Thanks to Allyb who inspired me to write this in rememberance of when domestic F was truly F.

I was a bit of a lad still, well 13 I think, when my mum put me on then plane one summer to spend a week in LAX with my sister. It was the early 80's in any case as I date myself now, yikes. My sister was a f/a with CO for many years and I was commuted between HNL (my home base) and LAX since before I could remember, but this was the first time I would be traveling unaccompanied.

Anyway, that part aside, I will never forget this flight. Morning departure UA, HNL-LAX, 747-200. This was a two-class config, with F in the nose and u/d. I tboard the a/c and proceed to what I thought my seat was the last row window on the starboard side of the a/c. Well, turns out I was in the wrong seat as someone else had a boarding pass with this seat assignment on it. I was actually in the first row window on the port side of the u/d. Flight attendant was kind enough to gather my hand carry and escort me upstairs. As I was getting settled in my new seat, I was offered a glass of oj (what, no mimosa?, just kidding). This was refreshing and something I was actually quite accustomed to traveling in F with my mum, who never flew Coach.

After take-off came the usual first cocktail service. I enjoyed a Coke with a small ramekin of macadamia nuts. (Remember, this was the early 80's!) I got another ramekin of nuts with my refill and then it was time for breakfast. Tables were set and hot towels offered. Fruit salad was served from a carved watermelon off of a trolley seatside as a first course. A bread basket with warmed morning baked good offered next, danishes, muffins, croissants. I chose an cheese omelette for breakfast served with sauted new potatoes. You were offered a choice of meats from a platter seatside. Sausages, bacon, or mini-steaks. My juice and water glasses were never empty. I felt like a king, even though I am already a Prince. Once the meal service was done, I retreated to my book then dozed off. Really never cared much for the movies on airplanes, even at that age. But I did indulge in the warm chocolate chip cookies and milk, with a glass of ice thank you, during the film.

About an hour or so out of LAX the trolley came down the aisle again. This time laden with an assortment of cheeses/crackers and fresh fruit. I kindly asked for a plate with a little of each of the cheeses and a seperate plate with some grapes on it, as I don't like to mix the flavors of my food. This request was oblidged kindly and I was offered a glass of water with it as well.

Despite the fact that the seat had no footrest, lumbar support, PVT, etc. I really didn't mind that at all. The service was absolutely perfect. And that is why I used to fly UA as did my Mum. So I post this as a tribute to when F was F! Hope you all enjoy reading it as must as I enjoyed recalling the memories.