Back and forth across the Pacific on a variety of airlines in a selection of classes
Dec 28, 2007, 2:38 am
#46
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
AUCKLAND to SINGAPORE (AKL-SIN) on SQ 777-200ER in business class
The next day I was again back at the airport checking in for yet more transpac flights. I went straight to check in. The overhead signs indicated every desk was for economy but it was apparent which ones were for business class and raffles by the lack of snake queue and the blue carpet laid out.
It must have been too long since I have flown Singapore from Auckland, for the check in agents were flummoxed by my request for return check in. "It isn't possible." I persisted and eventually a supervisor was contacted on the phone who talked the agent through the required keystrokes (note to self remember 0'E ). Eventually I got the 4 boarding passes. In the confusion they forgot to check my credit card (for bookings made online the last 4 digits of the credit card must be supplied at check in).
The couple checking in at the next counter were not so lucky - apparently they'd booked nearly a year ago and had long since cancelled the card they had used for purchase. When I left they were still sorting it all out.
No immigration pre-clearance - unlike the middle of the day flight. It annoys me each time I've taken this flight that SQ is too cheap to provide this service for their business class and elite passengers. For the late departure coincides with 2 747 NZ flights to London (normally full) as well as 1 or 2 777 flights to Asia and other smaller a/c to various Pacific Islands. Thus immigration queues can be expected to be lengthy.
Sure enough as I walk past the NZ check in counters there is a huge mass of people spilling out into the entrance and blocking up people like myself who are trying to reach the escalators to the departure level. Suprisingly, immigration had just a small queue - I got very lucky there. The person ahead of immigration who checks you have paid departure tax looked at my carry-on suspiciously but noticed my business class boarding pass and said nothing about size or weight. Just as well really - for today it would only weigh about 6kgs.
The next day I was again back at the airport checking in for yet more transpac flights. I went straight to check in. The overhead signs indicated every desk was for economy but it was apparent which ones were for business class and raffles by the lack of snake queue and the blue carpet laid out.
It must have been too long since I have flown Singapore from Auckland, for the check in agents were flummoxed by my request for return check in. "It isn't possible." I persisted and eventually a supervisor was contacted on the phone who talked the agent through the required keystrokes (note to self remember 0'E ). Eventually I got the 4 boarding passes. In the confusion they forgot to check my credit card (for bookings made online the last 4 digits of the credit card must be supplied at check in).
The couple checking in at the next counter were not so lucky - apparently they'd booked nearly a year ago and had long since cancelled the card they had used for purchase. When I left they were still sorting it all out.
No immigration pre-clearance - unlike the middle of the day flight. It annoys me each time I've taken this flight that SQ is too cheap to provide this service for their business class and elite passengers. For the late departure coincides with 2 747 NZ flights to London (normally full) as well as 1 or 2 777 flights to Asia and other smaller a/c to various Pacific Islands. Thus immigration queues can be expected to be lengthy.
Sure enough as I walk past the NZ check in counters there is a huge mass of people spilling out into the entrance and blocking up people like myself who are trying to reach the escalators to the departure level. Suprisingly, immigration had just a small queue - I got very lucky there. The person ahead of immigration who checks you have paid departure tax looked at my carry-on suspiciously but noticed my business class boarding pass and said nothing about size or weight. Just as well really - for today it would only weigh about 6kgs.
Dec 28, 2007, 5:54 pm
#47
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
Auckland to Singapore business class menu
SUPPER menu
A savoury note
Cucumber-feta cheese salad with marinated salmon and garden greens
The main event
Baked chicken with stuffing and chicken jus, cold sausage vierge, cauliflower puree, spinach and asparagus
Grilled beef fillet with rosemary jus, roasted vegetables and potatoes
Braised hapuku fillet with hot bean sauce, seasonal vegetables and fried rice
A sweet note
Gourmet ice cream
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
SNACK menu
Fancy a snack? 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
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian instant noodles
Sandwiches
Focaccia sandwich with smoked chicken
Focaccia sandwich with guamole and roasted vegetables
Snacks
Roasted mixed nuts
Kjeldsens cookies
Fruit bar
Cadbury chocolate bar
Potato chips
Bananas
BREAKFAST menu
A fresh start
A choice of apple, tomato or freshly squeezed orange juice
Fresh fruit
A healthy note
Choice of cereals or yoghurt
Cornflakes with milk or Birchermuesli
Plain or fruit yoghurt
The main event
Braised egg noodles with prawns, fish fillet and vegetables
Trilogy of beef, chicken and pork sausage in herb jus, roasted tomato and potatoes
Poached eggs with chicken sausage, grilled tomato, creamed greens and potatoes
From the bakery
Assorted breakfast rolls
Butter - fruit preserve
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
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 found above
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Wild rock "the infamous goose" sauvignon blanc 2006 marlborough, new zealand
Wynns coonawarra estate chardonnay 2006 south australia
Red wines
Elderton shiraz 2004 barossa valley
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese jasmine tea
