Flight Reviews
This page is updated regularly with flight reviews and aviation news for the various International airlines from around the World including Qantas, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Jetstar, Emirates – for the Avgeeks.
Flight Reviews
December 18, 2025If you’re an aviation lover visiting Bangkok, there’s one quirky attraction you absolutely cannot miss: the B747 Cafe. What do you do with a retired “Queen of the Skies” Boeing 747? Turn it into a cafe, of course! This clever conversion on the outskirts of Bangkok is a dream come true for avgeeks like me—it’s not just about grabbing a coffee, but exploring the insides of a real jumbo jet.
Located in Lat Krabang near Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), the B747 Cafe takes a decommissioned Boeing 747 (former Orient Thai Airlines registration HS-STA) and transforms it into a unique dining and exploration spot. Originally built for United Airlines in 1992, it flew until 2009 before joining the Thai fleet in 2011. Now grounded permanently, it’s open to the public for a fun, nostalgic experience.
Cozy interior seating and cockpit views inside the retired Boeing 747 at B747 Cafe in Bangkok.
Captain’s view: Fully intact cockpit inside the retired Boeing 747 at B747 Cafe – avgeek heaven in Bangkok.
What to Expect Inside the B747 Cafe
Entry costs THB 120 (includes one drink—go for the coffee!). Once inside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to commercial aviation’s golden era:
Lower Deck: Order at the counter (drinks, croissants, snacks) and relax in comfy window seats with runway vibes.
Upper Deck: Climb the original stairs for more seating and the highlight—full access to the intact cockpit! Pose with controls, knobs, levers, and gauges still in place.
Wing Walk: Step out onto one wing for exterior photos and views.
Exterior Exploration: Walk underneath and around the plane—engines removed, but nacelles intact for that classic 747 look.
Extras: Free Wi-Fi for instant social shares, plus shaded outdoor seating.
I paired my visit with a tasty almond croissant—simple but satisfying. It’s not gourmet dining, but the aviation immersion is priceless.
Delicious almond croissant and creamy latte enjoyed inside the iconic retired Boeing 747 at B747 Cafe in Bangkok
How to Get to the B747 Cafe
The cafe is on Luang Phaeng Road, Thap Yao, Lat Krabang—about 40–60 minutes from central Bangkok.Easiest Option: Taxi/Grab
From Sukhumvit/CBD: THB 200–300 (40–45 mins). Use toll roads for speed (extra THB 75).
Have your hotel write the address in Thai to avoid confusion.
Budget Option: Airport Rail Link + Taxi
Take Airport Rail Link to Lat Krabang Station (from Makkasan near Sukhumvit: THB 35, ~30 mins).
Short taxi from station: THB 70–100 (15 mins).Pro tip: Show the Thai address—some drivers need it!
Return taxis are easy from the busy road outside.
Why Aviation Lovers Will Adore It
The B747 Cafe isn’t polished like a museum—it’s raw, hands-on access to a legend. Sit in business class seats, imagine trans-Pacific flights, or just geek out over the engineering. Pair it with nearby spotting at Suvarnabhumi or the MD-82 Cafe for a full avgeek day.If you’re in Bangkok, make the trip—it’s one of the world’s coolest repurposed aircraft experiences. Spotters, pilots, and plane enthusiasts: this is your spot!
(Pro tip: Visit weekdays to avoid crowds; combine with airport hotel for easy access.)
Fun boarding pass ticket (120 Baht entry, includes drink) for the retired Boeing 747 B747 Cafe in Bangkok.
Intricate cockpit control panels, knobs, and dials in the retired Boeing 747 at B747 Cafe – avgeek detail in Bangkok.
Unique perspective standing on the wing looking down the long fuselage of the retired Boeing 747 at B747 Cafe in Bangkok.
Massive scale view from underneath the retired Boeing 747 at B747 Cafe – aviation lovers’ perspective in Bangkok.
B747 Cafe627 1 Luang Phaeng RoadThap YaoLat KrabangBangkok
Website: https://www.facebook.com/747CafeLadkrabang/
Check out the location of the B747 Cafe in Bangkok
Book Bangkok Hotels
Explore more of Bangkok’s Aviation wonders:
Bangkok for Aviation Lovers
MD-82 Cafe – retired McDonnell Douglas MD-82 aircraft
Royal Thai Air Force Museum
Best Areas to Stay in Bangkok [...]
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December 16, 2025As a dedicated aviation enthusiast (avgeek) who spends a lot of time in Thailand—chasing planes, spotting liveries, and exploring Bangkok’s airports—I pride myself on knowing the local airline scene pretty well. From the big players like Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways to the low-cost crowd (Nok Air, VietJet), I’ve got them covered. So imagine my surprise when, on Tuesday, 16 December 2025, I spotted a sign in the lobby of my hotel, Aloft Bangkok Sukhumvit 11, advertising “Siam Wings Cabin Crew Assessments.”
Siam Wings Airlines? I’d never heard of them. Intrigued, I snapped a photo and dove into some quick research right there in the hotel lobby (over a coffee, naturally).
A Bit of History and Background
Turns out Siam Wings Airlines isn’t a flashy new startup—it’s a long-established Thai charter operator dating back to 1991. Officially under Siam Land Flying Co., Ltd., the airline primarily operates as a private jet and charter service, often branded as Executive Wings for VIP and executive flights across Asia.
Base: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Bangkok.
ICAO Code: SHE.
Focus: Private charters, executive travel, and regional jet operations—no scheduled passenger routes that I’m aware of (yet?).
From profiles on sites like Airhex.com, it’s listed as an active jet/charter carrier, but it keeps a deliberately low profile. Their Instagram presence is minimal (mostly reposts or unrelated tags), and there’s no flashy website—just functional info for charter inquiries.The fleet appears small and business-oriented: older references mention Bombardier LearJet 45 (8 passengers) and Hawker 800XP/850XP (8 passengers) midsize jets—perfect for discreet, high-end private flights rather than mass tourism.
Thai cabin crew descending steps from Siam Wings Airlines Bombardier Learjet 45 during ground operations in Bangkok – highlighting the airline’s executive charter service.
Why the Cabin Crew Recruitment?
The “Cabin Crew Assessments” sign at Aloft suggests something’s brewing. Recent social media posts (November–December 2025) from training institutes like ATDI confirm Siam Wings is actively recruiting Thai cabin crew for a new intake:
Requirements: Age 18+, bachelor’s degree, TOEIC 700+, height minimums (160cm female/170cm male), reach 210cm.
Base mentioned: U-Tapao (UTP) – the growing secondary airport near Pattaya.
Hints at international flights and expansion.
This could mean they’re scaling up charter operations or perhaps eyeing limited scheduled services. U-Tapao‘s development as a commercial hub (with new terminals and routes) makes it a smart choice for growth without BKK’s congestion.
Final Thoughts from an Avgeek
Siam Wings isn’t chasing headlines like Really Cool Airlines or other newcomers—it’s a quiet, reliable player in Thailand’s private aviation niche. For 34 years, they’ve flown under the radar, serving executives and charters while bigger names grab attention.
Spotting their recruitment in a Sukhumvit hotel lobby was a fun reminder that aviation surprises are everywhere—even on Soi 11. If you’re into private jets or wondering about cabin crew opportunities in Thailand, keep an eye on them. Who knows—2026 might bring more visibility for this understated Thai operator.Have you flown with Siam Wings or spotted their jets? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear!
(Sources: Airhex.com airline profile, Executive Wings/ Siam Land Flying history, recent Instagram recruitment posts from Thai training accounts.)
Now I know, I need to book a trip somewhere on their Bombardier LearJet 45 – enough space for 8 passengers but i wont be sharing. [...]
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March 13, 2025A summary of the latest news from the Australian Aviation industry in March 2025. New routes, new planes, everything aviation in Australia.
12th March 2025 – Qantas doubles down on Rewards for Frequent Flyers
Qantas bring back their popular Double Status Credits or Qantas Points offer which launches today, just for 1 week, until 18th March 2025. This allows customers to get double status credits or points for any flight booked in the next 7 days on any Qantas operated flight across the airline’s entire regional, domestic, or international network, Read more on the Qantas News room.
9th March 2025 – Airports open again after Tropical Cyclone Alfred
Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ballina and Coffs Harbour airports have all re-opened after the passing of Tropical Cyclone on Saturday.
7th March 2025 – Brisbane airport suspends all flights in preparation for Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Friday morning, Brisbane Airport has suspended all flights in preparation for Tropical Cyclone Alfred hitting landfall, now expected early Saturday morning. Read more on Brisbane Airport’s website.
5th March 2025 – Airports close in preparation for Tropical Cyclone Alfred
Gold Coast Airport, Ballina Airport and Coffs Harbour airport closed on Wednesday afternoon 5th March 2025 due to the approaching High Level 2 Tropical Cyclone Alfred which is expected to hit landfall late Thursday evening / early Friday morning. Brisbane Airport and Sunshine Coast airports remain open though are expected to close on Thursday. Winds between 125 – 150Km/h are expected once the storm passes the coastline.
3rd March 2025 – Qantas flight experiences on-board emergency leaving Sydney
Qantas flight QF643 traveling from Sydney to Perth, returned to Sydney airport after an on-board emergency was declared. Qantas annouced the emergency was of a technical nature and apologised to the passengers. Read more on News.com.au.
2nd March 2025 – New Flight Route Gold Coast to Alice Springs – Airnorth
Airnorth have announced they will be flying from Gold Coast Airport to Alice Springs starting from 14th April 2025. Airnorth will use their E190 Embraer Jets. Prices start from $299 one way. Read more on the Airnorth website.
Airnorth Flights Cairns to Alice Springs
1st March 2025 – Virgin flights from Australia to Doha Qatar.
After the partner deal was signed between Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways was signed earlier this week, Virgin have announced on their website that flights to Doha (DOH) Qatar will start from June 2025. These flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane will be operated by Qatar Airways planes. Prices start from A$1925.Check out the flgiht prices to Doha on the Virgin website.
1st March 2025 – Upgrade to Qantas B737 aircraft.
Qantas B737-800 Refurbishment
Qantas have annouced they will undertake refurbishment of their fleet of Boeing B737s. 42 of their B737 aircraft will have both the economy and business class seats replaced and a further rollout of their Wi-Fi service.Read more on the Qantas new website.
1st March 2025 – Turkish Airlines goes daily at SYD
Turkish Airlines will begin daily flights from Sydney to Istanbul from January 2026. Read more on Sydney Airport news site.
