights when you are travelling with a few others and want a quiet chat while the rest of the cabin is sleeping, or to escape a loud snoring seatmate.
Business class is at the front of the upper deck. There are 72 seats in 2-2-2 format, in 2 zones (zone E and zone F) but zone F has a small mini-cabin at the rear separated by emergency exits. The layout is as shown below.
| | L|
| | L|
|__|XX L|
| |
11|AB EF JK|
| |
12|AB EF JK|
| |
13|AB EF JK|
| T T |
dr>galleys <dr
| T T |
| |
16|AB EF JK|
| |
17|AB EF JK|
| |
18|AB EF JK|
| |
19|AB EF JK|
| |
20|AB EF JK|
| |
21|AB EF JK|
| |
22|AB EF JK|
dr>emerexit<dr
| |
24|AB EF JK|
| |
25|AB EF JK|
The seat is an updated version of the existing skybed. There is substantially more space between seats to accommodate the reduction in bed angle. The seat is perfectly adequate and nice, without being stunning. Again, I expect this is what Qantas were aiming for.
There are 2 toilets at the rear of the front cabin, and 2 more at the front of the second cabin. The galleys are inbetween the two sets of toilets.
Window seats have a narrow side-bin. There are overhead bins in the middle as well as along the sides.
The second cabin is rather long and impersonal. I think if I couldn't get a seat in the forward cabin I would select a seat in the rear mini-cabin (assuming I don't need to disembark in a hurry).
My impression was the middle pair of seats has slightly less legroom than the outer pairs of seats, particularly in the forward cabin. I don't see that as a problem though because it is still long and there is absolutely no need to climb over someone in an E or F business class seat.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 11, 08, 6:05 pm
eoinnz has kindly posted interior pictures of QF A380 <here> (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10458439)
Qantas new Premium Economy Class
Premium economy class is at the rear of the upper deck, and thus slow to disembark. There are 32 seats in 2-3-2 format as shown below.
34|AB DEF JK|
35|AB DEF JK|
36|AB DEF JK|
37|-- DEF --|
dr>emer exit<dr
38|__ DEF |
39| T DEF JK| (The JK seats are numbered 38 not 39.)
| T |
| galleys |
| X |
The seat is wider than premium economy on Air NZ, but offers less legroom. The armrests are fixed and contain the tray table.
There are 2 toilets at the rear of the cabin, a better pax : toilet ratio than business class. The galleys are at the back.
My impression was the set of 3 seats has less legroom than the outer pairs of seats. 39DEF look particularly nasty - less legroom and right next to the lavs, with the galley in behind. 38 JK have an enormous amount of legroom, but may have a problem with overhead bin space being so close to the emergency exit (sorry I forgot to check - this was where I caught up briefly with eoinnz).
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 11, 08, 7:03 pm
eoinnz has kindly posted interior pictures of QF A380 <here> (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10458439)
Qantas new Economy Class
Economy class is at the rear of the lower deck, in 3 zones (zone B, zone C and zone D). Seats in each zone are differently coloured. There are 332 seats 3-4-3 format (split across the zones 135, 119 & 78) as shown below.
The bulkhead seats do not have a lot of legroom.
Armrests only go partway up, so not easy lying down across an empty row.
The seat slides partly forward to recline. This is a problem if you are tall since it pushes your knees into the seat in front. Tall people can't easily recline in these seats. According to smashley, the netting for feet is a bit odd and rather springy.
No power at emergency exit row seats (and I guess also bulkhead).
There are 4 toilets in the middle of the cabin, and 4 more at the rear of the cabin. The galleys are at the back.
RTW4
Oct 11, 08, 7:18 pm
What a wonderful description of the new AIrbus A 380.. Great report. I hope to do a full report on my business class trip from LAX-MEL... Once again thanks so much
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 12, 08, 1:14 pm
What a wonderful description of the new AIrbus A 380.. Great report. I hope to do a full report on my business class trip from LAX-MEL... Once again thanks so much
Thanks. I tried to try out as much as possible, and cram as much into my dodgy memory as I could in the short flight.
I look forward to some proper trip reports on QF A380 ^. Meanwhile, those waiting for the flights alluded to in the title will not have much longer to wait (oh dear page two and I'm still rambling on about other flights).
nonce
Oct 12, 08, 2:25 pm
In the pictures of J it appears that the front rows feet slide under the bulkhead, is this correct? Should therefore row 11 be avoided?
serfty
Oct 12, 08, 6:33 pm
Good stuff^
To compliment Kiwi Flyer's maps; here's a link to the Qantas.com .pdf version (Be aware it is 700Kb):
or here's a copy of (click on it for a larger version):
__________________________________________________ _____________________________
http://gallery.flyertalk.com/gallery/albums/General-Miscellaneous/A388.sized.jpg (http://gallery.flyertalk.com/gallery/General-Miscellaneous/A388?full=1)
They are located in the arm rests between the following seats
A/B
B/C
D/E
F/G
H/J
J/K
Also not sure if you mentioned it or not but the First class shoulder belt is only required for take off and landing.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 16, 08, 11:19 am
Thanks eoinnz, some FTers are happy about power being available in the best seats. The shoulder belt only for take-off and landing was not made clear to us.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 17, 08, 7:01 pm
Prelude
Apologies for the delay in getting onto the round the world part, but I just have a little more to post first.
It was a bizarre week leading up to the trip, and one in which I put into good use some of the tips learned on FT.
Rules change, miles expire
I logged into one account for the first time in a year to check an upcoming booking. It was for a frequent flyer program (FFP) in which I have no status and only use infrequently. Nonetheless I have a decent amount of miles accumulated - enough for a business class award or some upgrades to business or first class. I was startled into action by noticing a good chunk of the miles were about to expire.
In the time since I'd earned the miles, the expiry rules had changed for this FFP to something different and more harsh than many other FFPs. So I wasn't expecting any upcoming mileage expiry issues. I should have been paying more attention to the definitive list of FFPs mileage expiry thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=593589) :o (and which I maintain :o ). I'm sure the FFP did let me know of the change in rules, but since this particular one is perhaps my tenth most used FFP I had put it out of my mind.
Yes, this is too many FFPs and will be a horror to some FTers for whom the motto is don't spread yourself too thin. However, there are a couple of good reasons for having so many FFPs. Some airlines I fly a few times a year have no suitable partners to which I can credit the flights. In both oneworld and star alliance I have multiple FFPs since I fly enough to support high status in more than one program. By spreading my earning I can abritrage the benefits and also take advantage of any extra bennies reserved by the airlines for their own elites.
Back to the expiring miles. In the short time until the miles expire I have a lot of travel already booked, but of course you can book now for flights later than the expiry date*. So after some thought I have booked a business class award that represents about the best value I can for the miles that would otherwise have expired. If I'd realised earlier I could have gotten a much better value from them, but at least I'm still getting reasonable value and not nil (if they expired).
*There is, however, a trap for the unwary in booking future travel before the miles expire, where the date of the flights is after the expiry date. If the award is unticketed at expiry date then you'll lose the miles. If the upgrade is unconfirmed, on some programs the request will still be honoured (subject to availability) as the miles/vouchers are deducted at time of making the request. However, on some programs an unconfirmed upgrade request is lost at date of expiry as the miles/vouchers are not deducted until the upgrade is confirmed.
Lesson learned : keep up to date with program changes, and log into even the minor accounts at least a couple of times a year (I plan to do this when daylight saving changes to make it easier to remember).
Hotel stay or flight cancelled without notification
Some may recall a Lufthansa flight which had been cancelled without notifying me (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=5127165). The same thing can happen with hotel stays. I had a stay booked at the IC Mauritius (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=860610), for which I had a confirmed reservation several weeks after its opening date. I appreciate hotel opening dates are vague, but I waited until only a couple of months before the supposed date and booked my stay which was several weeks later. Unfortunately while checking if I could replace my eye-wateringly high paid rate (booked fully flexible of course) with an award I discovered my booking had been cancelled. Further investigation revealed the hotel had significantly deferred their opening date.
In many places and times of year, this would be of minor annoyance and no concern. Unfortunately this was for peak season and almost every hotel I checked was either completely sold out or had a six or seven day minimum stay requirement! Ouch.
Through stunning good luck I have found another hotel that accepted the one-night stay I need, so I have avoided the potential need to sleep at an airport. I am very glad I spotted the issue now and not be facing a building site instead of reception, and stuck for options in a place I haven't been to, is difficult to get around, and is sold out almost everywhere.
Lesson learned : check upcoming reservations (flights and hotel stays) earlier than my usual check just days before a trip.
Schedule changes
I had a message from Qantas about an upcoming booking. As they didn't say which booking, I checked all of my too many bookings (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=875848) for upcoming trips on Qantas (about a dozen tickets) and found schedule changes for half of them on all sorts of different routes.
Lesson learned : make sure programs have my contact details, and check all reservations rather than assuming there is only an issue with one.
Next up, back in my second home (up in the air).
serfty
Oct 17, 08, 9:14 pm
... Lesson learned : check upcoming reservations (flights and hotel stays) earlier than my usual check just days before a trip.
...
Lesson learned : make sure programs have my contact details, and check all reservations rather than assuming there is only an issue with one. ...From reading this, lesson learned [#3]:
If you make a reservation for a new property for a stay several weeks after its publicised opening date, ensure you have a cancleable back up booking ... just in case ...
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 17, 08, 9:17 pm
From reading this, lesson learned [#3]:
If make reservation for a new property several weeks after its opening date, ensue one has a cancelable back up booking ... just in case ...
When I made the booking every other hotel I could find had either sold out or a 6/7 night minimum stay. If it came to it, plan B would be standing by to change flights (currently sold out), and plan C sleeping at the airport :eek:
serfty
Oct 17, 08, 9:21 pm
... :eek:I agree :eek::eek:
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 18, 08, 11:09 am
AUCKLAND to SYDNEY (AKL-SYD) on Air New Zealand 767-300 in business class
This RTW has had an unusually large number of changes, the first flight which changed was this one. Originally I routed through Brisbane. However, some changes to later flights freed up enough mileage under the 39,000 limit to allow me to switch Sydney for Brisbane. This is good - better connection, and better product out of Sydney.
I could have taken a later flight instead of the early morning one. However, I have a sequence of flights coming up that a misconnection in Sydney would result in misconnecting the next few flights also. So, I played it safer and opted for the early flight. I can grab a bit to eat in the lounge and sleep on this short trans-Tasman flight. At least that was the theory.
After significant sleep deprivation during the days leading up to this next leg of the trip, it was a struggle to get up when the alarm bleeped at 0300. It felt like I'd just gotten to bed. But I had to get up for I had been so busy that I had not yet packed, and I wanted to catch the 0430 airbus.
I freshened up, grabbed all the stuff I thought I'd need, and headed out the door. My bag does seem rather light, even by my standards. I hope I haven't forgotten anything important.
The early airbus schedule is a piece of fiction - the drivers often seem to run late, sometimes very late. This was the reason I was aiming to catch the 0430 bus ... to give myself a small time cushion in case of delay. As it turned out today they were on time and by the time I awoke from the gentle dozing when we arrived at the airport it was a good time to be checking in. Too late to catch the big queues of those who try to check in at the earliest possible time, and too early to catch the queues of those trying to just beat the check in deadline.
I headed for the Air NZ premium check-in lobby. This was deserted so I was quickly checked in. The agent checked me in for 3 flights but only handed me 2 boarding passes. The next flight had the wrong FFP assigned but the agent was unable to change it for me. Note to self, change this in Sydney. In my hurry to pack I had not pre-filled out the departure card which I normally do (I have a stash of arrival and departure cards for a few different countries). Check-in was so quick I still hadn't completed filling the card, but this only took a few moments longer. All the details are jotted down from memory.
Immigration inside the check-in lobby was the usual efficient service and up the escalator there was no queue at security. Normally this means a good chance of being "randomly" selected for wanding and pat-down, but I managed to evade it once more.
A quick walk to the lounge where I search for a newspaper - only yesterday's is available, but that is not unusual first thing. Next is some food so I can sleep most of the flight. The breakfast offering has gone way downhill since I was last here at this hour. The only bread is white. The hot food is bacon and some rubbery pancakes. Fruit is some pears and apples. Cereals all sugary and sweet. Where has the selection gone? And the decent stuff?
I hop on the computer to check my messages and check in for some flights tomorrow. Unfortunately OLCI is unavailable for those flights. I'm not sure if it is due to a codeshare (which was forced upon me by the airline), or because it has somehow linked the booking with my other ticket and realised I'm not checked in for all the prior flights, or because the 2nd flight on that ticket is too far away in time to allow check in, or because of the country I'll be passing through, or... Yes complicated. Too complicated.
While at the computer an american is in the phone booth next to me gushing about how good this lounge is. I guess it is, if you are used to Red Carpet Clubs and the like. However, it is getting a bit tired being several years since the last significant changes, and overcrowded at times (but not this time).
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 18, 08, 4:30 pm
Boarding was called. A few passengers were using the SmartGate machine positioned outside the lounge. This is a newly installed machine to process the first half of Australian immigration process, available for Australians and New Zealanders with e-passports. The way down to the first departure gates on the left was crowded, with widebody a/c at gates 2 and 4, and a few more parked at remote gates accessed by bus from the ground floor, all boarding at the same time. The LAN flight to Sydney was running late again, but at least only 90 minutes or so late today.
The load wasn't too high so we completed boarding slightly early. I lucked in again, for this 767 was one of the few that have had the new AVOD installed. The monitor is considerably bigger than the old PTVs in business class, although still smaller than on Air NZ's 747/777. The seat width has been reduced by 1/2-1 inch, making it no more comfortable width-wise than economy. I plugged in my headset and used the touch-screen controls to save mucking around with the handset which would need to be restowed for take-off and not so easily accessible. I managed to watch a fair bit of the movie while boarding was underway and pre-departure preparations went on around me. After the drink (choice of water, juice or sparkling wine) was cleared away, and the safety video played, we had to stow the screens for the remainer of taxiing and take-off.
As we lifted off into skies clearing from the overnight showers I pondered the days ahead. Will it work out smoothly? There is potential for things to go badly wrong. Will I get the rest I need? I have a number of middle of the night transits to endure. Will I enjoy it all? Yes, I think, for there is a lot to be thankful for and I really love to travel. Already I feel the stresses gently easing away as we climb further away. After a few moments day-dreaming and thinking, I realise I can lift the monitor back out of the armrest to resume watching the movies, and I have some papers to read that I'll need to respond to later today. As quickly as it started, my reverie is broken.
A hot towel and a fruit smoothie before breakfast. The movie ends and I select another. I realise I won't see the end of this second movie for the trans-Tasman flights are fairly short (except Perth), but I am just chilling out watching an old classic, reading some papers and drinking some water.
We have a quick flight time, plus our early departure means we arrive early. Despite an announcement that we'd be landing on the furthest runway we get the main runway and very direct approach path. The only time I can remember such a short arrival path was earlier in the year on United when a medical emergency was declared (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=9019628) and we got priority clearances all the way in. The downside of arriving early at Sydney, as I'm all too familiar with, is there is a wait for a gate to become available. So while everyone around me is gathering up stuff readying to leap out of their seats, I quietly continuing reading my papers.
After a 15 minute wait the gate is clear and we pull in. At transfer security I again get the "random" explosives test and pat down. Yup, despite my efforts to delay and let someone else go first there was no one else connecting. Ah crud.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 18, 08, 4:54 pm
Air New Zealand
Business Class menu
New Zealand to Australia
October 2008
Breakfast
Wake-up Drinks
Start your day with a fruit smoothie or your choice of juice
Fruit and Cereal
Continental selection with fruit, assorted cereals, bircher muesli and yoghurt
Bakery
Croissants, muffins, Vogel’s, brioche or fruit toast served with fruit conserve
Hot Breakfast
Bacon and onion potato cake with poached eggs, gruyere cheese and roasted tomato relish
Pan seared beef fillet and chicken tenderloin with mushroom ragout, vine ripened tomato and roasted potatoes
Wine
Our wine list showcases some of the best wine New Zealand has to offer – from a country that celebrates its zealous passion for producing top quality wines.
The premium wine selection onboard this flight has been chosen by our wine consultants : John Belsham of Foxes Island Wines, Kate Radburnd of CJ Pask Winery and Jim Harré, nationally recognised wine judge.
The fine wines served on this flight have been chosen to complement today’s menu style. Your crew will be happy to discuss the selection and help you choose wines to accompany your meal.
Spirits
Glenfiddich Malt Whisky
Chivas Regal Blended Whisky
Jack Daniel’s Black Label
Gordons Gin
42 Below Vodka
Courvoisier VSOP
Captain Morgan Rum
Ron Bacardi Superior
Port and Liqueurs
Portuguese Port
Grand Marnier
Baileys Irish Cream
Beer
A selection of beer featuring Steinlager, Export Gold, Heineken and low alcohol lager
Soft Drinks
Mineral water, orange juice, apple juice, tomato juice, cola, lemonade, L&P (sparkling lemon drink), tonic water, ginger ale, diet cola and diet lemonade
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed or decaffeinated coffee, tea, herbal tea and hot chocolate
C1B_JUL08
everywhere
Oct 18, 08, 7:00 pm
I lucked in again, for this 767 was one of the few that have had the new AVOD installed. The monitor is considerably bigger than the old PTVs in business class, although still smaller than on Air NZ's 747/777. The seat width has been reduced by 1/2-1 inch, making it no more comfortable width-wise than economy.How have they reduced the seat width?
Moomba
Oct 19, 08, 12:11 am
Next up, back in my second home (up in the air).
OH! I thought that was your first home. ;)
Already I feel the stresses gently easing away as we climb further away.
I know this feeling. As soon as I am in that seat and we are taking to the sky an instant feeling of relaxation comes over me and in my case I know I am on holiday. :)
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 19, 08, 4:21 am
How have they reduced the seat width?
The middle armrest contains the TV screens, which takes up more width than the old ones.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 19, 08, 4:36 am
SYDNEY to SINGAPORE (SYD-SIN) on Singapore Airlines 747-400 in business class
For all the times I've flown this route I had somehow managed to not fly Singapore Airlines. Alas it was not the way I envisaged on A380, for that would have taken a whole day out of my schedule on this trip.
I think Singapore Airlines is the 9th airline I have flown into/out of Sydney (not counting subsidiary airlines separately). This ties for 3rd spot with Singapore for the most airlines flown to or from an airport, behind Auckland and Los Angeles (both with 11 airlines).
I popped into the Silver Kris Lounge only to be told it was closing for about an hour in between flights, and so moved over to Air NZ lounge where I was directed to the Singapore Airlines Silver Kris lounge. I would have thought they would be aware of the opening hours of the lounge next door - it isn't as though they change often.
After checking some messages I headed back to the SQ lounge. I got the FFP corrected and 2 new boarding passes. I enquired about getting a boarding pass for the next flight as well, but the agent was unable to check me in quickly and so invited me into the first class side of the lounge. Later when I headed out of the lounge I was handed the extra boarding pass. I headed out a little early so I could get a walk in, timing it just right to return to the gate just as boarding began.