Chinese oolong tea
Gourmet coffees
Brazil santos bourbon
Colombian supremo
Kenyan aa "kilimanjaro"
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
SUPPER menu
A savoury note
Cucumber-feta cheese salad with marinated salmon and garden greens
The main event
Baked chicken with stuffing and chicken jus, cold sausage vierge, cauliflower puree, spinach and asparagus
Grilled beef fillet with rosemary jus, roasted vegetables and potatoes
Braised hapuku fillet with hot bean sauce, seasonal vegetables and fried rice
A sweet note
Gourmet ice cream
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
SNACK menu
Fancy a snack? 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
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian instant noodles
Sandwiches
Focaccia sandwich with smoked chicken
Focaccia sandwich with guamole and roasted vegetables
Snacks
Roasted mixed nuts
Kjeldsens cookies
Fruit bar
Cadbury chocolate bar
Potato chips
Bananas
BREAKFAST menu
A fresh start
A choice of apple, tomato or freshly squeezed orange juice
Fresh fruit
A healthy note
Choice of cereals or yoghurt
Cornflakes with milk or Birchermuesli
Plain or fruit yoghurt
The main event
Braised egg noodles with prawns, fish fillet and vegetables
Trilogy of beef, chicken and pork sausage in herb jus, roasted tomato and potatoes
Poached eggs with chicken sausage, grilled tomato, creamed greens and potatoes
From the bakery
Assorted breakfast rolls
Butter - fruit preserve
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
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 found above
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Wild rock "the infamous goose" sauvignon blanc 2006 marlborough, new zealand
Wynns coonawarra estate chardonnay 2006 south australia
Red wines
Elderton shiraz 2004 barossa valley
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese jasmine tea
Chinese oolong tea
Gourmet coffees
Brazil santos bourbon
Colombian supremo
Kenyan aa "kilimanjaro"
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
Dec 28, 2007, 6:43 pm
#48
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
I caught up on some messages and work on the computers while having a few drinks. The lounge was quieter than normal for this hour of day (and day of week). About 20 minutes before scheduled boarding I hopped in a shower to freshen up. When I emerged it the lounge was empty with just some lounge staff cleaning up (for this is the last departing flight of the night). Thinking I was late, even though it was not quite yet the boarding time printed on the boarding pass (and I'd earlier noted the inbound aircraft arrived about 10 minutes late), I said goodnight and headed out for the gate.
All the duty free shops had long since shut up, with just currency exchange still open. At the gate I see that boarding has not yet started. Passport check is at the entrance to the gate lounge.
A short wait for boarding to commence. A couple of less abled passengers helped onboard first (no announcement), then a call for business, PPS and *G to board.
The flight is fairly full in economy but very empty in business class. I get invited to take my pick of several empty rows, but stick with the one I've settled in to.
A couple of pre-departure drinks while the other passengers are boarding. I get asked for a post-departure drinks order, my dinner order, as well as whether I wont a full meal or continental breakfast (ie when do I want to be woken). I say I'll probably wont to sleep - thanks.
Sure enough I struggle to stay awake during the safety video and drop off during take off. I awoke briefly some minutes later, took a drink and promptly fell back to sleep again. Next thing I know I awoke to the (gentle) noises of breakfast finishing - some 90 minutes before arrival. Ahhh great, much needed, sleep.
We arrive on time. As I made my way quickly to the lounge for a shower and breakfast, I notice lots of signs and information about the soon to be opened T3 at Changi. From January 9th, SQ will split their operations between T2 & T3. The pre-landing connecting flight information shown on the flight path channel now has a column for terminal. There are new monitors for next departing flights in T3 alongside those for T2 and T1. There are cardboard signs everywhere explaining which departing flights will use which terminal.
All the duty free shops had long since shut up, with just currency exchange still open. At the gate I see that boarding has not yet started. Passport check is at the entrance to the gate lounge.
A short wait for boarding to commence. A couple of less abled passengers helped onboard first (no announcement), then a call for business, PPS and *G to board.
The flight is fairly full in economy but very empty in business class. I get invited to take my pick of several empty rows, but stick with the one I've settled in to.
A couple of pre-departure drinks while the other passengers are boarding. I get asked for a post-departure drinks order, my dinner order, as well as whether I wont a full meal or continental breakfast (ie when do I want to be woken). I say I'll probably wont to sleep - thanks.
Sure enough I struggle to stay awake during the safety video and drop off during take off. I awoke briefly some minutes later, took a drink and promptly fell back to sleep again. Next thing I know I awoke to the (gentle) noises of breakfast finishing - some 90 minutes before arrival. Ahhh great, much needed, sleep.
We arrive on time. As I made my way quickly to the lounge for a shower and breakfast, I notice lots of signs and information about the soon to be opened T3 at Changi. From January 9th, SQ will split their operations between T2 & T3. The pre-landing connecting flight information shown on the flight path channel now has a column for terminal. There are new monitors for next departing flights in T3 alongside those for T2 and T1. There are cardboard signs everywhere explaining which departing flights will use which terminal.
