Exec First Service
 

I'm debating whether to fly AC between YVR and HKG later this month (mainly because of convenience) and wanted to see if anybody has any comments on the service / entertainment. I understand that this route is served by an A340. Does it have the new inflight system? Any other comments?

Thanks.

By the way my other option is UA via SFO or LAX.

If you are flying Biz. class on both then the AC service will likely be better in my experience. There is a VERY slight chance you will get the new Sony Passport entertainment system....

Dorian

I flew from YVR to HKG this summer. It was the best flight I had taken for a long time. The service is superb. Presently only two A340s had the new Sony Passport system. AC is using them for Far East service (KIX, TPE and HKG). Anyway, the old seat is pretty much the same with the new seat, except the headrest and the personal adjustable lights. There are few more things to play with, but I like both the old and new very much.

From YVR to HKG, you will be served a five-course lunch. There is a canape plate to go with drinks. Then there is an appetizer with both western and Asian selections, which also comes with a salad. Then there is soup, usually hot and sour. Then you have three selection of entrees (one Asian, one Chinese, and one Western), then there is the cheese board with fruit brochettes. Finally you will have have a choice of two desserts (one ice-cream and one gateau). Then there is tea/coffee and chocolate.

You will then get a bottle of mineral water, and a wake-up kit (not the amenity kit. They are only available on overnight flight... YVR to HKG is twelve hours, but I guess AC just wants to save some bucks). There will be a plate of petit fours and sandwich available throughout the flight. There is a midflight snack of oriental cup noodle too. The petit fours are great...

Prior to landing, you get a supper, with a fruit appetizer, a dessert, and three choices of entrees (better than CP or CX in terms of quantity and quality). HKG's new airport is also beautiful. You will certainly enjoy it...

From HKG to YVR, you get the same full course dinner and snacks... you will simply get a breakfast before landing. Chinese porridge is available as a choice of breakfast entrees. You will get an amenity kit too.

BTW, United Business (or even first) is nothing compared to AC... I don't think CX and CP can provide that much service, too. AC is definitely a world carrier. Their F/As are very friendly. I still had a good flight despite I flew the day when AC F/As were about to strike the next day. The strike did not happen, but the F/As maintained their friendliest smile during the flight...

Write us a trip report when you get back!

Happy flying,
Carfield

[This message has been edited by Carfield (edited 11-09-1999).]

Is the meal service to Asia (such as YVR-KIX which leaves in the afternoon and arrives in the late afternoon) still as described by Carfield (i.e. 2 major meals?)

I am also interested in the entertainment system on an A340 (someone recently posted that this route would no longer be operated by a CP 767 starting in early March).

Thanks!

Maybe avionicsguy can fill us in on the equipment on these routes. He always loves to talk about his planes (well ok not really his but it's good to see someone passionate about their work). http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif