LH F FRA-MAA (Redemption), the LH FCT for the 1st time
Dec 6, 2009, 8:06 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
LH F FRA-MAA (Redemption), the LH FCT for the 1st time
After getting a decent 6 hours of sleep, I awoke 5 pm, excited to experience the LH FCT. I have held SEN status with LH thanks primarily to other *A carriers, predominantly SQ but hardly had a few European flights with them, and one longhaul FRA-MAA in Business 8 years ago, before the lie-flat seat arrived. I showered, changed and packed up my hand luggage and bag full of goodies from Tegut the night before and checked out of the Sheraton. A message was waiting for me at check-out saying my lost baggage was being forwarded directly to MAA on SQ (I already knew this night before, but nice to have confirmation). The concierge had mistakenly told me the only way to get to the LH FCT was by taxi, but thanks to FT I knew better. I proceeded to check in my bag of goodies at the First class desk and where there was no wait, and was told I had two options of either the B terminal FCL or the FCT. I had my mind made up a while ago, but I decided to play along and ask for a suggestion. The check-in agent smiled and said you have plenty of time, go to the FCT.
I went to the arrivals level and walked through past the crew arrival areas and taxi stands to the lower level of the FCT. The intercom was broken and there was a sign to ring the bell which I could not find. Unhappy about needing to lug my hand luggage (overnighter and tumi wheeled briefcase) up the scary metal spiral staircase, I decided I wasn’t going to waste more time outside the FCT and made it up stairs. From then on it was smooth sailing. My wonderful PA, a woman of Asian origin (I couldn’t tell as her last name was German – my guess was Indonesian or possibly Thai – but she spoke English perfectly with hardly any accent), met me at the door, took my boarding pass and took me through security which was the most painless and pleasant. The security staff were making jokes and chatting – I guess being relaxed and needing to clear only 4 people helps tremendously (2pa’s and 2 pax). My SEN status means my PA thought I was familiar, but I explained I usually only transit FRA, and hadn’t been by since the FCT opened. She gave me a wonderful tour and then I settled down to have a light continental breakfast of Muesli and Fruit from the Buffet. The service was exquisite – attentive yet not intrusive. Every guest was constantly being asked if they would like a Drink. I was offered a list of coffees and the latte macchiato sounded excellent – it was divine. I relaxed in the cigar bar, connected to the internet to see how full my flight was (it was now showing 5 seats open in F, full in all other cabins). There was wonderful relaxing Jazz playing and the sun began to rise revealing the gorgeous series of Aircraft at terminal A and B.
I was constantly being checked on by the smart wait staff. I enquired with one of them, who seems the most keen to oblige me, when the lunch menu would be served. He said usually from 10 onwards, but he could get me anything I liked. I asked him if I could have a look at the menu, whenever he had a minute. It was brought to me within 2mins and I was told I could have what I what when I wanted it, and he made some suggestions of the hot antipasto and the lobster ravioli. I told him I would get back to him as I just had some breakfast, but assured him I would take him up on his offer. I decided it was time to explore and took a walk around the place. The snooze rooms looked great for a long layover. I approached the wonderful Thai shower attendant, greeted her with the customary SawadeeKup, after confirming her origins, which thrilled her, handed my luggage for which she gave me a token, and also asked if the baths were free. She said she would keep number 1 for me and to go in whenever I wanted. I went in 15 minutes later after getting a glass of rose from my friendly server at the Bar, and prepared the perfect soaking experience.
My only comment on the configuration of the tub was that the WC was on the tub side of the vanity while the shower all the way around so if one wanted to rinse after a soak, you would pretty much wet the entire bathroom. Other than that it was perfect. Great ETRO toiletries and I was offered shaving kit, toothbrush etc which I didn’t need since I had already taken care of that at the Sheraton.
After my soak and an hour before I’d need to leave this haven, I ordered a Weiner Schnitzel and some sparkling water. This prepared hot and fresh, since the kitchen was very quiet on this Sunday morning. It was exquisite – simple and perfect – with the freshest of ingredients and great variety of salads that came with it. I was in heaven.
My PA was wandering through the terminal and checking up on her PAX, when she approached me I asked her to check if 1K was available instead of the 1A I had, and she came back to me and confirmed that it wasn’t and that in fact all seats were taken as the flight was overbooked. I gave her a knowing smile and the silence said it all – I could have got a BC ticket and been upgraded at the gate, but then the point of the experience – the FCT – would have been lost right?
She also told me she would probably be on her break and introduced me to her colleague who would get me for boarding. I told her I’d wait for her in the cigar bar after finishing up my meal. The staff came by to check on me and I ordered an apple strudel – I was having the quintessential German experience. It was warm, fresh and served with wonderful vanilla custard. A latte macchiato and a cigarette later and it was time to bid adieu to this beacon of luxury. Pangs of sadness came over me, as I knew my A340 would not compare with what I had just experienced. Now to scheme my way back in, with more time to spare!
I was escorted downstairs by a wonderful PA, who left me at Passport control where they stamped my passport efficiently, and was also informed by one of the senior PA’s that my bag from SQ was on its way to MAA, again. How nice when compared to BA and every First class passenger being just another number, waiting in line for lost luggage from the mess that is LHR.
She also confirmed to me that my other 3 bags, the one I had check in at FRA and the ones from JFK where on board where they should be. I thanked her and was handed off to my Chauffeur and wished a pleasant flight. My hand bags were put in the trunk, and I pulled my ipod out quickly and sat in the front seat (I was offered either the front or the back) – I needed a soundtrack in the movie of my mind to mark this special journey.
A quick pull out through a couple of security gates and we were airside. It is an experience unlike any other – aircrafts parked, pulling in and out, as we stop and start and weave through the masses of these heavenly metal birds – so close you could almost touch them. I know, having done bus shuttles in India all the time, one could ask what’s the difference? But there is one, a huge one – I am sure fellow FT’ers who have the fortune will know exactly what I am speaking of.
The 4 minute ride to my remotely parked aircraft made everything worth it – the overnight in Frankfurt, the lost bag, the traffic heading to JFK – there were so many simpler ways I could have headed home – but as Lufthansa’s add campaign says, everything was a brilliant build up “all for this one moment”. Simply perfect!
My chauffeur dawned his neon jacket and offered to assist with one my carry ons. The service director was standing at the door, waiting to great his 2 booked FCL’s (during a later conversation he commented on how more and more SENS were not not buying FCL due to massive overbooking and Op ups on most flights, but how it made business sense to fill the flights and kept LH in the black through these tough time – I agreed with him and shared stories of how EK on a DXB-MAA flight had a double cabin upgrade due to massive overbooking in Y once and they continue to shine).
The senior crew member in charge of F came to the door just in time for a handover and I was escorted to my seat and wished a pleasant flight by the chauffeur. It was quite amazing to see the same kind of attention and fussing over a PAX at boarding as is customary in Asia on the likes of SQ or CX F. Probably the remote stand and being the only one to be arriving to the aircraft, rather than with a busload, is what makes the difference. Overall, LH had made a brilliant First impression on a seasoned First class flyer.
I went to the arrivals level and walked through past the crew arrival areas and taxi stands to the lower level of the FCT. The intercom was broken and there was a sign to ring the bell which I could not find. Unhappy about needing to lug my hand luggage (overnighter and tumi wheeled briefcase) up the scary metal spiral staircase, I decided I wasn’t going to waste more time outside the FCT and made it up stairs. From then on it was smooth sailing. My wonderful PA, a woman of Asian origin (I couldn’t tell as her last name was German – my guess was Indonesian or possibly Thai – but she spoke English perfectly with hardly any accent), met me at the door, took my boarding pass and took me through security which was the most painless and pleasant. The security staff were making jokes and chatting – I guess being relaxed and needing to clear only 4 people helps tremendously (2pa’s and 2 pax). My SEN status means my PA thought I was familiar, but I explained I usually only transit FRA, and hadn’t been by since the FCT opened. She gave me a wonderful tour and then I settled down to have a light continental breakfast of Muesli and Fruit from the Buffet. The service was exquisite – attentive yet not intrusive. Every guest was constantly being asked if they would like a Drink. I was offered a list of coffees and the latte macchiato sounded excellent – it was divine. I relaxed in the cigar bar, connected to the internet to see how full my flight was (it was now showing 5 seats open in F, full in all other cabins). There was wonderful relaxing Jazz playing and the sun began to rise revealing the gorgeous series of Aircraft at terminal A and B.
I was constantly being checked on by the smart wait staff. I enquired with one of them, who seems the most keen to oblige me, when the lunch menu would be served. He said usually from 10 onwards, but he could get me anything I liked. I asked him if I could have a look at the menu, whenever he had a minute. It was brought to me within 2mins and I was told I could have what I what when I wanted it, and he made some suggestions of the hot antipasto and the lobster ravioli. I told him I would get back to him as I just had some breakfast, but assured him I would take him up on his offer. I decided it was time to explore and took a walk around the place. The snooze rooms looked great for a long layover. I approached the wonderful Thai shower attendant, greeted her with the customary SawadeeKup, after confirming her origins, which thrilled her, handed my luggage for which she gave me a token, and also asked if the baths were free. She said she would keep number 1 for me and to go in whenever I wanted. I went in 15 minutes later after getting a glass of rose from my friendly server at the Bar, and prepared the perfect soaking experience.
My only comment on the configuration of the tub was that the WC was on the tub side of the vanity while the shower all the way around so if one wanted to rinse after a soak, you would pretty much wet the entire bathroom. Other than that it was perfect. Great ETRO toiletries and I was offered shaving kit, toothbrush etc which I didn’t need since I had already taken care of that at the Sheraton.