I boarded early to claim the overhead bin by my upper deck exit row seat. I had been thinking about the chances of an op-up for the flight appeared oversold in business class. However this time revenue management did well with just enough no shows for 1 empty seat and no op-ups required.
We were just a few minutes late in leaving, a chance for a second pre-departure drink :o Post-departure drink order was taken before we pushed back. This came about 40 minutes into the flight, not long after the headsets were handed out. I don't like this (not very recent) change by Singapore Airlines as it reduces the available time for IFE in the flight by an hour (headsets are also collected well before landing). It contrasts with other airlines like Air New Zealand which have increased the time available for IFE.
Some cold nuts with the post-departure drink, in a small dish. Last time I flew SQ they were in a small packet in business class. Then lunch orders, lunch and a few Kenyan coffees to finish with. A couple of hours before landing we had a light refreshment. Plenty of drinks orders in between, including bottled water mid-flight. On the flight from Auckland to Singapore, which is a couple of hours longer, there is a whole extra meal (ie 2 meals plus a snack).
I watched 4 movies and dozed for the last hour or so of the flight. We landed to a soggy Singapore with the air even thicker with humidity than normal, if that is possible.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 19, 08, 5:29 am
Singapore Airlines
Business Class menu
Sydney to Singapore
October 2008
Lunch
Create your gastronomic experience from our selection of tantalising options.
Starter
Mizuna with marinated scallops and parmesan cheese
Five spice flavoured roast chicken served with chilli sauce, seasonal vegetables and chicken flavoured rice
Penne with arrabiata sauce, grilled salmon, arugula, shaved parmesan cheese
Wanton mee
Egg noodles in rich pork broth garnished with shrimp dumplings and leafy greens
Finale
Apple crumble
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
A selection of fresh fruit
Refreshment
Enjoy a light treat on your journey
To Nibble On
Warm herb focaccia filled with smoked turkey, cheddar cheese and roasted vegetables accompanied with potato chips
Phad thai
Thai-style fried rice noodles with pork, beansprout and chopped peanut
Beverages
Champagne and wines
Charles Heidsieck
Of the three champagne houses based in the historic city of Reims that bear the name Heidsieck, Charles Heidsieck is the most famous, being the oldest and the largest and having coined the name "Champagne Charlie". A perfect blend of the Chardonnay grape for elegance, Pinot Noir for body and a little Pinot Meunier for spiciness, this is a marvellously expressive champagne, lively on the nose, biscuity and creamy on the palate with rounded, dry finish.
Heartland Shiraz 2005
Shiraz is Australia's most famous grape variety. Whilst the traditional style is well established, a new modern take on Shiraz has emerged focusing more on fruit purity than heavy oak ageing. Heartland Shiraz is such a wine. Heartland is a partnership of local wine identities with complimentary skills in viticulture, winemaking and marketing. The wines are made by cult winemaker Ben Glaetzer who was Young Winemaker of the Year in 2004. This vibrant red wine has great concentration and spice. The palate has a wonderful velvety texture and suppleness and successfully combines power with softness.
Chateau Ramafort 2002 Cru Bourgeois Medoc
Chateau Ramafort's vineyard in the northern Medoc was first planted in the 17th century on the orders of King Louis XV. Three centuries later it passed into the hands of the Rothschilds of Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and in 1990 was purchased by the Charloux family, the current owners, who have continued to upgrade the quality. A 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, aged for one year in small oak barrels, it has a fine ruby colour, an aroma of black fruits with a touch of vanilla and a harmonious dry finish that shows class and complexity.
Wither Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Marlborough New Zealand
The Marlborough region of New Zealand is home to many of the world's most distinctive Sauvignon Blanc wines. This racy and vibrant style has a strong international reputation and Wither Hills is amongst the most respected producers. Wither Hills believes fine wine is created in the vineyard and this wine, made by winemaker Ben Glover, is blended from 15 different vineyard sites in the Wairau Valley sub-region. It has typical herbaceous lift and with crisp acidity with a pronounced grapefruit flavours.
or
Wild Rock "The Infamous Goose" Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Marlborough New Zealand
The Marlborough region in New Zealand's South Island produces some of the world's most exciting and distinctive Sauvignon Blanc. The style is leafy, racy and highly distinctive. Wild Rock is a youthful modern wine company headed by highly respected viticulturist and Master of Wine Steve Smith and winemaker Matt Murphy. By way of clarification Goose is the nickname of the man who grew the grapes.
Wines and port
Yalumba Unwooded Chardonnay 2007 South Australia
Many Australian Chardonnays are rich and strongly oaked. This crisp unoaked wine from Yalumba is more delicate in style with wonderful fruit purity and crisp refreshing acidity. Yalumba was established in the Barossa Valley in 1849 and is one of the oldest family owned wineries in Australia. This wine was made by young winemaker Philip Lehmann. Sealed under screw cap to avoid cork taint.
Dow 2001 Late Bottled Vintage Port Portugal
A late bottled vintage port, usually shortened to LBV, is port from a single, high quality vintage, bottled after four to five years spent maturing in large oak barrels, or "pipes" as they are known in the Duoro. Deep ruby in colour, with all the spice, bramble fruit and concentration typical of a fine port, and a warm, smooth sweetness of finish, this LBV is of the highest quality.
Cocktails
Golden Spice
Singapore Sling
Silver Kris Sling
Daiquiri
Sunrise Breezer
Sweetness in Darkness
Sky High
Vodka Flush
Solitaire Dreams
Spirits
Campari
Dry Vermouth
Apple Bliss
Fruit Spritzer
Awaiting the Golden Dawn
Tropical Sparkle
Tropical Fizz
Cognac XO Otard
Smirnoff Red Label Vodka
Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky
Bacardi Superior
Johhnie Walker Black Label
Gordon's Dry Gin
Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey
Cointreau
Baileys Original Irish Cream
Beer - International Selection
Guinness Stout
Beverages
Brazil Santos Bourbon
Colombian Supremo
Kenyan AA Kilimanjaro
Brewed Coffee
Decaffeinated Coffee
Espresso
Cappuccino
Mocha
Cafe Royal
Pure Ceylon Tea
Earl Grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated Tea
Japanese Green Tea
Chinese Jasmine Tea
Chinese Oolong Tea
Indian Masala Tea
Hot Chocolate
Milo
Sparkling Mineral Water
Still Mineral Water
Apple Juice
Orange Juice
Pineapple Juice
Tomato Juice
Bitter Lemon
Coke
Coke Light
Ginger Ale
7-Up
Full Cream Milk
Low Fat Milk
SQ232D SYD-SIN (L/HR) 28-1.1 10 RC
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 19, 08, 11:33 am
SINGAPORE to MALE (SIN-MLE) on Singapore Airlines 777-200 in regional business class
Since we arrived at T3 I headed for the T3 lounge, feeling a little bit flat. 1 shower and a few drinks later I was revived. While I was writing up some notes StarG crossed paths briefly. I tried OLCI (online check-in) for the next flights, but it was still blocked for OLCI.
I headed for T2 45 minutes before departure and arrived to a lengthy queue at security at the gate.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 7:53 am
Apologies for the interruption.
It was a full load tonight and we departed slightly late. I turned down requests of everything except for a couple of pre-departure drinks, and later some water.
The crew were unusually effervescent - possibly excited at the prospect of a layover in the Maldives?
I needed to sleep, and I managed to get some, albeit not particularly deep due to the near continuous light to moderate turbulence, and not particularly long with a flight time of around 4 hours.
Landing at Male reminded me of flying into Rarotonga. Lights, water, runway very close to the water, short runway so strong reverse thrust and pull up at the end where turn around to taxi back down the runway. We disembark by way of stairs.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 8:09 am
Singapore Airlines
Business Class menu
Singapore to Male
October 2008
Dinner
Create your gastronomic experience from our selection of tantalising options.
Prelude
Satay
With onion, cucumber and spicy peanut sauce
Starter
"Hot" smoked salmon with nicoise salad, lemon vinaigrette
Main
Grilled beef fillet with rosemary jus, roasted vegetables and potatoes
Oriental roast chicken with Chinese greens and fragrant rice
Grilled grouper served with cilantro butter, sauteed spinach and fingerling potato
Grilled portobello mushroom served with basil pesto, asparagus, stewed tomato, fettuchine pasta
Finale
Ben & Jerry ice cream
Cherry garcia or chocolate fudge brownie
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
A selection of fresh fruit
Beverages
Champagne and wines
Charles Heidsieck
Of the three champagne houses based in the historic city of Reims that bear the name Heidsieck, Charles Heidsieck is the most famous, being the oldest and the largest and having coined the name "Champagne Charlie". A perfect blend of the Chardonnay grape for elegance, Pinot Noir for body and a little Pinot Meunier for spiciness, this is a marvellously expressive champagne, lively on the nose, biscuity and creamy on the palate with rounded, dry finish.
Villa Franz Riesling Kabinett 2006 Hattenheimer Rheingau
Villa Franz, in the Hattenheim vineyards in the best part of Germany's famous Rheingau region, is the estate of Christian Ress, 5th generation of Ress wine producers. Only Riesling grapes are planted on these steep, terraced slopes that overlook the river Rhine. Silvery pale in colour, with a bouquet of white flowers of an early summer freshness, a delightfully ripe expression of citrus fruits on the palate and a refreshingly dry finish, this is a wine of great balance and purity.
Saint-Veran "Rives De Longsault" 2005 Domaine Des Deux Roches
Made from 100% Chardonnay grown on hillside vineyards with clay and limestone soils in Southern Burgundy, this Saint-Veran bears a great resemblance to its neighbour, the famous wine of Pouilly-Fuisse. A hint of white flowers on the nose, a full and harmonious fruit on the palate and a touch of minerality on the finish, all combine to show a pure and exciting expression of the Chardonnay grape. 2005 was an excellent vintage in Burgundy, now at its best.
Wines and port
Chateau Ramafort 2002 Cru Bourgeois Medoc
Chateau Ramafort's vineyard in the northern Medoc was first planted in the 17th century on the orders of King Louis XV. Three centuries later it passed into the hands of the Rothschilds of Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and in 1990 was purchased by the Charloux family, the current owners, who have continued to upgrade the quality. A 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, aged for one year in small oak barrels, it has a fine ruby colour, an aroma of black fruits with a touch of vanilla and a harmonious dry finish that shows class and complexity.
Rive Barbera d'Asti "Il Cascinone" 2004 Araldica
From one of the most famous wine towns in the Piedmont region in northwest Italy, this wine comes from south-facing slopes on clay soils close to Asti where the low-yielding vines are 50 years old. The excellent 2004 vintage provides a vibrant ruby colour, a nose of black cherries and plums, warm fruit flavours and spice on the palate and an elegant dry finish.
Dow 2001 Late Bottled Vintage Port Portugal
A late bottled vintage port, usually shortened to LBV, is port from a single, high quality vintage, bottled after four to five years spent maturing in large oak barrels, or "pipes" as they are known in the Duoro. Deep ruby in colour, with all the spice, bramble fruit and concentration typical of a fine port, and a warm, smooth sweetness of finish, this LBV is of the highest quality.
Cocktails
Golden Spice
Singapore Sling
Silver Kris Sling
Daiquiri
Sunrise Breezer
Sweetness in Darkness
Sky High
Vodka Flush
Solitaire Dreams
Spirits
Campari
Dry Vermouth
Apple Bliss
Fruit Spritzer
Awaiting the Golden Dawn
Tropical Sparkle
Tropical Fizz
Cognac XO Otard
Smirnoff Red Label Vodka
Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky
Bacardi Superior
Johhnie Walker Black Label
Gordon's Dry Gin
Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey
Cointreau
Baileys Original Irish Cream
Beer - International Selection
Guinness Stout
Beverages
Brazil Santos Bourbon
Colombian Supremo
Kenyan AA Kilimanjaro
Brewed Coffee
Decaffeinated Coffee
Espresso
Cappuccino
Mocha
Cafe Royal
Pure Ceylon Tea
Earl Grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated Tea
Japanese Green Tea
Chinese Jasmine Tea
Chinese Oolong Tea
Indian Masala Tea
Hot Chocolate
Milo
Sparkling Mineral Water
Still Mineral Water
Apple Juice
Orange Juice
Pineapple Juice
Tomato Juice
Bitter Lemon
Coke
Coke Light
Ginger Ale
7-Up
Full Cream Milk
Low Fat Milk
SQ452C SIN-MLE (D) 51-1.1 09-10 RC
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 8:28 am
Transit in Male
A brief walk across the apron to the immigration arrivals hall, with a Sri Lankan Airlines a/c landing with a roar as we do so. Despite transit being listed as a purpose of visit on the immigration card there are no signs for transit passengers, so I head to the almost empty immigration queue for non Maldivians. A long queue quickly builds behind me.
Once at the desk it is clear immigration do not want to process me and I'm directed to wait in the hall while they seek out an airline representative. About 20 minutes later I'm given a reprinted board pass and a lounge invite for the Finifenmaa lounge, before being escorted through a passage and up to departures.
The lounge is nicer than I expected. Toilets, several computers plus wireless. Some food and drinks. Some reading material and a tv. I just have long enough to freshen up and make my usual post in the Game thread (from a new country) before boarding is called.
Back down to security, where there is momentary confusion since I still have the immigration form tucked into my passport. Once they realise I transitted I am through. No shoe nonsense, belts or LAGs, just simple put bags through the xray machine and walk through the metal detector.
One fairly easy turnaround done. A few more to go.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 9:20 am
MALE to SINGAPORE (MLE-SIN) on Singapore Airlines 777-200 in regional business class
Boarding was just beginning when I reached the gate lounge, and so I went straight outside and up the stairs. The load on this red-eye flight was also full, but we closed doors on time. Even though I was unsuccessful in OLCI'ing for my onward flights I should make the connection without a problem and have enough time for a shower.
I was woken from my pre-departure dozing to be asked about drink and meal choices. Not good. Normally on these red-eyes the crew let sleeping passengers to sleep.
I didn't get as much sleep as I'd like, just a couple of hours. Oh well, I have some more flights in which I can catch up on sleep.
We have a short taxi in on landing, and pull up to a gate next to transfer desk - handy for me.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 9:23 am
Singapore Airlines
Business Class menu
Male to Singapore
October 2008
Supper
Create your gastronomic experience from our selection of tantalising options.
Starter
Prawns and mango salad
Main
Pan roasted chicken breast with assorted mushroom sauce, sauteed beans and smashed olive potatoes
Deep fried fish in Thai style masaman sauce, sauteed seasonal vegetables and steamed rice
Warm multi grain bread with beef pastrami, cheddar cheese and gherkin, potato salad
Finale
French walnut cake with vanilla sauce
Beverages
Champagne and wines
Charles Heidsieck
Of the three champagne houses based in the historic city of Reims that bear the name Heidsieck, Charles Heidsieck is the most famous, being the oldest and the largest and having coined the name "Champagne Charlie". A perfect blend of the Chardonnay grape for elegance, Pinot Noir for body and a little Pinot Meunier for spiciness, this is a marvellously expressive champagne, lively on the nose, biscuity and creamy on the palate with rounded, dry finish.
Villa Franz Riesling Kabinett 2006 Hattenheimer Rheingau
Villa Franz, in the Hattenheim vineyards in the best part of Germany's famous Rheingau region, is the estate of Christian Ress, 5th generation of Ress wine producers. Only Riesling grapes are planted on these steep, terraced slopes that overlook the river Rhine. Silvery pale in colour, with a bouquet of white flowers of an early summer freshness, a delightfully ripe expression of citrus fruits on the palate and a refreshingly dry finish, this is a wine of great balance and purity.
Saint-Veran "Rives De Longsault" 2005 Domaine Des Deux Roches
Made from 100% Chardonnay grown on hillside vineyards with clay and limestone soils in Southern Burgundy, this Saint-Veran bears a great resemblance to its neighbour, the famous wine of Pouilly-Fuisse. A hint of white flowers on the nose, a full and harmonious fruit on the palate and a touch of minerality on the finish, all combine to show a pure and exciting expression of the Chardonnay grape. 2005 was an excellent vintage in Burgundy, now at its best.
Wines and port
Chateau Ramafort 2002 Cru Bourgeois Medoc
Chateau Ramafort's vineyard in the northern Medoc was first planted in the 17th century on the orders of King Louis XV. Three centuries later it passed into the hands of the Rothschilds of Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and in 1990 was purchased by the Charloux family, the current owners, who have continued to upgrade the quality. A 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, aged for one year in small oak barrels, it has a fine ruby colour, an aroma of black fruits with a touch of vanilla and a harmonious dry finish that shows class and complexity.
Rive Barbera d'Asti "Il Cascinone" 2004 Araldica
From one of the most famous wine towns in the Piedmont region in northwest Italy, this wine comes from south-facing slopes on clay soils close to Asti where the low-yielding vines are 50 years old. The excellent 2004 vintage provides a vibrant ruby colour, a nose of black cherries and plums, warm fruit flavours and spice on the palate and an elegant dry finish.
Dow 2001 Late Bottled Vintage Port Portugal
A late bottled vintage port, usually shortened to LBV, is port from a single, high quality vintage, bottled after four to five years spent maturing in large oak barrels, or "pipes" as they are known in the Duoro. Deep ruby in colour, with all the spice, bramble fruit and concentration typical of a fine port, and a warm, smooth sweetness of finish, this LBV is of the highest quality.
Cocktails
Golden Spice
Singapore Sling
Silver Kris Sling
Daiquiri
Sunrise Breezer
Sweetness in Darkness
Sky High
Vodka Flush
Solitaire Dreams
Spirits
Campari
Dry Vermouth
Apple Bliss
Fruit Spritzer
Awaiting the Golden Dawn
Tropical Sparkle
Tropical Fizz
Cognac XO Otard
Smirnoff Red Label Vodka
Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky
Bacardi Superior
Johhnie Walker Black Label
Gordon's Dry Gin
Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey
Cointreau
Baileys Original Irish Cream
Beer - International Selection
Guinness Stout
Beverages
Brazil Santos Bourbon
Colombian Supremo
Kenyan AA Kilimanjaro
Brewed Coffee
Decaffeinated Coffee
Espresso
Cappuccino
Mocha
Cafe Royal
Pure Ceylon Tea
Earl Grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated Tea
Japanese Green Tea
Chinese Jasmine Tea
Chinese Oolong Tea
Indian Masala Tea
Hot Chocolate
Milo
Sparkling Mineral Water
Still Mineral Water
Apple Juice
Orange Juice
Pineapple Juice
Tomato Juice
Bitter Lemon
Coke
Coke Light
Ginger Ale
7-Up
Full Cream Milk
Low Fat Milk
SQ451C MLE-SIN (S2) 51-1.1 09-10 RC
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 10:50 am
SINGAPORE to KATHMANDU (SIN-KTM) on Silkair A320 in business class
I checked in at the transfer desk. The agent was unable to check me in for the return flight, however, so I will have to push my luck in the 1 hour transit. Check in at Kathmandu closes 1 hour before departure (with a recommended check in time of 3 hours before departure!), and I'm not sure how well set up the airport is to handle transits. At least I have a fair bit of experience in short transits in some odd places around the world so I am not too fazed.