1st March 2025 – New Direct Flight Between Cairns and Nadi Fiji
Fiji Airways will commence flights from Cairns International Airport to Nadi Fiji starting on 10 April 2025. Fiji Airways will operate this route on their Boeing B737 MAX 8 aircraft. There wil 3 flights per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Read more on the Cairns Airport website.
1st March 2025 – New Gold Coast – Darwin service
Gold Coast airport have announced that Jetstar will be flying between Gold Coast and Darwin airport starting 26 June 2025. Read more on the Gold Coast Airport website. [...]
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September 13, 2023Airline: Japan AirlinesFlight no: JL31Route: Haneda Tokyo International Airport (HND) to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)Aircraft type: Boeing 777-346(ER) Rego: JA735JFlight time: 5 hours 10 minutesTravel Class: Premium Economy ClassSeat no: 20K Window Seat
I used Qantas Frequent Flyer Points to book this Japan Airlines flight. It cost me 48,500 Points +19570 Yen in Taxes (around A$207) for this flight in Japan Airlines Premium Economy from Tokyo to Bangkok.
Flight JL31 is scheduled to leave Tokyo at 11.15am with arrival into Bangkok at 3.40pm. My flight departed about 20 minutes late so we landed at Bangkok at 4pm.
Getting to the airport
I was staying in Shinjuku during my stay in Tokyo. I got a taxi from my hotel in Shinjuku to Haneda Airport which cost 8000 Yen (around A$85) and took around 30 minutes.
Taxi to Haneda Airport Tokyo
I wanted to take the Limousine Airport Bus which is only 1200 Yen but they did not start picking up from my hotel until after 9.30am. I left the hotel at 8.30am so choose to get a taxi. The bus would take around 45 minutes as it makes a few stops within Tokyo to pick up passengers.
The cheapest way to get to Haneda Airport is via the Tokyo Metro train system but you do need to change onto the Airport monorail service, a bit of a hassle with luggage. The train and monorail would take a bit over 1 hour to get from downtown Tokyo to Haneda Airport
At the airport
Haneda Tokyo International Airport is a very large, modern airport, the closest airport to downtown Tokyo. You can also get flights from Tokyo Narita Airport but it will take you more than 1.5 hours to travel from downtown Tokyo to Narita airport.
Terminal 3 Tokyo Haneda International Airport
Haneda Airport is Japan Airlines main hub, so the queue for the Economy Check-on counters was quite long. I estimated it would have taken more than 20 minutes to get to the front of the queue.
Long Queue for Japan Airlines Check-in at Haneda Airport
As I am a Qantas Gold Member (Sapphire status with OneWorld) I was able to use the Priority Check-in counters which had no queue.
Priority Japan Airlines Check-In Counters
Before you head through security, I recommend you go directly upstairs from the check-in counters and you will find the very cool open air Observation Deck which has views over the planes and 1 of the runways at Haneda airport.
Observation Deck at Haneda International Airport
View from Observation Deck at Haneda International Airport
Food and Restaurants at Haneda Airport
If you want to eat before your flight at Haneda Airport, I recommend that after you check-in to your flight and before you pass through immigration, go upstairs and you will find an old Japanese style wooden village which has plenty of great Japanese restaurants to choose from.
Restaurants at Haneda Tokyo International Airport
Once you have passed through immigration there are also plenty of cafes, restaurants and duty free shopping to choose from.
Restaurants Haneda Tokyo International Airport
Okonomiyaki and Takoyaki at Haneda Airport
Duty Free Shopping at Haneda Tokyo International Airport
Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge at Haneda International Airport
With my Sapphire status with One World Alliance, I had access to the Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge before my flight which I headed to grab something to eat and a coffee.
Inside JAL Sakura Lounge at Haneda Tokyo International Airport
Inside Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge at Haneda Tokyo International Airport
I was there at breakfast time and the food menu had either an American Breakfast available or the very famous Japanese Beef Curry which I have had a few times in this Sakura Lounge, highly recommended!
Japanese Beef Curry at JAL Sakura Lounge at Haneda Airport
There are many screens showing the status of the flights so you know when your flight is boarding. They do not make announcements for the flights otherwise you would hear these announcements constantly due the high number of JAL flights and other OneWorld airline flights.
The Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge is only a short walk from the gates where Japan Airlines flight depart from. Unfortunately you do not get great views of the planes from the boarding gates. This was the best view I got of my plane.
Japan Airlines B777-300 Aircraft
On the plane
The plane for my flight was the Japan Airlines B777-346(ER) with rego: JA736J which is a 17 year old plane, joining the Japan Airlines fleet in July 2006. This plane has 4 different classes. With 8 First Class seats in a 1x2x1 Configuration, 49 Business Class seats in a 2x3x2 Configuration, 40 Premium Economy Seats in a 2x4x2 Configuration and 147 Economy Seats in a 3x3x3 Configuration.
Premium Economy Cabin on Japan Airlines B777-300
Premium Economy Seat on Japan Airlines B777-300
The Premium Economy section is right above the wing, my seat 20K was right in the middle so the wing limited my window seat view.
View from Premium Economy on JAL B777-300
The Premium Economy Seats have a Universal Power adaptor under your seat, a USB port directly under the TV Screen, a cup holder and table tray that folds down from the seat in front.
Universal Power Adaptor in Japan Airlines Premium Economy
USB Port in Japan Airlines Premium Economy
There was a Premium Economy Amenities kit on my seat when I arrived onboard which just has a Tooth brush and toothpaste, a moisture mask, eye mask and ear plugs.
Premium Economy Amenities Kit on Japan Airlines
There was also a nice set of noise cancelling headphones to be used with the entertainment system.
Noise Cancelling Headphones in JAL Premium Economy
You definitely cannot complain about the leg room in Premium Economy, a very nice option to fly this short 5 hour route. The seat reclines a little bit which is just fine for this day flight.
Legroom in Premium Economy on JAL B777-300
Entertainment on the plane
There is a small TV screen built into the seat in front. This had a decent amount of recent release movies to watch. With 5 hours in the air, you could probably get to watch 2 movies if you started watching before take-off.
TV Screen Japan Airlines Premium Economy B777-300
There is also a copy of Japan Airlines inflight magazine called Skyward which has articles in both Japanese and English.
JAL Skywards Inflight Magazine
There is also a very basic Flight map to watch the progress of the flight.
Flight Map on Japan Airlines B777-300
Food served onboard
There is a food menu at your seat when you get onboard so you can see what is available during the flight. See the full food menu for this route between Tokyo and Bangkok and the return leg from Bangkok to Tokyo.
Food Menu JAL Premium Economy Tokyo to Bangkok
Straight after take-ff they started the meal service with a drink and packet of nuts.
Drink Service in Japan Airlines Premium Economy
Then the food was served. I went for the Pork Rib Teriyaki which was very tasty. This was a great Japanese meal with loads of different compartments which contained salads, steamed vegetables and some tofu. It was definitely a very generous serving of food, all very tasty.
Food served in Japan Airlines Premium Economy
For dessert we were served a tub of Haagen-Dazs ice-cream.
Dessert served in Japan Airlines Premium Economy
They also handed out a sweet bread roll which was one of the snacks available before landing but they handed out straight after our meal. Also on the snack menu was a Udon Noodle soup available from the snack menu which you can order by request but I was full from this meal plus the beef curry I had in the Sakura Lounge.
Snack served in Japan Airlines Premium Economy
The service
Japan Airlines has some great flight crew. This is your very nice Japanese service with a smile. I’ve flown Japan airlines a few times and the service is always very good.
Japan Airlines Flight JL31 from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Bangkok [...]
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January 27, 2023Airline: Bangkok AirwaysFlight no: PG217Route: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)Aircraft type: Airbus A320Flight time: 1 hours 10 minutesTravel Class: Economy ClassSeat no: 23A Window Seat
Bangkok Airways is a ‘Boutique Airline’ in Thailand, this is just 1 level up from a Budget Airline. This is a no frills airline with cheap prices for domestic flights around Thailand. The difference between a Boutique Airline and a Budget Airline, is that they serve you a meal on these Bangkok Airways flights and all passengers get access to the Bangkok Airways Lounge at the airport..
Onboard the Bangkok Airways A320
For this route between Bangkok and Chiang Mai there are so many flights to choose. There are 7 different airlines with flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and a choice to fly from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport or from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport too. Airlines include Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai Vietjet Air, Thai Airways, Thai Smile and Thai Lion Air. With so much competition the prices are really low. For my flight on Bangkok Airways cost me A$55 each way. Try getting a 1 hour flight in Australia for A$55!
You can book direct on Bangkok Airways website which is very easy to use.
Check out the Flight Review video for this flight with Bangkok Airways from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Getting to the airport
Suvarnabhumi Airport is located 30km east of situs slot luar negeri the centre of Bangkok. There is a cheap train you can catch on the Airport Link line but with my luggage I prefer to catch a taxi which will took around 45 minutes. It cost me only 240 Baht, which is only A$10. This flight was back in July 2022, and the traffic was very quiet. When traffic is bad it can cost upwards of 400 Baht to get a taxi to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport.This airport is affectionately known as Old Swampy as it was built on marshland back in 2006 so they had to drain the swamp before construction began.
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
At the airport
Check in was very easy with these electronic check in kiosks which you insert your passport/, It then reads your name to quickly identify your reservation and check you in.
Self Service Check-in at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
For this flight I had a 20kg baggage allowance but my bag was almost 21kg so the auto bag drop off told me to go the service desk. I was expecting to have to pay an excess baggage charge but the girl at the service desk just smiled and said no problem, no charge and checked my bag through which was awesome service.
Drop Bag counter at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
Once passed security there were plenty of options of coffeeshops and fast food outlets. This was a morning flight so I stopped in at Burger King for a greasy breakfast.
Food at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
I found out after this flight, that all Bangkok Airways passengers can use the Bangkok Airways Lounge. I guess this is another perk of a Boutique Airline, shame they did not tell me when checking in! But I guess the Electronic Check-In Kiosk is not programmed to tell you that. So sadly no information or pictures for the Bangkok Airways Lounge.
On the plane
The plane used on this busy route is the 163 seat Airbus A320 which Bangkok Airways owns 4. Bangkok Airways has 13 of the Twin Prop ATR72-600s. I once flew on one of the Bangkok Airways ATR72-600 from Bangkok to Trat. Those aircraft are a really nice flying experience. I was hoping this flight would be on the same aircraft but instead they use the A320 which seats 163 passengers compared with 70 passengers on their ATR72s.
Nice legroom on Bangkok Airways A320
These A320 only have Economy seats, no business or premium economy.