After my soak and an hour before I’d need to leave this haven, I ordered a Weiner Schnitzel and some sparkling water. This prepared hot and fresh, since the kitchen was very quiet on this Sunday morning. It was exquisite – simple and perfect – with the freshest of ingredients and great variety of salads that came with it. I was in heaven.
My PA was wandering through the terminal and checking up on her PAX, when she approached me I asked her to check if 1K was available instead of the 1A I had, and she came back to me and confirmed that it wasn’t and that in fact all seats were taken as the flight was overbooked. I gave her a knowing smile and the silence said it all – I could have got a BC ticket and been upgraded at the gate, but then the point of the experience – the FCT – would have been lost right?
She also told me she would probably be on her break and introduced me to her colleague who would get me for boarding. I told her I’d wait for her in the cigar bar after finishing up my meal. The staff came by to check on me and I ordered an apple strudel – I was having the quintessential German experience. It was warm, fresh and served with wonderful vanilla custard. A latte macchiato and a cigarette later and it was time to bid adieu to this beacon of luxury. Pangs of sadness came over me, as I knew my A340 would not compare with what I had just experienced. Now to scheme my way back in, with more time to spare!
I was escorted downstairs by a wonderful PA, who left me at Passport control where they stamped my passport efficiently, and was also informed by one of the senior PA’s that my bag from SQ was on its way to MAA, again. How nice when compared to BA and every First class passenger being just another number, waiting in line for lost luggage from the mess that is LHR.
She also confirmed to me that my other 3 bags, the one I had check in at FRA and the ones from JFK where on board where they should be. I thanked her and was handed off to my Chauffeur and wished a pleasant flight. My hand bags were put in the trunk, and I pulled my ipod out quickly and sat in the front seat (I was offered either the front or the back) – I needed a soundtrack in the movie of my mind to mark this special journey.
A quick pull out through a couple of security gates and we were airside. It is an experience unlike any other – aircrafts parked, pulling in and out, as we stop and start and weave through the masses of these heavenly metal birds – so close you could almost touch them. I know, having done bus shuttles in India all the time, one could ask what’s the difference? But there is one, a huge one – I am sure fellow FT’ers who have the fortune will know exactly what I am speaking of.
The 4 minute ride to my remotely parked aircraft made everything worth it – the overnight in Frankfurt, the lost bag, the traffic heading to JFK – there were so many simpler ways I could have headed home – but as Lufthansa’s add campaign says, everything was a brilliant build up “all for this one moment”. Simply perfect!
My chauffeur dawned his neon jacket and offered to assist with one my carry ons. The service director was standing at the door, waiting to great his 2 booked FCL’s (during a later conversation he commented on how more and more SENS were not not buying FCL due to massive overbooking and Op ups on most flights, but how it made business sense to fill the flights and kept LH in the black through these tough time – I agreed with him and shared stories of how EK on a DXB-MAA flight had a double cabin upgrade due to massive overbooking in Y once and they continue to shine).
The senior crew member in charge of F came to the door just in time for a handover and I was escorted to my seat and wished a pleasant flight by the chauffeur. It was quite amazing to see the same kind of attention and fussing over a PAX at boarding as is customary in Asia on the likes of SQ or CX F. Probably the remote stand and being the only one to be arriving to the aircraft, rather than with a busload, is what makes the difference. Overall, LH had made a brilliant First impression on a seasoned First class flyer.
Last edited by avm2806; Dec 6, 2009 at 8:48 am
Dec 6, 2009, 8:06 am
#2
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
The flight
Shortly after take off, I pulled out my miniscule screen (by modern first class standards, even BC on LH has larger screens) – and started to peruse the options alternating between that and looking out the window on this wonderfully clear autumn morning. The scenery was breathtaking and the take off very smooth and quiet (haven’t been on a 343 in a while). Soon as the sign was off, the wonderful cabin attendant came by to take drink orders and pass out First class surveys to two passengers (I noticed them give this to the two of us who were on board first). I asked for the winelist to decide my drink of choice, and this was given to me along with a glass of sparkling water (great anticipation of behalf of the crew), along with the offer to peruse the list. She then went on to take two more drink orders and came back to me moments later, to enquire if I had made up my mind (impressive, given that I would have naturally expected her to deal with the rest of the cabin before coming back to me). I tried a glass of the South African Pinotage which was exquisite – rich and spicy. I know others have commented on here about LH’s declining winelist – I must admit while it may not be as expensive as other European and Asian carriers, I found it wonderfully creative with some great diverse options.
Shortly thereafter the cabin purser introduced himself, had a brief chat as mentioned above and distributed First class Lunch Menus and wished me a pleasant flight. He was pretty active in both the premium cabins ensuring all high level FFP’s were looked after. I forgot to mention that during 90% of my interactions pre-take off and almost all interactions on board I was addressed by name by the cabin crew.