Dec 28, 2007, 7:29 pm
#49
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
I forgot to mention the wine list has deteriorated considerably this year. It used to be better quality wines, and on the route between Auckland and Singapore they'd have mostly NZ wines. Now cheaper Australian wines included 
Dec 29, 2007, 8:22 pm
#50
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
Singapore to Hong Kong business class menu
LUNCH menu
A savoury note
Smoked salmon and mesclun with soba noodle
The main event
Ah Yat style braised beef brisket in red wine with vegetables and steamed rice
Seared garoupa in vanilla veloute, roasted vegetables and sauteed baby spinach
Braised duck with yam rice
A Singpore local dish of duck braised in soya sauce served with yam rice, braised egg and peanuts
Seared lamb loin in red wine with roasted vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes
A sweet note
Gourmet ice cream
Hazelnut ice-cream with vanilla sauce and fruits salad
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
Fruit
A selection of fresh fruit
A connoisseur's choice
Pralines and
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
Soya bean milk
(Sweetened/unsweetened)
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Choya umeshu
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Weinhaus ress riesling kabinett 2005 rheingau
Saint-veran "rives de longsault" 2005 domaine des deux roches
Montagny premier cru 2005 laboure-roi
Red wines
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Rive barbera d'asti il cascinone 2003 araldica piemonte
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese tea selection
Oolong
Jasmine
Tie guan yin
Pu-erh
Gourmet coffees
Brazil santos bourbon
Colombian supremo
Kenyan aa "kilimanjaro"
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
Chilled soya bean milk
LUNCH menu
A savoury note
Smoked salmon and mesclun with soba noodle
The main event
Ah Yat style braised beef brisket in red wine with vegetables and steamed rice
Seared garoupa in vanilla veloute, roasted vegetables and sauteed baby spinach
Braised duck with yam rice
A Singpore local dish of duck braised in soya sauce served with yam rice, braised egg and peanuts
Seared lamb loin in red wine with roasted vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes
A sweet note
Gourmet ice cream
Hazelnut ice-cream with vanilla sauce and fruits salad
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
Fruit
A selection of fresh fruit
A connoisseur's choice
Pralines and
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
Soya bean milk
(Sweetened/unsweetened)
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Choya umeshu
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Weinhaus ress riesling kabinett 2005 rheingau
Saint-veran "rives de longsault" 2005 domaine des deux roches
Montagny premier cru 2005 laboure-roi
Red wines
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Rive barbera d'asti il cascinone 2003 araldica piemonte
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese tea selection
Oolong
Jasmine
Tie guan yin
Pu-erh
Gourmet coffees
Brazil santos bourbon
Colombian supremo
Kenyan aa "kilimanjaro"
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
Chilled soya bean milk
Dec 30, 2007, 12:19 pm
#51
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
SINGAPORE to HONG KONG (SIN-HKG) on SQ 777-300ER (77W) in business class
As I left the cold lounge to make my way to the gate I mentally looked forward to the flight ahead. I had chosen this specific flight for it was the best of 4 different aircraft on the route today and still fitted my schedule nicely. This was only my second trip on SQ 77W, and it appeared that there might be some op-ups with economy and business class both zeroed out.
At the gate desk I see no red (ie first class) BPs laid out for op-ups, and sure enough there is no magical beep. Never mind - business class is still very nice and I won't be sleeping on this short flight anyway. Still I had been looking forward to some krug and will have to put up with charles hiedsieck instead.
I had the best seat selected once again 11A. While the cabin was full it felt very private and was very quiet. This forward business cabin seemed to be served first before the larger main cabin for drinks, meal service etc.
Sockettes and eye mask handed out before departure, along with the menu. I noticed the drinks menu also has a few more options than the much longer flight from Auckland.
A pre-departure drink, then post-takeoff drink then lunch.
I watched 2 movies and timed them to perfection. By starting the first as we pushed back from the gate I was able to see the end of the second just as we touched down at Hong Kong, literally seconds before the system was turned off.
After a very short taxi we pulled into the gate closest to immigration ^
As I left the cold lounge to make my way to the gate I mentally looked forward to the flight ahead. I had chosen this specific flight for it was the best of 4 different aircraft on the route today and still fitted my schedule nicely. This was only my second trip on SQ 77W, and it appeared that there might be some op-ups with economy and business class both zeroed out.
At the gate desk I see no red (ie first class) BPs laid out for op-ups, and sure enough there is no magical beep. Never mind - business class is still very nice and I won't be sleeping on this short flight anyway. Still I had been looking forward to some krug and will have to put up with charles hiedsieck instead.
I had the best seat selected once again 11A. While the cabin was full it felt very private and was very quiet. This forward business cabin seemed to be served first before the larger main cabin for drinks, meal service etc.
Sockettes and eye mask handed out before departure, along with the menu. I noticed the drinks menu also has a few more options than the much longer flight from Auckland.
A pre-departure drink, then post-takeoff drink then lunch.
I watched 2 movies and timed them to perfection. By starting the first as we pushed back from the gate I was able to see the end of the second just as we touched down at Hong Kong, literally seconds before the system was turned off.
After a very short taxi we pulled into the gate closest to immigration ^
Dec 30, 2007, 12:25 pm
#52
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
HONG KONG to SINGAPORE (HKG-SIN) on SQ 777-300ER (77W) in business class
I had a shower in the lounge, then just a couple of minutes to check email. A short walk to the gate to board. The BP reader was broken. This flight was totally full (maybe 1 spare seat in first?).
The longest possible taxi for Hong Kong.