I had enough time for a quick visit to the lounge to shower and change, then headed out for the gate 30 minutes before departure. There was a reasonable queue, with loads high in economy and low in business class. Many passengers had hiking gear and so security took a bit longer than normal. There were also a number of monks.
Boarding was delayed. While I waited I filled in the arrival "card", which is really a flimsy piece of paper that appears to have been photocopied rather than printed. There is an instruction to not fold the card, but as the size is too big to fit in any shirt pocket this is ignored by most.
A pre-departure drink and moist towellette. After take-off DigEplayers are handed out in business class, and offered for rent (S$15) in economy. There is about 8 or so movies and tv programs loaded on the player. The screen is okay but not wonderful. Sound quality is poor, due in part to the cheap earpieces. A kick-stand holds the screen on an angle, but it is awkward as you are left with a choice of holding it in your hand, on your leg, on the tray table (but no room for food tray) or on the armrest (but no room for a drink). The seatback design means I can't even do the usual trick I do in NZ A320 or QF 767 dom config/737 trans-tasman of propping the player into the upper pocket for hands-free viewing at a suitable height and angle.
The meal is an early lunch and we are given a choice of eating early or late in the flight. There is a noodle chicken salad, poppadoms, bread rolls, hot dish, extra chilli ^, banana and walnut cake. The hot dish is a choice of butter chicken with potatoes or lamb curry and rice. No printed menu so I am unsure of the wine offering, other than there is one white and one red, served in mini bottles. The red was nice, and was in plentiful supply.
The crew passed through every 20 minutes or so topping up drinks and checking if we wanted anything else to eat.
I had intended to sleep but wasn't quite tired enough.
There wasn't much of a view until about an hour out of Kathmandu. First the great plains of northern India, then the peaks of the Himalayas were discerned in the distance peeking above some clouds. A few massive rivers wended their way across the land below us.
Then suddenly (or maybe I dozed off for a wee while?) the mountains appeared much closer. We started our descent while still over the plains. First gentle hills appeared, with wide braided rivers marking their passage with lots of brown colours amidst the greens of forest and farmlands. The hills align generally in parallel to the ranges.
As we got lower, and closer to Kathmandu, the hills become steeper, with deeper valleys in between. Here and there are villages connected by serpentine tracks/roads along the ridges and hillsides. We flew low over what appeared to be a pass and suddenly the wide openness of the Kathmandu valley was before us. Over the sprawling low rise city and land at the airport which is on a little plateau. As we taxi to the international terminal stands we pass lots of little aircraft used on domestic flights.
We'd arrived a bit early. Disembark by stairs to an awaiting bus. The first bus is used for just the 5 business class passengers and drives a short distance to the terminal.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 12:31 pm
In transit in Kathmandu
There is a transit desk just before immigration but this is unmanned. Given my tight schedule I'm loathe to hang around waiting for someone who may not turn up, so head to the without visa desk. There is no-one manning any desk, with or without visa. Maybe it is a lunch break or something?
Several minutes later officers turn up and begin processing us. When it was my turn, on learning I was in transit only, I was instructed to see an officer on another desk. He in turn told me I had to get a transit visa from the first desk. I hadn't picked up the form for visa on arrival so I went across to the far side of immigration to get one and scurried back to the first desk. By now there was a long queue building and perhaps two people had been processed. An hour may not be long enough to get through at this rate.
I started filling out the form while I pondered options if I missed the onward flight. But then the first officer stepped away from his desk to pull me out of the line and jump the entire queue. Yay - that saved at least 15 minutes.
I hand over the arrivals and visa application forms, my passport, US$25 and a photo (fortunately I carry spares for just such a need, otherwise I would have had a further delay getting a picture from the photo booth across the immigration hall). The officer hands me some more forms and directs me to a third desk. The guy on the third desk decides I've been given the wrong form and sends me back to the first officer. More paper shuffling and I go back to the third desk. This time he is satisfied, stamps the papers and sends me to a fourth desk to get the visa. Once that is affixed I am on my way.
Carry-on bags are xrayed going into the baggage claim area, and all bags are x-rayed again before customs. Then I'm out landside in the familiar scenes of taxi drivers, hustlers and people awaiting arriving friends family and clients in a big throng.
It is now 30 minutes before departure and I'm wondering if I'll still be able to check in or will I find the check in desk deserted? But first I have to xray my bags (yes for the third time in as many minutes) and get a pat down.
I'm in luck, check in is still open although I'm clearly a nuisance arriving at check in so late when they are trying to finalise the manifest. I wasn't sure if I'd need to pay the departure tax, some airports waive it for transit passengers. Kathmandu isn't one of them so off to the bank to pay US$23 for the stickers then back to check in desk to collect my passport, boarding pass, departure card (which I filled in while I waited), stickers, and of course my carry-ons.
Upstairs to immigration, with another xray of my bags and another pat-down. There were long lines at all the desks, but within moments of my arrival I was directed to an empty queue due to the imminent departure of my flight. My exit was quickly processed and I headed upstairs for the Executive Lounge which I had a pass for. This was a surprise to me as my enquiries with the airline had led me to believe there was no lounge available at Kathmandu.
I had just enough time to use the bathroom when I noticed boarding had commenced - I could see passengers climbing the stairs to the aircraft. So back downstairs to join the lengthy queues for security. The shops (and lounge) are all between immigration and security. Past security there is nothing more than a bare, crowded gate lounge. So most passengers wait until boarding commences before going through security. Unfortunately there are, today, several flights all leaving within minutes of each other. Thus long queues, except at the women-only line.
It took about 20 minutes to reach the head of the queue, yes close to scheduled departure time and I was still in a security queue. Bags xrayed again, another pat-down, and then a mandatory cursory manual inspection of the bags. I forgot to mention earlier, but no liquids nonsense here. Just as with Male, the bags go through xray and no need to take anything out or divest yourself of any clothing/footwear.
A check of my boarding pass (yet strangely not of my passport) and I was told to hurry to the gate. I was indeed second last to board the bus, which only had the last dozen or so stragglers for the flight.
Getting off the bus we had another pat-down before being allowed up the stairs. They are certainly keen on pat-downs and x-rays. I count 5 xrays and 4 pat-downs inside an hour!
I had made it, although it could easily have not turned out so well. 2 turnarounds done (probably the easiest two), more to come.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 20, 08, 1:00 pm
KATHMANDU to SINGAPORE (KTM-SIN) on Silkair A320 in business class
I was welcomed back by the crew, for they do a turnaround here too. Business class was very empty and so I had my pick of any empty seat.
We were a little late leaving, but not having a tight connection means I was unconcerned. The safety video wouldn't operate so a manual demonstration was done. To make matters worse the pa kept cutting out so it ended up being one of the slowest ever safety briefings.
We had a short wait at the end of the taxiway, waiting for a couple of flights to land including a DC10 of Bangladesh Airways.
Meal offering this time was a choice between chicken curry and rice, or fish and potatoes. Everything else was the same as the menu on the flight over, except desert was a cheesecake thing. They still had plenty of red wine.
I enjoyed the scenery for the first 15 minutes or so - better than the flight in. First we took off in the opposite direction to that which we landed, due to the terrain I guess as there is a big hill not too far away from one end of the runway. Then a turn over the city and another in front of an imposing range of hills. We climbed up the valley as there are no low passes to fly over in this direction. Good views of the Himalayas including Mount Everest, before we turned away across the lower hills and plains.
I managed to get a couple hours of needed sleep.
Another short taxi and pull up at a convenient gate. Things do seem to have changed. Okay 3 arrivals into SIN do not make a trend, but in previous years I nearly always got a long taxi and a horribly inconvenient gate when arriving at SIN on Singapore Airlines or Silkair.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 21, 08, 4:12 am
SINGAPORE to DILI (SIN-DIL) on AustAsia Airlines operated by Silkair A320 in business class
I had been looking at the Silkair flights to Christmas Island (the Indian Ocean one, not the Pacific Ocean one) for a while and so was disappointed when these were discontinued. Malaysian Airlines has picked up the subsidised service from south-east asia to Christmas Island, so a future visit is not impossible. Given my round the world ticket required a minimum of 3 stopovers and the way the schedules worked out I had a spare day for a side trip anywhere I chose.
Since I wanted to go somewhere new (to me) and needed a buffer in case of delays this cut down my options. Then when I read that AustAsia Airlines was commencing flights to Dili, Timor Leste, I knew I'd found my side-trip. Although Silkair operates the flights, it is not a normal Silkair flight – so cannot be booked on the Silkair website, earns no points on Kris Flyer program, no award flights, etc.
However, the basic set-up is of Silkair, thus I was able to check in the night before. This time I was able to check in for the onward flight – I have no idea why I can for this semi-charter flight when I couldn't for a mainstream Silkair flight. This will make the 1 hour turn much easier, which is a relief as I'm sure Dili had no transit facilities (what would be the point given there is only a few commercial flights per week?). I headed to the lounge for a shower and a couple of drinks before the bar closed. Then settled in for the night catching up on messages, drinking coffees, reading some papers I needed to comment on. The T2 first class lounge was essentially deserted – at most there were 4 passengers. It was also rather cold with air-con on a bit high for my liking. Normally SIN airport and its lounges are set a bit warm for me, so this was a change. A lost a bit of work in the wee hours when a power surge reset the computers.
Another shower in the morning to freshen up and keep awake at least until after I was onboard, then off to the gate. Boarding was on time. Business class was full, but not economy class. We had a delay in pushing back due to a runway change and resulting congestion. We left some 25 minutes late.
No DigEplayer on today's flight. The meals and service were the same as the previous day's trip to Kathmandu. With a shorter flight there was less chance to sleep, but I managed an hour or so being woken when we land at Dili. We'd made up time en route thanks to the schedule having a bit of fat in it. We disembark by stairs.
By my reckoning I have now flown over 750,000 miles on Singapore Airlines and its subsidiary Silkair, the most of any airline although I have also flown over 600,000 miles on Air New Zealand and a considerable total distance on Qantas.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 21, 08, 4:14 am
DILI to SINGAPORE (DIL-SIN) on AustAsia Airlines operated by Silkair A320 in business class
I was one of the first to reach immigration. It turned out to be painless and reminded me of Norfolk Island. It was simpler for the officer to escort me to security than entering me and exiting me from the country and going through the entry permit (visa) on arrival processes ^. No lounge here, so I wandered to stretch my legs.
The turn was done fairly quickly and we soon reboarded the aircraft. I sampled some more of the nice red wine and ended up reading most of the flight. It wasn't until we started descent into Singapore about 30 minutes early that I had my Homer Simpson moment, suddenly remembering that I wanted to sleep much of the flight for I have an awkward transit until an early hours of the morning departure – one it would be all too easy to crash asleep while waiting and miss the flight.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 23, 08, 1:03 pm
Apologies for the delay since my last update. I've been too busy to log on. I have just a little bit of time before my next flight - will see how I go.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 23, 08, 1:43 pm
SINGAPORE to CAIRO (SIN-CAI) on Singapore Airlines 777-200ER in business class
Another visit to the airside check in desk to check in, then a shower to freshen up and hopefully awaken a bit. I had several hours before departure and since T3 opened and shifted almost all the European flights to T3, the T2 lounge is very quiet late evening with few departures and very few of those having first class. The Cairo flight is actually the last Singapore Airlines flight of the night, and almost the last flight of any airlines (just a Qatar and an Emirates flight departing later).
Despite a couple of coffees I soon hit the head-drop stage of tiredness and struggled to keep awake. I did a couple of wee walks, which helped a little. I headed to the gate early - at least if I fall asleep in the gate lounge someone will make sure I make the flight!
At the gate the agents says "I've been looking for you". Normally this would make me perk up as a sign of an op-up, but as I know the flight is 2-class I wonder if they are wanting me to change seats. However, it is more mundane than that. The agent had noted I had a paper ticket and was looking out for me to collect the coupon.
The wait for boarding gave me time to fill in the Egypt arrivals card and stifle a few yawns. When we boarded I noted the menu was already in the seat back in front of me, but not any of the other amenities - headset, socks and mask get handed out after take off.
The business cabin was half empty which was a surprise. When I'd checked recently the flight had been zeroed out (no availability in any business or economy booking classes).
As I'd boarded early I had time for a couple of pre-departure drinks, and I also made my orders for post-departure drink and food.
After take-off the crew were a blur of activity. Hot towels, drinks, amenities, no-brand water bottles (a bit too much cost-cutting there in my opinion). Supper service was fast. As soon as you finished one course the plates were whisked away and only a few moments wait for the next course to be served. This is good, allowing us to maximise sleep.
I managed a few hours sleep, waking up in darkness as breakfast was being served about 1 hour 40 minutes before arrival.
Gradually the skies lightened as the dawn caught up with us. Below, through a dusty haze, a mountainous desert land was glimpsed. It wasn't until we were quite low over the sprawl of Cairo that the land could be clearly seen. We turned over the city to land.
The taxiways were dusty with tire tracks visible. It was a dusty day but not too hot and fairly calm.
Grab the arrival visa at one of the banks, and change some money. Then quickly through immigration and stroll through customs.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 23, 08, 1:45 pm
Time for my next flight. The updates of the past couple of days will have to wait a bit longer.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 23, 08, 11:44 pm
Looking at my records I see Cairo is the 41st destination flown to/from on Singapore Airlines/Silkair, which finally brings it past my total for Qantas although still trailling the 54 I've flown with Air New Zealand. I expect Qantas will be back in second spot later this year.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 24, 08, 12:02 am
Singapore Airlines
Business Class menu
Singapore to Cairo
October 2008
Supper
Create your gastronomic experience from our selection of tantalising options.
Starter
Prawns with orange, assorted tomatoes and shaved fennel with choice of lemon vinaigrette or creamy thousand island dressing
Main
Snapper fillet in saffron vinaigrette with mussels, olives, zucchini flowers and pasta
Warm sesame bun with barbecued chicken and Jack cheese, fried potatoes
Singapore beef noodle soup
Popular local dish of rice noodles in rich beef broth with sliced beef and bean sprouts
Finale
Orange chocolate cake served with vanilla sauce
Snack menu
Fancy a snack in between your meals?
Simply take your pick from our range of delectable snacks and make your selection known to our cabin crew.
Noodles
Fish ball broth with kway teow or bee hoon noodles
Prawn noodles with soup
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian instant noodles
Sandwiches
Smoked Salmon with Mascarpone Cheese in Roasted Sesame Bun
Grilled Chicken and Tomato in Focaccia Bun
Roasted Capsicum and Santa Lucia Mozzarella Sandwich
Snacks
Roasted mixed nuts
Snickers Chocolate Bar
Cranberries
Doritos Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips
Kjeldsens cookies
Bananas
Breakfast
Start your day on the right note, with a wholesome breakfast of your choice.
Prelude
A choice of apple, tomato or freshly squeezed orange juice
Sliced fresh fruit
Starter
Choice of cereals or yoghurt
Cornflakes or muesli with milk
Plain or fruit yoghurt
Main
Arabic style breakfast
Marrow with eggs, potato harra, spicy kofta ball with green chilli, halloumi and cherry tomato
Fried spicy rice vermicelli with prawns, fish cake, hard boiled egg, chives and lime
Poached eggs with Hollandaise sauce, chicken sausage, grilled tomato and potatoes
Breads
Assorted breakfast rolls
Butter - Fruit preserve
Your Breakfast Choice
This convenient breakfast option lets you enjoy all the sleep you want, uninterrupted. Please inform our crew of your choice before lights out - if they do not receive your selection, you will be awakened in time for The Complete Breakfast.
The Complete Breakfast*
Take your pick of the Main Event from our scrumptious selections.
Served earliest 2.5 hours prior to arrival
Continental Breakfast*
Delight in this simple yet wholesome meal.
Served earliest 1.5 hours prior to arrival
* Kindly refer to the breakfast menu.
Beverages
Champagne and wines
Charles Heidsieck
Of the three champagne houses based in the historic city of Reims that bear the name Heidsieck, Charles Heidsieck is the most famous, being the oldest and the largest and having coined the name "Champagne Charlie". A perfect blend of the Chardonnay grape for elegance, Pinot Noir for body and a little Pinot Meunier for spiciness, this is a marvellously expressive champagne, lively on the nose, biscuity and creamy on the palate with rounded, dry finish.
Villa Franz Riesling Kabinett 2006 Hattenheimer Rheingau
Villa Franz, in the Hattenheim vineyards in the best part of Germany's famous Rheingau region, is the estate of Christian Ress, 5th generation of Ress wine producers. Only Riesling grapes are planted on these steep, terraced slopes that overlook the river Rhine. Silvery pale in colour, with a bouquet of white flowers of an early summer freshness, a delightfully ripe expression of citrus fruits on the palate and a refreshingly dry finish, this is a wine of great balance and purity.
Saint-Veran "Rives De Longsault" 2005 Domaine Des Deux Roches
Made from 100% Chardonnay grown on hillside vineyards with clay and limestone soils in Southern Burgundy, this Saint-Veran bears a great resemblance to its neighbour, the famous wine of Pouilly-Fuisse. A hint of white flowers on the nose, a full and harmonious fruit on the palate and a touch of minerality on the finish, all combine to show a pure and exciting expression of the Chardonnay grape. 2005 was an excellent vintage in Burgundy, now at its best.
Wines and port
Chateau Ramafort 2002 Cru Bourgeois Medoc
Chateau Ramafort's vineyard in the northern Medoc was first planted in the 17th century on the orders of King Louis XV. Three centuries later it passed into the hands of the Rothschilds of Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and in 1990 was purchased by the Charloux family, the current owners, who have continued to upgrade the quality. A 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot blend, aged for one year in small oak barrels, it has a fine ruby colour, an aroma of black fruits with a touch of vanilla and a harmonious dry finish that shows class and complexity.
Rive Barbera d'Asti "Il Cascinone" 2004 Araldica
From one of the most famous wine towns in the Piedmont region in northwest Italy, this wine comes from south-facing slopes on clay soils close to Asti where the low-yielding vines are 50 years old. The excellent 2004 vintage provides a vibrant ruby colour, a nose of black cherries and plums, warm fruit flavours and spice on the palate and an elegant dry finish.
Dow 2001 Late Bottled Vintage Port Portugal
A late bottled vintage port, usually shortened to LBV, is port from a single, high quality vintage, bottled after four to five years spent maturing in large oak barrels, or "pipes" as they are known in the Duoro. Deep ruby in colour, with all the spice, bramble fruit and concentration typical of a fine port, and a warm, smooth sweetness of finish, this LBV is of the highest quality.