I was seated in seat 23A which is a window seat. This is your stock standard A320 with OK leg room for this 1 hour and 10 minute flight. I did have a bit of space between my knees and the seat in front.
Legroom on A320 Bangkok Airways
Entertainment System
There is no entertainment on this flight so it was good I had a window seat to admire the excellent sights on the way to northern Thailand. So no entertainment screen, flight map, not even an inflight magazine, so I suggest you get a window seat to check ou the scenery.
Landing at Chiang Mai Airport
Food served onboard
After take-off the crew came and served this decent sized meal with a bread roll a filled a Mexican flavoured chicken.This came with a Soy Milk drink and a bottle of water.
Meal served on Bangkok Airways Bangkok to Chiang Mai
Chicken Bread Roll on Bangkok Airways
There was a dessert of a classic Thai Tea cake which had a strong tea flavour. Both the bread roll and dessert were Halal and were very tasty. A definite pleasant surprise to get such a decent sized AND TASTY meal on this short flight up to Chiang Mai.
Dessert on Bangkok Airways flight Bangkok to Chiang Mai
The service
This is only a short 1 hour and 10 minute flight so interaction with the crew was very low. I did get a lovely greeting when getting onboard. The only other interaction was when they handed me the meal. The staff definitely were well presented and always smiling. This is the Land the Smiles!
I would definitely fly Bangkok Air again, in fact I am flying them again soon from Bangkok to Koh Samui on their ATR72. I am so looking forward to that flight.
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Bangkok Airways A320 aircraft [...]
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January 22, 2023MD-82 Cafe is great cafe for Aviation Lovers. Located on the outskirts of Bangkok, a few train stops from Suvarnabhumi Airport, the cafe is an old McDonnell Douglas MD-82 aircraft which was operational back in the 1980s to early 2000s. The MD-82 was a short range jet which used to carry up to 155 passengers.
Inside the MD-82 cafe
MD-82 Cafe is located just over 2 kilometres from Ban Thap Chang Train Station, which is on the same train line as the Airport Rail Link to get out to Suvarnabhumi Airport.
I first visited the B747 Cafe which is a few more stops along the same train line. In my opinion, as a real Avgeek, the B747 Cafe is a much better aircraft cafe to visit but if you are a real aviation lover like me, then visit both the B747 Cafe and the MD-82 on the same trip, as they are not too far away.
MD-82 Cafe Bangkok
Aircraft seating inside the MD-82 Cafe Bangkok
The registration of the MD-82 used is HS-MDL which had a long history flying for various airline companies. It first joined China Northern Airlines in 1994. Moved to China Southern Airlines in 2004, then served as a corporate jet to Aogline.com from Dec 2009, then joined Orient Thai Airlines in June 2011. It was retired in October 2018.
As well as being able to go inside this old MD-82 aircraft, you can walk around it, under it and you can also climb up some stairs to the tip of the wing to see a unique view of the plane.
View from the tip of the plane MD-82 Cafe
Tail section of the MD-82 Cafe
Underneath the MD-82 aircraft
Inside you can go up the front and see the cockpit but unable to sit down and press the buttons!
Cockpit of the MD-82
The seating alternates between the original plane seats and some very comfortable leather sofas.
Inside MD-82 Cafe Bangkok
Sofa seating at MD-82 Cafe Bangkok
This is a proper cafe selling coffee and a range of meals, from Thai food to pizza and Japanese rice bowls like Chicken Katsu rice bowl. I just went in for a coffee to check out the interior of the plane. The photos of the food on the menu did look really good but the food prices are a bit expensive, around 250 Baht for a rice bowl.
MD-82 Cafe is open everyday from 12pm – 11pm.
Around the grounds where the MD-82 aircraft sit are a couple of interesting / eclectic sights – first up a large life size replica of the ‘Predator’. There is also a random British Red Telephone box, with no phone!
Life size model of Predator at MD-82 Cafe
British Red Telephone Box at MD-82 Cafe Bangkok
Getting to MD-82 Cafe
MD-82 Cafe Bangkok for Aviation Lovers
Get on Airport Rail Link Train and get off at Bang Thap Chang Train Station.
You can either walk the 2.2 kilometers to the MD-82 Cafe or there are Motorcycle taxis waiting at the airport, which only take a few minutes. The motorbike taxi charged me 50 baht which was a tourist price. I am sure you can bargain them down to 20 Baht.
I caught a taxi back from MD-82 to Sukhumvit Soi 13 and the taxi only cost me 161 Baht. This was back in July 2022 and the traffic was very quiet. If the traffic is busy then it will take longer and probably cost over 200 Baht but still a good option to go directly to Cafe-82.
Check out the location of MD-82 Cafe in Bangkok [...]
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January 15, 2023Airline: QantasFlight no: QF841Route: Darwin Airport (DRW) to Sydney Airport (SYD)Aircraft type: Boeing B737-800 Registration VH-VXEFlight time: 4 hoursTravel Class: Economy ClassSeat no: 8F Window Seat
About this Flight Route between Darwin and Sydney
This Qantas flight from Darwin to Sydney leaves daily at 12pm, with arrival into Sydney at 5.55pm AEDT. Flight time from Darwin to Sydney is around 4 hours.
There is 1 other direct flight between Darwin and Sydney on Jetstar scheduled to leave at 12.10am getting into to Sydney at 6.10am. Virgin Australia only have a connecting flight through Brisbane to get to Sydney.
Getting to Darwin Airport
I was staying at the Hilton Hotel on Mitchell Street in the heart of Darwin city centre. I got a taxi from the hotel to the airport which took 13 minutes and cost $35.91. Before I left the hotel, I did lookup to see how much it would have cost to get an Uber and it would have cost $26.98, so I could have saved $9.
Cost of Uber from Darwin city to Darwin Airport
At Darwin Airport
Darwin Airport is not that large but there are a number of destinations around Australia, plus a few International destinations. At the time I was at the airport, the departure indicator board showed flights scheduled to Adelaide, Groote Eylandt (the largest island in the Gulf of Carpentaria, 4th largest Australian Island), Townsville, Sydney, Tennant Creek, Maningrida, Brisbane and Canberra. There were also flights to Hong Kong and to Dili East Timor both on Qantas. The other International destinations from Darwin include Singapore and Bali.
Departure Board at Darwin Airport
Before you go through secutiry, there is one cafe with a good selection of food, coffee and alcohol. I just got a coffee here before going through security to get into the Qantas Lounge for some free food.
Right next to this cafe is a Charging Station with USB ports and Australian power outlets to charge your devices.
Charging Point Darwin Airport
Qantas have electronic check-in kiosks where you can check-in and print off your boarding pass and luggage tags. I had already checked in online so just needed to print my luggage tag, and then take my bag to the bag drop counter. All done within a few minutes. There are check-in counters with staff if you need any assistance.
Qantas Check-in Counters at Darwin Airport
Once past security there is a very large departure hall with plenty of seating and a few different food outlets to grab something to eat and drink before you flight. The choice of food outlets at Darwin Airport include the Asian Kitchen, Crate Cafe, The Palms Bar, the Northern Common Cafe (which has large windows overlooking the gates and runway) and Top End Burger Co.
Top End Burger Co at Darwin Airport
There is also a large shop selling tourist items and a newsagency selling magazines and books.
Shopping at Darwin Airport
The Qantas Club Lounge at Darwin Airport
With just an Economy Ticket you do not get access to the Qantas Lounge but I am a Gold Qantas Frequent Flyer so have access. The Qantas Club Lounge at Darwin airport is one of the nicest lounges in Australian domestic airports. It is very large for such a small airport.
Inside the Qantas Club at Darwin Airport
Inside the Qantas Club Darwin Airport
As I was there in the morning, they had a good buffet breakfast with a good selection of bacon, baked beans, grilled tomato hash browns and boiled eggs. There were also a few different muffins and pastries. And as usual for a Qantas Lounges in Australia, they have a make your own toasted sandwich station with leg ham, tomato, cheese and loads of condiments to add.
Breakfast Buffet at the Qantas Club Darwin Airport
Make Your Own Toasted Sandwich at The Qantas Club Darwin Airport
I grabbed a bite to eat and a freshly made coffee from the barista and sat in the very back corner which has nice large windows overlooking the tail end of the runway.
Best Corner of the Qantas Club Darwin Airport
On The Plane
Qantas B737-800 Rego VH-VXE at at Darwin Airport
Qantas use their Boeing B737-800 for this route between Darwin and Sydney, with 12 Business Class seats and 162 Standard Economy Seats, a total of 174 passengers. The specific aircraft used for my flight was the Qantas B737-800 with rego: VH-VXE which joined the Qantas fleet in December 2001, making the plane just over 22 years old (my flight was in January 2023).
Business Class Seats on Qantas B737-800
Economy Cabin on Qantas B737-800
These standard B737-800 have just ok legroom, not a huge amount of space. I am 187cm tall and there was a bit of space between my knees and the seat infront. Not too bad for a 4 hour flight.
Legroom on Qantas B737-800 Economy Class
Economy Seats on Qantas B737-800
Entertainment onboard
On the Qantas B737-800 rego VH-VXE they do not have TV entertainment screens installed in Economy so to access the Qantas Entertainment system I had to use my on device. I just had my Samsung phone which was sort of ok with such a tiny screen. You do have access to plenty of movies and TV shows.
Inflight Entertainment on Qantas
I watched the Top Gun: Maverick movie (which I had seen had the cinemas). Top Gun: Maverick was the most popular movie watched on Qantas flights in 2022.
Top Gun Maverick Most Popular Movie on Qantas Flights in 2022
The Entertainment Unit does not have a Flight Map to track the progress of the flight but as this aircraft is WiFi enabled, I could access the internet and tracked the flight on Flightrader24.com.
Flight Map from Darwin to Sydney
There was also a copy of the Qantas Inflight magazine in the seat pocket.
Food served on this flight
There is a meal served on this flight from Darwin to Sydney. In recent times, Qantas only serve a snack on flights less than 3 hours but as this flight is around the 4 hour mark you do get a meal.
We had a choice of pork sausages with mashed potato and green peas or a chicken salad. I went for the bangers and mash which was very nice. Presentation was not the best, served in the recyclable cardboard box, with wooden recyclable knife and fork utensils but the meal tasted very nice.
Meal Served on Qantas Flight Darwin to Sydney
Tasty Sausage with the meal served on QANTAS Flight Darwin to Sydney
Drinks were also served with the meal, I chose a nice Australian red wine, then coffee or tea were offered after the meal. Later in the flight they came around and handed out Lindor Chocolate balls which are a favourite of mine.