The flight was much the same as the flight up, except I dozed a bit as well as watching movie + tv shows. I noticed the handset time to go bug which I reported a year ago still had not been fixed!
A late arrival into Singapore, followed by a taxi 2/3 of the way around the terminal to F58 (just about the furthest gate from the lounge), which left me with a dilemma. Go to the nearby gate for my next flight which is already open and sit out the estimated 20 minutes before boarding? Or race to the lounge, only to have to race back again a few minutes later?
I had a shower in the lounge, then just a couple of minutes to check email. A short walk to the gate to board. The BP reader was broken. This flight was totally full (maybe 1 spare seat in first?).
The longest possible taxi for Hong Kong.
The flight was much the same as the flight up, except I dozed a bit as well as watching movie + tv shows. I noticed the handset time to go bug which I reported a year ago still had not been fixed!
A late arrival into Singapore, followed by a taxi 2/3 of the way around the terminal to F58 (just about the furthest gate from the lounge), which left me with a dilemma. Go to the nearby gate for my next flight which is already open and sit out the estimated 20 minutes before boarding? Or race to the lounge, only to have to race back again a few minutes later?
Dec 30, 2007, 1:16 pm
#53
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
Hong Kong to Singapore business class menu
DINNER menu
A savoury note
Seared tuna and mesclun with soba noodle
The main event
Ah Yat style scallops with beanskin in preserved black beans, asparagus, capsicums and steamed rice
Seared chicken in herb jus, roasted vegetables and broccolini
Sliced veal zurich style with spinach and buttered noodles
Ramen with kurobuta pork belly in miso broth
A sweet note
Mango ice cream with coulis
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
Fruit
A selection of fresh fruit
A connoisseur's choice
Pralines and
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
Soya bean milk
(Sweetened/unsweetened)
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Choya umeshu
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Weinhaus ress riesling kabinett 2005 rheingau
Saint-veran "rives de longsault" 2005 domaine des deux roches
Montagny premier cru 2005 laboure-roi
Red wines
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Rive barbera d'asti il cascinone 2003 araldica piemonte
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese tea selection
Oolong
Jasmine
Tie guan yin
Pu-erh
Gourmet coffees
Brazil santos bourbon
Colombian supremo
Kenyan aa "kilimanjaro"
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
Chilled soya bean milk
DINNER menu
A savoury note
Seared tuna and mesclun with soba noodle
The main event
Ah Yat style scallops with beanskin in preserved black beans, asparagus, capsicums and steamed rice
Seared chicken in herb jus, roasted vegetables and broccolini
Sliced veal zurich style with spinach and buttered noodles
Ramen with kurobuta pork belly in miso broth
A sweet note
Mango ice cream with coulis
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
Fruit
A selection of fresh fruit
A connoisseur's choice
Pralines and
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
Soya bean milk
(Sweetened/unsweetened)
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Choya umeshu
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Weinhaus ress riesling kabinett 2005 rheingau
Saint-veran "rives de longsault" 2005 domaine des deux roches
Montagny premier cru 2005 laboure-roi
Red wines
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Rive barbera d'asti il cascinone 2003 araldica piemonte
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese tea selection
Oolong
Jasmine
Tie guan yin
Pu-erh
Gourmet coffees
Brazil santos bourbon
Colombian supremo
Kenyan aa "kilimanjaro"
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
Chilled soya bean milk
Dec 30, 2007, 1:17 pm
#54
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
Singapore to Auckland business class menu
[Note the coffee list is different to other SQ flights, supposedly due to the aircraft operating this route being the MH leased one which has different galley equipment.]
DINNER menu
A savoury note
Thai style spicy scallop-green mango salad with mesclun
Singapore dressing infused with shallot oil with sambal, lime and honey
Coriander vinaigrette
The main event
Seared lamb loin with jus, braised puy lentil and potato mash
Famous Singapore chicken rice
Fragrant poached chicken with pandan flavoured rice, served with ginger, soya and chilli sauce
A renowned favourite in Singapore
Thai style perch curry with spiced eggplant and steamed rice
Pan roasted beef fillet in red wine shiitake mushroom sauce with stewed vegetables and new potatoes
A sweet note
Japanese green tea ice cream with adzuki bean sauce
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
Fruit
A selection of fresh fruit
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
and pralines
SNACK menu
Fancy a snack? Simply take your pick from our range of delectable snacks and make your selection known to our cabin crew.
Noodles
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian instant noodles
Sandwiches
Smoked ham in focaccia bun
Smoked tuna in onion ciabatta
Oriental vegetable ciabatta
Snacks
Roasted mixed nuts
Chocolate bar
Biscuits
Potato chips
Kjeldsens cookies
Bananas
BEFORE TOUCH-DOWN menu
A fresh start
A choice of apple, tomato or freshly squeezed orange juice
Fresh fruit
A healthy note
Choice of cereals or yoghurt
Cornflakes with milk or Birchermuesli
Plain or fruit yoghurt
The main event
Singapore nasi lemak
Malay style coconut rice with spicy prawns, peanuts, ikan bilis, grilled fish cake, egg omelette and fried chicken
A local favourite served with sambal chilli
Grilled veal with turkey and chicken sausage, roasted tomato, mushrooms and gratin potatoes
Baked crepe with scrambled egg, ham, sauteed mushrooms with tomato and potatoes
From the bakery
Assorted breakfast rolls
Butter - fruit preserve
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
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 found above
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Wild rock "the infamous goose" sauvignon blanc 2006 marlborough, new zealand
Wynns coonawarra estate chardonnay 2006 south australia
Red wines
Elderton shiraz 2004 barossa valley
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese jasmine tea
Chinese oolong tea
Gourmet coffees
Ristretto
Livanto
Cosi
Decaffeinato
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
[Note the coffee list is different to other SQ flights, supposedly due to the aircraft operating this route being the MH leased one which has different galley equipment.]