Cocktails
Golden Spice
Singapore Sling
Silver Kris Sling
Daiquiri
Sunrise Breezer
Sweetness in Darkness
Sky High
Vodka Flush
Solitaire Dreams
Spirits
Campari
Dry Vermouth
Apple Bliss
Fruit Spritzer
Awaiting the Golden Dawn
Tropical Sparkle
Tropical Fizz
Cognac XO Otard
Smirnoff Red Label Vodka
Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky
Bacardi Superior
Johhnie Walker Black Label
Gordon's Dry Gin
Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey
Cointreau
Baileys Original Irish Cream
Beer - International Selection
Guinness Stout
Beverages
Brazil Santos Bourbon
Colombian Supremo
Kenyan AA Kilimanjaro
Brewed Coffee
Decaffeinated Coffee
Espresso
Cappuccino
Mocha
Cafe Royal
Pure Ceylon Tea
Earl Grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated Tea
Japanese Green Tea
Chinese Jasmine Tea
Chinese Oolong Tea
Indian Masala Tea
Hot Chocolate
Milo
Sparkling Mineral Water
Still Mineral Water
Apple Juice
Orange Juice
Pineapple Juice
Tomato Juice
Bitter Lemon
Coke
Coke Light
Ginger Ale
7-Up
Full Cream Milk
Low Fat Milk
SQ492C SIN-CAI (S1/B) 60-1.1 09-10 RC
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 24, 08, 1:32 am
EGYPT
Despite arriving early morning, I'd booked accommodation for the night before so that I could maximise my time by hitting the ground running. I ended up staying at Holiday Inn Citystars, which is a bit out of the way (although close to the airport), because all the chain hotels were either sold out or charging a very high rate. Even the Holiday Inn was going for US$800 a night (+ taxes), which is excessive in my view. The hotel is nice, but not that nice. Fortunately I managed to nab Point Break awards ^
So by 7am I was checked in, getting refreshed and soon being driven to Suez, my first port of call for the day. In a day and a half I managed to visit Giza and Sakkarah, the old town, the Egyptian museum, and do some wandering in and around the bazaar. Normally having a guide is anathema to me, but in this case it saved a lot of time and allowed me to pack much more in. Fairly cheap too.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 24, 08, 1:51 am
My next flight has been delayed so I have enough time to update a bit more of this report, although if the delay gets any longer I'll have to spend some time working out alternate flights as the buffer in my schedule has now evaporated.
Edited to add - I've been checking and if I misconnect at the next airport there is no way to reach the following airport today. Fingers crossed.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 24, 08, 2:20 am
CAIRO to FRANKFURT (CAI-FRA) on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class
After a busy morning in town I rushed back to the hotel for a quick shower, checked out and headed back to the airport. There was a big queue at pre-check-in security but it moved fast and 15 minutes later I was inside. There was no queue at the first or business class check-in line. Check in however did take a few minutes due to an issue which I'll mention later, and also due to the agent not wanting to switch FFP number until I insisted. "Look you have gold status, it does not matter". Clearly not an FTer :D
Immigration was quick. I did a lap around the terminal and then headed to the lounge. The lounge was basic but comfortable. Hot and cold drinks, some pastries, separate sections for smoking and non-smoking, weak wifi signal but no computer terminals, also no shower. Our flight came up on the monitors as boarding over an hour before departure, which of course is a ruse to get people to go through gate security in plenty of time. There is nothing beyond security other than some seats to sit on. At security a family in front of me was talking a long time to get organised with stuff to go through xray. The guy behind me was getting impatient - needlessly as we were in plenty of time and there is nothing to do on the other side anyway. Liquids rules apply here, but no need to remove the baggy.
The flight was chockers. 2 passengers were double booked in the seat beside me. Apparently one guy had done return check in from Frankfurt and had not bothered to visit check in desk at Cairo. There was a delay in departing for a missing economy passenger. An old lady rushed through the cabin some 15 minutes after scheduled pushback looking a bit embarrassed. There was also a check of boarding passes in business class with a reported extra passenger, but I think that was related to the double-booked seat.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 12:15 am
So we were late leaving, but having the (rare for this trip) luxury of a long connection time I was totally unfazed.
A mobile media player was handed out. This plugs into the in-seat power supply and has half a dozen movies and tv shows loaded. Not a particularly good selection, which bodes poorly for me as I have some more flights coming up in the same aircraft type I think. I caught up on some reading instead.
A slow meal service. The flight passed quickly and reminded me just how much I am used to long flights.
When we arrived in Frankfurt we had a very fast taxi. It was as if the captain was running late for a hot date. We got a very close gate, so only a few metres to get to the transfer desk, and a passport check at the top of the airbridge.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 12:38 am
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Cairo to Frankfurt
October 2008
Lunch
Hors d'oeuvres
Air dried Beef and Italian Pickles
Marinated grilled Seabass, Potato Salad and Tomato Salsa
Salad
Mixed green Salad
presented with Dressing
Entrees
Tenderloin of Beef with Mushroom Gratin,
turned Potatoes and Spaghetti with Vegetables
Chicken Biryani with Saffron Rice and grilled Vegetables
Tricolor Polenta served with Vegetable Medley and Mustard Sauce
Cheese and Dessert
Edam, Camembert and smoked Cheese
Apple Tartlet
Fruit Salad
Vinothek Discoveries
Champagne
Champagne Jacquart Brut Mosaique, Frankreich
The chalky soils of Champagne have a determining influence on the character of the grapes varieties pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, which are found in this cuvee. Maturation on the fine lees after the second fermentation lends the sparkling wine further character. This explains the intense straw-yellow colour, the yeasty aromas as well as the fruity notes of pear and apple. On the palate, this Champagne is very refreshing with a pleasant mousse.
White Wine
2007 Leo Riesling, German Hill, Pfalz, Deutschland
"Quality starts in the vineyard, not in the cellar". The Austrian, Leo Hillinger, and the German, Andreas Bender place importance on working in an environmentally-friendly way and on gentle grape and wine handling. The latest technology goes side by side with traditional vinification methods in the cellar. Mineral notes, obvious citrus aromas and subtle fruit characterise the modern style of this wine, which is most pleasing on the palate with its fresh acidity and smooth texture.
2006 Chardonnay Trentino "Virtuoso", Casa Girelli, Italien
The vines for this chardonnay are trained on the typical pergola system, although care is taken to ensure yields are strictly reduced. The grapes are harvested by hand and then pressed. The must ferments, and then ages, in new oak barriques. This chardonnay shows fine fruit, combining ripe melon and pear with a touch of spiciness from the wood. On the palate the wine has a pleasing, supple character and is elegantly balanced between fruit and acidity.
Red Wine
2004 Chateau Leboscq, Medoc, Cru Bourgeois, Frankreich
Being suggestive of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhanced by proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Chateau Leboscq has all hallmarks of a classic Cru Bourgeois. With a deep, intense purple red and aromas of blackcurrants, dark berry fruits, gentle spices and elegant toasty notes it is sheer allurement in a glass of wine. Discreet mineral hints give the wine complexity. Fruit flavour is also dominant on the palate and combines well with the ripe tannins, giving the wine a pleasant length.
2006 Monte de Cal Reserva Vino Regional Alentejano, Portugal
The Alentejo plain used to be known as the granary of Portugal and was also famous for cork production. In recent years, however, this region has evolved into an up-and-coming wine region, as this Reserva shows. Purple in colour with an almost opaque centre, this wine has a bouquet suggesting ripe plums and juicy cherries as well as touches of vanilla, gentle spices and toasty notes. On the palate the tannins are powerful yet well-knit, marking their character on this richly structured, complex wine.
Beer
Warsteiner premium verum
Warsteiner premium alkoholfrei
Fruit juices
Natural Mineral Water and
Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
Elisabethen Quelle
Apollinaris
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Light
Sprite
Kinley Tonic Water
Kinley Bitter Lemon
Kinley Ginger Ale
Hot Beverages
Jacobs Royal Diplomat 100% Arabica Coffee from the Highlands
Eilles Black Tea
LH 583 09/08-10/08
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 1:10 am
Arrrgghhhh - the computer has swallowed my post. Well it is time I am off for yet some more flights. More later.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 11:31 am
ALGERIA TRANSIT VISA QUESTION
When I checked my itinerary with the visa specialists I use I was advised that I probably could not do the transit in Algeria that I booked without a visa. Furthermore, a visa for Algeria is not trivial to get - requiring an invitation (and I have no business contacts or land travel arranged so would basically be bribing someone to invite me) and no local embassy.
I did consider changing my ticket for a while, however, the itinerary and visa restrictions resemble those for Tunisia which some readers may recall I successfully transitted earlier this year. So I decided to just give it a go.
Now consider earlier in the day. Scene, check in at Cairo. Lufthansa check-in passengers for all Lufthansa operated flights within 24 hours at once (different treatment occurs when some flights are on partner airlines). So when I checked in at Cairo for the flight to Frankfurt, the agent saw my onward itinerary and attempted to check me in for the next couple of flights. But he was unwilling to do so without a visa for Algeria. I do not know whether this was based on personal knowledge of the rules or a computer generated instruction.
I have read that Star Alliance is creating a computerised system to check visa and entry rules and validate them, but I am unsure if that has yet been implemented. This is a good idea, after all how many check in agents in say El Paso would know the rules for arriving in say Sudan, and the intracacies involved where people may have passports for multiple countries, and live in multiple countries (that may or may not coincide with the countries of their passport). However it may have a downside for people like me - travelling on oddball itineraries that no one in authority would have dreamed of, and sometimes pushing boundaries to my own advantage.
I pondered the possibility of not being able to fly. Could I find an affordable hotel at short notice? Would I end up sleeping in the airport (this would be in a concourse as the lounges close during the overnight curfew)? Or would I manage to take the flight after all?
Fast-forward to the transit desk at Frankfurt. There I was simply checked in with no questions asked, and no search for a visa. I was also checked in for my onward flight. I breathed a sigh of relief. While there was still a chance I could be offloaded, either at the gate or even onboard the aircraft before departure, the odds were very low in my view. I should make the flight and, once again, beat the system.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 11:54 am
FRANKFURT to ALGIERS (FRA-ALG) on Lufthansa 737-500 in business class
As mentioned above I got 2 more boarding passes at the transfer desk. I wasn't crediting the flight to Miles & More (using FFP arbitrage to good effect) and the agent said my other card (also *G) would not be good enough to use the Senator lounge but I'd be okay entering if I showed my LH*G card. I politely tried to disabuse such nonsense - the Senator lounge is a *G lounge. The only difference between LH*G and xx*G is LH*G can use it as an arrivals lounge as well as departures whereas xx*G can only use it as a departures lounge. Where do these people get trained?
I scurried into the nearby lounge and grabbed a shower with only a 5 minute wait. What a difference time of day makes to the wait time (more on this later). Refreshed I did some reading while waiting for one of the 2 computers to become free, and then caught up with some messages. When it was time to board I walked the short distance to the gate. We had a bus gate. At the boarding pass scan the passenger in front of me was being told she had to gate check her rollaboard as she could not take that as well as her little backpack and a large purse. Naturally she wasn't happy. I squeezed on by with my rollaboard and headed straight down to the waiting bus.
We had a full load. As I settled in the purser let me know she was aware I was coming back with them. The flight was fairly short. A quick light meal. Then snoozed a bit. On descent we had a view of the lights of the city but couldn't discern much else. We had an airbridge to disembark.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 12:08 pm
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Frankfurt to Algiers
October 2008
Flavours of Austria
Hors d'oeuvres
Roast Veal in Walnut Vinaigrette with Mushrooms and Pumpkin Seeds
Entrees
Grilled Poulard Breast served with Cider Sauce and Tender Wheat with Vegetables
Fillet of Pike Perch with Meaux Mustard Sauce, Kohirabi and Peas
Dessert
Poppy Mousse with Strawberry Sauce and Cream
Beverages
Sparkling Wine
Red and White Wine
Beer
Warsteiner Pils
Soft Drinks
Mineral Water
Spirits
Jacobs Coffee
Eilles Tea
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 12:14 pm
Sorry I am getting further and further behind reality. I'm about to board another flight so thanks for your patience. There are some ups and downs (and I'm not just referring to the flights) still to come.
Thai-Kiwi
Oct 25, 08, 3:53 pm
Keep it up, and good luck! Nothing could be worse than the Labour Weekend Sunday Weather in Wellington....although a warm house, and fresh coffee makes the perfect reading environment.
Cheers, TK
WellingtonFF
Oct 25, 08, 7:44 pm
Keep it up, and good luck! Nothing could be worse than the Labour Weekend Sunday Weather in Wellington....although a warm house, and fresh coffee makes the perfect reading environment.
Cheers, TK
You have certainly said it - back to winter this morning :td:
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 25, 08, 11:22 pm
"You'll need to leave the aircraft so we can close the flight."
Not words one wishes to hear ... especially in the middle of the night when trying to leave a country with few flights and for which I have no visa.
I'll update more later, but it has been a crazy 24 hours.
CHC Kiwi
Oct 26, 08, 12:59 am
"You'll need to leave the aircraft so we can close the flight."
Not words one wishes to hear ... especially in the middle of the night when trying to leave a country with few flights and for which I have no visa.
I'll update more later, but it has been a crazy 24 hours.
I hope all's well (a relative term, I know), Kiwi Flyer. You've got quite a potentially difficult series of transits/turnarounds. :eek:
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 26, 08, 10:44 pm
As I write this I have no idea if it will all work out. All I know is the schedule is ambitious/optimistic (even by my standards), for some reasons which will become apparent as this report unfolds, as well as some other reasons which will hopefully never see the light of day.
Yes I was wondering if it would be trouble-free, and it turned out not to be. Male, Kathmandu and Dili are some of the easier transits/turnarounds on this trip!
My next flight is about to board, so I apologise for the delay in the next instalment of the trip report.
Gatwick Alan
Oct 27, 08, 6:58 am
Yes I was wondering if it would be trouble-free, and it turned out not to be. Male, Kathmandu and Dili are some of the easier transits/turnarounds on this trip!
My next flight is about to board, so I apologise for the delay in the next instalment of the trip report.
Ive always been fascinated by your reports and routings, and cant wait to read what happened.
I hope everything turned out ok in the end.
Has your experience put your off being quite so adventurous in the future?
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 27, 08, 10:59 pm
In transit in Algiers
I looked for signs for transit in vain so rocked up to immigration before the queue grew too big. It took a bit of explaining before the officer realised that yes I was doing a turnaround and no I had not gotten muddled with arrival and departure information.
I was asked to wait in no mans land behind the immigration desks but in front of security/baggage claim. Another officer took my passport and onward boarding pass and spent some time talking with me, with the Lufthansa station manager, and with anyone else he could find. It was quickly obvious that I was not seen as any kind of threat but instead I was the first attempted turnaround any of the staff on duty had come across and so a matter for them of how best to work the system to cope. I bet he will be dining out for a while on the story of the crazy person who did a turnaround - I could certainly hear chuckles and see pointing in my direction.
So while it wasn't ideal to be sitting in no man's land I was not worried.
After some 30 minutes the last of the passengers on the flight had been processed (except for me) and the immigration and customs area was deserted. Another half an hour passed in solitude. I started wondering what I should do if the officer fails to reappear by close to boarding time? Do I stroll through deserted customs to get landside and try to hunt him down? Or yell out and hope to attract attention? Or walk back to the airbridge and wait there?
Fortunately I did not have to put it to the test as another 30 minutes later the officer returned and escorted me through a door to departures. I had another short wait while he went landside to stamp my boarding pass (I was not reissued but just had a stamp put on it). Then I was free to roam for the few minutes until boarding.
So a turnaround is possible, if not necessarily comfortable. I'm not sure I'd want to attempt a short turnaround in Algiers during the day when there are more flights - the officer had plenty of time to do whatever he needed to do in my middle of the night transit as there were no other flights for hours before or after mine.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 27, 08, 10:59 pm
Has your experience put your off being quite so adventurous in the future?
Not yet. I have another "interesting routing" in December.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 28, 08, 11:34 pm
ALGIERS to FRANKFURT (ALG-FRA) on Lufthansa 737-500 in business class
The chairs in the general terminal were very comfortable, soft bench style. Although I hadn't been given a lounge invite card I spied a sign for an Air Algerie salon (lounge) and wandered over on the off chance I would have access to it, or another lounge. This is located down a dingy corridor connecting separate parts of the terminal (like the bar on a dumbell). On the way I passed a room for BA, which looks very similar to the Air Algerie lounge.
It turns out the Air Algerie lounge is available for business class and elite pax flying Lufthansa, so I have somewhere to rest in the few minutes before boarding. It has a bathroom, but no shower. Some soft drinks, juice and water. A couple of sweet desserts. No hot drinks or booze.
Boarding was called soon after. Just as I was leaving I spied a computer hidden away in the far corner. It was switched off and none of the half dozen lounge guests had been using it. At the gate there were 2 boarding pass scanners. However it was pointless having 2 lines because only 1 passport checker behind the BP scan thus holding up the queues.
I said goodbye to the immigration officer, and headed down the airbridge. There was a very cursory check of carry-ons and a pat down that was more like waving hands in my general direction than a proper search. Then I reboarded and chatted with the crew who were also doing a turnaround as boarding slowly took place.
The load was light and so we left early. No printed menu this time. A supper was served, of mini kebabs, fruit, yoghurt drink, vegetable wrap (it was labelled chili but the bell peppers were not at all hot), and an apple flavoured chocolate bar. Plus the usual drinks. There was also a paper bag on the tray so you could pack whatever food you wanted into it, sleep in the flight and eat the meal for breakfast or later.
I managed to doze in the short flight, without really sleeping.
We arrived very early. So early that I did not realise that Frankfurt curfew broke so early (or perhaps there are limited numbers of exemptions allowed?). We landed on the cross runway, a long, long way from the terminal and then taxiied at speed. Whether it was because of the origin country, or trying to use up time before a bus was needed to take us to the terminal, I do not know. However, we drove from one end of the airport to the other - several miles distance - to park at the furthest possible stand. Then we had a wait for stairs to arrive, before a long bus ride to the B bus arrival gate.
Back inside the terminal I headed to transfer desk once more. Along the way I stopped to change the last of my Egyptian pounds. The buy-sell spread has widened considerably to about 20% or more for many currencies - a sign of the times :(
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 28, 08, 11:41 pm
Next up - a relaxing day jaunt that turns out to be not quite so relaxing as expected.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 11:16 am
FRANKFURT to LJUBLJANA (FRA-LJU) on Adria A320 in business class
Due to the airline schedules for some other bits I had a day free to travel somewhere close(ish), to a maximum of 4 segments and limited by the number of miles available within the fare rules. Originally I booked a trip to Malta, but this changed to Tirana and then changed again to my "destination" for the day.
After much checking out of timetables I found a suitable schedule that meet my requirements. Somewhere different I hadn't been. Preferably 4 flights to maximise mileage earning (due to minimum miles). Preferably 4 international flights (again to maximise mileage earning). No risky connections. Have a back-up way to get to the origin of the next medium-haul flight (due the following morning) in the event of misconnection/break-down - this was important because the onward medium-haul flight operates less than daily and with extremely limited alternatives, and so would cause a major problem for me to miss it.
With our early arrival (even with the scenic tour by a/c and by bus of Frankfurt airport) there was no queue at the transfer desk when I arrived. Unfortunately they were only able to check me in for a couple of flights and not all four. As long as my flights are reasonably on time I should be fine checking in for the last 2 flights later.
I headed into the nearby lounge and booked a shower. I did some blurry-eyed reading while I waited. And waited some more. Finally after 2 hours 20 minutes of waiting (lucky I had a long connection to start the day) it was my turn for a refreshing shower. By now it was close to boarding time so I headed through immigration and across to part A of the terminal through the tunnel. By power-walking I passed a lot of others and had a few minutes which I could spend in the A26 lounge.