Service
The service on this flight was very nice. A lovely crew who were very friendly. It was an added bonus that a meal was served and the food was very tasty, with a glass of wine, coffee and a Lindt chocolate I cannot complain.
The flight was delayed about 10 minutes from taking off due to a rain storm over Darwin. Then we seem to go in a holding pattern before we landed at Sydney Airport so ultimately we landed about 25 minutes after the scheduled arrival time. No big problem for me as I was just arriving home.
Qantas B737-800 Rego VH-VXE at at Sydney Airport [...]
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January 11, 2023Airline: QantasFlight no: QF923Route: Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Sydney International Airport (SYD)Aircraft type: Airbus A330-200 Registration: VH-EBGFlight time: 2 hours 30 minutesTravel Class: Economy ClassSeat no: 47A Window Seat
For this route between Cairns and Sydney, Qantas use both their A330-200 or the B737-800 depending on what time of year it is. During the peak tourist season they will use the larger A330-200 which seats up to 270 passengers compared to 174 passengers on the B737-800. I booked this flight direct on the Qantas website which is very easy to use.
This flight was back in June 2022. It was getting a bit busy in Cairns at this time of year, moving through to the peak tourist time of July and August.
Flight time from Cairns to Sydney is around 2.5 hours and a total of 2450 Kilometres. I paid $292 for this one way trip. I have seen the prices are low as $216 and also go up over $300.
Getting to the airport
The Cairns International Airport is located 6.3km from Cairns City centre. The drive to the airport only takes about 12 – 15 minutes. A taxi will cost around $24. I got an Uber from my hotel the Pullman International Hotel and it cost me $19.
Cairns Domestic Airport
At Cairns Domestic Airport
I had already checked in for my Qantas Flight on the Qantas App. I still had to print off my baggage tag and drop off my luggage. Qantas have a few electronic check-in kiosks which are fairly easy to use to either check-in and / or print off your bag tags. There was a bit of a queue to use these kiosks.
Qantas Electronic Check-in Kiosks at Cairns Airport
Before you go through security there is only 1 cafe to get something to eat. Just outside the main entrance to the domestic terminal there is the Hudson Coffeeshop.
Once you pass security, there is a very large waiting area which is lined with shops and food stalls, with a number of cafes, a Hungry Jacks and an Oporto Chicken Shop. I did not buy any food as I have access to the Qantas Club so I went up there to get some free food and coffee.
Food Court at Cairns Airport
Qantas Club at Cairns Domestic Airport
There is now only the Qantas Club lounge at Cairns Airport. There used to be a Virgin Lounge but that has permanently closed now that Virgin is no longer a full service airline. The Qantas Lounge is located upstairs from the main departure area.
One of the disappointing things about Cairns Airport is that there are no windows from the departure area so you are unable to see the planes on the runway or taxi area. The best thing about the Qantas Lounge is they have huge windows and views over the entire runway.
Qantas Lounge at Cairns Airport
There was a free buffet available at lunch time when I was there for this flight. There was a nice pasta dish available, as well as the standard make your own toasted sandwiches with a selection of sliced ham, cheese, tomato and condiments.
Food in the Qantas Lounge at Cairns Airport
Food at Qantas Lounge Cairns Airport
On The Plane – Qantas A330-200
Qantas A3300-200 Rego VH-EBG at Cairns Airport
The specific plane used for my flight was the Qantas A330-200 with rego: VH-EBG which has the plane name ‘Barossa Valley’ This plane joined the Qantas fleet brand new in 2007.
Qantas have 18 of these Airbus A330-200s which have 2 classes – 28 Business Class total lay flat bed seats and 243 Standard Economy seats. These A330-200s are generally used for longer Domestic flights within Australia and a few select International destinations like to Bali.
Business Class Cabin on Qantas A330-200
Economy Cabin on Qantas A330-200
I was sitting down the back of the bus in seat 47A. The seat numbers go all the way to row 58. The economy seats have a decent amount of legroom. I am 187cm tall and you can see in the picture below there is space between my knees and the seat in front.
Economy Class Seats on Qantas A330-200
Legroom on Qantas A330-200 Economy Class
There is a USB port located on the back of the seat infront of you. There is also a power adaptor located under the seat.
USB Port on Qantas A330-200
Entertainment Onboard
There is a Qantas inflight magazine located in the seat pocket with loads of good articles about the destinations that Qantas fly to.
Qantas Inflight Magazine
There are no TV screens on this particular Qantas A330-200 but they do provide an Ipad which has access to all the latest release movies and TV shows on the Qantas Entertainment system. You can mount the iPad in the seat in front but you cannot have the iPad mounted there during both take-off and landing. You can hold the iPad and continue watching.
Ipad Entertainment Unit on Qantas A330-200
Food Served on this flight
On Qantas Domestic flights shorter than 3 hours, they only serve a snack, rather than a meal. On this flight from Cairns they served this packet of Tomato salsa with corn chips and pretzels. This was a tasty snack. I am glad I had something to eat at the Qantas Lounge to get my monies worth for the flight! Either a cold drink or hot tea or coffee is served with this snack. I just went with a Coca-cola.
Snack on Qantas flight from Cairns to Sydney
I highly recommend you sit on the left hand side of the plane for this route. It does depend on the weather but most times I fly into Sydney airport in the afternoon, if you are on the left hand side of the plane you will get excellent views of Sydney Harbour. Also when taking off you should get a good view back to Cairns Airort.
Flying over Sydney Harbour
Take-off from Cairns Airport
Sydney Airport Arrivals Hall
Once off the flight it was a short walk from the Arrival Gate to the Baggage Carousel to collect my bag. Of course I had to contend with all the ‘idiot’ carousel hoggers who insist on standing as close to the carousel as possible. Does this make your bag come quicker? Stop it people! Please stand back from the carousel so everyone can see their bag coming. That would make it so much easier to take you bag off without have to ask you to move!
The baggage carousel hoggers at Sydney Airport [...]
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January 8, 2023Airline: AirAsiaFlight no: AK882Route: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Don Mueang Bangkok Airport (DMK)Aircraft type: Airbus A330-300 Registration:9M-VVAFlight time: 2 hours 10 minutesTravel Class: Economy ClassSeat no: 17A Window Seat
This flight on AirAsia from KLIA Kuala Lumpur International Airport goes to Bangkok’s 2nd Airport Don Muaeng (DMK), rather than to the main airport Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Don Mueang is used for Regional flights around Asia and LCC Low Cost Carriers (Budget Airlines) like AirAsia. It is still very easy to get from Don Mueang Airport to central Bangkok with plenty of taxis and a train link going to the new Bangkok’s Bang Sue Grand Station.
AirAsia planes at KLIA2 Kuala Lumpur Airport
AirAsia has up to 9 flights per day from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok. You can also fly with other airlines including Malindo Air, Thai Airways and Malaysia Airlines.
AirAsia has some of the cheapest prices for flying around Asia. Prices for this route between Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok start from 364 MYR (Around A$128).
Getting to KLIA Kuala Lumpur Airport
I had flown into Kuala Lumpur early in the morning on a Malaysia Airlines flight from Chennai. I flew into KLIA terminal and just had to get the free shuttle bus to KLIA2 which only takes around 10 minutes.
KLIA2 Kuala Lumpur Airport Terminal M
At the Airport KLIA2
The best place to get something to eat at KLIA2 is before you go through security. There are only acouple of small food outlets once you pass through security, but before you pass, next to the Departure Check-in hall there is a huge selection of food outlets. I just enjoyed a coffee at Starbucks as I had pre-ordered a meal for the flight.
Loads of food available at KLIA
There was a McDonalds past security but this was closed when I was at the airport in July 2022. Not sure if it has re-opened.
On the plane
AirAsia A330-300 Rego 9M-VVA
AirAsia’s Airbus A330-300s have 2 cabins, 12 total lay flat Business Class seats and 365 standard Economy Seats.
Economy Class Cabin on AirAsia A330
Total Lay Flat Business Class Seats on AirAsia A330-300
I was seated in the best row of Economy, Row 17 which is the first row of the Economy Class section, with the bulk head in front which separates the section with the Business class area. This row gives you extra legroom at no additional cost.
Economy Class Seats on AirAsia A330
Legroom on AirAsia A330
AirAsia have 13 of the Airbus A330-300 in their fleet with an average age of just over 12 years.. The aircraft I had for this flight had rego: 9M-VVA which joined AirAsia in 2015.
Entertainment onboard
As AirAsia is a budget airline so there is no entertainment onboard. No TV screens, no flight map or no Inflight Magazine. I just passed the time by eating my meal and looking out the window for the nice views of the Malaysia and Thailand coastline as we flew up the Gulf of Thailand before tracking inland to land at Bangkok.
Descending into Bangkok on AirAisa
Food on this flight
There is no complimentary food served on AirAsia but there is a food menu in the seat pocket or you can pre-order a meal when you book your ticket on the AirAsia website.
Food Menu on AirAsia
I had pre-ordered the most popular meal a very traditional Malaysian Nasi Lemak. This meal was actually quite good. I little bit spicy but overall a good meal for this short 2 hour flight to Bangkok. It was a little bit spicy which I loved. There was some very spicy sambal which you could mix in with the rice to raise the spiciness level.
Nasi Lamak meal on AirAsia KL to Bangkok
Nasi Lemak meal on AirAsia
Service
All the staff I interacted with on AirAsia were lovely. Some very nice Asian friendly service. It is only a very short flight so really just had a nice welcome when I boarded and when they brought my meal and collected the rubbish.
Arrival at Don Mueang Airport
As I was at the front of the Economy section, I got off the plane relatively quick. Don Dueang looks like it has had a renovation at the arrival gates but out past security it was looking a bit old and tired.
DMK Don Muaeng Airport Bangkok
The trip through security was very quick. There were no queues. The security just glanced at my passport, gave it a stamp and waved me past. I was out in 30 seconds. It took about 10 minutes for my bag to arrive at the caroseul and I was out at the taxi stand in no time. [...]
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January 3, 2023Airline: JetstarFlight no: JQ922Route: Cairns International Airport (CNS) to Darwin International Airport (DRW)Aircraft type: Airbus A320-200 Registration VH:VQWFlight time: 2 hours 11 minutesTravel Class: Economy ClassSeat no: 8A Window Seat
About this Flight Route between Cairns and Darwin
Jetstar flight JQ922 is an irregular service, it does fly daily in peak times like over the Christmas period, other times it may be every 2nd day or weekly in the low season. The flight is scheduled to leave Cairns at 6am so be prepared for a very early rise to get to the airport in time for your flight.
