Flew CI 005 nonstop in Y class. The plane was a brand new 747-400, probably not more than 1 or 2 years old. Equipped with state of the art AVOD, which actually included 2 cameras: one located on the front of the aircraft looking forward and another on the belly looking down. This was a very cool feature during taxi / takeoff / landing. I've never seen this before so I was very impressed.

The AVOD was very nice, included 20 or so movies as well as full selection of music, shows, radio, etc. Worked very nicely.

The flight was somewhat empty, and I had the entire middle row to myself on the 747, leaving me free to stretch out over all 4 seats using a number of pillows and blankets. I was even able to lay down while watching the PTV, which was very nice. The crew didn't seem to mind and in fact didn't even bother me when the seatbelt fasten sign was turned on for light turbulence a number of times.

As far as meal fare, although still a cattle class meal, I found the meals to be much better than any american carrier in Y. I also requested several beers and a bloody mary which the crew had no problem preparing.

The seats and pinch were standard economy, probably around 31 or 32 inches of pitch. Still, the seats had a nice recline and a feature I haven't seen before: instead of a simply recline, the bottom cushion would also "push out" (for a better stretch).

The flight crew was friendly and professional, no notable positives or negatives.

All in all, it was a very positive experience. Judging from CAL's poorly designed and written website, I was expected a charter-level flight, but was pleasantly surprised. I would not hesitate to fly CAL in Y again.

Only downside -- my baggage emerged FIFTY (!) minutes after landing at TPE. FYI, the first class and dynasty class luggage did emerge first.