Inside, a 75 minute delay was showing on the screens. I worked out the maths. My easy connection was now a quick connection, but Ljubljana is a small airport, and Adria is a small airline. There will be other connecting passengers and I should still be okay. I may not have time for a lounge visit any more.
The 2 computers were not working properly, but after repeated reboots suddenly started working and so I used my waiting time to map out a plan and look up alternatives just in case they should be needed. I left the lounge at a suitable time, checking the monitor as I went by that the delay had not changed, and went to the gate near the end of the pier.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 11:51 am
Boarding was delayed a little from what I expected, but not unduly given what seemed to be a lightish load (perhaps 3/4 full).
As I settled into my seat and waited in vain for the doors to close I began to feel uneasy. After a while an announcement was made apologising for the delay. Apparently Adria had one a/c go mech and so they were combining two flights - ours going a little later than scheduled and the other flight a little earlier. I think, oh oh, this is not good. We wait some more. Gradually we have more passengers arrive in ones and twos, panting from running across the terminal. Still we wait.
By now I am getting annoyed. If I'd known the delay was going to be considerably more than 75 minutes, I could have asked to be rerouted and still make my "destination" for the day via one of 3 alternate routes. However all those options have vanished and so I am now dependent on the onward flight from Ljubljana being held for us. While that is likely to be the case, none of the cabin crew can provide an assurance. Furthermore, if the delays get much longer I will have to reroute my return flights from the destination due to missing the onward connection, and at the same time be checking in later than cut-off for check-in. As an elite pax in business class on intra-european flights that most likely are not 100% full, this should be okay, but no guarantees.
We wait some more. A ground agent comes on and indicates they are still waiting for 4 more people. Two passengers turn up. Finally, after sitting in the aircraft over an hour (and 2 hours after scheduled departure), they give up on the last 2 passengers and the doors are closed.
Those in business class are handed a water bottle and plastic cup for a pre-departure drink. We have a slow taxi out to the cross-runway. Nice views of the Julian Alps and Slovenian valleys. Not much view on the northern side of the mountains though as a blanket of cloud obscures all.
Lunch is the typical intra-europe tray. Some cold meat, a salad, rolls, some soft cheese, a mousse cake thing for dessert, chocolate. Hot and cold drinks, a choice of a couple of wines or beer if you want booze.
The short flight passes quickly. We spent almost as long onboard on the ground in Frankfurt as in the air. I love the approach into LJU as you descend through some valleys. Not as exciting as Queenstown, but picturesque all the same. We land after the scheduled departure time of my onward flight. We get a bus gate. The set-up has changed since I was last here, due to Slovenia joining Schengen. There are two bus arrival gates, and a new transfer desk area. From there I'm directed upstairs as my onward flight uses an airbridge, and to the right for non-Schengen passing passport control on the way with a cursory check and no stamp (yay). I, and a couple of other passengers, race onboard.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 1:04 pm
LJUBLJANA to PRISTINA (LJU-PRN) on Adria A320 in business class
The door was shut right behind us. An announcement was made about a delay to transfer some bags, however we then pushed back immediately. If either of the other transferring Frankfurt passengers had checked luggage then it did not make the flight.
Another pre-departure water bottle. Then lunch of salmon, salad, rolls, soft cheese, coffee cake, chocolate plus the usual drink selection.
There was a run through the cabin with the duty free cart, but prices did not seem appealing (and the liquid rules constrain what I can get anyway).
Some very nice views of the Adriatic coastline and islands, for the first half of the flight. Then cloudy the rest of the way with no view of the land below until moments before touchdown.
With a longer flight (almost 2 hours) I managed to get a much needed nap. We pulled into the apron which already had a Croatia Airlines a/c parked up as well as a private jet and some local carrier I'd never heard of before. Shortly afterwards British Airways and Austrian Airways landed. A busy time of day for this small airport. We disembark by stairs and have a short walk across to the terminal.
While it is gloomy due to the low cloud it is warm enough and is not threatening with rain. I hustle inside though, as my connection is tight due to the late flight and I am still not yet checked in.
Immigration is quick and simple, but they stamp on one of the few remaining blank pages grrrr. There is no airside transfers - indeed departures are in a separate terminal! Perhaps it is a UN thing to do this as Erbil in northern Iraq (which I flew into earlier in the year) also has this set up?
dannyr
Oct 29, 08, 3:40 pm
I'm the type of person who likes to print Trip Reports and read them all in one hit. I've been copy/pasting all of KiwiFlyer's posts from the introduction all the way through, and so far am up to page 54.
On conclusion, if anyone wants, I'm happy to PDF the trip report in its entirity for ease of reading :)
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 10:56 pm
PRISTINA to VIENNA (PRN-VIE) on Austrian Airlines A320-200 in business class (without sleeper seats)
In a hurry, I walked right past check-in area before realising. The terminal is so small that I didn't waste much time though. I checked in and received 4 more boarding passes. I was directed to the ticket desk to get a lounge invitation, but once there I was told I didn't need one - my boarding pass is accepted as the invite. I guess invite cards may be needed for *G passengers in economy (as no large "C" on the boarding pass).
At immigration the officer was confused by my same day entry stamp. Security was simple - no need to remove liquid baggy, and shoes and belt remain on.
There is a single airport operated lounge shared by all the major airlines - British Airways, Austrian Airlines, Adria, Croatia Airlines and Turkish Airlines all fly to Pristina judging by the signs on the door. The lounge has a brand new feel to it. The bathroom is incomplete - no light in the toilet, and no toilet paper either (take some paper hand towels from beside the washbasin)! The lounge also had some drink and evidence that there had been food put out although none remained when I was there. There are 3 computers, which were all in use when I arrived. When one guest hopped off a computer I jumped on to check my messages and do my post to the game thread for canarsie (I've done this especially from Maldives and Kosovo so far this trip). I had barely posted when boarding was called for this flight, and also for the British Airways flight.
This time we were put into a bus to take us out to the aircraft even though it was within easy walking distance and we wouldn't be getting in the way of any vehicles on the ground. There was a delay for a few last stragglers who were brought out to the aircraft one at a time. So, in keeping with the rest of the day's flights, we left late and my onward connection was again dicey.
As we ascended I realised for the first time there is a hill right beside the airport. It is a sign of how gloomy it was that I missed seeing it when we landed. We flew southwest of Pristina, in the wrong direction for Vienna, in order to avoid completely Serbian airspace. I guess they are still sensitive about Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence earlier in the year.
An airbud was handed out for the IFE, which was showing Just For Laughs. The purser insisted I sample both white wines onboard before choosing which one to have, and then insisted on keeping the glass topped up. It wasn't until afterwards that I remembered I'd had both these wines earlier in the year, and indeed sampled them both on a flight with the very same purser! I preferred the Veltliner.
We didn't make up any time en route. On descent a list of gates were read out for onward connections (same as with American Airlines, and on rare occasions Air New Zealand at Auckland). On landing I was asked to head straight to the gate for the next flight.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 10:59 pm
Austrian Airlines
Business Class menu
Pristina to Vienna
October 2008
prawns on ceasar's [sic] salad
grilled chickenbreast
homemade truffled ravioli / zucchini with fresh thyme
Viennese sweet curd souffle
ovenfresh bread selection
freshly brewed coffee or tea
3D3 / 4D3
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 11:18 pm
VIENNA to FRANKFURT (VIE-FRA) on Lufthansa A320-200 in business class
A quick rubber stamp through immigration and a few metres walk to the nearby gate. Boarding was already underway. Here belt had to be removed and liquid baggy taken out of my carry-on.
I had a choice of airlines I could have booked with on this route - Lufthansa, Austrian and Adria all fly in the evening. Amazingly I had yet to fly Lufthansa on this route, and it had the shortest connection (with later flights available on Austrian and Adria) thus the earliest finish to a long couple of days non-stop travelling. So an easy choice for me to make.
I think this flight will mean I've flown Lufthansa to all the Star Alliance European hubs, with the exception of Istanbul (home to Turkish Airlines) which has the international airport on the European side of the Bosphorus. I've flown Lufthansa to and/or from London (bmi), Copenhagen and Stockholm (SAS), Helsinki (blue1), Munich and Frankfurt (Lufthansa), Ljulbljana (Adria), Zagreb (Croatia), Warsaw (Lot), Zurich (Swiss) ... and now Vienna (Austrian).
I was in a fuzzy state of mind - not enough sleep and too much drink. So my mind wandered as I sat watching people board. It is interesting to see the variation - some people have no carry-ons at all, others just a purse or tiny bag, while others have huge wheelies plus a laptop bag plus a purse. Some people have everything jammed into their bag for easy carrying, while others have many loose items they struggle to maintain a hold over. Some people collect all seven (just a guess) newspapers at the entrance to the aircraft, which is amazing for such a short flight. Some people look like seasoned travellers, while others seem to find everything new and unexpected.
I'm snapped out of my thoughts by the safety briefing, struggle to keep awake for the fast taxi and take-off, am barely conscious of our late departure and sink blissfully into oblivion of a deep sleep. Unfortunately, this is a short flight and 30 minutes later I am awoken for descent into Frankfurt. Of course we get a remote stand, near to the cargo area which means a long bus ride to the terminal B bus Schengen arrival gate.
The day's flying is over, without too many problems. But not as restful (for body or mind) as I'd envisaged. Still, it could have been worse - I could have been stuck somewhere overnight other than where intended and facing a difficult task to return in time for my next flight in the morning.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 29, 08, 11:27 pm
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Vienna to Frankfurt
October 2008
Discover Flavour
Welcome to the weekend.
Welcome to the Blue Hour.
Kick off the weekend with us - and enjoy the Blue Hour aboard our Business Class* every Friday afternoon from 4:30. With one of two variations of international specialities from the Mediterranean region or the Orient, as well as drinks to match.
Every week, we offer you an alternating selection of delicious Tapas, accompanied by a beer with chilli-lemon flavour, or oriental delicacies served with a fresh fruit juice mix.
Ring in the weekend relaxed, starting right on your flight.
Cheers!
* For a limited time on selected flights within Europe.
Gatwick Alan
Oct 30, 08, 6:16 am
I'm guessing you must have travelled most, if not all of the Star alliance carriers by now. If you are missing any i would guess at Shanghai (FM)
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 30, 08, 11:17 am
I think this flight will mean I've flown Lufthansa to all the Star Alliance European hubs, with the exception of Istanbul (home to Turkish Airlines) which has the international airport on the European side of the Bosphorus. I've flown Lufthansa to and/or from London (bmi), Copenhagen and Stockholm (SAS), Helsinki (blue1), Munich and Frankfurt (Lufthansa), Ljulbljana (Adria), Zagreb (Croatia), Warsaw (Lot), Zurich (Swiss) ... and now Vienna (Austrian).
:o I forgot about Spanair and TAP. I've flown Lufthansa to Barcelona, but not Madrid or Lisbon. Thanks Blackcloud.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 30, 08, 11:21 am
I'm guessing you must have travelled most, if not all of the Star alliance carriers by now. If you are missing any i would guess at Shanghai (FM)
No, there's quite a few I haven't flown.
Air China
ANA
Asiana
Egyptair
Shanghai Airlines
South African Airlines
Spanair
TAP
Turkish Airlines
blue1
(Air India
TAM)
Blackcloud
Oct 30, 08, 12:28 pm
No, there's quite a few I haven't flown.
Air China
ANA
Asiana
Egyptair
Shanghai Airlines
South African Airlines
Spanair
TAP
Turkish Airlines
blue1
(Air India
TAM)
Theme for the next trip? Fly all the remaining *A airlines not flown!
More trip report please!:)
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 30, 08, 12:48 pm
Frankfurt
I got a nice surprise checking in for my award stay at Hilton Frankfurt that night. Tired and dishevelled all I wanted was to check in quickly, set an early wake up call, have a shower and stumble into bed.
I was welcomed back. No word that I had dropped from the Diamond status of my last visit to Gold status. I have been upgraded due to the hotel being completely booked out. The room number didn't mean anything to me other than it was on the executive floor. I've received upgrades to the exec floor before at this hotel, but just to a standard exec room. So I was unprepared when I reached my door to find it was a named corner suite. It was huge. A shame I'd arrived after happy hour in the club lounge, and indeed was only spending a few hours there. Oh well, it isn't the first time that I've been upgraded to the best or near best room in the hotel only to spend minimal time there.
briantoronto
Oct 30, 08, 7:03 pm
Great report so far! Looking forward to seeing the rest...
You have inspired me to book a *A RTW (29K) level. ready to ticket at 28,990 miles...
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 30, 08, 11:32 pm
FRANKFURT to KHARTOUM (FRA-KRT) on Lufthansa A330-300 A300-600 in business class
Some months ago I noticed this flight was on a 3-class A330-300, but sold as 2-class. So naturally I put in a seat request in the front, which I got thanks to my status. I was looking forward to the extra comfort. Unfortunately a couple of weeks before departure I noticed the aircraft type had reverted to the medium-haul A300-600 (ie regional configuration). Rats.
With boarding pass in hand I headed straight for security and immigration on arrival at the airport. I went to B transfer desk to change my FFP (easily done), and to see if I could check in for some onward flights (no dice). Then over to the lounge for breakfast. Since I'd had a rare (for this trip) overnight in a hotel there was no need for a shower in the lounge. This was just as well, because about the time I might have reached the front of the queue an announcement was made that both bathroom and showers were out of order due to broken pipes. Imagine having waited a couple of hours to then be told you are not getting a shower!
When it was time to depart I noticed I had the same gate as the day previously, so yet again a bus ride - this time to the 3rd to last stand beyond the cargo area (ie a long distance away). We boarded by twin airstairs, but as seems to be the norm almost everyone piles in on the forward stairs ignoring the lack of queues at the back. If I wasn't sitting so far forward I'd take the rear ones.
There was no predeparture drink. The captain announced that today was "historic" for being the last A300-600 flight on the route. The next flight will be A330-300. "Missed it by that much" as Maxwell Smart would say. We were slightly late in leaving, but not excessively so. Load was reasonable without being too full so I had a spare seat to dump my stuff in.
The amenity kit was already in the seat back when we boarded, but the menu and mobile media players were handed out after take-off. We then got a hot towel and a pre-lunch drink plus some packet nuts. When it finally started, the lunch service was very slow ... as if the crew are trying to take up as much of the flight as possible with the meal service to stop people getting bored perhaps, or maybe to stop requests for a snack as well? The flight time is just a tad long for a single meal but not really long enough for 2 meals.
We have nice views of the Alps, but cloud over the Mediterranean and Italy obscure the land below. Over Africa the view is just of a brown murk, which I am unsure is of land or air. Once we descend low enough to see the ground for sure, the horizontal visibility is still not great with no horizon in the dusty haze. The Nile river meanders below us. Suddenly the first signs of life in a few scattered houses in satellite towns, gradually becoming denser and more organised in the suburban sprawl. The odd area of bright green crops provide a stark contrast to the red-brown hues of land, sky and houses.
The airport is in the middle of the built up area and seems to be fairly central, close to the Nile and also the confluence of the Blue Nile and White Nile (google map (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Khartoum+airport,+Sudan&sll=15.694442,32.533264&sspn=0.237976,0.304184&g=Khartoum,+Sudan&ie=UTF8&ll=15.610803,32.537384&spn=0.088947,0.131836&t=h&z=13)).
The airport seems rather quiet, which is unsurprising. The most common aircraft here are painted in UN colours, and there is also a Qatar a/c. Through passengers remain onboard while destination Khartoum passengers are picked up by bus. The open doors lets in the fierce heat of early afternoon.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 30, 08, 11:41 pm
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Frankfurt to Khartoum
October 2008
Menu
Hors d'oeuvres
Smoked Filet of Salmon with Artichokes
in Pine Nut Vinaigrette
Terrine of Venison with Apple Celery Salad
and Quince Compote
Salad
Mixed Lettuce with Tomato and Cucumber
served with Yoghurt Herb Dressing
Entrees
Grilled Breast of Poulard on Pumpkin Stew with Potatoes
Braised Halibut in Tarragon Stock with Root Vegetables
Green Polenta with Mushroom Ragout
Cheese and Dessert
Camembert, Butter Cheese and Bavaria Blu
Linz Tart with whipped Cream
Fruit Salad with Grapes
Vinothek Discoveries
Champagne
Champagne Jacquart Brut Mosaique, Frankreich
The chalky soils of Champagne have a determining influence on the character of the grapes varieties pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, which are found in this cuvee. Maturation on the fine lees after the second fermentation lends the sparkling wine further character. This explains the intense straw-yellow colour, the yeasty aromas as well as the fruity notes of pear and apple. On the palate, this Champagne is very refreshing with a pleasant mousse.
White Wine
2007 Leo Riesling, German Hill, Pfalz, Deutschland
"Quality starts in the vineyard, not in the cellar". The Austrian, Leo Hillinger, and the German, Andreas Bender place importance on working in an environmentally-friendly way and on gentle grape and wine handling. The latest technology goes side by side with traditional vinification methods in the cellar. Mineral notes, obvious citrus aromas and subtle fruit characterise the modern style of this wine, which is most pleasing on the palate with its fresh acidity and smooth texture.
2006 Chardonnay Trentino "Virtuoso", Casa Girelli, Italien
The vines for this chardonnay are trained on the typical pergola system, although care is taken to ensure yields are strictly reduced. The grapes are harvested by hand and then pressed. The must ferments, and then ages, in new oak barriques. This chardonnay shows fine fruit, combining ripe melon and pear with a touch of spiciness from the wood. On the palate the wine has a pleasing, supple character and is elegantly balanced between fruit and acidity.
Red Wine
2004 Chateau Leboscq, Medoc, Cru Bourgeois, Frankreich
Being suggestive of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhanced by proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Chateau Leboscq has all hallmarks of a classic Cru Bourgeois. With a deep, intense purple red and aromas of blackcurrants, dark berry fruits, gentle spices and elegant toasty notes it is sheer allurement in a glass of wine. Discreet mineral hints give the wine complexity. Fruit flavour is also dominant on the palate and combines well with the ripe tannins, giving the wine a pleasant length.
2006 Monte de Cal Reserva Vino Regional Alentejano, Portugal
The Alentejo plain used to be known as the granary of Portugal and was also famous for cork production. In recent years, however, this region has evolved into an up-and-coming wine region, as this Reserva shows. Purple in colour with an almost opaque centre, this wine has a bouquet suggesting ripe plums and juicy cherries as well as touches of vanilla, gentle spices and toasty notes. On the palate the tannins are powerful yet well-knit, marking their character on this richly structured, complex wine.
Beer
Warsteiner premium verum
Warsteiner premium alkoholfrei
Fruit juices
Natural Mineral Water and
Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
Elisabethen Quelle
Apollinaris
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Light
Sprite
Kinley Tonic Water
Kinley Bitter Lemon
Kinley Ginger Ale
Hot Beverages
Jacobs Royal Diplomat 100% Arabica Coffee from the Highlands
Eilles Black Tea
LH 590 09/08-10/08
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 30, 08, 11:58 pm
KHARTOUM to ADDIS ABABA (KRT-ADD) on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class
The bus makes several trips out to the aircraft. It seems there is a discrepancy in the number of disembarking passengers. No one is getting on, but fuel is pumped while we wait. Despite the open doors it remains cool inside. After a while the agitated purser asks the ground staff "well do we have everyone or not?" and with that the ground staff leaves and doors are shut. Our transit ended up being 60 minutes.
A short taxi and we take-off with nice views of the city and river while we turn towards Addis Ababa. Sunset follows quickly, and the speed of the darkness reminds me that we are relatively near the equator.
It is a short flight but enough time for a meal.
The landing is very rough and it seems like the runway is awfully narrow. So much so that I wonder if we landed on the taxiway by mistake. I don't think we did - I don't pay a lot of attention to the lights but think it was jar my subconscious if they were wrong. We miss a taxiway exit and thus have a difficult u-turn where it seems like we are sticking out over both sides of the runway.
Unlike Khartoum there is an airbridge for us. We are ahead of schedule so my transit to the onward flight should in theory be simple.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 12:00 am
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Khartoum to Addis Ababa
October 2008
Dinner
Entrees
Tafelspitzulze, Rump of Beef Terrine with Horseradish,
Frankfurt Green Sauce and smoked Trout
with Potato Salad
Dessert
Semolina Flummery with spiced Orange
Vinothek Discoveries
Champagne
Champagne Jacquart Brut Mosaique, Frankreich
The chalky soils of Champagne have a determining influence on the character of the grapes varieties pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, which are found in this cuvee. Maturation on the fine lees after the second fermentation lends the sparkling wine further character. This explains the intense straw-yellow colour, the yeasty aromas as well as the fruity notes of pear and apple. On the palate, this Champagne is very refreshing with a pleasant mousse.
White Wine
2007 Leo Riesling, German Hill, Pfalz, Deutschland
"Quality starts in the vineyard, not in the cellar". The Austrian, Leo Hillinger, and the German, Andreas Bender place importance on working in an environmentally-friendly way and on gentle grape and wine handling. The latest technology goes side by side with traditional vinification methods in the cellar. Mineral notes, obvious citrus aromas and subtle fruit characterise the modern style of this wine, which is most pleasing on the palate with its fresh acidity and smooth texture.
2006 Chardonnay Trentino "Virtuoso", Casa Girelli, Italien
The vines for this chardonnay are trained on the typical pergola system, although care is taken to ensure yields are strictly reduced. The grapes are harvested by hand and then pressed. The must ferments, and then ages, in new oak barriques. This chardonnay shows fine fruit, combining ripe melon and pear with a touch of spiciness from the wood. On the palate the wine has a pleasing, supple character and is elegantly balanced between fruit and acidity.
Red Wine
2004 Chateau Leboscq, Medoc, Cru Bourgeois, Frankreich
Being suggestive of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhanced by proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Chateau Leboscq has all hallmarks of a classic Cru Bourgeois. With a deep, intense purple red and aromas of blackcurrants, dark berry fruits, gentle spices and elegant toasty notes it is sheer allurement in a glass of wine. Discreet mineral hints give the wine complexity. Fruit flavour is also dominant on the palate and combines well with the ripe tannins, giving the wine a pleasant length.
2006 Monte de Cal Reserva Vino Regional Alentejano, Portugal
The Alentejo plain used to be known as the granary of Portugal and was also famous for cork production. In recent years, however, this region has evolved into an up-and-coming wine region, as this Reserva shows. Purple in colour with an almost opaque centre, this wine has a bouquet suggesting ripe plums and juicy cherries as well as touches of vanilla, gentle spices and toasty notes. On the palate the tannins are powerful yet well-knit, marking their character on this richly structured, complex wine.
Beer
Warsteiner premium verum
Warsteiner premium alkoholfrei
Fruit juices
Natural Mineral Water and
Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
Elisabethen Quelle
Apollinaris
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Light
Sprite
Kinley Tonic Water
Kinley Bitter Lemon
Kinley Ginger Ale
Hot Beverages
Jacobs Royal Diplomat 100% Arabica Coffee from the Highlands
Eilles Black Tea
LH 590 09/08-10/08
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 12:07 am
In transit in Addis Ababa
I didn't know what to expect, but here the transit is as simple as in major western airports (or even easier). There is a sign before immigration for international transfers. There were some queues in front of a few desks. I didn't wait long as watching the people in front it became obvious the queues were for those who had not checked in for their onward flight. Then straight up an escalator to departures level. Simple, no fuss.
Within 2 minutes I was in the airport lounge. Again I was unsure if there was a lounge for which I'd be eligible to access, but spied a Lufthansa sign nearby and sure enough the contract lounge is available for elite/premium passengers on several airlines. The lounge is okay without being stunning. A bathroom but no showers. Plenty of food and drink options. 3 computers. A bit hot though - much warmer than in the general terminal. I had a couple of coffees to keep awake and revive myself. For I had a potentially difficult middle of the night transit coming up.
Staff wandered around calling each flight well after I'd heard the boarding call wafting in the open door from the main terminal - to allow plenty of time for non-lounge passengers to clear gate security and thus no queue for us.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 10:53 pm
ADDIS ABABA to KHARTOUM (ADD-KRT) on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class
While in the lounge I was thinking about my upcoming transit, which I expected to be tricky. Wait ... I'm getting ahead of myself again.
When I was planning the trip I was pleasantly surprised to see on the online *A RTW tool there are a few options for getting back from Addis Ababa and connecting to my trans-Atlantic flight.
I could take Lufthansa back to Frankfurt - boring.
I could fly bmi to London Heathrow from Addis Ababa (via Amman at the time but in the intervening period routing changed to via Damascus) on an A320. This is interesting. The connection in Addis Ababa is good, and I have a fallback position of taking the Lufthansa flight in the event the bmi flight is cancelled or severely delayed. However, it does leave me one flight short of the maximum on the ticket, and being close to the maximum mileage allowance it will be difficult to utilise. I hate leaving a flight on the table.
Aha. There it is on the planner, a routing via Khartoum on Lufthansa, connecting to bmi to London Heathrow (via Beirut), also on an A320. Not as good a schedule due to a several hour middle of the night transit in Khartoum, but at least that gives a bit of a buffer for delays. I also liked the idea of a transit in Khartoum ... it is not everyday that such an opportunity arises. So this is what I booked.
Back to the present. I needed to keep awake for the upcoming transit. I didn't have high hopes for amenities in Khartoum airport. I guess very few passengers make international transits in Sudan, so it may be even trickier than in Algiers. At least here I have some hours time to resolve. I do not yet have a boarding pass for the bmi flight, so if I'm stuck airside (which I'd expect given I have no Sudan visa) I'll likely need an officer to check in for me. I checked that the bmi flight from London Heathrow to Khartoum was essentially on time and not cancelled or major delay. So no need for me to attempt to switch to Lufthansa.
I also thought about arriving in USA later. If I get secondary at immigration as I did back in April (when I'd been to Iran, Iraq and Libya en route to USA), that would certainly force me to miss my onward flight and result in the loss of a whole day. Would checking in for USA from Sudan cause an issue? It might.
So I had a bit on my mind when I left the lounge for the nearby gate. At security it was soon clear it was voluntary whether you remove belt, shoes, liquid baggy. Voluntary unless you set off the WTMD that is. Even though WTMD machines are the same everywhere it is, in my experience, a lottery as to what sensitivity they have been set to. Some are set quite low and no problems even if you later realise you have a pocket full of change. Others are set very high and even the tiny piece of metal on the passport cover is enough to set it off. This time I guessed right and so did not need to divest myself of anything (other than cellphone and wallet which I'd placed in my carry-on as is my normal routine).
At the desk I enquired about checking in for my onward flight but was told I could not unless it was a Lufthansa flight. So I hopped onboard and settled back into the same seat I'd left about an hour previously.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 11:08 pm
"You'll need to leave the aircraft so we can close the flight."
After the last passenger had boarded I was interrupted from my reverie with a brusque request to get my things and leave. Not words one wishes to hear ... especially in the middle of the night when trying to leave a country with few flights.
Apparently if I get off this aircraft at Khartoum I am violating traffic rights. So the Lufthansa agent wants me to hop off the aircraft and reticket. If I am lucky I might be able to fly on bmi directly to London Heathrow. But there are no guarantees. If I'm unlucky then I'm stuck in Addis Ababa for at least a day.
Naturally I did not want a bar of this and so I stood (or rather sat) my ground, and politely asked why is this a problem only now and was not raised when my booking was checked before ticketing, or at any time during the months subsequent to ticketing, or at check in at Frankfurt? If the issue had been identified earlier I could have secured a reasonable alternative.
Instead, I was faced with the choice of getting off the aircraft and maybe getting stranded in Addis Ababa, or staying in my seat so that it remains Lufthansa's problem. Of course I was careful to remain polite and unthreatening. With the tiredness and stress I had to fight to keep unemotional as possible in the circumstances, lest it be misconstrued. The last thing I wanted was to be escorted off the aircraft by police. Then it really would become my problem.
Fortunately for me the purser quickly involved himself and suggested I fly through to Frankfurt on Lufthansa and then onward to London Heathrow. As I'd have half a day to get from Frankfurt to London Heathrow to make my onward flight, that solution was perfectly acceptable to me.
In the interests of getting the flight out on time, the ground person quickly relented and I started breathing again.
The purser collected my itinerary and ticket details to contact Lufthansa and make arrangements for me to be booked on a Frankfurt to London Heathrow flight in the morning. He was very good (including keeping me informed of progress) and went beyond what I had any right to expect. ^ I have, of course, provided Lufthansa with positive feedback for his personnel file.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 11:14 pm
ADDIS ABABA to KHARTOUM (ADD-KRT) on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class continued
A light meal was served. Much as I felt I could do with a stiff drink or three, I decided not to. This was to ensure I didn't get carried away and end up drunk or smelling of booze when I turn up at ticketing in Frankfurt in several hours time ... in case of complications.
Exhausted by lack of sleep this trip and the release of stress on departure, I slept soundly for most of the short flight. I awoke when we touched down and was startled to find my glass of water was still on the side tray, which even half asleep I instinctively grasped before it shot off somewhere and injured someone.
We had barely reached the stand when the bmi A320 touched down behind us.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 11:20 pm
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Addis Ababa to Khartoum
October 2008
Dinner
Entree
Chicken Apricot Sosatie with marinated Feta Cheese,
Air dried Beef and red Onion Wedge
Dessert
Pannacotta with Granadilla Coulis
Vinothek Discoveries
Champagne
Champagne Jacquart Brut Mosaique, Frankreich
The chalky soils of Champagne have a determining influence on the character of the grapes varieties pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, which are found in this cuvee. Maturation on the fine lees after the second fermentation lends the sparkling wine further character. This explains the intense straw-yellow colour, the yeasty aromas as well as the fruity notes of pear and apple. On the palate, this Champagne is very refreshing with a pleasant mousse.
White Wine
2007 Leo Riesling, German Hill, Pfalz, Deutschland
"Quality starts in the vineyard, not in the cellar". The Austrian, Leo Hillinger, and the German, Andreas Bender place importance on working in an environmentally-friendly way and on gentle grape and wine handling. The latest technology goes side by side with traditional vinification methods in the cellar. Mineral notes, obvious citrus aromas and subtle fruit characterise the modern style of this wine, which is most pleasing on the palate with its fresh acidity and smooth texture.
2006 Chardonnay Trentino "Virtuoso", Casa Girelli, Italien
The vines for this chardonnay are trained on the typical pergola system, although care is taken to ensure yields are strictly reduced. The grapes are harvested by hand and then pressed. The must ferments, and then ages, in new oak barriques. This chardonnay shows fine fruit, combining ripe melon and pear with a touch of spiciness from the wood. On the palate the wine has a pleasing, supple character and is elegantly balanced between fruit and acidity.
Red Wine
2004 Chateau Leboscq, Medoc, Cru Bourgeois, Frankreich
Being suggestive of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhanced by proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Chateau Leboscq has all hallmarks of a classic Cru Bourgeois. With a deep, intense purple red and aromas of blackcurrants, dark berry fruits, gentle spices and elegant toasty notes it is sheer allurement in a glass of wine. Discreet mineral hints give the wine complexity. Fruit flavour is also dominant on the palate and combines well with the ripe tannins, giving the wine a pleasant length.
2006 Monte de Cal Reserva Vino Regional Alentejano, Portugal
The Alentejo plain used to be known as the granary of Portugal and was also famous for cork production. In recent years, however, this region has evolved into an up-and-coming wine region, as this Reserva shows. Purple in colour with an almost opaque centre, this wine has a bouquet suggesting ripe plums and juicy cherries as well as touches of vanilla, gentle spices and toasty notes. On the palate the tannins are powerful yet well-knit, marking their character on this richly structured, complex wine.
Beer
Warsteiner premium verum
Warsteiner premium alkoholfrei
Fruit juices
Natural Mineral Water and
Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
Elisabethen Quelle
Apollinaris
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Light
Sprite
Kinley Tonic Water
Kinley Bitter Lemon
Kinley Ginger Ale
Hot Beverages
Jacobs Royal Diplomat 100% Arabica Coffee from the Highlands
Eilles Black Tea
LH 591 09/08-10/08
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 11:33 pm
KHARTOUM to FRANKFURT (KRT-FRA) on Lufthansa A300-600 in business class
I'm asked to switch seats for the onward leg, but I still get a business class seat so I'm happy. Another sign that Lufthansa must have been aware of my itinerary.
While we waited for the Khartoum originating passengers to arrive by bus a couple of announcements asked if any passenger had contact lens removal stuff in their carry-ons, and if any passenger onboard was an eye doctor. I've travelled a lot and so have heard requests for doctors or nurses many times. But this is a first for me, a request for an eye doctor.
Not very many passengers join us, but the aircraft is full enough ... at least in business class.
Shortly after take-off an extra light meal, not in the printed menu, is offered. Chicken or salmon ciabatta sandwich, and apples. About an hour before landing breakfast is offered.
During the flight daylight saving ended in Germany, so we arrived at a ridiculously early hour. For the first time in this trip thick fog enveloped us, making for an extremely slow taxi as they cautiously drove along the taxiways. It was also a very long taxi ... we'd landed on the cross runway and our stand was way down the far end of the airport about as far as it is possible to be past the terminal. Our passports were checked at the top of the stairs.
Once we were all in the buses, we had a slow drive to the B bus arrival gate, due to the poor visibility. All up it took about 40 minutes from touch-down until reaching the terminal.
Inside the transfer desk was open but not ticketing. I decided to try the transfer desk on the offchance the reticketing had already been taken care of, and because the bouncer said ticketing wouldn't open until 7am. I'd been told by the purser I was rebooked on a 7:30am flight to London, so clearly ticketing opening at 7:00am would be a problem with that plan. Unfortunately check in was unable to check me in as I'd been rebooked but not reticketed.
Luckily, ticket desk actually opened at 6:00am, so I only had to wait half an hour.
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 11:35 pm
Lufthansa
Business Class menu
Khartoum to Frankfurt
October 2008
Breakfast
Entrees
Fresh Fruit
Granola
Air dried Beef,
Andean Herb Cheese, Cheddar
Omelette with mixed Pepper, grilled Beef Fillet,
Potatoes and Ratatouille
Vinothek Discoveries
Champagne
Champagne Jacquart Brut Mosaique, Frankreich
The chalky soils of Champagne have a determining influence on the character of the grapes varieties pinot noir, chardonnay and pinot meunier, which are found in this cuvee. Maturation on the fine lees after the second fermentation lends the sparkling wine further character. This explains the intense straw-yellow colour, the yeasty aromas as well as the fruity notes of pear and apple. On the palate, this Champagne is very refreshing with a pleasant mousse.
White Wine
2007 Leo Riesling, German Hill, Pfalz, Deutschland
"Quality starts in the vineyard, not in the cellar". The Austrian, Leo Hillinger, and the German, Andreas Bender place importance on working in an environmentally-friendly way and on gentle grape and wine handling. The latest technology goes side by side with traditional vinification methods in the cellar. Mineral notes, obvious citrus aromas and subtle fruit characterise the modern style of this wine, which is most pleasing on the palate with its fresh acidity and smooth texture.
2006 Chardonnay Trentino "Virtuoso", Casa Girelli, Italien
The vines for this chardonnay are trained on the typical pergola system, although care is taken to ensure yields are strictly reduced. The grapes are harvested by hand and then pressed. The must ferments, and then ages, in new oak barriques. This chardonnay shows fine fruit, combining ripe melon and pear with a touch of spiciness from the wood. On the palate the wine has a pleasing, supple character and is elegantly balanced between fruit and acidity.
Red Wine
2004 Chateau Leboscq, Medoc, Cru Bourgeois, Frankreich
Being suggestive of Cabernet Sauvignon, enhanced by proportions of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Chateau Leboscq has all hallmarks of a classic Cru Bourgeois. With a deep, intense purple red and aromas of blackcurrants, dark berry fruits, gentle spices and elegant toasty notes it is sheer allurement in a glass of wine. Discreet mineral hints give the wine complexity. Fruit flavour is also dominant on the palate and combines well with the ripe tannins, giving the wine a pleasant length.
2006 Monte de Cal Reserva Vino Regional Alentejano, Portugal
The Alentejo plain used to be known as the granary of Portugal and was also famous for cork production. In recent years, however, this region has evolved into an up-and-coming wine region, as this Reserva shows. Purple in colour with an almost opaque centre, this wine has a bouquet suggesting ripe plums and juicy cherries as well as touches of vanilla, gentle spices and toasty notes. On the palate the tannins are powerful yet well-knit, marking their character on this richly structured, complex wine.
Beer
Warsteiner premium verum
Warsteiner premium alkoholfrei
Fruit juices
Natural Mineral Water and
Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
Elisabethen Quelle
Apollinaris
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Light
Sprite
Kinley Tonic Water
Kinley Bitter Lemon
Kinley Ginger Ale
Hot Beverages
Jacobs Royal Diplomat 100% Arabica Coffee from the Highlands
Eilles Black Tea
LH 591 09/08-10/08
Kiwi Flyer
Oct 31, 08, 11:36 pm
On reaching Frankfurt I have earned, by my calculations, some 750k airline status miles (or equivalent) this year!
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 1, 08, 4:28 pm
FRANKFURT to LONDON HEATHROW (FRA-LHR) on Lufthansa 737-300 in business class
It took about 20 minutes for the agent to muck around and issue me with 2 boarding passes. He didn't reticket my RTW, so this may cause a problem in getting the right mileage for Addis Ababa to Frankfurt (recall this contradicts both my ticket and boarding pass). I'm sure it won't post properly first time.
I once again headed for the nearby lounge. I noticed a sign (and subsequently periodic announcements) that the lounge toilets and showers were still not working from yesterday, and were expected to be out all day. :td:
At the appropriate time I headed out for gate B61. This is a newish gate down in the dungeons and signage to get here is lacking, but from a process of elimination of where it could not be I found the place. There was still a queue at security and just one forthcoming flight from the 3 gates beyond security, so I knew I wasn't late/holding the flight. By the time I got through (belt off, baggy out) boarding had commenced.
There was a wait at the gate podium, where passports where being checked (must be a UK requirement as my other ex-FRA flights did not have this check). Despite there being 2 lines, one on each side of the podium, a couple had decided to go in separate lines. They had issues with needing to show a return ticket ("have you got it? I thought you had it?" etc) and also visa requirements. I was surprised one of the agents didn't think to move one of the couple to the other line, so that at least one line could keep moving. As a result I missed the first bus, but there were plenty of us in the second bus.
The fog had not lifted so we had a slow bus ride, and then a slow taxi. Shortly after take-off we burst through the fog into sunny skies. The fog was thick near the airport but non-existant a dozen or so miles away. Closer to the coast we encountered thick cloud and had no view until just seconds before we crossed the runway threshold.
Breakfast was silverside and salmon, 3 different soft cheeses, croissant, rolls, apple, tea, coffee, juice, water.
As there was more than 1 spot of rain (indeed a light drizzle) in London we had the usual circle around southern England for about as long as it took to fly here. It is a stupid system when even normal weather such as they'd get 7 days out of 10 causes snowballing delays.
Our taxi was short, and the schedule heavily padded, so we arrived only 30 minutes late.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 1, 08, 4:36 pm
Transit in London Heathrow
I had a long brisk walk to Flight Connections Centre. By walking fast ahead of both our flight and another gaggle of passengers emerging from a corridor from T1, I managed to get into line for security with minimal queue. For the first time in a couple of years passing through LHR, I was not asked to remove my shoes (keeping 100% record so far for this trip). However, belt off and baggy out.
Then a short walk to the new(ish) *A lounge located where the BA lounge used to be. Some bits have changed from BA days, while others such as the showers have not. I had a long transit but unfortunately there are no computers. So after a refreshing shower, I wandered around the various zones, picked one to camp out in, grabbed some booze, and settled in for a long wait.
About 3 hours prior to departure I wandered across to the transit desk to try to get the boarding pass reprinted since my FF status inexplicably wasn't showing (and I wanted to be sure it was registered correctly). The transit desk assured me the status was entered as well as my APIS information, but they were unable to print my boarding pass - giving up after 10 minutes trying. When I re-entered the lounge another staff member said leave it with them and they'll try again later. Sure enough, later they came by to where I was sitting to give me a new boarding pass, with my status showing correctly.
This was my first visit to the lounge. I thought it was okay, certainly better than the BD lounge (but that isn't too hard to achieve). However not as good as I expected or hoped given the number of *A pax flying through here, including many who may have long connections and be unable to enter UK (not the case for me but anyone who flies through Heathrow recognises the small army of people camped out for half a day on long connections who are unable to leave the airport). The food and drink offerings are okay but not really good enough for a major hub (but much, much, much better than the BD lounge). The lack of computers is annoying. The magazine selection is odd. The TVs scattered around were all tuned to the same program. I noticed some people using laptops had problems with power sockets being too few and inconveniently located for the tables.
everywhere
Nov 1, 08, 5:43 pm
There was a wait at the gate podium, where passports where being checked (must be a UK requirement as my other ex-FRA flights did not have this check).Obviously with the UK being in the EU, but not fully-intergrated schengen some people might not have the requisite paperwork.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 1, 08, 5:46 pm
Obviously with the UK being in the EU, but not fully-intergrated schengen some people might not have the requisite paperwork.
Right, but people to say Algeria might also not have the requisite paperwork. AFAIK it is just flights to TLV, USA and UK that have the passport checked at the gate at FRA.
iainbhx
Nov 2, 08, 6:57 am
Right, but people to say Algeria might also not have the requisite paperwork. AFAIK it is just flights to TLV, USA and UK that have the passport checked at the gate at FRA.
I find the people checking the UK flights are *very* interesting.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 4, 08, 10:51 am
LONDON HEATHROW to LOS ANGELES (LHR-LAX) on Air New Zealand 777-200ER in business class
As alluded to previously, the Air NZ crew were in force in the lounge and indicated when to leave for the gate. Nonetheless I left earlier than their suggested time, because between booking and travel the aircraft had changed from a 747-400 to 777-200ER. This meant the business class cabin was chockers, and no possibility to switch the seat I had been reassigned to when the aircraft switch was made. I knew from experience that overhead bin space at this seat is very limited, so I should board early if I want my carry-on conveniently located. I also knew that our gate was a reasonable walk away, indeed I've flown to Los Angeles from the very same gate several times before ... on British Airways.
I timed my walk perfectly, arriving at the gate just as pre-boarding for passengers with infants or who need assistance or in business class or Airpoints Gold Elite or Gold or star alliance gold (what a mouthful) commenced.
My carry-on was quickly stowed, I assisted the old lady seated nearby with lifting her carry-on, and I settled in to my seat for the next day with my well practised routine. First grab a magazine from the rack at the rear of the cabin. Put all my bits and bobs into the various cubbies for convenient access. Then swap the little pillow with the large pillow stored behind the seat back. Shoes off and socks on. Then switch on the IFE and select a movie. Plug in the headphones, adjust my seat to the preferred angle of recline, take the proferred glass of champagne. Relax. Ahh it feels like home and it is good.
For the first time in over a week I no longer have to worry about connecting flights, visa issues, etc. All I need to do is relax, and coordinate my sleep so as to be refreshed arriving at the final destination.
By the time boarding was completed I'd already had a couple of glasses and was a third of the way through the movie. I really love the gate to gate IFE. It is great on the short trans-tasman flights as you can now be fairly sure of seeing the end of a movie. But, what I hadn't appreciated at first when it was introduced earlier in the year is that it is also great on longhaul. The reason is by starting pre-departure the movie finishes when I'm in the middle or near the end of the first meal service, so I can go to sleep straight after if I choose without delaying for just 30 minutes more to see the end of the movie. Brilliant.
We had a long wait after doors were closed before we pushed back. The drizzle earlier in the day had apparently caused a backlog that was still not cleared hours later. We ended up taking off almost an hour after scheduled departure.
The crew were as usual great. The food good. IFE good. I managed a little sleep, as planned. I was disappointed in the wine offerings - while okay (and favoured by some) they were not personal favourites. So unusually for me (on Air New Zealand), I ended up sticking with the champagne.
We landed on time at Los Angeles, but had a delay on the taxiway due to an aircraft in the way (not at our gate but an adjacent one). This is always frustrating as it is such a rush to get through immigration and to get a shower during the transit.
The second door was used for disembarking, and priority disembarkation was not enforced despite the announcement on the PA :( Fortunately most passengers were headed left for the holding pen while I tore off to the right racing past as many people as I could en route to immigration.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 4, 08, 11:04 am
Air New Zealand
Business Premier menu
London to Los Angeles
October 2008
Air New Zealand is proud to welcome you to the Business Premier experience. Your flight today will commence with a pre dinner drink service. A full dinner will be served before you settle back to relax in your lie-flat bed for an afternoon nap.
A light refreshment will be offered prior to landing in Los Angeles.
Dinner
Starter
Baked parmesan ricotta with beetroot,
lambs lettuce, roasted Szechuan almonds, pomegranate molasses and avocado oil dressing
Bakery
Black olive sourdough, potato rosemary bread and garlic bread
Main Course
Searedn New Zealand lamb loin
on truffle mash with Savoy cabbage, green beans, thyme roasted carrots and pinot noir reduction
Poached king prawns
on creamed sun dried tomato and basil linguine with courgette, offered with freshly shaved parmesan
Confit of duck leg with rata honey
and cherry compote, wilted spinach and den miso risotto
Light choice of carrot and potato gnocchi
in tomato, fennel, roast garlic and basil sauce with a salad of watercress and pine nuts
Dessert
Gourmet ice cream dessert
of caramelita and white chocolate ice cream
Rhubarb mascarpone with manuka honey custard
and rhubarb orange blossom compote
Cheese and Fruit
A selection of Cashel Blue cheese, Mull of Kintyre cheddar and Somerset brie with fresh seasonal fruit
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed or decaffeinated coffee, tea, herbal tea or hot chocolate
Self-service Snacks
Help yourself from our range of snacks available for you to enjoy during your flight
Light Refreshment
Starter
Tropical fresh fruit salad with kiwifruit, orange and pineapple
Sandwiches
Poached salmon, mayonnaise and cucumber sandwich
Chicken, parmesan, rocket and tomato sandwich
Red Leicester cheese and spring onion mayonnaise sandwich
Ham and egg mayonnaise sandwich
Scones
Freshly baked scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed or decaffeinated coffee, tea, herbal tea or hot chocolate
Wine
The premium wine selection onboard this flight has been chosen by our wine consultants : John Belsham of Foxes Island Wines, Kate Radburnd of CJ Pask Winery and Jim Harré, nationally recognised wine judge. For details of our onboard wines, refer to your Air New Zealand Wine Guide.
Champagne
Champagne Laurent-Perrier L-P NV Brut, France
This champagne commences with pristine floral and mineral notes to the aroma. The taste is fresh with expressive flavours from which the fruit progressively emerges. The finish is very long and refreshing. A masterfully crafted wine.
or
Veuve Clicquot Vintage Reserve 1998, Champagne, France
The nose is intense and complex, opening with hints of yellow fruits combined with fresher notes of mint, lemon and grapefruit. Oxidising the wine brings aromas of dried fruits as well as exotic fruit to the fore. In the mouth, the wine is generous and accompanied by a sensation of fullness and volume. Vintage Reserve 1998 is naturally inviting, with its smooth texture and long finish creating a gourmet indulgence.
New Zealand Sparkling Wine
Offering a wide range of flavours, from rich, full-flavoured and vibrant styles to those which are finer and more delicate. A superb aperitif choice which also suits a wide range of light or moderately flavoured dishes.
Cocktails
Manuka Mule
A New Zealand twist on the classic Moscow Mule, with warm spicy flavours of 42 Below Manuka Honey vodka, and the refreshing bite of lime and tangy ginger beer.
Tropical Honey
Rich and slightly decadent, with the unique taste of New Zealand's spicy Manuka Honey vodka and the elegant warmth of Grand Marnier, lengthened and softened with the tropical flavours of pineapple and lime.
Spirits
Glenfiddich Malt Whisky
Chivas Regal Blended Whisky
Jack Daniel’s Black Label
Gordons Gin
42 Below Vodka
Courvoisier VSOP
Captain Morgan Rum
Ron Bacardi Superior
Port and Liqueurs
Portuguese Port
Grand Marnier
Baileys Irish Cream
Beer
A selection of beer featuring Steinlager, Export Gold, Heineken and low alcohol lager
Soft Drinks
Mineral water, orange juice, apple juice, tomato juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, cola, lemonade, L&P (sparkling lemon drink), tonic water, ginger ale, diet cola and diet lemonade
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed coffee
Decaffeinated coffee
English Breakfast tea
Chamomile tea
Lemon tea
Decaffeinated tea
Earl Grey tea
Peppermint tea
Green tea
Hot chocolate
NZ1_ATL_308
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 5, 08, 11:54 pm
LOS ANGELES to AUCKLAND (LAX-AKL) on Air New Zealand 777-200ER in business class
For a nice change there was not much of a queue at immigration and I played line lotto correctly (this almost never happens) by picking the faster moving option. The officer started asking questions about where I'd been. My heart sank as I recalled the last time I'd been questioned by US immigration (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=9654426) about countries visited previously on the same trip. I don't have long before the last flight of the night departs, thus a misconnect due to questioning will cost me a whole day. However, he then saw that I was in transit and asked how long. "About an hour." At that, he stopped all questions, quickly stamped my passport and customs form and I was on my way.
With clearing immigration fairly quickly there was no queue at customs and I walked straight on out the door with nary a pause in my step, left right dodge the friends and family awaiting arriving passengers, right, up escalator, dodge the small group standing at the top trying to work out what door to enter, re-enter terminal, right for security. Yes, I can do this half asleep ... and at speed. Time is of the essence to get a shower.
A minor delay at the boarding pass check before security while the agent on the elite line checks a group of non-elite queue jumpers. Grrrr. Then the usual pretence of checking out my passport for forgery ... as if she knows what she is looking for in a non-US passport :rolleyes: Up another level, and the security queues are shortish. This time I drew the short straw and the 1 person in front of me took an age taking off shoes, belt, wallet, phone, keys, loose coins. You name it, he had it and only realised the need to remove when prompted by the screener, and then had to retrieve his boarding pass from the depths of his bag, which of course had to then be rescreened. If he hadn't been blocking the x-ray machine for my carry-on, I would have gladly waltzed around him and through the WTMD. I considered swapping lines, and probably should have. Even with a queue it would have been quicker.
Upstairs again to the lounge, with my green visa waiver stub in hand to pass off to the lounge agent. "You've done this before" she said, and I agreed. Then a dash to the showers where I just managed to beat someone to the last vacant shower room. Woohoo, success. I have a fast but refreshing shower, and make sure I am ready as I can be for a post-flight meeting (fresh clothes at top of my bag along with all the bits and bobs I will need). I was in a rush because not only was the transit shortened by our late arrival, but I was in the same seat for the onward flight and again wanted to ensure space for my carry-on near to my seat.
Just as I left the shower an announcement was made that boarding would be in about 10 minutes. So I put my carry-on down to grab a quick drink, before heading out in advance of the hordes. I could have waited for the announcement and escort (some of the LAX staff go the extra step of escorting passengers to the gate), but while that would have cleared a path to the boarding pass reader it would not ensure overhead bin space, except by chance if I managed to get near the front of the group. So by cunningly using the passage behind podium at the adjacent gate I positioned myself to board within the first few people. As it happened, boarding did commence when I reached the gate and I was soon back in the seat for the day.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 6, 08, 12:09 am
This leg was also full in all classes, and had been zeroed out for some weeks (at least). More than half the business class cabin were through passengers from London. A few pre-departure drinks and watched another movie while boarding was underway as part of my sleep management plan.
I was rather tired and not too aware of departure time. I did however notice we seemed to be taxiing for a long time. Sure enough a glance out the window revealed we had taxiied about as far as it was possible to do in LAX, from T2 all the way around the U and past T8 before turning and taking off out to sea.
The concierge came by, chatted, and handed out her business card. I drank, ate, finished the movie, and then slept soundly for several hours.
I awoke just before breakfast. With the change from 747 to 777, and the effect of retiming for daylight saving occurring while the aircraft was on its way to London, this flight was due to land in Auckland early morning, instead of really early morning. Thus while I was annoyed at having much less time to prepare for my meeting (and the potential of being stuck in rush hour traffic - the last similar arrival I was stuck on Mangere Bridge for an hour), there was a benefit in a more reasonable hour to awake for breakfast.
As usual I had a quick breakfast and used the bathroom before most passengers were half way through their meal. Then a quick power nap to top up my sleep.
We didn't get much of a view of the city for cloud cover was thick from the Hauraki Gulf onwards. We cleared the bottom of the cloud a couple of minutes before landing, which was on time.
We disembarked by door 2L, and disappointingly despite the announcement for business class to go first there were hordes let through from premium economy and economy on the lower deck. The now normal long walk to immigration on arrival allowed me to power walk past most of those who beat me off the aircraft. I was expecting a queue at immigration for there are a number of early morning arrivals, and ours towards the end of the cycle. However there was no wait.
At customs I was directed to the x-ray machine but was stopped en route by a roving officer. I had about 20 minutes of questions standing in the middle of the corridor while many others streamed by on both sides. Fortunately I said the right words to avoid a secondary and I was allowed on my way with a minor inconvenience instead of a more significant one.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 6, 08, 12:17 am
Air New Zealand
Business Premier menu
Los Angeles to Auckland
October 2008
Air New Zealand is proud to welcome you to our Business Premier experience and invite you to tailor your dining experience to meet your requirements.
A full supper will be offered on departure from Los Angeles, with a Fast Dine soup option should you wish to go to sleep earlier. If you prefer a little extra sleep, let your flight attendant know that you do not wish to be woken for the full breakfast. A Fast Dine breakfast option will ensure you have a quick bite to eat prior to landing.
Fast Dine
Tortilla Soup with avocado,
chicken, cheese, crisp tortilla chips and green onions
Hot sourdough bread
Chocolates
Dinner
Starter
Oak leaf lettuce, crumbled feta cheese,
beets, sweet Maui onions and black olive oil
Bakery
Garlic bread, black olive bread and wholegrain bread
Main Course
Red wine braised beef short rib
with potato gratin, cabbage and bacon, and creamed Swiss chard
Grilled New Zealand salmon
with pea tendrils, parsnip puree, red onion confit and roasted carrots
Wood roasted organic chicken breast
with garlic mashed potato, cavolo nero (Tuscan greens) and mushroom bolonaise, Madeira and chicken jus
Dessert
Gourmet ice cream dessert
of strawberry cheesecake and pineapple coconut ice cream
Cheese and Fruit
Fine New Zealand cheese and fresh seasonal fruit
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed or decaffeinated coffee, tea, herbal tea or hot chocolate
Self-service Snacks
Help yourself from our range of snacks available for you to enjoy during your flight
Breakfast
Wake-up Drinks
Start your day with a fruit smoothie, your choice of juice, freshly brewed or decaffeinated coffee, tea, herbal tea or hot chocolate.
Light Breakfast
A bowl of cereal topped with yoghurt and fresh fruit is available as a lighter option.
Fast Dine Breakfast
Please let your flight attendant know if you would like to sleep-in and we will wake you as late as possible and offer you an orange and almond breakfast pastry and a beverage of your choice.
Full Breakfast
Fruit and cereals will be offered followed by a hot bakery selection and your choice of a hot breakfast or cold plate.
Croissants, wholemeal and fruit toast with fruit conserve
Hot Breakfast
Chive scrambled eggs
with sun dried tomato chicken sausage, grilled bacon, mushrooms and roasted tomato
White chocolate buttermilk pancakes with blueberry compote and lavender honey creme fraiche
Cold Plate
A selection of Italian, baked and smoked ham
with New Zealand cheese, Dijon mustard and crusty breakfast rolls
Wine
The premium wine selection onboard this flight has been chosen by our wine consultants : John Belsham of Foxes Island Wines, Kate Radburnd of CJ Pask Winery and Jim Harré, nationally recognised wine judge. For details of our onboard wines, refer to your Air New Zealand Wine Guide.
Champagne
Champagne Laurent-Perrier L-P NV Brut, France
This champagne commences with pristine floral and mineral notes to the aroma. The taste is fresh with expressive flavours from which the fruit progressively emerges. The finish is very long and refreshing. A masterfully crafted wine.
or
Veuve Clicquot Vintage Reserve 1998, Champagne, France
The nose is intense and complex, opening with hints of yellow fruits combined with fresher notes of mint, lemon and grapefruit. Oxidising the wine brings aromas of dried fruits as well as exotic fruit to the fore. In the mouth, the wine is generous and accompanied by a sensation of fullness and volume. Vintage Reserve 1998 is naturally inviting, with its smooth texture and long finish creating a gourmet indulgence.
New Zealand Sparkling Wine
Offering a wide range of flavours, from rich, full-flavoured and vibrant styles to those which are finer and more delicate. A superb aperitif choice which also suits a wide range of light or moderately flavoured dishes.
