I thought I would share some random observations I had while flying with our friends down under. This is a Qantas-only view, so weight it as you will:

1. Don't wait for an upgrade. On Qantas, the ticket you buy is the ticket you fly. There is no last minute upgrading at the gate, and no fingers-crossed hoping for the standby list. You either got it already, or you don't.

2. Don't miss your flight, or expect to standby. There seems to be no "same-day standby" down here, unless you're traveling on a full fare ticket. They know exactly who's going to be on each plane, and expect it to stay that way. I enquired about standing by for a more convenient flight, and was told (very politely), that allowing me to fly on a different flight than booked would be unfair to the full-paying passengers. Seems reasonable to me.

3. 30 minutes? Not necessary. Boarding would begin 15 minutes before scheduled departure time, and without rushing, without people milling about in front of the gate, and without hassles. People seem to be able to manage this down here. Why does US boarding seem like such a horror show in comparison?

4. Male FAs I flew some long domestic legs in Australia, but also short ones, and I noticed most of all that male FAs are very common. And it's not just gay male FAs like in the United States (no offense intended, just an observation). In fact, they seem to occupy purser/head "steward" positions and hold their duties in high regard (especially different from the US is the presence of a senior, male "head FA" greeting you as you board). I would have to compare their behavior on board to cruise ship stewards or head waiters -- they seem to carry the job with respect and courtesy.

5. Humor and straightforwardness. I don't know whether it's my misperception, but it seems that from cabin announcements and greetings, to pilot's announcements and information, the crew seem to get my attention much more than in the US. They announce things straightforwardly, much more clearly, and often with light aussie humor.

6. When will Star Alliance flyers get a lounge to use domestically??

Please comment and offer different opinions if you will. Things like this have made me enjoy my experience with Qantas (at least domestic). I would be interested if this is not typical?




[This message has been edited by TA (edited 11-17-2002).]