Once the whole cabin was settled with their drinks, lunch orders were taken. I requested for the Goose and the potato dressing with my salad. Unlike others having mentioned that on demand service was suggested to them, this was never indicated on this flight. It didn’t matter because the service was very well paced and the cart did keep coming to passengers as they progressed through their meal and the crew were intuitively working with every passengers individual pace. Had I wanted to sleep (if I were just off a transatlantic flight), and eat later, this may have been a problem, but fortunately for me this wasn’t the case.
My table was laid and bread offered and by now I was well into my first movie of three for the flight. The appetizer cart then came by and I opted for just some caviar to start with, which was served with the perfect toast points, excellent crème fraiche and accompaniments. I was offered a top up of wine or vodka, and requested to switch to champagne, which was presented, I was offered a taste and my glass topped up. LH uses wine glasses for champagne, and I prefer flutes, which are topped more frequently keeping the bubbly chilled. The D de Devaux was not of First class pedigree IMHO, but it did taste very good and a great accompaniment to the Caviar. The appetizer cart came by again within 15 minutes and I was offered seconds of anything I would like. Being the caviar glutton that I am, I sheepishly asked for seconds and I was given a rather large serving (my first serving was healthy as well). The salad followed and I was skeptical about ordering the potato dressing but it was great – not too heavy. The goose was good, but the accompaniments better – I enjoyed the potato dumplings and cabbage – I guess I was really in the German mood. Service was wonderfully paced – the person seated in 1D was tired and was being served very quickly, and I on the other hand was allowed to relish every morsel. Frequent top ups of bread were offered and I switched to the portugese red wine, which was also very good.
Cheese and dessert were served again off the cart, and while the chocolate delight looked good, I decided to opt for some cheese and a glass of the wonderful Tokaija desert wine, which was divine. I then had a volluto nespresso and some wonderful pralines, which were served with a small plate and a little spoon so I could take them out of the box. After the cheese I was offered dessert and mentioned that I would take a pause from the indulgence and asked them to put aside one of the chocolate desserts for me, for later. This was done with a smile. I was offered a second coffee which I passed on, since I was awake and new I’d need some caffeine closer to landing to fight the jetlag.
Blankets and pillows were past out and I reclined the seat and enjoyed the entertainment system. The crew were quiet, unobtrusive yet present whenever one needed. I have developed a knack of clearing my own plates every now and then, especially to help crew on full flights. When I took my espresso come into the Galley, the senior lady who showed to my seat asked if they weren’t fast enough for me (she was joking). I told her no, not at all, I was just helping out since I was headed to the restroom in any case. We chatted a bit about their layover in MAA, which she was grateful for since it was two days rather than a 24hour turn around, meaning they had time to relax and enjoy the city. I told her I often ran into LH crew getting spa and salon treatments, since I live right across from the hotel they use and often get my hair cut there as well. I was asked if there was anything else she could get me and I declined. I started to explore the area around my seat and found a drawer behind it where extra blankets were stowed. Pulled one out and used it as an under sheet, flattened my bed and reclined to watch my movie. I found that in fully reclined mode the tiny screen became even smaller, making it very hard to enjoy the entertainment, so moved my seat back to a semi-upright position leaving the leg rest open.
While the First class seat isn’t the newest – it was very comfortable for a day flight. I wouldn’t want to be crossing the Pacific in winter on a 15hour flight on it, and I don’t believe it would stand up to the competition on an overnight flight, but for this flight it was perfect. It is evident that LH has decided it would be cheaper to pump in money into their ground experience at FRA to create the wow factor, with the attempt to buy some time before re-launching the on board First class product. After this flight, I can say that the gimmick has worked partially, since I am considering flying them again over BA just to experience the FCT for a while again. The CCR might be great, but let’s face it the FCT is in a league of its own.
The rest of the flight was quite uneventful. I had the occasional espresso, I asked for my desert half way which was brought to me quickly and I enjoyed three movies and some TV episodes in between. Had I flown 4 longhauls with LH, I would have found the movie selection limited, but fortunately I planned ahead checking their selection online and making sure to watch other options on CX and SQ to avoid being stuck for choice.
Around 2 hours out as we were approaching Indian airspace, Dinner menus were distributed. I have to say I was impressed with the selection. BA usually serves cold sandwiches, cakes and few knick-knacks – hardly a First class meal for a midnight arrival. The service was by no means a full dinner, but definitely substantial enough. It included a wonderful cold selection for the cart, and full Indian vegetarian meal, and a chicken schnitzel (obviously don’t serve beef on the Indian route). I opted for the cheese salad, potato salad and radish and the schnitzel for the main meal, and Apple Strudel and Fruit for desert (obviously the schnitzel and strudel did not compare to the FCT, but it was pretty good for 8hours into a flight).
I stuck with sparkling water with my main course, and did enjoy one last glass of the desert wine with the strudel, and an espresso prior to landing. Again, all requests were handled gracefully, with a smile and extremely efficiently.