DINNER menu
A savoury note
Thai style spicy scallop-green mango salad with mesclun
Singapore dressing infused with shallot oil with sambal, lime and honey
Coriander vinaigrette
The main event
Seared lamb loin with jus, braised puy lentil and potato mash
Famous Singapore chicken rice
Fragrant poached chicken with pandan flavoured rice, served with ginger, soya and chilli sauce
A renowned favourite in Singapore
Thai style perch curry with spiced eggplant and steamed rice
Pan roasted beef fillet in red wine shiitake mushroom sauce with stewed vegetables and new potatoes
A sweet note
Japanese green tea ice cream with adzuki bean sauce
The cheese board
Gourmet cheese with garnishes
Fruit
A selection of fresh fruit
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
and pralines
SNACK menu
Fancy a snack? Simply take your pick from our range of delectable snacks and make your selection known to our cabin crew.
Noodles
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian instant noodles
Sandwiches
Smoked ham in focaccia bun
Smoked tuna in onion ciabatta
Oriental vegetable ciabatta
Snacks
Roasted mixed nuts
Chocolate bar
Biscuits
Potato chips
Kjeldsens cookies
Bananas
BEFORE TOUCH-DOWN menu
A fresh start
A choice of apple, tomato or freshly squeezed orange juice
Fresh fruit
A healthy note
Choice of cereals or yoghurt
Cornflakes with milk or Birchermuesli
Plain or fruit yoghurt
The main event
Singapore nasi lemak
Malay style coconut rice with spicy prawns, peanuts, ikan bilis, grilled fish cake, egg omelette and fried chicken
A local favourite served with sambal chilli
Grilled veal with turkey and chicken sausage, roasted tomato, mushrooms and gratin potatoes
Baked crepe with scrambled egg, ham, sauteed mushrooms with tomato and potatoes
From the bakery
Assorted breakfast rolls
Butter - fruit preserve
A connoisseur's choice
Gourmet coffee
Selection of tea
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 found above
BEVERAGES menu
Cocktails
Mix of the month
Tropical sparkle
Singapore Airlines' unique creations
Silver kris sling
Alspritizer
Solitaire dreams
Sunrise breezer
Sweetness in darkness
Vodka flush
Apple bliss
Awaiting the golden dawn
Tropical fizz
All-time favourites
Singapore sling
Screwdriver
Fruit spritzer
Orange cooler
Appetising aperitifs
Campari
Dry vermouth
Spirits
Macallan 12 years old single malt whisky
Cognac xo otard
Chivas regal scotch whisky
Johnnie walker black label
Jack Daniel's tennessee whiskey
Gordon's dry gin
Smirnoff red label vodka
Bacardi superior
Liqueurs
Cointreau
Tia maria
Baileys original irish cream
Beer
International selection
Stout
Guinness stout
Champagnes and wines
Champagnes
Charles Hiedsieck
White wines
Wild rock "the infamous goose" sauvignon blanc 2006 marlborough, new zealand
Wynns coonawarra estate chardonnay 2006 south australia
Red wines
Elderton shiraz 2004 barossa valley
Chateau giscours 1999 margaux
Port
Dow 2001 late bottled vintage port portugal
Beverages
Tea selection
Pure ceylon tea
Earl grey
Darjeeling
Camomile
Decaffeinated tea
Japanese green tea
Chinese jasmine tea
Chinese oolong tea
Gourmet coffees
Ristretto
Livanto
Cosi
Decaffeinato
Specialty coffees
Brewed coffee
Cafe royal
Espresso
Cappuccino
Decaffeinated coffee
Mocha
Other beverages
Chocolate
Milo
Cool refreshments
Mineral water
Sparkling
Still
Fruit juices
Apple
Orange
Pineapple
Tomato
Soft drinks
Bitter lemon
Coke
Coke light
Ginger ale
7-up
Milk
Full cream
Low fat
Dec 30, 2007, 5:52 pm
#55
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
SINGAPORE to AUCKLAND (SIN-AKL) on SQ 747-400 (MH leased aircraft) in business class
It may come as no surprise to regular readers of my trip reports that I opted for the lounge despite (or perhaps because) the long distance between it and both the arrival and departure gates. I sprinted there, grabbed a quick shower and even quicker drink, then left. The lounge bouncers were surprised to see me leave so quickly. Race back to the gate before it closes.
Due to my boycott of SQ following the PPS downgrades earlier in the year, this was my first time on the MH leased aircraft. So I was looking forward to trying it out.
