Originally Posted by
John Chiefsofstaff
Just a data point.
I just bought a business class ticket on MU website from AMS to SYD. Il was one the cheapest options available and the seating 1-2-1 on all flights and relatively relaxed connection times in PVG (around 6 hours) managed to convince me to give it a go.
The booking on MU website was cumbersome. On one page, there was a mix of English and Mandarin. If you did not tick a box in Mandarin (which was gibberish to me), you could not proceed further.
I was able to book seats on all flights once I received the ticket number.
I found it strange that no PNR was issued, just an itinerary number.
The MU app is absolute rubbish. It was all in Mandarin until I found a way to switch to English: this did not make the app more convenient or useful. Check-in at the airport seems to be the way to go.
It is my first time on MU, actually on a mainland Chinese airlines. Would someone give me an overall impression of the seats (777, A350) and service, and infos about transiting in PVG ? As a point of reference, I have flown all major Asian airlines in J and F (SQ, TG, NH, JAL, CX).
Many thanks.
Yes, the website and the app are pretty useless as fas as I am concerned. I booked with a OTA twice and found that to be far easier as far as reserving seats, etc.
Flew to Australia with them last year, and have booked to do the same in the next few months. I wouldn't put MU on a par with QR, CX, etc but when you look at the prices, they are pretty unbeatable. For me, it's all about the flat bed. The 777 has the single aisle seats similar in style to QR's A380, no door but plenty of space. Enough storage, etc. There's a smaller J class cabin north of the main doors with only a few rows. The A350 is the better one though, proper suite with a door. I found both to be very comfortable, although a little plain.
Boarding for J is a snap, separate entry and properly policed. Food is decent, but not up to QR or CX standard. Best to choose the Asian food from the menu, their western choices are not quite as good in my opinion. The service is pleasant but there are a few language issues from time to time. There's sleepwear if you are after it. ICE is very basic as far as western entertainment - download some films/series!!
Lounge at PVG is huge and has showers and a sleeping area. I think it might be G gates (?) where the newer lounge is and that's closer to the flights departing for Oz. The transit is easy and the staff at the desk are very helpful.
Overall, I think it's great value. Yes, I won't get my OW Tier Poimts but considering I am nearly £2000 better off, that buys a lot of meals in Oz.