Qantas also have direct flights from Cairns to Darwin starting at $349. You can get flights with Virgin but they are not direct, flying to Brisbane first, then changing to a plane to fly from Brisbane to Darwin, adding several hours to the travel time.
My flight cost $274.99 for this flight on 26th December 2022. The cheapest I have seen this flight is $161 and the most expensive $680.
Getting to Cairns airport
I was staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the northern end of Cairns Esplanade. A taxi from Cairns Airport to the hotel cost me $22 but I was expecting a higher price as taxis charge a surcharge for early hours. After getting up at 3.30am and calling for a taxi at 3.50am, I only had to wait for 5 minutes for the taxi to arrive and only took 10 minutes to get to the airport so I was there just after 4am. The cost of the taxi was $28.25.
I did check how much it would have cost in an Uber. I have caught Ubers to Cairns airport before and during the day it is usually $18 – $20. I checked at 3.50am and the price was going to be $46.40 as I presume there were not many Uber drivers available. So best option is to get a taxi.
Uber Surge Price to get to Cairns Airport
At Cairns Airport
There were 5 flights all scheduled at 6am, a very neat trick as there is only 1 runway at Cairns Airport. With a few flights at the same time there were more people at the airport than I expected but it was not very busy. One of the interesting thing is that the Flight Indicator board was switching between the destination names in English and the destination names in that local Aboriginal name, for example Darwin was changed to Garramilla which is the name for Darwin in the local Larrakia people around the Norther Territory and Brisbane was changed to Meeanjin, the local name of Brisbane in the Turrbal language from the Brisbane area.
Flights Scheduled from Cairns Airport at 6am
Flights Scheduled from Cairns Airport in destination Aboriginal Languages
I had already checked in online so just needed to print my luggage tag using the Jetstar Electronic Kiosks which are very easy to use. I then took my luggage to the bag drop counter. There were already 5 Jetstar staff at the check-in desks but only 1 was open to take luggage. There was no queue so took no time at all.
Jetstar Electronic Check-in Kiosks at Cairns Airport
I was through security and none of the food shops were open yet. At 4.30am 3 cafes and Hungry Jacks opened, so I was able to get a coffee and a ham and cheese croissant. Very yummy but at $10.90 for a coffee and croissant, these are definitely airport prices.
Food court at Cairns Airport
Cafe food at Cairns Airport
Flight boarded at 5.30am which was 5 minutes ahead of the schedule boarding time on the boarding pass.
On the plane
Flight Review Jetstar Flight from Cairns to Darwin
Jetstar use their Airbus A320-200 for this route between Cairns and Darwin. The specific plane used for my flight had rego number VH:VQW which joined the Jetstar fleet in 2005, making the plane over 17 years old.
Interior of the Jetstar A320
These Jetstar A320s seat 180 passengers in a 3 x 3 configuration. The width of the seats are 17.9″ and the pitch is 29″ (the pitch is the distance between the seat back to the seat in front). This is not such a bad pitch as gave me a fair amount of leg space. The seat design helps, as the seat pocket is at the top of the seat, rather than where you knees are, so this helps to give a bit of extra legroom. For your reference I am 187cm tall.
Economy Seats on Jetstar A320
Legroom on Jetstar A320
This flight was maybe around 60% full. I was lucky as I had no-one sitting next to me in the 2 seats along side me, just giving me that little bit extra space.
2 Spare seats next to my on Jetstar Flight
Entertainment on the plane
Jetstar is a budget airline so there is no entertainment onboard, no screens, no flight map, no WiFi internet access. Jetstar used to have a monthly inflight magazine which was located in the seat pocket but they seem to have stopped producing this since the pandemic. I guess a cost saving exercise!
There are also no power sockets or USB ports to charge your devices so make sure you fully charged before you get onboard.
Food during the flight
There is no complimentary food served on Jetstar flights but there is a food menu in the seat pocket for food you can buy. I had a $15 voucher for food so went for the Banana Bread and Coffee combo and also a bottle of water, The banana bread was quite tasty and a good snack to help pass the time. I had already eaten at the airport so this snack was more a time passer than due to hunger.
Food on Jetstar Flight
Service
The crew on this flight were lovely. When I ordered my food, I just asked for the banana bread and coffee which was a cost of $8. The crew member reminded me I had a voucher for $15 and asked if I wanted to order any of the other snacks. I wasn’t hungry so said I didn’t want anything else. She then suggested I get a bottle of water as well. This was a very kind gesture by her so that I got my moneys worth. She did not need to do this. Very nice customer service indeed.
Arrival at Darwin Airport
Darwin Airport is only small. Once off the plane it is a short walk to the baggage carrousels. It was only a very short wait for my bag to come out (Gold Coast airport take note! Why does it take 45 minutes for my bag to come out at Gold Coast Airport and only 5 minutes at Darwin!)
Arrivals at Darwin Airport
Taxi from Darwin Airport to my hotel
I had to wait for about 5 minutes for a taxi to arrive. There were a few people ahead of me in the queue. There is a slow tickle of taxis arriving.
Taxi Rank at Darwin Airport
Darwin Airport charge a $4 pickup fee which the taxi driver added to the meter. My trip from Darwin Airport to Hilton Hotel on Mitchell Street Darwin cost $39.38. There was no traffic so a smooth ride.
Darwin Airport surcharge for Taxi Pickup [...]
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December 15, 2022Airline: Thai AirwaysFlight no: TG431Route: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)Aircraft type: Airbus A350-900 Registration HS-THKFlight time: 3 hours 50 minutesTravel Class: Business ClassSeat no: 17A Window Seat
Check out the video of this Flight Review for Thai Airways Bangkok to Bali Business Class
I got an absolute bargain for this flight. I only paid 10,000 Thai Baht, which is around A$460. I did get a sale price, booking about 2 months in advance. Prices in Business Class for this flight usually sell for anywhere between 16,000 Thai Baht (A$680) – 24,000 Thai Baht (A$1000) for a one way ticket.
I booked this flight direct on the Thai Airways website which was very easy to use and quick to book and pay for the flight.
The only other airline that has direct flights from Bangkok to Bali is Thai AirAsia flying out of Bangkok’s Don Mueng Airport DMK.
The route between Bangkok and Bali, Thai Airways alternate between using their A350-900, the B777-300ER or their B787-8s.
Thai Airways A350-900 Bangkok to Bali Flight Review
Getting to the airport
I got a taxi to the airport which cost me 250 Baht (around A$10) and took around 45 minutes to get from Soi 13 Sukhumvit to the airport. This was back in August 2022 and the streets of Bangkok were particularly quiet. The taxi driver did not go via the tollways. If we had gone via the tollways it would have cost an extra 80 Baht in toll fares. Also if the traffic had been busier the taxi fare would have cost more.
There is an express train which only costs 45 Baht to get to the airport, under A$2, but with my luggage I find it easier to just jump in a taxi from my hotel, direct to the airport.
At the airport
Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
The airport was also particularly quiet in August 2022. The check-in process only took a few minutes. Thai Airways have a separate area for Business Class check-in (and a very private area for First Class check-in). At the Business Class check-in they have small poufes (never thought I would ever use that word) to sit down at while they check your passport, check you in and print off your boarding pass.
Thai Airways Business Class Check-in Counters at Suvarnabhumi Airport
There was also a separate security check point dedicated for business class and first class passengers. With no other passengers around, I past security in a jiffy.
Thai Airways Royal Silk Lounge
Before going to relax in the lounge, I had a wonder through the airport to check out all the high end shops and there were also plenty of food options to get grab some fast food.
Very quiet at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
The Royal Silk Lounge is located down the escalators as soon as go past security. The lounge covers a huge area, quite narrow but has loads of different sections with comfy seating.
Thai Airways Royal Silk Lounge at Suvarnabhumi Airport
There are a few different food stations, serving hot food, other places serving sandwiches, cup noodles and steamed dumplings. I was there at breakfast time so just grabbed some fried eggs and some sausages and coffee. I was saving myself for the food onboard.
Food served at Thai Airways Royal Silk Lounge Suvarnabhumi Airport
Breakfast at Thai Airways Royal Silk Lounge at Suvarnabhumi Airport
It was quite a long walk from the lounge to get to the boarding gate, so make sure you leave before the flight boarding time on your ticket.
On the plane
I got to the boarding gate just before they announced all passengers to board. I thought they did not have priority boarding for Business class passengers but they must have boarded Business Class before I got there, as once I got on the plane, the business class was full, with everyone else in their seats.
Departure Gate at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Thai Airways have 12 of these A350-900s. The plane used for my flight was registration HS-THK, which joined the Thai Airways fleet in January 2018 just under 5 years old when I flew.
The Business Class cabin or what Thai Airways call their Royal Silk Class has 32 seats in a 1 – 2 – 1 configuration. The single row of window seats are staggered with the odd numbers flush against the window and the even number rows slightly away from the window, which gives the seat behind the space for their legs to stretch out. These seats are fully lay flat beds though this was a morning flight and just under 4 hours long so I didn’t use the bed configuration, just reclined to watch a movie.
Business Class seat on Thai Airways A350-900
Plenty of leg room on Thai Airways A350-900 Business Class Seat
Right next to your seat is a small remote control for controling the entertainment screen, as well as the seat controls which has various settings for recline, full lay flat or take-off – landing position.
Remote control next to seat to control TV
Seat Controls on Thai Airways A350-900 Business Class
There was a blanket and pillow waiting on the seat when I boarded, as well as a Business Class amenities kit which contained a plastic hairbrush, toothbrush and toothpaste, some mouth wash and some ear buds.
Business Class Amenities Kit Thai Airways
There is a USB charging port located under the TV screen and there is also a universal power plug located next to your seat. No need to bring your own adaptor as any power plug will plug in.
USB Port Thai Airways A350-900 Business Class
The crew came around and handed out welcome drinks, a choice of water or fruit juice. It is very rare these days that airlines serve Champagne as their welcome drink. Bring it back I say! Oh well, I went for the fruit juice which was tasty.
Welcome Drink Thai Airways Business Class
Entertainment System
The TV is a decent sized 15.5″ touchscreen which was very responsive. The Entertainment system is loaded up with heaps of different recent release movies as well as classics. Also loads of TV shows, documentaries and music to listen to.
Entertainment on Thai Airways A350-900 in Business Class
There is an electronic flight map system but this is the older style static map so not interactive like some of the modern maps being installed on different airlines. This older style is still good to track the progress of the flight.
Flight Map on Thai Airways A350-900
The best things about the entertainment system is ability to bring up on the screen to the feed from the camera mounted on the tail of the plane. This is awesome to watch take-off and landing.