Earlier I'd noted the light load and selected my seat in the downstairs rear business mini cabin exit row. That cabin seemed to be being selected last.
On boarding it confirmed my view from the seat map that the cabin layout is very strange and unlike any I'd encountered elsewhere in my extensive travels. There are galleys and toilets in all sorts of odd spaces, and some extra bulkheads. The downstairs business cabins are small and very oddly shaped.
Other than having a stream of all economy passengers head past my seat on boarding, it looked like I'd chosen well. For this exit row seat had maybe 9 feet between seat and bulkhead - plenty of legroom, was a large area for just 4 seats, and had only 1 other passenger. Despite being almost encircled by galleys (and the stairs to upper deck) there was little noise or crew foot traffic.
The seats were reasonably comfortable but not as good as SQ's spacebed, IMO. The armrests were of different heights which is annoying. Normal krisworld programming, but the monitor position was less adjustable than I'd expected.
Service was fantastic ^^
I got some sleep, watched another movie and read some.
I got some duty free with my PPS vouchers in the middle of the night. Didn't quite have enough but they accepted any major currency for the small residual so I got rid of some coins from my wallet
If I'm getting duty free and not sleeping I prefer to see to it in the middle of the flight rather than waiting for the trolley to come around - just in case I'm at the bathroom at the wrong time, or asleep, or the trolley round doesn't happen due to turbulence.
We had a detour from the normal flight path to avoid tropical cyclone melanie and then had weaker than normal tail winds. Thus we arrived a bit late and had the unusual experience (for this route) of the westward flight being quicker than the eastward flight.
It then took 70 minutes to get landside
It may come as no surprise to regular readers of my trip reports that I opted for the lounge despite (or perhaps because) the long distance between it and both the arrival and departure gates. I sprinted there, grabbed a quick shower and even quicker drink, then left. The lounge bouncers were surprised to see me leave so quickly. Race back to the gate before it closes.
Due to my boycott of SQ following the PPS downgrades earlier in the year, this was my first time on the MH leased aircraft. So I was looking forward to trying it out.
Earlier I'd noted the light load and selected my seat in the downstairs rear business mini cabin exit row. That cabin seemed to be being selected last.
On boarding it confirmed my view from the seat map that the cabin layout is very strange and unlike any I'd encountered elsewhere in my extensive travels. There are galleys and toilets in all sorts of odd spaces, and some extra bulkheads. The downstairs business cabins are small and very oddly shaped.
Other than having a stream of all economy passengers head past my seat on boarding, it looked like I'd chosen well. For this exit row seat had maybe 9 feet between seat and bulkhead - plenty of legroom, was a large area for just 4 seats, and had only 1 other passenger. Despite being almost encircled by galleys (and the stairs to upper deck) there was little noise or crew foot traffic.
The seats were reasonably comfortable but not as good as SQ's spacebed, IMO. The armrests were of different heights which is annoying. Normal krisworld programming, but the monitor position was less adjustable than I'd expected.
Service was fantastic ^^
I got some sleep, watched another movie and read some.
I got some duty free with my PPS vouchers in the middle of the night. Didn't quite have enough but they accepted any major currency for the small residual so I got rid of some coins from my wallet
If I'm getting duty free and not sleeping I prefer to see to it in the middle of the flight rather than waiting for the trolley to come around - just in case I'm at the bathroom at the wrong time, or asleep, or the trolley round doesn't happen due to turbulence.We had a detour from the normal flight path to avoid tropical cyclone melanie and then had weaker than normal tail winds. Thus we arrived a bit late and had the unusual experience (for this route) of the westward flight being quicker than the eastward flight.
It then took 70 minutes to get landside
Dec 30, 2007, 6:40 pm
#56
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
Next up - will I fly or will I not fly?.
Dec 31, 2007, 1:56 pm
#57
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
AUCKLAND to HONOLULU (AKL-HNL) on Air NZ 767-300 in business class
Another day, another trip. I needed to make it to Los Angeles by 1st January and so instead of taking the non-stop flight decided to go via Honolulu for the same price for a change. This had a few attractions for me, despite older less comfortable product (NZ 763 instead of 747).
1) for the first time I'd fly between Hawaii and the mainland - adding to my unique routes flown
2) the upgrade potential was better via Hawaii than the nonstop which at this time of year would almost certainly sell out in business class
3) the upgrade cost is lower via Hawaii due to 2 class aircraft instead of 3 class aircraft - indeed economy to business upgrade on Auckland to Hawaii route is one of the best bang for buck of any upgrades on Air NZ.
4) I'd get to see in the new year twice by crossing the dateline eastward on new years day. This is certainly different to my previous new years eves which have been more mainstream with visits to Amsterdam, New York, Edinburgh, London and Sydney amongst others.
So after a great NYE party I decided against getting some sleep, fearful that I would not wake up in time. Instead I stayed up and caught an early bus out to the airport.
I walked across from domestic terminal to stretch my legs and hopeful that the fresh air would do my head some good. It didn't really.
The international check in area was busy but rather quiet. Many passengers looked as bad as I felt.
I'd been watching the availability the past week or two and was relieved that the initial full load in business class had reduced somewhat 1 week out, with a good chance of my upgrade clearing.
