sbiddle

All inseat USB is pretty useless, and the reasons why are pretty complex. Most IFE systems are limited to the standard USB-A spec which delivers a maximum of 500mA, whereas you can compare this to a modern charger using ASB-A with QC3.0 or USB-C that will deliver around 2000mAh.

Without writing an essay in how charging works in a nutshell you'll struggle to get more than 250mA-300mA from one of these ports meaning it'll take around 10 - 12 hours to fully charge a modern phone. A good Powerbank or charger with QC3.0 or USB-C PD will fully charge a modern phone in 90 mins tops.

I had a really interesting discussion with the guys at Panasonic Avionics at CES about these issues and the future of USB-C in seats. Deploying USB-C is a waste of time unless it's USB-C power delivery with a min of PD 30W (PD supports 18W, 30W, 45W and 60W). A 60W charger will charge a laptop at full speed and most laptops won't charge if plugged into a USB-C PD charger that delivers under 30W. There are some pretty significant challenges to overcome designing a system and getting that power around the plane.

cavemanzk

Just flew on an an couple of days old SQ A388 this weekend, and for the first time came across an onboard USB port that was able to charge an iPhone 8 Plus (and doing so pretty quickly).

Best option I've found on an NZ 77E is to plug your phone in at the start of the flight (when it is already charged) - then the in seat USB is engough to prevent it from lossing anymore charge.

markis10

libertyuk

Had ZK-OKI the other day AKL-HNL in Y, very busy flight and was lucky to have one of the few empty seats in our three on the window side. It was noticeably more comfortable than NZ 777s or the 787 in Y, with more width. a much more supportive seat and aisles that didn't make it difficult to pass another person.

Having done Y on the 787 AKL-PER last year once, I'd much prefer OKI, although it's on its way out, no doubt in part because it has no PE. Yes the IFE was quaint, but it was ok, especially when you know in advance of its limitations.

nzkarit

Looks like the SQ 777-200ER is doing the Perth run the week of 17 September

Currently on a call. Talked to a person they put me on hold "while they looked into it" 15min and counting.........

sbiddle

OKT is now confirmed for NZ5/NZ6 services from the end of Oct onwards. IAH also moves back to the 777 from the 789.

nzkarit

Looking at
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...qgo/edit#gid=2

NZ is getting line number 749 and 751 in September. They are currently in preflight prep. Though from end of Nov guess they are for Chicago.

cavemanzk

sbiddle

YVR was changing to a 789 but is now staying as a 777. Apart from ORD all routes to the Americas will be 777, with the 789 focussing on Asia (incl HKG now) where ETDO/ETOPS compliance is easier.

zoovet

AirNZ is using one of their 789 V2 models on the YVR fights during the NZ summer. They still show two separate flights AKL to YVR on Saturdays on their flight schedules, but have removed the second flight from their available flights that you can book on those days.

sbiddle

I believe that's now changed and it will be staying a full time 777 route rather than the planned change to the 789. Of course things keep changing almost daily, so there is always the chance things could change again.

nzkarit

Take my flight from Perth to Auckland. It has been a v2, a v1 and now the SQ 772. It is a dynamic environment.

libertyuk

ZK-OKI cancelled on NZ9 HNL-AKL on 20 August as follows:

"Air New Zealand regrets to advise due to a defect in the windscreen heating system which prevents cracks forming and increases visibility, operational changes have been necessary which has resulted in a cancellation of your flight, NZ9 tomorrow morning.

We are currently working through rebooking options, including any connecting flights booked on the same ticket. Please be advised that due to availability there is a high chance you will be re-accommodated onto services departing Honolulu on 21 August."

It flew AKL-SYD-AKL instead, heavily delayed

Trumpkin

https://www.newsroom.co.nz/2018/08/2...nder-scrutiny#

An interesting article which covers off the TWO issues which are affecting the 787 engines plus measures that Air NZ put into place to help limit the impacts. It is well worth a read.

sbiddle

I actually didn't think much of the story and it was poorly written in places. There is nothing in there that wasn't reported or publically known earlier this year.

What is big news is what is happening now with the groundings and effect on Air NZ as aircraft hit cycle limits.. but media aren't reporting that.