747 j 1a/1k
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Apr 2015
Location: IAD
Posts: 735
747 j 1a/1k
I am thinking of booking QF74 (SFO-SYD) in J on the 744 without F. It has always been a goal of mine to seat in 1A/1K on a 747 to get an almost forward view of the takeoff and landing. However, when I look at the seat map for any date I see 1A/1K blocked off. I am sure I can request it at check-in time if available and not needed for its intended use, but I was hoping secure it in advance. I had a few questions:
Note the "Xs" in the screenshot are blocked seats, not occupied seats.
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Note the "Xs" in the screenshot are blocked seats, not occupied seats.
#2
Join Date: Jan 2014
Posts: 985
It shows as blocked off to you because you likely do not have the sufficient status to select seats in those rows. Row 1 is generally reserved for CL and P1 members. Try checking the seat map again at T-80 and then at T-24 when online check-in opens. Prior to that you won't be able to call up and have an agent assign you a blocked seat if you're not eligible to it.
#3
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: HKG/HND/OOL
Programs: QF Emerald. SQ Gold.
Posts: 3,166
I was on Seat 1A on my recent flight. I too, was in belief that there is a "forward" looking view. I think this 1A thingy is over-hyped, once I've done it I realized it wasn't really true!
I attached few photos for your reference. But I would not choose 1A next time... few reasons... the bassiet seat (so you could have bassinet used), and more importantly the legrom / pitch is pretty poor.... 1A has 2 windows, whereas I think 2A behind me at 3 windows... yes it's nice to have experienced it but I would think 2A offers better privacy and also the seat-back monitor can be used throughout takeoff/landing on 2A whereas 1A is a seat-mounted TV
I attached few photos for your reference. But I would not choose 1A next time... few reasons... the bassiet seat (so you could have bassinet used), and more importantly the legrom / pitch is pretty poor.... 1A has 2 windows, whereas I think 2A behind me at 3 windows... yes it's nice to have experienced it but I would think 2A offers better privacy and also the seat-back monitor can be used throughout takeoff/landing on 2A whereas 1A is a seat-mounted TV
#4
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: AU
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Qantas offers the forward view only on their remaining two 747s with an F cabin (which is now sold only as J, and is only available on select routes). The F cabin arrangement has no forward storage closet that takes blocks windows.
Other airlines such as UA also offer the forward view.
The true 'view forward' is a unique experience and well worth it if you can find a plane that still accommodates it.
#5
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Melbourne
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Yes, forget 1A/1K.
The available seats I'd go for are (assuming solo) 5J, 5B, 3E, 3F.
14A/14K I'd take over those if available. Have you tried seat selection using www.qantas.com/yourbooking ?
The available seats I'd go for are (assuming solo) 5J, 5B, 3E, 3F.
14A/14K I'd take over those if available. Have you tried seat selection using www.qantas.com/yourbooking ?
#6
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Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: SYD
Programs: QF WP/LTG | UA P
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TG currently fly their 744s BKK-SYD-BKK twice daily and their F cabin is in Zone 1. Award seats are sometimes available. 1A and 1K have the (almost) forward view, but I prefer the space in their Row 2.
#7
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You won't see the UA 744s on the Oz run any more (or anywhere for that matter soon).
TG currently fly their 744s BKK-SYD-BKK twice daily and their F cabin is in Zone 1. Award seats are sometimes available. 1A and 1K have the (almost) forward view, but I prefer the space in their Row 2.
TG currently fly their 744s BKK-SYD-BKK twice daily and their F cabin is in Zone 1. Award seats are sometimes available. 1A and 1K have the (almost) forward view, but I prefer the space in their Row 2.
I remembered TG a while later, but only really applicable on their old 10 F variant? I'm lucky enough to have scored an old one for my upcoming trip.
LH's F cabin on the 748 didn't offer a forward view worth writing home about. Not sure if there are any other airlines left?
#9
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#11
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Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: SYD
Programs: QF WP/LTG | UA P
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Its not surprising that the storage cupboard infront of row 1 is being enlarged (with loss of the front wondow(s)). There has always been a shortage of overhead locker space in the very front and with crew stuffing their gear in the existing small cupboard, as well as coats, matresses and other junk, there's no room for pax carry on baggage.
#12
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: AU
Programs: former Olympic Airways Gold (yeah - still proud of that!)
Posts: 14,401
Its not surprising that the storage cupboard infront of row 1 is being enlarged (with loss of the front wondow(s)). There has always been a shortage of overhead locker space in the very front and with crew stuffing their gear in the existing small cupboard, as well as coats, matresses and other junk, there's no room for pax carry on baggage.
Out of all the designs for the front bulkhead of a 747, the QF one must be near the worst. Visually unappealing.