Cocktails
Manuka Mule
A New Zealand twist on the classic Moscow Mule, with warm spicy flavours of 42 Below Manuka Honey vodka, and the refreshing bite of lime and tangy ginger beer.
Tropical Honey
Rich and slightly decadent, with the unique taste of New Zealand's spicy Manuka Honey vodka and the elegant warmth of Grand Marnier, lengthened and softened with the tropical flavours of pineapple and lime.
Spirits
Glenfiddich Malt Whisky
Chivas Regal Blended Whisky
Jack Daniel’s Black Label
Gordons Gin
42 Below Vodka
Courvoisier VSOP
Captain Morgan Rum
Ron Bacardi Superior
Port and Liqueurs
Portuguese Port
Grand Marnier
Baileys Irish Cream
Beer
A selection of beer featuring Steinlager, Export Gold, Heineken and low alcohol lager
Soft Drinks
Mineral water, orange juice, apple juice, tomato juice, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, cola, lemonade, L&P (sparkling lemon drink), tonic water, ginger ale, diet cola and diet lemonade
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed coffee
Decaffeinated coffee
English Breakfast tea
Chamomile tea
Lemon tea
Decaffeinated tea
Earl Grey tea
Peppermint tea
Green tea
Hot chocolate
NZ1_SUPPER_308
Thai-Kiwi
Nov 6, 08, 12:57 am
Welcome home KF! A great read......
briantoronto
Nov 6, 08, 2:47 am
Great report! Looking forward (of course) to your next TR.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 6, 08, 11:08 am
Thanks for the thanks. There's still a little bit more to come on this one. Will I finish flying every route for an airline? Currently I have over 100 flown and 1 to go. Almost there.
briantoronto
Nov 6, 08, 1:06 pm
Thanks for the thanks. There's still a little bit more to come on this one. Will I finish flying every route for an airline? Currently I have over 100 flown and 1 to go. Almost there.
And here some of us thought it was over!
-Brian
jjclancy
Nov 6, 08, 1:19 pm
At customs I was directed to the x-ray machine but was stopped en route by a roving officer. I had about 20 minutes of questions standing in the middle of the corridor while many others streamed by on both sides. Fortunately I said the right words to avoid a secondary and I was allowed on my way with a minor inconvenience instead of a more significant one.
20 minutes? I've had a secondary at AKL that didn't take that long. Perhaps angling for the secondary inspection would have been a faster option?
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 6, 08, 4:02 pm
20 minutes? I've had a secondary at AKL that didn't take that long. Perhaps angling for the secondary inspection would have been a faster option?
About half the time was spent waiting for someone in the back office to retrieve my file, to check why I'd been flagged. If I had gone to secondary it would have taken longer (saved the search and less questions).
MrSydney
Nov 7, 08, 4:02 pm
Hot Breakfast
Chive scrambled eggs
with sun dried tomato chicken sausage, grilled bacon, mushrooms and roasted tomato
White chocolate buttermilk pancakes with blueberry compote and lavender honey creme fraiche
NZ has had these two very dreary dishes for the last few years. Do they ever change them?
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 7, 08, 4:20 pm
NZ has had these two very dreary dishes for the last few years. Do they ever change them?
They change the longhaul breakfast a few times a year (other meals tend to change a bit more often than the breakfasts). If you check out my earlier trip reports, or the sticky all airline menu thread here in Trip Reports forum, you'll see they are different (even on the same route).
dannyr
Nov 12, 08, 2:18 pm
Thanks for the thanks. There's still a little bit more to come on this one. Will I finish flying every route for an airline? Currently I have over 100 flown and 1 to go. Almost there.
How's the rest of that report coming Kiwi?
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 12, 08, 2:28 pm
Hopefully soon.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 14, 08, 11:03 am
Apologies for the delay. I had intended posting the next instalment now. Unfortunately, there is a 2-for-1 sale calling my name and instead of writing up the next bit I'm playing around to find the best option. Sorry.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 14, 08, 11:43 am
AUCKLAND to CHRISTCHURCH (AKL-CHC) on Air New Zealand 737-300 in economy space+
I'd received my RFID tag a couple of weeks prior and after a few days grounded was looking forward to getting in the air again, as well as checking out the new systems. Air NZ has made some significant changes to check in processes for domestic flights, and today is my first chance to try it out.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 15, 08, 2:55 pm
With no bags to check I could go straight to the lounge. However, I wanted to check out the new quick-check machines to see what had changed from the old quick-check machines.
I tried my tag on the machine. It didn't work through my wallet, so I took it out. It still didn't work so I resorted to using my FF card instead. That worked, but seemed a bit slower than in the past.
Since online check in and seat selection at time of booking was enabled for domestic flights, I have consistently had difficulty in getting middle seat blocked on lightly loaded flights. So I was surprised that the middle seat was empty and hadn't yet been nabbed. It was, however, not blocked so could be claimed between now and departure.
The airport check in process is rather different. Take a look at the website explanation (www.changingthewayyoufly.co.nz). There are no check in desks or check in agents per se. Instead everyone must use a quick-check machine, and if you have bags you get them tagged at the machine and deposit them yourself onto the baggage belt. There were plenty of staff roaming to explain the new system and help out. I wonder how many will remain once the system is bedded in? I also wonder what will happen the first time someone's bag or clothing gets caught up in the belt?
As I couldn't improve on my previously selected seats no boarding passes were spat out from the machine. I think these are unchanged from the old little stubs (ie still too small to attach baggage receipts properly).
There was a line at security, but at this hour of the morning most passengers are seasoned regulars with just the odd holiday-maker or infrequent passenger. So I am quickly through and up to the lounge.
At the lounge entrance there is a scanner where you place the tag if you have one, or the barcode from your boarding pass. This is supposed to check you in if you are not already checked in, and give a green light if you have lounge access. Of course a lounge agent still needs to man the machine so other than as a method to quickly check in, there is no saving in getting passengers to do more work. I wonder what happens if for example a non-NZ *G status or paid club membership is not correctly linked to the booking?
Anyway, for me the tag again did not work even taking it out of my wallet. By now I'm distinctly underwhelmed by it all. It looks like there is a risk I'll lose it due to not being able to attach it to my phone and there being no hole to attach to a keyring or lanyard. Furthermore, it is yet to do anything to assist processing me. Fortunately the agent recognises me and trusts that I'm flying today, so I'm waved inside without the need to pull out my card and for her to look up my flights.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 15, 08, 3:20 pm
I grabbed a coffee and went to the business centre to catch up on some messages. I noticed the first flight to Christchurch had just been cancelled and investigated why so as to be prepared to change my plans if necessary. A fog had drifted inland off the sea in Christchurch this morning.
From experience, I knew that it could clear very quickly or linger for many hours. I hoped it would be the former, as I have onward flights to make. I checked alternate routings and found there was just one that I could take, and I'd need to decide to switch within 30 minutes to make that option. There was a large queue at the service desk as other flights started being effected. I decided not to add to the queue and sit tight.
The next Christchurch flight was also cancelled. I thought about switching to the other routing. This would free up a seat to Christchurch that would enable someone else to get there an hour earlier than otherwise. However, to make a change I'd have to jump ahead of everyone else in the long line straight away and hope there was a seat left that was not a middle seat (I'd already checked the alternate flight was not sold out although was looking rather full, but unfortunately I couldn't see the seat map). I decided against it.
Shortly after the flight was called. At the gate my tag finally worked (but not without first having to take it out of the wallet). I got a receipt-like boarding pass ("gate pass") which had my name, gate number, flight number, destination and seat. (ntddevsys if you are reading this destination is indeed printed on the pass.) No status info though.
With the 2 earlier full flights both being cancelled I knew there was no chance of an empty middle seat. Indeed rebookings were flowing on for the next 4 flights at least. The passenger next to me had no status and was moaning about being lied to, and having to insist to get on this flight instead of the next one. In these circumstances, agents have a difficult job and availability changes rapidly. It is not necessarily a lie if there are no seats available when you ask, and they become available 20 minutes later when you go back to insist on it. Besides which, when the spillover from the earlier cancellations snowballs across most of the day (most flights being full or nearly so), they have to prioritise some how. Prioritising based on status doesn't seem unreasonable to me.
Boarding was slow as a number of passengers failed to turn up at the gate when called. Eventually they boarded to glares from everyone else and we left a bit late, but pretty good in the circumstances.
Meal service was muesli or muffin, plus tea, coffee, juice or water.
I read some reports.
There was a decent view of the North Island, but much of the South Island plains and valleys were blanketed in fog. Although the skies were indeed crystal clear at Christchurch airport, fog was only several kilometres away.
We landed and got an apron stand. I've been flying into and out of Christchurch for many years. Always the larger domestic aircraft (737 and A320) get an airbridge. Except twice in the past month I've had a stand. Both times I've had onward flights with shortish connection, and it is annoying to get dumped landside and have to join a long queue to get back through security to airside. Oh not worth worrying about as there is nothing I can do about it.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 15, 08, 3:27 pm
Some process flaws identified when flights get delayed or cancelled. I'd suggest anyone without bags to check who has enough time to run past the koru club go there and scan into the system. Currently some people who didn't get scanned in and just turn up at the gate "too late" (according to the system based on scheduled departure time) are having problems (bumped off flights for not being checked in).
Hopefully processes are fine-tuned to reduce this problem.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 15, 08, 3:49 pm
CHRISTCHURCH to DUNEDIN (CHC-DUD) on Air New Zealand ATR 72-500 in economy class
At the lounge I was advised the tag scanner was down currently, but waved in since they know me so well :D I had enough time to grab a coffee and do some more messages before the flight was called. In the meantime they got the scanners back going again and tested with my tag. It worked here. I'm not sure why it didn't at the Auckland lounge or quick-check machine.
Downstairs to the gate. Another gate receipt boarding pass. We were held at the edge of the apron for 10 minutes while another aircraft in front of us started up its engines and then slowly moved away. Why did they bother calling our flight when we couldn't get to the aircraft anyway?
This flight was fairly full, but again no seat blocking other than the empty rows at the back. Grrr.
Sustenance in the form of biscuit, coffee, tea or water. The first run through was for water, then for cups. Then biscuits plus milk and sugar. Then the hot drinks, starting from the front. As an elite I'd selected a preferred seat near the back. By the time I got my coffee we had already begun descent on this hour long flight. With the heat of the drink it was a mental tussle between drinking quickly and burning my tongue or slowly and possibly spilling it in bumps on descent, or getting it taken off me after I'd only had a few sips. I chose for quick, with burnt tongue :(
The views en route were spectacular. Fog patches on the Canterbury Plains. Mountains still glistening with the surprise recent late and heavy snowfall which had not yet melted in the springtime warmth. Beautiful contours and colours of the Otago hills, valleys and ranges. Just near the airport it clouded up so no great views on approach.
However it was warm, much warmer than I expected, walking across the tarmac to the terminal.
Thus was my 100th Air New Zealand flight of the year to date (out of more than 200 flights so far).
flykiwifly
Nov 16, 08, 5:18 am
Great detailed trip report. Quick question as I have a couple of long haul trips on AirNZ biz class coming up next year. Only ever been on 747 biz class apart from a 777 TT so was interested to know what seats on the 777 have limited storage/access to the overhead lockers?
Thanks
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 16, 08, 8:59 am
1B & 1J have no overhead bin. 2A & 2K have an overhead bin, but shared with supplies and possibily the pax in 1B & 1J. 7A & 7K may also have supplies in their overhead bins.
SFflyer123
Nov 16, 08, 11:11 pm
I may have missed it, but do you have photos? we would love to see photos of the planes & food!
everywhere
Nov 17, 08, 1:13 am
...As I couldn't improve on my previously selected seats no boarding passes were spat out from the machine. I think these are unchanged from the old little stubs (ie still too small to attach baggage receipts properly)...Vastly different: Made out of some kind of flimsy laminate and much larger. And of course baggage receipts are now printed directly onto the boarding pass - not stuck on.
Good that the gate stub tells you were you are going: it would be good if it could tell you what time you will get there!
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 17, 08, 10:47 am
I saw some fellow passengers with the old thin boarding passes. Wonder where they got those if quick check machine now spits out something different?
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 17, 08, 10:48 am
I may have missed it, but do you have photos? we would love to see photos of the planes & food!
Sorry I don't do pictures.
everywhere
Nov 17, 08, 11:50 pm
If you were using your card (rather than your ePass) would the machine not automatically give you a boarding pass?
I saw some fellow passengers with the old thin boarding passes. Wonder where they got those if quick check machine now spits out something different?The plot thickens...
CHC Kiwi
Nov 18, 08, 12:54 am
I saw some fellow passengers with the old thin boarding passes. Wonder where they got those if quick check machine now spits out something different?
Domestic transfer desk at AKL international terminal still gives the old boarding passes (I received one last Saturday).
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 18, 08, 12:25 pm
DUNEDIN to MELBOURNE (DUD-MEL) on Air New Zealand A320 in economy class with space+
There was no one manning check in so I popped back upstairs to the lounge, where I caught up on some messages.
I later left my carry-on in the lounge and went downstairs to check in. This was done quickly and I soon had 2 more boarding passes. Back up to the lounge for a quick drink before boarding was called. The call was made late, to allow the queues at security and immigration to clear. First I had a short detour to pay the NZ$25 departure fee at the bank (counter opens 90 minutes before departure).
Next stop to get the stamp on the departure fee sticker (:rolleyes:) then security, then immigration. A couple of questions about why such a short trip before the penny drops with the officer that she's processed me before. At the holding pen I realise I needn't have rushed. There is no sign that boarding is imminent other than that all passengers are at the gate.
About a quarter of an hour later we board. Grrr, loss of drinking (I mean lounge) time.
The load is higher than I expected given there were still rather cheap seats available for sale just this morning. Indeed no empty middle seat for me, although there are several scattered throughout the space+ zone.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 18, 08, 12:34 pm
We departed late due to the late boarding, but were advised we will still arrive on time as the usual strong headwinds are absent.
I'd hoped to get a view of the Southern Alps as we fly over them, but all the passengers near me in window seats pulled down their blinds.
The service was poor, one of the worst I've experienced on Air NZ, with none of the usual touches I've come to expect as an elite pax flying in economy. No personal greeting. No newspaper. No offer to move to a business class seat (there were no passengers at all in business class, even with economy service this would have been a welcome relief as the three of us in my row were all big). No express arrival cards for immigration. Only one drinks round the entire flight. Indeed as we commenced descent into Melbourne an announcement was made apologising for the lack of hot drinks as they'd run out of time (on a 3 1/2 hour flight!).
A disappointment on this flight which is the 105th and final current Air NZ route flown by me (plus several routes no longer operated).
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 18, 08, 12:42 pm
MELBOURNE to AUCKLAND (MEL-AKL) on Air New Zealand A320 in business class
We had a slow taxi into the end gate of the pier. A long walk to and through the duty free shop to the sign for international transfer only to find a locked door. Unlike other airports with locked transfer doors (such as Manchester or Auckland in the middle of the night), there is no buzzer or phone, nor a manned desk to assist. I headed over to immigration to find someone to open it up for me. I was told to go back to the door and he'd arrange for someone to open up. Fifteen minutes later there was no sign of the door being opened.
There was one other person waiting with me, and she was as unimpressed as I was. Neither of us could think of another international airport with such a shoddy set up. After some more time waiting, by now I was wondering about my odds of making the onward flight. We found another officer who spent the next five minutes waiting to see if anyone else needed a transit and berating the airlines for somehow stuffing up. :confused:
Finally in the departure area I rushed to security. I was through in seconds and ran to the end of the pier. Boarding hadn't started so I headed down to the lounge in the dungeons (ground floor), where I was told the flight will be boarding a few minutes late. The agent did not recognise my boarding pass, which was one of the skinny ones issued at regional airports in New Zealand. I got it reissued because the one I had will not scan at the gate here. It is a pain, but I have to do this fairly often on same day return trips across the Tasman.
I grabbed a quick shower and boarding was called just as I was coming out.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 18, 08, 12:50 pm
This flight was full, which did not surprise me in the least having switched from a 777. I was disappointed, for the shorthaul business class on A320 is a far cry from the longhaul business class on 777. My disappointment was compounded inside when I saw it was an A320 which did not yet have AVOD installed. None of the DVDs in the limited library appealed, so I prepared to snooze & booze for much of the flight instead.
My flight passed in a bit of a blur. We arrived rather late due to a lack of strong tailwinds, and the late boarding at Melbourne. On arrival at Auckland we got the far end gate (number 10) so quite a trek to immigration. We were so late that walking through arrivals duty free to reach immigration we had to navigate our way past the roped off corridor as they were cleaning. No questions at immigration or customs and I was soon landside. A bit of a wait for a cab as they'd disappeared and had to be called.
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 18, 08, 12:52 pm
Air New Zealand
Business Class menu
Australia to New Zealand
November 2008
Dinner
Starter
Kawakawa and chilli seasoned tuna with baby greens and curry oil
Main Course
Pan seared rosemary scented lamb loin with golden kumara gratin, crushed minted peas and paprika butter
Sauteed basil marinated prawns on karengo potato salad with char grilled capsicum and rocket
Dessert
Rhubarb and macadamia crumble with vanilla bean anglaise cream
OR
Gourmet dessert of gingernut and strawberry ice cream
Cheese Plate
Fine regional cheese and preserved fruit
Wine
Our wine list showcases some of the best wine New Zealand has to offer – from a country that celebrates its zealous passion for producing top quality wines.
The premium wine selection onboard this flight has been chosen by our wine consultants : John Belsham of Foxes Island Wines, Kate Radburnd of CJ Pask Winery and Jim Harré, nationally recognised wine judge.
The fine wines served on this flight have been chosen to complement today’s menu style. Your crew will be happy to discuss the selection and help you choose wines to accompany your meal.
Spirits
Glenfiddich Malt Whisky
Chivas Regal Blended Whisky
Jack Daniel’s Black Label
Gordons Gin
42 Below Vodka
Courvoisier VSOP
Captain Morgan Rum
Ron Bacardi Superior
Port and Liqueurs
Portuguese Port
Grand Marnier
Baileys Irish Cream
Beer
A selection of beer featuring Steinlager, Export Gold, Heineken and low alcohol lager
Soft Drinks
Mineral water, orange juice, apple juice, tomato juice, cola, lemonade, L&P (sparkling lemon drink), tonic water, ginger ale, diet cola and diet lemonade
Hot Drinks
Freshly brewed or decaffeinated coffee, tea, herbal tea and hot chocolate
C2DE_FROZ_OCT08
Seat 2A
Nov 18, 08, 12:55 pm
Simply amazing! Kiwi Flyer, I always enjoy checking in on your travels, and you've really outdone yourself this time. You're definitely due for a nice long flight in International First Class at the very least. Here's wishing you continued happy contrails ^^
Kiwi Flyer
Nov 18, 08, 1:05 pm
You're definitely due for a nice long flight in International First Class at the very least. Here's wishing you continued happy contrails ^^
Thanks. I have a nice 14 hour longhaul flight next month that I have high hopes for a successful upgrade. Business looks oversold and first currently is almost empty. To improve my odds rather than play the op-up lottery I have put in a mileage upgrade request.