By the time I reached the premium check in lobby the flight had just opened. I didn't recognise the agent, who gave me some grief about wanting to put in transit for the US address information
Unfortunately the check in for the onward flight was not open so only the one boarding pass today. Yes, my upgrade did clear. Yay.
A small delay at the immigration desk as they hadn't opened the flight for processing. Then through and up to the lounge where I was welcomed back.
Another day, another trip. I needed to make it to Los Angeles by 1st January and so instead of taking the non-stop flight decided to go via Honolulu for the same price for a change. This had a few attractions for me, despite older less comfortable product (NZ 763 instead of 747).
1) for the first time I'd fly between Hawaii and the mainland - adding to my unique routes flown
2) the upgrade potential was better via Hawaii than the nonstop which at this time of year would almost certainly sell out in business class
3) the upgrade cost is lower via Hawaii due to 2 class aircraft instead of 3 class aircraft - indeed economy to business upgrade on Auckland to Hawaii route is one of the best bang for buck of any upgrades on Air NZ.
4) I'd get to see in the new year twice by crossing the dateline eastward on new years day. This is certainly different to my previous new years eves which have been more mainstream with visits to Amsterdam, New York, Edinburgh, London and Sydney amongst others.
So after a great NYE party I decided against getting some sleep, fearful that I would not wake up in time. Instead I stayed up and caught an early bus out to the airport.
I walked across from domestic terminal to stretch my legs and hopeful that the fresh air would do my head some good. It didn't really.
The international check in area was busy but rather quiet. Many passengers looked as bad as I felt.
I'd been watching the availability the past week or two and was relieved that the initial full load in business class had reduced somewhat 1 week out, with a good chance of my upgrade clearing.
By the time I reached the premium check in lobby the flight had just opened. I didn't recognise the agent, who gave me some grief about wanting to put in transit for the US address information
Unfortunately the check in for the onward flight was not open so only the one boarding pass today. Yes, my upgrade did clear. Yay.A small delay at the immigration desk as they hadn't opened the flight for processing. Then through and up to the lounge where I was welcomed back.
Jan 1, 2008, 10:01 am
#59
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
A few drinks and a bite to eat in the lounge. Catch up on my messages.
The lounge was very empty with few flights this morning. Indeed after the HNL flight the next one, on any airline, wasn't for another couple of hours. I struggle to recall a time when the international terminal has been this quiet (other than wee small hours after the last arrival).
Boarding was called late. The business class cabin was not quite full. I had a spare seat alongside so plenty of space to spread out.
Amenity kit and water bottle were already in the seat pocket on boarding. A pre-departure drink, menu and new edition of the Air NZ wine guide were handed out soon after.
We pushed back a few minutes late.
After take off another drink, some nibbles, and US immigration & customs forms were handed out.
The IFE started on the second cycle of programs. With the flight length this means 2 viewings of the second cycle and 1 of the first.
A nice lunch is served.
Then sleep. I awoke to turbulence near and north of the equator. At times this was quite bad - enough for the second meal service to be suspended for a while (which is not done lightly on Air NZ).
On descent into Honolulu I see lots of fireworks. It's always nice seeing these from the air - quite a different perspective.
A long taxi to our gate. Then a wander through the poorly signposted rabbit warren to immigration. As it is my fourth short visit in just a couple of weeks I wonder if I'll get questioned much, but no the officer was very friendly and happy with "earning miles" as my answer to the purpose of your stay question. The odd transit information didn't bother him in the slightest.
The lounge was very empty with few flights this morning. Indeed after the HNL flight the next one, on any airline, wasn't for another couple of hours. I struggle to recall a time when the international terminal has been this quiet (other than wee small hours after the last arrival).
Boarding was called late. The business class cabin was not quite full. I had a spare seat alongside so plenty of space to spread out.
Amenity kit and water bottle were already in the seat pocket on boarding. A pre-departure drink, menu and new edition of the Air NZ wine guide were handed out soon after.
We pushed back a few minutes late.
After take off another drink, some nibbles, and US immigration & customs forms were handed out.
The IFE started on the second cycle of programs. With the flight length this means 2 viewings of the second cycle and 1 of the first.
A nice lunch is served.
Then sleep. I awoke to turbulence near and north of the equator. At times this was quite bad - enough for the second meal service to be suspended for a while (which is not done lightly on Air NZ).
On descent into Honolulu I see lots of fireworks. It's always nice seeing these from the air - quite a different perspective.
A long taxi to our gate. Then a wander through the poorly signposted rabbit warren to immigration. As it is my fourth short visit in just a couple of weeks I wonder if I'll get questioned much, but no the officer was very friendly and happy with "earning miles" as my answer to the purpose of your stay question. The odd transit information didn't bother him in the slightest.
Jan 1, 2008, 10:32 am
#60
Moderator, Hilton Honors
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: on a short leash
Programs: some
Posts: 71,422
In transit in Honolulu
Clearing customs I made my way to check in. Other than Hawaiian and Aloha there was no signposting of where to go, but it was fairly obvious. United check in is way down the other end - past lots of check in snakes dotted with agriculture x-rays.