Rear Mounted Camera on Thai Airways A350-900
Food served onboard
The food served on this flight was very good. I give 2 thumbs up for the quality and the taste of all the dishes served.
Straight after take-off, the crew came around and started the meal service with a drink and a bowl of mixed nuts. I just went for a coke as I had had a very big last night in Bangkok.
Meal Services on Thai Airways Business Class
Entree came out and was a very delicious Thai Papaya salad with prawn. There was just the 1 large plump prawn which was sliced in 2. This had a tasty sauce which I poured over the salad. Very very good!
Entree served in Thai Airways Business Class
With the entree they offered a selection of different types of bread. I went for the garlic bread which was very tasty.
Garlic Bread served in Thai Airways Business Class
For the main event, I went for the Thai Green Curry with beef which came with rice. This had some spicy kick to it. If you are not into spicy food then you should stay clear of this one. I love my spicy food and this was very spicy! I was surprised how spicy it was as normally airline food gets toned down for people who cannot handle spice.
Main meal served in Thai Airways Business Class
For dessert there was a very sweet pineapple pudding which was topped with meringue. An excellent dessert to finish off and excellent 3 course meal.
Dessert served in Thai Airways Business Class
Top marks to Thai Airways for such excellent quality food.
The service
I would describe the service on Thai Airways as very efficient and quiet. I did not have a great deal of interaction with the staff other than them taking my meal order and delivery the food to me and collecting the empty tray. I did get a very nice welcome as I boarding the flight and they generally left me alone the entire flight which is OK by me.
I definitely enjoyed this flight on Thai Airways especially with the A350-900 aircraft. This is a great aircraft and the Business class pod was comfortable and gave enough privacy.
I will be flying again with Thai Airways on their B777-300ER from Bangkok to Sydney in 2023. This time I will be back of the bus with all the cool kids, in Economy Class.
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December 3, 2022Sadly Qantas have removed this excellent Replica plane from the departure halls of Terminal 3 Sydney domestic airport and I believe they have installed it in the foyer of the Qantas Headquarter building in Mascot. I guess this page will live on to remember this excellent replica plane, a piece of aviation history from Australia!
Located in Terminal 3 (Qantas Terminal) of Sydney Domestic Airport is a replica vintage plane right next to the main departure hall. This replica plane is an AVRO 504K aircraft which was a plane built between 1913 – 1933. The significance of this replica plane is that this is the first plane that was used by the Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Service, otherwise known as QANTAS. Qantas took delivery of this first plane in 1920, just over 100 years ago.
Replica Plane at Sydney Domestic Airport
The AVRO 504K was a 2 seater, all-wooden, bi-plane powered by a 100 h.p. Sunbeam Dyak engine. These AVRO 504k planes were used extensively in World War I by the British Royal Air Force (RAF). More than 11,000 of these planes were built between 1913 – 1933 making it the most popular aircraft during this time. The AVRO 504K had a top speed of 145 km/h and had a cruising altitude of 8000 feet. This was the first type of plane received by QANTAS and was in service for 5 years.
Replica Plane Sydney Airport
You will also find another replica of this AVRO 504K plane at the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach, where QANTAS was founded. These 2 replica planes were built by Qantas Engineers and apprentices back in 1988. [...]
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September 26, 2022Airline: Emirates AirlinesFlight no: EK357Route: Jakarta International Airport (CGK) to Dubai International Airport (DBX)Aircraft type: Boeing B777-300ER Registration A6-ENXFlight time: 7 hours 20 minutesTravel Class: First ClassSeat no: 1A Window Suite
Check out the flight review video of Emirates First Class Suite B777-300ER Jakarta to Dubai
Emirates B777-300ER arriving at Jakarta Airport
The cost of this flight from Jakarta to Dubai in Emirates First Class Suite costs 44,995,300 Indonesian Rupiah (just over A$4,500). Instead of forking out this cash for the flight, I used Qantas Frequent Flyer points via the Qantas website which cost 107,700 points. I just had to pay the taxes (airport and airline service charges) which was around $300. I think the taxes have gone up since I took this flight in July 2022. On the Qantas site, it now lists the points as 107.700 and over $600 in taxes.
Price for Emirates First Class Jakarta to Dubai
Qantas Frequent Flyer Points for Emirates First Class Jakarta to Dubai
A first class ticket on Emirates Airlines includes a Chauffeur‑drive pickup from your home/hotel and taking to your departure airport, as well as drop-off at your hotel in Dubai but sadly as of 1st May 2022, the Chauffeur-drive service is not available for customers who have booked with Qantas.
I had arrived at 9am into Jakarta Airport on a Jetstar Asia flight from Singapore. I was expecting to just to a transfer within the airport but there seems to no longer be a transfer desk at Jakarta Airport. Unless you already have a boarding pass for your next flight, you have to pass through Jakarta Immigration and pay 500,000Rp Visa On Arrival fee. I begruntling paid the 500,000Rp fee (around A$50) which gave me the privilege of walking out of the Arrivals hall, going up the escalator to the Departure Hall.
My flight on Emirates was departing at 6pm, so I had to wait until 3pm before the Emirates check-in counters was open before I could get my boarding pass which allowed me to pass back through Immigration and into the Plaza Premium Lounge. So a painful 6 hour wait in Jakarta International Airport departure hall. Luckily there are loads of cafes and restaurants to help pass the time. After a few expensive coffees and some Dunkin Donuts in the morning, then some excellent Xiao Long Bao dumplings at Paradise Dynasty Chinese Restaurant, I still had a few hours to wait before I could check-in.
Xiao Long Bao Dumplings at Paradise Dynasty Chinese Restaurant in Jakarta Airport
Check-in was a breeze. They have a queue for Economy class passengers, a dedicated queue for Business Class and a dedicated queue for just 8 First Class passengers.
Plaza Premium Lounge at Jakarta International Airport
Emirates do not have their own lounge at Jakarta Airport, so Emirates Business and First Class passengers use the Plaza Premium Lounge which is right next to the departure gate where the Emirates flights leave from.
Plaza Premium Lounge at Jakarta International Airport
The Plaza Premium Lounge is a very nice lounge with lots of different areas with comfortable seating, with large windows overlooking the airport to see the planes taxi and a small view of the end of the runway. Being right next to the departure gates, I could see the Emirates B777-300ER arrive.
Plaza Premium Lounge Jakarta Airport
Large Windows at Plaza Premium Lounge Jakarta
There is a barista which makes good coffees and serves drinks and further down the end of the lounge is the self-service food buffet with a very nice selection of food. I did not try any of the food as I was saving myself for the excellent food served on the plane.
Self Service Buffet at Plaza Premium Lounge Jakarta
On the plane
My plane for this flight had registration A6-ENX which joined the Emirates fleet in December 2014.
There are 2 doors for boarding the plane. 1 door for First Class and Business Class passengers and the 2nd door for the economy cabin.
When I showed my boarding pass at the door of the plane, the cabin crew member said ‘Let me guide you to your seat’ which was just a few steps away as I was in first row of the plane. She welcomed me back to First Class even though this was my first time in Emirates First Class.
Emirates B777-300ER First Class Suite
I was like a kid in a candy store, with so much to explore in this awesome First Class Suite.
Emirates B777-300ER First Class Suite
The seat is the most comfortable that I have ever sat in. Next to the seat is a small display which controls your seat as well as your TV screen. The seat has multiple positions, upright for take-off and landing, reclined to relax and watch a movie, full lay flay bed (which I did not use as wanted to enjoy the entire flight) and there is a setting for when you are eating which pushes the seat forward so you are close to your tray table.
Seat Controls for Emirates First Class
Very comfortable First Class seat on Emirates Airlines
First Class Seat reclined on Emirates Airlines B777-300ER
Under the TV, there is a compartment which opens and has a personal vanity mirror and your amenities kits which contains a range of luxury Byredo moisturisers which are allergy‑free skin care products.
Personal Vanity Mirror and Moisturisers on Emirates First Class
There is another draw that opens up that contains a very nice Emirates embossed notepad and a good quality pen. I forgot to take mine off the plane, so I need to fly Emirates First Class again to get my free notepad and pen.
Complimentary Emirates Notepad and pen in First Class
My 2 personal favourites features of this First Class suite is the personal mini bar and the sliding doors that enclose your private suite.
At a press of a button the mini-bar pops up with a selection of Evian and Perrier water, Pepsi and 7-Up. There is no small alcohol bottles in the mini-bar but you can ask your crew to bring you a glass of your favourite spirits with ice and then use the drinks in the mini-bar.
Personal Mini-bar in Emirates First Class
The doors to your First Class suite can only be closed after take-off and before landing. Straight after take-off I closed the doors but opened them when the meal service started.
Sliding doors to your Emirates First Class Suite
There is also a USB port and universal power adaptor in another compartment close to the TV.
Entertainment System
There is a very nice wide screen TV for watching movies or bringing up the flight map. The TV is a touch screen but as it is out of reach from your seat, it is best to use the tablet right next to your seat to control the TV.
Wide Screen TV on Emirates B777-300ER First Class
The best feature of the personal tablet is being able to bring up the flight map on it. So you can watch a movie on the big screen and always have the flight map available to glance at to watch the progress of your flight.
Flight Map on Personal Tablet in Emirates First Class
There is a set of premium Bowers & Wilkins E1 headphones which are exclusive to Emirates Airlines. These are such a comfortable pair of headphones. Many other airlines the headphones start to hurt your ears after wearing for a while but these did not. There are noise cancelling which reduces a huge amount of the aircraft noise and give great sound quality for watching a movie.
Noise cancelling headphones in Emirates First Class
There were no external cameras active on this particular B777-300ER. I have flown with Emirates B777-300ER and these have 2 external cameras you can watch on your screen but for some reason these were not active for this flight.
There was free WiFi on this flight for First Class passengers but I did not connect to it. I was entertained with the TV and the awesome food so no time to check my emails.
Food served onboard
The food service starts pretty much as soon as you get onboard. Shortly after I sat down one crew member came and offered me a date which were individually wrapped. Another crew member asked if I wanted some Arabic coffee which I tried. It looked weak but this is super strong coffee.
Arabic Coffee served in Emirates First Class
There is also a big bowl of snacks sitting right under the TV screen. I didn’t even touch these snacks as the meal service has some excellent food and very large portions.
Bowl of snacks available in Emirates First Class
Then the good stuff came. A crew member came with a bottle of Moet and Chandon Champagne. He apologised that this was the only champagne that they had opened but he assured me that after take-off they would open bottles of Dom Perignon. This is the fist time I have heard someone apologise for serving Moet! They did come and refill my glass, so I had 2 glasses of this Champagne before take-off.