I was just about finishing up my movie as we prepared for arrival. The cabin crew came by, and requested that I stow the screen before landing as they had to take their seats now – I assured them I would (which I did), and thanked them for their understanding.
On arrival at MAA, I was met at the gate and told my lost bag was on this flight. I was thrilled, but skeptical because I knew the SQ flight arrived after we were scheduled to depart – maybe an early arrival and a late departure meant they rushed my bag on this aircraft? No such luck – the bags I were expecting came off very quickly and then I just waited till all bags were offloaded. Turns out SQ, being over zealous sent messages everywhere, and this got lost in translation with LH at MAA. I called the helpful agent at JFK and he confirmed to me that my bag was indeed arriving MAA the following night on SQ 528.
One thing I was most impressed by was that my through check bags had both HON tags and SQ F tags on them, meaning that in transit someone from LH actually added these – the only time that has ever happened to me was on CX (transiting from an EK flight to them).
While waiting at the baggage belt, I ran into the crew that served me. They were very polite and actually acknowledged me, welcomed me home and I wished them a pleasant stay and a good time in the spa.
Overall, I have to say while the seat and screen may not stack up, I was impressed with LH’s product. The service was right there – may be not as relaxed and friendly as BA’s , but very polished. The food was excellent and the FCT the highlight of my experience.
I probably wouldn’t pay to fly F on LH however, given when I am paying to fly its for work, and the comfort of the BA F seat or even the 9W business class seat for that better trump all else when rest is needed. However, I do hope to schedule in some FCT time over the next year.
Shortly thereafter the cabin purser introduced himself, had a brief chat as mentioned above and distributed First class Lunch Menus and wished me a pleasant flight. He was pretty active in both the premium cabins ensuring all high level FFP’s were looked after. I forgot to mention that during 90% of my interactions pre-take off and almost all interactions on board I was addressed by name by the cabin crew.
Once the whole cabin was settled with their drinks, lunch orders were taken. I requested for the Goose and the potato dressing with my salad. Unlike others having mentioned that on demand service was suggested to them, this was never indicated on this flight. It didn’t matter because the service was very well paced and the cart did keep coming to passengers as they progressed through their meal and the crew were intuitively working with every passengers individual pace. Had I wanted to sleep (if I were just off a transatlantic flight), and eat later, this may have been a problem, but fortunately for me this wasn’t the case.
My table was laid and bread offered and by now I was well into my first movie of three for the flight. The appetizer cart then came by and I opted for just some caviar to start with, which was served with the perfect toast points, excellent crème fraiche and accompaniments. I was offered a top up of wine or vodka, and requested to switch to champagne, which was presented, I was offered a taste and my glass topped up. LH uses wine glasses for champagne, and I prefer flutes, which are topped more frequently keeping the bubbly chilled. The D de Devaux was not of First class pedigree IMHO, but it did taste very good and a great accompaniment to the Caviar. The appetizer cart came by again within 15 minutes and I was offered seconds of anything I would like. Being the caviar glutton that I am, I sheepishly asked for seconds and I was given a rather large serving (my first serving was healthy as well). The salad followed and I was skeptical about ordering the potato dressing but it was great – not too heavy. The goose was good, but the accompaniments better – I enjoyed the potato dumplings and cabbage – I guess I was really in the German mood. Service was wonderfully paced – the person seated in 1D was tired and was being served very quickly, and I on the other hand was allowed to relish every morsel. Frequent top ups of bread were offered and I switched to the portugese red wine, which was also very good.
Cheese and dessert were served again off the cart, and while the chocolate delight looked good, I decided to opt for some cheese and a glass of the wonderful Tokaija desert wine, which was divine. I then had a volluto nespresso and some wonderful pralines, which were served with a small plate and a little spoon so I could take them out of the box. After the cheese I was offered dessert and mentioned that I would take a pause from the indulgence and asked them to put aside one of the chocolate desserts for me, for later. This was done with a smile. I was offered a second coffee which I passed on, since I was awake and new I’d need some caffeine closer to landing to fight the jetlag.
Blankets and pillows were past out and I reclined the seat and enjoyed the entertainment system. The crew were quiet, unobtrusive yet present whenever one needed. I have developed a knack of clearing my own plates every now and then, especially to help crew on full flights. When I took my espresso come into the Galley, the senior lady who showed to my seat asked if they weren’t fast enough for me (she was joking). I told her no, not at all, I was just helping out since I was headed to the restroom in any case. We chatted a bit about their layover in MAA, which she was grateful for since it was two days rather than a 24hour turn around, meaning they had time to relax and enjoy the city. I told her I often ran into LH crew getting spa and salon treatments, since I live right across from the hotel they use and often get my hair cut there as well. I was asked if there was anything else she could get me and I declined. I started to explore the area around my seat and found a drawer behind it where extra blankets were stowed. Pulled one out and used it as an under sheet, flattened my bed and reclined to watch my movie. I found that in fully reclined mode the tiny screen became even smaller, making it very hard to enjoy the entertainment, so moved my seat back to a semi-upright position leaving the leg rest open.
