Checkin and everything was "somewhat" like any other, even though I was offered a voluntary downgrade to Y+ with some goodies to come with (free hotel, miles etc.) because J was overbooked. Biz was overbooked by about 2-people when I asked). I thought to myself "Hell No!!" and ultimately rejected (politely). This is then followed with routine passport checking and BP + Lounge Invitation collecting. Wonder if some people had to take an involuntary downgrade in the end. Toronto T3 security must have been one of the most chillaxed one around. The line was basically nonexistent as it was generally a really big area with two security lines shared by only 3 people when I was there. No rush at all to ditch everything in your pockets and go through that scanning machine. Next, the lounge....
If I recall correctly I think CX only started using the Plaza Premium lounge a few months ago. It's a BIG stepup from the KLM Crown which they used to use. That place was a dump with a very limited selection when I was there in Dec. This lounge is in general way way better. It is more of a proper place for you to "lounge" in on oppose to KLM Crown.
Even tried out these sleeper chairs too
Finally a CX crew came up to the lounge holding the CX829 sign as well as announcing to people that boarding was about to start. Went back down to the gate (had to take an elevator up to the lounges) with other fellow pax as well as taking a quick peak at the emptiness of that miserable KLM lounge.
Boarding was pretty efficient as the agent seemed to only be taking in J pax. Stepped aboard, and slumped into 18A, 2nd last row of the front/main cabin. I almost went for 18K since I actually wanted to try being on the K side this time. But since I'd have a chance to get a view of my home upon descent and landing in Hong Kong if we did 25 approach. We ultimately took 07 so didn't see much of anything.
The always impressive J seat, still comparable in terms of comfort with SQ's newly launched J despite people claiming that they've "once again raised the bar".
Interesting still seeing the boarding process going on in the terminal
Then pushback followed, and it's peace out Canada!