Moet and Chandon Champagne on Emirates First Class
You are given the food menu which has an extensive selection.
Our meal service started with Canapes of Confit Duck with curred pineapple, Parmesan and truffle arancines and poached prawn and guacamole tartlet.
Canapes served in Emirates First Class
As promised the crew came around with a bottle of Dom Perignon and they were not shy coming back and refilling my glass. I lost count of the number of glasses that I drank.
Dom Perignon Champagne served in Emirates First Class
For appetizers there was a selection of 6 different dishes – see images below.
Appetiser Menu in Emirates First Class
They then brought this big bowl of bread before they served the appetizers. There was too much bread here for me to eat.
Bowl of bread served with the meal in Emirates First Class
I ordered the Caviar which comes with all these side dishes of chopped onions, chives, grated egg, cream, lemon and slices of melba toast. This is only the 2nd time I have eaten caviar. They taste like fish eggs to me 😉 Not bad, just very salty.
Caviar served in Emirates First Class
For main meals there is selection of 5 different dishes.
Main meal menu on Emirates First Class
I went for the Seared Beef tenderloin. When I ordered this they asked me how I would like it cooked, so I presume these are cooked onboard as per your preference. I ordered mine medium and it was perfectly cooked and a very high quality cut of steak. So delicious.
Seared Beef Tenderloin main meal on Emirates First Class
With the steak, I could not drink another glass of Champagne, so I switched to an excellent glass of Australian red wine – Clarendon Hills ‘Australis’ 2010 from McLaren Vale. This bottle retails for over $400 in Australia.
Clarendon Hills Australia 2010 Red wine served on Emirates First Class
For dessert there were 4 different dishes.
Dessert menu in Emirates First Class
For my dessert I had the Salted caramel cheesecake which was delicious. Such good quality food! An excellent meal, very large portions. I had a very full belly at the end of this meal.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake dessert served in Emirates First Class
The menu also had 5 different light meals that were available for the rest of the flight but I didn’t try any of these as I was full from the excellent meal served after take-off.
Light bites available in Emirates First Class
The service
The service was sensational! All of the crew were very welcoming and friendly. Very nice touch of service being showed to my seat and ‘welcomed back’ to First Class.
Throughout the flight, I was served by 5 different crew members, all providing excellent service to the 8 First Class passengers.
As well as all the excellent food, when I first boarded 1 crew member came and gave me a pair of very nice quality cotton Emirates pyjamas (these are so much better than the Qantas pyjamas 😉 ). Another crew member came and gave me a pair of Emirates slippers. Both of these I still wear at home!
Emirates Pyjamas to wear in First Class
Emirates slippers to wear in First Class
I cannot fault this flight with Emirates. They say once you have flown Business Class you will not want to go back to Economy Class. Let me tell you, after this wonderful experience in Emirates First Class, I do not want to go back to Business! [...]
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September 22, 2022Airline: Malaysia AirlinesFlight no: MH607Route: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Singapore Changi International Airport (SIN)Aircraft type: Boeing B737-800 Registration 9M-MLKFlight time: 45 minutesTravel Class: Business ClassSeat no: 1F Window SeatSeat width: 21 inchesSeat pitch: 42 inches
Check out the video of this Malaysia Airlines MH607 flight from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore
Malaysia Airlines Flight Kuala Lumpur to Singapore
At the airport
I just had a 3 hour layover at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, after flying in from Manila on Malaysia Airlines flight MH705 (see that flight review here). I was given my boarding pass at Manila airport and my bag was checked through to Singapore so there was no need to check-in at Malaysia Airport.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal M
I had arrived into Terminal M in KLIA1 and my flight to Singapore was leaving from KLIA2 so I just took the free train that transfers you between terminals. The distance between KLIA1 and KLIA2 is only 1.5km and the train just takes 3 minutes.
Train between KLIA and KLIA2 terminals
There are loads of duty free shops in KLIA2.
Duty Free Shopping at KLIA2
There are also these very cool model aircraft of the various airlines and aircraft that fly into Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Model aircraft at KLIA2 Terminal
Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge at KLIA2
Just a short walk from where you get off from the terminal transfer train, is the Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge. I was at the airport at 9pm and there were hardly any other people in the lounge. There were plenty of large spaces with comfy chairs to sit and relax.
Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge
Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge KLIA2
There is a decent self serve food buffet with a selection of sandwiches, fruits, cheese and a few different hot meals to choose from. I had some beef stew and mashed potato which was very tasty.
Food at the Malaysia Airlines Golden Lounge KLIA2
With some food and free WiFi in the lounge, I kicked back until it was time to board my flight. It was just a few minutes walk to the departure gate to board my flight.
On the plane
The plane for my flight had rego: 9M-MLK which joined the Malaysia Airlines fleet in September 2011.
Business Class Seats on Malaysia Airlines B737-800
The Business Class cabin has 16 recliner seats in a 2 x 2 configuration. These seats were looking a bit old with a grey colour but they are very comfortable. I was in the first row, seat 1F next to the window. In the first row you get loads of legroom.
Business Class Cabin on B737-800 Malaysia Airlines
Plenty of Legroom Business Class B737-800 Malaysia Airlines
Entertainment System
There was no Entertainment System on this plane which also meant there was no flight map to track the progress of the flight.
This flight is only 45 minutes, so I guess Malaysia Airlines think passengers can do without entertainment but this is definitely a cost cutting exercise on behalf of Malaysia Airlines.
There were no USB ports or Universal Power Plugs to charge your devices as well.
Food served onboard
I was surprised that they do serve a meal on this very short 45 minute flight. I was even more surprised that they also served a welcome drink before we took off. I had taken 2 other Malaysia Airlines Business Class flights in the last 4 months, and they did not serve a welcome drink on those flights. (See Malaysia Airlines Sydney to Kuala Lumpur) and (Malaysia Airlines Manila to Kuala Lumpur).
Welcome Drink on Malaysia Airlines B737-800 Business Class
After take-off they came and served the meal. It was 1 tray with a packet of salted peanuts, a small chocolate bar and a main meal which was a chicken martabak with a curry dipping sauce. This looked good and the curry sauce was very nice and the chicken inside the martabak was tasty too with a bit of a spicy kick to it but the pastry on the martabak was undercooked and very doughy. I have heard that this is common for Martabak in Malaysia but I was expecting a crispy pastry and this doughy texture was not appealing to me so was unable to finish this meal.
Food served in Malaysia Airlines Business Class
Martabak served on Malaysia Airlines Business Class
The food I was served on the other Malaysia Airlines Business Class flights was excellent. I had chicken satay on the flight from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur and an Indian Chicken Curry on the flight from Manila but this Martabak was very disappointing.
The service
Malaysia Airlines cabin crew are definitely some of the best in the world. Recently Malaysia Airlines won the Best Customer Experience Awards 2021 by CXP Asia.
The crew were lovely, giving a warm welcome when I got onboard and when serving the meal. Also a friendly farewell as I was getting off the aircraft. They also handed out a Hygiene Kit when I got onboard with face mask and alcohol wipes. They also handed out a hot hand towel before take-off.
Hot Hand towel in Business Class Malaysia Airlines
Overall a good flight, just a bit disappointing with the food and no entertainment system. [...]
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September 13, 2022Airline: Malaysia AirlinesFlight no: MH705Route: Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)Aircraft type: Boeing B737-800Flight time: 3 hours 30 minutesTravel Class: Business ClassSeat no: 4F Window SeatSeat width: 21 inchesSeat pitch: 42 inches
Check out the video of this Malaysia Airlines MH705 flight from Manila to Kuala Lumpur
After a quick 48 hour layover in Manila, I was flying to Singapore. I used Qantas Frequent frequent flyer points for this flight so was limited to airlines in the OneWorld Alliance Group, so only option for me was to fly with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur. This review is just for the flight from Manila to Kuala Lumpur.
This flight MH705 leaves at 3pm from Terminal 1. I left my hotel in the City of Dreams in Paranaque at 12pm and only took 15 minutes by taxi to get to the airport. Malaysia Airlines flies between Manila and Kuala Lumpur daily.
Malaysia Airlines B737-800 Rego 9M-MLT
At the airport
Manila’s Ninoy Aquino Airport opened in 1999 and it really doesn’t look like it has had any renovations since then. It is looking a bit tired and run down.It is a very busy airport with mostly local Filipino overseas workers departing for various countries around the world especially to places like Dubai and Qatar.
Entrance to Terminal 1 Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Malaysia Airlines has a separate check-in desk for Business Class passengers and there was no queue when I arrived. This flight was in July 2022 and then I had to show that I was fully vaccinated before they would check me in. As I was only transiting at Kuala Lumpur Airport I did not have to show my registration on the MySejahtera which was a requirement to gain entry to Malaysia (not sure if that is still the case).
Malaysia Airlines Business Class Check in Counter at Manila Airport
There was a huge queue at immigration (mostly of Filipinos). They used to have a separate entrance for Foreign Passports but that was not open so I had join the one queue. It looked like it would take more than 1 hour to get through immigration. After about 20 minutes in the queue, an immigration official was going through the queue and asking Foreign Passport holders to come out of the queue and go over to were they have a Diplomatic immigration queue. This saved a heap of time to get through immigration.
Once passed Immigration and Security there is really not much going for Manila Airport. There is only a few small Duty free stores and only a few coffee stores including a Starbucks. Manila airport is nothing like the major Asian airports like Singapore’s Changi or Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Inside Terminal 1 Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Starbucks Coffee in Terminal 1 Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport
The Business Class Lounge at Manila Airport
There are a few Business Lounges at Manila Airport. I did walk past the Japan Airlines Sakura Lounge. Malaysia Airlines do not have their own lounge at Manila airport but Business Class passengers have access to the Marhaba Lounge which is only small, just opposite the gate where the Malaysia Airlines flight was departing from.
Inside Marhaba Lounge Terminal 1 Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport
They do have a nice selection of food and a choice of soft drinks and beers (San Miguel Light and San Miguel Pilsner). I did not see any spirits on offer. I had a nice stewed chicken dish and some pasta. Both were very tasty.
Food at Marhaba Lounge Terminal 1 Manila Airport
The Marhaba Lounge does have a nice large window to look out over the runway.
On the plane
My plane for this flight was a Boeing B737-800 with registration number 9M-MLT which joined the Malaysia Airlines Fleet in October 2013.