While the First class seat isn’t the newest – it was very comfortable for a day flight. I wouldn’t want to be crossing the Pacific in winter on a 15hour flight on it, and I don’t believe it would stand up to the competition on an overnight flight, but for this flight it was perfect. It is evident that LH has decided it would be cheaper to pump in money into their ground experience at FRA to create the wow factor, with the attempt to buy some time before re-launching the on board First class product. After this flight, I can say that the gimmick has worked partially, since I am considering flying them again over BA just to experience the FCT for a while again. The CCR might be great, but let’s face it the FCT is in a league of its own.
The rest of the flight was quite uneventful. I had the occasional espresso, I asked for my desert half way which was brought to me quickly and I enjoyed three movies and some TV episodes in between. Had I flown 4 longhauls with LH, I would have found the movie selection limited, but fortunately I planned ahead checking their selection online and making sure to watch other options on CX and SQ to avoid being stuck for choice.
Around 2 hours out as we were approaching Indian airspace, Dinner menus were distributed. I have to say I was impressed with the selection. BA usually serves cold sandwiches, cakes and few knick-knacks – hardly a First class meal for a midnight arrival. The service was by no means a full dinner, but definitely substantial enough. It included a wonderful cold selection for the cart, and full Indian vegetarian meal, and a chicken schnitzel (obviously don’t serve beef on the Indian route). I opted for the cheese salad, potato salad and radish and the schnitzel for the main meal, and Apple Strudel and Fruit for desert (obviously the schnitzel and strudel did not compare to the FCT, but it was pretty good for 8hours into a flight).
I stuck with sparkling water with my main course, and did enjoy one last glass of the desert wine with the strudel, and an espresso prior to landing. Again, all requests were handled gracefully, with a smile and extremely efficiently.
I was just about finishing up my movie as we prepared for arrival. The cabin crew came by, and requested that I stow the screen before landing as they had to take their seats now – I assured them I would (which I did), and thanked them for their understanding.
On arrival at MAA, I was met at the gate and told my lost bag was on this flight. I was thrilled, but skeptical because I knew the SQ flight arrived after we were scheduled to depart – maybe an early arrival and a late departure meant they rushed my bag on this aircraft? No such luck – the bags I were expecting came off very quickly and then I just waited till all bags were offloaded. Turns out SQ, being over zealous sent messages everywhere, and this got lost in translation with LH at MAA. I called the helpful agent at JFK and he confirmed to me that my bag was indeed arriving MAA the following night on SQ 528.
One thing I was most impressed by was that my through check bags had both HON tags and SQ F tags on them, meaning that in transit someone from LH actually added these – the only time that has ever happened to me was on CX (transiting from an EK flight to them).
While waiting at the baggage belt, I ran into the crew that served me. They were very polite and actually acknowledged me, welcomed me home and I wished them a pleasant stay and a good time in the spa.
Overall, I have to say while the seat and screen may not stack up, I was impressed with LH’s product. The service was right there – may be not as relaxed and friendly as BA’s , but very polished. The food was excellent and the FCT the highlight of my experience.
I probably wouldn’t pay to fly F on LH however, given when I am paying to fly its for work, and the comfort of the BA F seat or even the 9W business class seat for that better trump all else when rest is needed. However, I do hope to schedule in some FCT time over the next year.
Last edited by avm2806; Dec 6, 2009 at 1:09 pm
Dec 6, 2009, 8:07 am
#3
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
First Class Menu - Lunch
Choice of Hors d'oeuvres
Caviar with traditional garnishes
Smoked Tuna filled with Crabmeat on Lime Creme Fraiche with Walnuts
Dialogue of Beetroot and Comte Cheese with Thyme
Aloo Shakarkandi Chaat, Dal Vada
Fried Potatoes and Yam Potatoes marinated with Lemon and Cilantro accompanied by warm Chick Pea Patties
Salad
Frisee, Radicchio, Chicory and Lamb's Lettuce with Cucumber, Pumpkin and Brown Mushrooms
with your Choice of Vinaigrette or Potato Dressing
Choice of Main Courses
We are proud to present our traditional
Roast Goose with Red Cabbage, Potato Dumplings and Herb Crumb Butter
as an Alternative to the Compositions of our Star Chef
Nut crusted Slice of Halibut with Aniseed Beurre Blanc, Leaf Spinach and mashed Pumpkin
Murgh Kadai, Dal Tadka, Bhini do Pyaza, Zeera Pulao
Friend leg of Poulard in savory Tomato Sauce with mixed Bell Pepper, Okra stew with Onions and Chilli, acompanied by Basmati rice and yellow Lenti Ragout with Curcuma
Paneer Achari, Palak Peas, Dal Tadka, Moong Dal Pulao
Deep friend Cream Cheese in hot Chili Sauce, Onion Seeds, creamy spinach with green Pea accompanied by Basmati rice with Minth, Potatoes and Yello Lentils, Ragout of Chick Peas, Kidney Beans, black Lentils with Tomatoes and Garlic, Tarkewala Raita
Selection of Cheese and Dessert
Comte, Crottin de Chavignol, Roquefort, Le Coutances and Brie Cheese
garnished with Grapes, Walnuts and Celery
Delicacy of Chocolate with Plum Jelly and Tonka Bean Ice Cream
Rabdi beery
Caramalized Milk Soup with fresh Blackberries and Gold Leaf
Specialty Dessert Wines
Being an India flight, the star chefs including two of the chefs from the Leela Palace hotels. The only airlines I have found good Indian food on are ofcourse Jet, Air India - BA and SQ (Shahi Thali's are great), plus given that I was headed home, I avoided the Indian options.