Arriving at the UA check in I try to access the first class line and am directed to use the quick check machine. Of course it doesn't work on my (non mileage plus) card. I was then directed to economy line in error (as an elite I should be able to use the first line)
I thought I had plenty of time so didn't make a fuss. This line snaked around and it took a while to get to the front. There I was told to not bother the agent but use another quick check machine. Why do they think it will work here. I'm not impressed at this stage.
The agent then begrudgingly looks up my booking to check me in manually but advises there is a problem with the ticket and I'd need to visit the ticket desk instead. By now I've been trying to check in for 30 minutes and no better off than when I'd started.
A short wait in the ticket line then it is my turn. After some investigation by the agent including a few phone calls. It seems Air NZ reissued my ticket at some stage (not sure why) and cancelled the onward flight (again no idea why - I'm following this up with Air NZ). Eventually United rebooks me - so at least I am not going to have to pay for a new walk-up ticket to get to Los Angeles.
The next issue is that I had a confirmed upgrade to first thanks to a nice FTer. That is of course gone with the cancellation of my booking. It took some fast talking and more phone calls before the agent accepts that I previously had an upgrade confirmed. So I get waitlisted to fly and also to go back into first. Apparently the waitlist is long and my odds are very low
I'm not happy and facing the prospect of being stuck in HNL overnight if the waitlist doesn't clear.
I then notice on the departure screen that the flight number I'd originally booked (and now waitlisted on) seems to have swapped departures (roughly) with the second United flight - and now scheduled later than when I'd originally booked. I ask about the other flight. "Oh we can't confirm you on that either - but the waitlist looks more likely to clear." Great. I ask to be waitlisted on that flight.
Now I have passes in hand to go airside. Naturally with a "last minute" booking (despite being originally booked 7 months ago), I get the SSSS treatment. It is only 30 minutes until departure of the earlier of the 2 flights so I am a bit anxious the SSSS will take too long. I use the elite line. The TSA officer notes the later flight and tries to assure me I have plenty of time. Uh no I don't since I don't have a confirmed seat. Fortunately the special security screening is done quickly and I race to the gate.
After a wait of a few minutes (they are boarding group 5 by this time) I get a boarding pass - for a seat in first. Yay. A breathe a deep sigh of relief and then board the last empty first seat.
The United ground staff were great (other than the person who sent me to the economy line), albeit not very proactive. I had made a flight about the time I'd originally booked and in first class as I had previously been confirmed in.
But my 3 hour easy transfer proved to be anything but easy & stress-free.
Clearing customs I made my way to check in. Other than Hawaiian and Aloha there was no signposting of where to go, but it was fairly obvious. United check in is way down the other end - past lots of check in snakes dotted with agriculture x-rays.
Arriving at the UA check in I try to access the first class line and am directed to use the quick check machine. Of course it doesn't work on my (non mileage plus) card. I was then directed to economy line in error (as an elite I should be able to use the first line)
I thought I had plenty of time so didn't make a fuss. This line snaked around and it took a while to get to the front. There I was told to not bother the agent but use another quick check machine. Why do they think it will work here. I'm not impressed at this stage.The agent then begrudgingly looks up my booking to check me in manually but advises there is a problem with the ticket and I'd need to visit the ticket desk instead. By now I've been trying to check in for 30 minutes and no better off than when I'd started.
A short wait in the ticket line then it is my turn. After some investigation by the agent including a few phone calls. It seems Air NZ reissued my ticket at some stage (not sure why) and cancelled the onward flight (again no idea why - I'm following this up with Air NZ). Eventually United rebooks me - so at least I am not going to have to pay for a new walk-up ticket to get to Los Angeles.
The next issue is that I had a confirmed upgrade to first thanks to a nice FTer. That is of course gone with the cancellation of my booking. It took some fast talking and more phone calls before the agent accepts that I previously had an upgrade confirmed. So I get waitlisted to fly and also to go back into first. Apparently the waitlist is long and my odds are very low
I'm not happy and facing the prospect of being stuck in HNL overnight if the waitlist doesn't clear.
I then notice on the departure screen that the flight number I'd originally booked (and now waitlisted on) seems to have swapped departures (roughly) with the second United flight - and now scheduled later than when I'd originally booked. I ask about the other flight. "Oh we can't confirm you on that either - but the waitlist looks more likely to clear." Great. I ask to be waitlisted on that flight.
Now I have passes in hand to go airside. Naturally with a "last minute" booking (despite being originally booked 7 months ago), I get the SSSS treatment. It is only 30 minutes until departure of the earlier of the 2 flights so I am a bit anxious the SSSS will take too long. I use the elite line. The TSA officer notes the later flight and tries to assure me I have plenty of time. Uh no I don't since I don't have a confirmed seat. Fortunately the special security screening is done quickly and I race to the gate.
After a wait of a few minutes (they are boarding group 5 by this time) I get a boarding pass - for a seat in first. Yay. A breathe a deep sigh of relief and then board the last empty first seat.
The United ground staff were great (other than the person who sent me to the economy line), albeit not very proactive. I had made a flight about the time I'd originally booked and in first class as I had previously been confirmed in.
But my 3 hour easy transfer proved to be anything but easy & stress-free.