Caviar with traditional garnishes
Smoked Tuna filled with Crabmeat on Lime Creme Fraiche with Walnuts
Dialogue of Beetroot and Comte Cheese with Thyme
Aloo Shakarkandi Chaat, Dal Vada
Fried Potatoes and Yam Potatoes marinated with Lemon and Cilantro accompanied by warm Chick Pea Patties
Salad
Frisee, Radicchio, Chicory and Lamb's Lettuce with Cucumber, Pumpkin and Brown Mushrooms
with your Choice of Vinaigrette or Potato Dressing
Choice of Main Courses
We are proud to present our traditional
Roast Goose with Red Cabbage, Potato Dumplings and Herb Crumb Butter
as an Alternative to the Compositions of our Star Chef
Nut crusted Slice of Halibut with Aniseed Beurre Blanc, Leaf Spinach and mashed Pumpkin
Murgh Kadai, Dal Tadka, Bhini do Pyaza, Zeera Pulao
Friend leg of Poulard in savory Tomato Sauce with mixed Bell Pepper, Okra stew with Onions and Chilli, acompanied by Basmati rice and yellow Lenti Ragout with Curcuma
Paneer Achari, Palak Peas, Dal Tadka, Moong Dal Pulao
Deep friend Cream Cheese in hot Chili Sauce, Onion Seeds, creamy spinach with green Pea accompanied by Basmati rice with Minth, Potatoes and Yello Lentils, Ragout of Chick Peas, Kidney Beans, black Lentils with Tomatoes and Garlic, Tarkewala Raita
Selection of Cheese and Dessert
Comte, Crottin de Chavignol, Roquefort, Le Coutances and Brie Cheese
garnished with Grapes, Walnuts and Celery
Delicacy of Chocolate with Plum Jelly and Tonka Bean Ice Cream
Rabdi beery
Caramalized Milk Soup with fresh Blackberries and Gold Leaf
Specialty Dessert Wines
Being an India flight, the star chefs including two of the chefs from the Leela Palace hotels. The only airlines I have found good Indian food on are ofcourse Jet, Air India - BA and SQ (Shahi Thali's are great), plus given that I was headed home, I avoided the Indian options.
Last edited by avm2806; Dec 6, 2009 at 1:22 pm
Dec 6, 2009, 8:08 am
#4
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
First Class Menu - Dinner
Dinner
Cold and hot Specialities
Smoked catfish with Potato Salad
Dal Wada, Tandoor Gobhi
Deep fried Lentil Doughnut, served with Cauliflower Tandoori
Appenzeller Cheese Salad
Green Chutney with Cilantro and Mint
Lard
Red Radish
Pulao, Kathai Paneer, Punjabi Kadi Pakodi,
Basmati Rice with Cinamon, Cardamom and Bay Leaf, Indian Cream Cheese in Tomato and Onion Sauce, Chick Pea Balls with creamy yogurt sauce
Chicken Escalope Vienna Style with roast Potatoes
Dessert
Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce
Fresh Fruit
Cold and hot Specialities
Smoked catfish with Potato Salad
Dal Wada, Tandoor Gobhi
Deep fried Lentil Doughnut, served with Cauliflower Tandoori
Appenzeller Cheese Salad
Green Chutney with Cilantro and Mint
Lard
Red Radish
Pulao, Kathai Paneer, Punjabi Kadi Pakodi,
Basmati Rice with Cinamon, Cardamom and Bay Leaf, Indian Cream Cheese in Tomato and Onion Sauce, Chick Pea Balls with creamy yogurt sauce
Chicken Escalope Vienna Style with roast Potatoes
Dessert
Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce
Fresh Fruit
Last edited by avm2806; Dec 6, 2009 at 1:36 pm
Dec 6, 2009, 8:09 am
#5
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
LH First Class Wine List (NOV2009)
Will upload tomorrow - its 2am and i must to bed.
Last edited by avm2806; Dec 6, 2009 at 1:41 pm
Dec 6, 2009, 8:49 am
#7
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
Dec 6, 2009, 11:00 am
#8
Join Date: Apr 2000
Location: LAX and LHR. UA lifetime Gold 1.9MM 1K , DL Gold Medallion, HHonors Gold, Marriott Gold, Avis President's Club
Posts: 3,592
I think some readers of this forum are getting exasperated with wodges of unreadable text (thank you for fixing this in this thread) and complaints about things you could have avoided with forethought+ (in the 'SQ lost my bags' thread). Please forgive them for their lack of patience! 
Dec 6, 2009, 12:02 pm
#9
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
I think some readers of this forum are getting exasperated with wodges of unreadable text (thank you for fixing this in this thread) and complaints about things you could have avoided with forethought+ (in the 'SQ lost my bags' thread). Please forgive them for their lack of patience!
Reply, noted and feedback much appreciated - shall be more mindful in future.
If only all readers could be as polite.
Dec 6, 2009, 12:21 pm
#10
Moderator: GLBT travelers, India-based Airlines and India; FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Asia
Programs: Yes!
Posts: 15,512
avm2806, I really enjoyed reading your recent report on CX/9W from the West Coast to India, as well as this one so far. ^ Brought back many fond memories of CX F, and now am now looking forward to my next transpac F flight on CX in a couple of weeks!
I'd be interested to see the LH F menu in this report too. I'm due to fly a couple of longhauls on LH in Dec/Jan, and am hoping to see the return of my all-time favourite LH F meal: Goose with dumplings and red cabbage. (Tastes way better than I described it, and IME usually makes an appearance around the festive season on LH F menus. Atleast it has done so over the last 2-3 years!)
P.S.: I always go for the Wiener Schnitzel in the FCT/FCL at FRA/MUC too. So fresh, crispy and just perfect with the cold potato salad. Add to that a nice crisp riesling and its just a divine combination.
I'd be interested to see the LH F menu in this report too. I'm due to fly a couple of longhauls on LH in Dec/Jan, and am hoping to see the return of my all-time favourite LH F meal: Goose with dumplings and red cabbage. (Tastes way better than I described it, and IME usually makes an appearance around the festive season on LH F menus. Atleast it has done so over the last 2-3 years!)
P.S.: I always go for the Wiener Schnitzel in the FCT/FCL at FRA/MUC too. So fresh, crispy and just perfect with the cold potato salad. Add to that a nice crisp riesling and its just a divine combination.
Dec 6, 2009, 1:28 pm
#11
Original Poster
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: LONDON
Programs: CX DM, BA G4L, QR PLT, EK PLT, Hyatt CourtesyC, HH DM, SQ PPS, BonvoyTit, UK, VS, UA, DL, AA
Posts: 1,715
avm2806, I really enjoyed reading your recent report on CX/9W from the West Coast to India, as well as this one so far. ^ Brought back many fond memories of CX F, and now am now looking forward to my next transpac F flight on CX in a couple of weeks!
I'd be interested to see the LH F menu in this report too. I'm due to fly a couple of longhauls on LH in Dec/Jan, and am hoping to see the return of my all-time favourite LH F meal: Goose with dumplings and red cabbage. (Tastes way better than I described it, and IME usually makes an appearance around the festive season on LH F menus. Atleast it has done so over the last 2-3 years!)
P.S.: I always go for the Wiener Schnitzel in the FCT/FCL at FRA/MUC too. So fresh, crispy and just perfect with the cold potato salad. Add to that a nice crisp riesling and its just a divine combination.
I'd be interested to see the LH F menu in this report too. I'm due to fly a couple of longhauls on LH in Dec/Jan, and am hoping to see the return of my all-time favourite LH F meal: Goose with dumplings and red cabbage. (Tastes way better than I described it, and IME usually makes an appearance around the festive season on LH F menus. Atleast it has done so over the last 2-3 years!)
P.S.: I always go for the Wiener Schnitzel in the FCT/FCL at FRA/MUC too. So fresh, crispy and just perfect with the cold potato salad. Add to that a nice crisp riesling and its just a divine combination.
AJLondon - I was typing up the menu when I read this - haha - an FT'er after my own tastes - we had the exact same menu (I had some reisling with the schnitzel too - and the Goose was excellent. It was on the November menu, not sure about December Jan). Good luck! Let me know if its around as I may be on LH F in Jan, if my upgrades clear.
Dec 6, 2009, 2:38 pm
#13
Join Date: May 2009
Location: SIN (with a bit of ZRH sprinkled in)
Posts: 9,456
This is an excellent report, forgot time while reading it ^
Your writting style is really entertaining, usually I get bored after a few sentences (As I'm the very-short-attention type) but your report really didn't let me go.
Your writting style is really entertaining, usually I get bored after a few sentences (As I'm the very-short-attention type) but your report really didn't let me go.