Malaysia Airlines Flight Manila to Kuala Lumpur
The Business Class section seats 12 passengers (3 rows in a 2 x 2 configuration). There seats are just recliners and only recline a small amount, so no full lay flat but this is an afternoon flight so I was keen just to watch a movie and enjoy the meal they serve.
Business Class cabin of Malaysia Airlines B737-800
Business Class Seat on Malaysia Airlines B737-800 rego 9M-MLT
The seats have plenty of legroom to stretch your legs right out for a very comfortable ride.
Plenty of leg room in Business Class on Malaysia Airlines B747-800
Next to the seat there is a USB port, a Universal Power Plug and a port to plug in your headset.
USB and Power Plug on Malaysia Airlines B737-800
Entertainment System
On this older B737-800 they still had the small 10.6″ TV Screens with a very basic entertainment system. They do have recent release movies but not a huge selection. With just 3.5 hours in the air, there is only time to watch 1 full movie.
Small TV Screen on Malaysia Airlines B737-800 in Business Class
There is an older style electronic flight map but my map was not showing. The screen that showed the Altitude and time to destination was showing but when it switched to the flight map it was just a black screen. Very disappointing as I love watching the progress of the flight on the map and seeing where we are flying over.
Flight Map on Malaysia Airlines B737-800
Blank Flight Map on Malaysia Airlines
They do hand out these good quality noise cancelling headphones to use with the entertainment system. I had to get mine replaced twice as the first 2 pair were not working. The cabin crew waited for me to try the 3rd pair to ensure they were working before she walked away.
Noise Cancelling Headset in Business Class on Malaysia Airlines
Food served onboard
No welcome drink was served before we took off! This was the second Business Class flight I have had with Malaysia Airlines in 4 months and the other flight they did not serve a welcome drink either (see the review of Malaysia Airlines Business Class from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur).
After take-off they started the meal service with a drink. They did serve alcohol on this flight (Beer or wine) but I choose just a glass of coke. As I was eating my meal the cabin crew just came and gave me another can of coke without me asking. A nice touch of service!
Drink served before the meal on Malaysia Airlines
They did not have a food menu to see what options there were for the meal. The cabin crew came and told us the options. I choose the Indian Chicken Curry with rice. This was a really nice meal. The curry was a bit spicy which I do enjoy. The curry was served with a tub of mango chutney and a yoghurt raita. The crew also offered bread, I went for the garlic bread which was also delicious.
Food served in Business Class on Malaysia Airlines Manila to KL
The dessert was a tasty Vanilla mouse which was quite sweet and also very tasty. Malaysia Airlines definitely serve good food onboard.
The service
The cabin crew were lovely on this flight. My second flight with Malaysia Airlines and I cannot fault the cabin crew. True lovely Malaysian service.
When I had to ask for the headphones to be replaced, the crew was lovely, especially when she waited for me to try the 3rd pair. She could have just walked away but she waited to make sure this pair worked for me and maybe not a fault with my seat entertainment system.
It was slightly annoying the flight map was not working but I still give top marks for this Malaysia Airlines flight. It was only a short 3.5 hour flight but had a lovely cabin crew, very tasty food and a comfortable seat. [...]
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July 15, 2022Airline: QantasFlight no: QF42Route: Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta Airport (CGK) to Sydney International Airport (SYD)Aircraft type: A330-200Flight time: 6 hours 55 minutesTravel Class: Business ClassSeat no: 1KSeat width: 21.5 inchesSeat pitch: 60 inches
Check out the video of this Qantas QF42 flight review
I had flown into Jakarta Airport from Bali onboard a Garuda Indonesia B777-300ER. I had a 4 hour layover in Jakarta airport before this flight on Qantas to Sydney.
At the airport
Jakarta airport is huge. The busiest airport in Indonesia. Qantas fly daily between Sydney and Jakarta, a flight I have done a few times before.
Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport Departures
Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport
Qantas had a separate queue for business Class passengers but I was unable to join the queue until I had completed the mandatory Australian DPD, Digital Passenger Declaration. There was a QR code at the check-in counter to access the form, which was a typical painfully government form. Not only did I have to upload my Vaccination Certificate, I had to manually enter the type and date of all 3 of my Covid Vaccinations.
Form took about 10 minutes and then I was able to check in which took less time than fulling the annoying DPD. I believe now you no longer need to complete the DPD to enter Australia.
Qantas Check-in Counters at Jakarta Airport
When they handed me my boarding pass they informed me that Qantas no longer have access to a business lounger and instead they handed me a Food voucher worth 300,000Rp (around A$30) which could be used in 7 different food outlets in Jakarta Airport. After roaming the length of Jakarta airport, I found 6 / 7 if the food outlets were temporarily closed.
Meal Voucher instead of Lounge Access
Meal Voucher to use at 7 food outlets
food outlets temporarily closed at Jakarta International Airport
Costa food outlets temporarily closed at Jakarta International Airport
Jakarta airport very quiet in April 2022
Last time I flew Qantas out if Jakarta, I had access to the Plaza Premium Lounge. I asked at the lounge and they said they are no longer dealing with Qantas. Cost cutting from Qantas?? Maybe.
Plaza Premium Lounge at Jakarta Airport
A $30 voucher is not a good substitute for lounge access. They feed and water you well enough on a business Class flight. The biggest benefit of using a business flight is a nice quiet area to relax before your flight.
On the plane
I have flown in business class on the Qantas A330-200 many times. The Vantage XL Business Class seats are one of my favourite in the skies. They are so comfortable and everything you need us at easy access including the seat controls and the USB port for charging my phone.
Vantage XL Business Class Seat on Qantas A330-200
USB port and power plug on Qantas A330-200
Easy to reach seat controls
I did not get to see the rego number of the lane I was on for this flight. This was the best view of the lane I got.
Qantas A330-200 arriving at Jakarta Airport
Amenities kit
Entertainment System
I do like the Qantas Entertainment System on the A330s. The large 16″ TV touch screen is super responsive and loaded with a heap of latest release movies and TV shows.
Good size TV touch very responsive
As thus was a night flight, I really just wanted to watch 1 movie while eating dinner then put the seat is the full lay flat mode and get as much restless sleep as possible. You never really get good sleep on a plane, even in business Class. It is really just different stages if consciousness.
The flight map is the standard flight map on all Qantas planes. Best thing about an the A330s is you can just press 1 button to bring up the map, which automatically pauses the movie you are watching. Then 1 press to drop the map and return to watching your movie.
Flight map on Qantas A330-200
Food served onboard
A welcome drink was handed shortly after I got onboard. I of course choose a glass of Champagne.
Nice glass of bubbles as welcome drink on Qantas
Straight after take-off they started the dinner service with a drink and plate if nuts. I started with a glass if Shiraz red wine.
Drink to start dinner service
For entree there was a choice of:
Plant Based Dining – Carrot and ginger soup with croutonsOrSalad of poached sea bass, green papaya, cherry tomato, lemon grass, lime and chilli dressing.I had the soup which was delicious! This was seved with a bead oll and bowl o geen salad.
1st course of dinner on Qantas Business class
Carrot and ginger soup with croutons
For main meal, there was a choice of:
Plant Based Dining -Stir fried noodles with Tofu, bok choy and sambalGrilled snapper with red chilli sambal, stir fried kai lan and steamed jasmine rice.Beef goulash with capsicum, buttered green beans, roasted potatoes and black pepper sour creamI went for the beef goulash and it was another very tasty dish.
Main meal – Beef goulash on Qantas
For dessert there was a choice of:Madeline cake with tamarind cream, caramelised coconut and strawberries.Ice creamSeasonal fruitHand made chocolate truffles
I went the Madeline cake with a cheeky glass of dessert wine. 3rd dish and trifecta of very good food. This is the 2nd flight out of Jakarta when all the food served was spot on delicious.
Dessert served on Qantas Business Class
I did manage to get a few hours of sleep then was woken for breakfast. Choice was:Bookmark macadam toasted Muesli with cranberriesCoconut muffinIndonesian breakfast pastry filled with stir fried vegetables, sesame and rice noodles.
I wanted to try the Indonesian style breakfast. This was not so good. It was a bit dry and not so enjoyable. I should have gone with the Muesli and muffin.
Breakfast served before landing
A bit dry…..so so breakfast
The service
Overall all the crew were very friendly on thus flight. I interacted with 4 different crew, from boarding to getting the various meals and drinks served and all were lovely
A very enjoyable flight with Qantas. Top marks for the food served at dinner.Shame about the lack of lounge access. I hope they get back lounge access at Jakarta airport next time I fly out of there.
Landing at Sydney Airport [...]
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July 11, 2022Airline: Garuda Indonesia
Flight no: GA409
Route: Bali Denpasar Airport (DPS) to Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta Airport (CGK)
Aircraft type: B777-300ER Rego: PK-GIG
Flight time: 1 hours 40 minutes
Travel Class: Economy
Seat no: 49C take-off 61A landing
Seat width: 17 inches
Seat pitch: 32 inches
I was staying in Seminyak which normally takes around 45 minutes to get to the airport but this flight was on a Sunday morning and the roads were quiet so just took 30 minutes and cost 100,000Rp in a taxi, which is around $10 Australian dollars.
Check out the video of this Garuda Indonesia flight review
At the airport
Bali airport is the 2nd busiest in Indonesia, after Jakarta. This route between Bali and Jakarta is the busiest domestic route in Indonesia with currently has over 300,000 passengers per month.
I had seen Bali airport much busier before the pandemic but it still seemed pretty busy for this flight in April 2022.
There were loads of check in counters for Garuda Indonesia so it only took a few minutes to check in. They allocated me an aisle seat and when I asked if they had a window seat, they told me my flight was full and there no window seats were available.
Bali airport has a decent amount of shops and restaurants to grab something to eat before the flight but for me I love the wide open windows overlooking the gates and the runway to get my fix of plane spotting.
I love getting to a different airport overseas to see loads of airlines that I don’t get to see in Australia. This was the domestic airport so all of these airlines are flying domestically around Indonesia.
About an hour before the flight, the indicator board showed the flight had been delayed by 1 hour and 20 minutes. The airplane had arrived and an announcement was made saying it was delayed for operational reason. This was no inconvenience for me as I had a 5 hour layover in Jakarta so I was in no rush.
What happened next pleasantly surprised me. At the gate, the airline crew came around with a trolley and handed all passengers on the delayed flight with a snack and a drink. In the box was a bread roll with chicken, a nice piece of cake and a delicious Beng Beng Chocolate bar. Beng Beng are so good. They also handed me a bottle of water. Now how many domestic airlines do this?
In all my years of flying, this is the first time an airline has handed out food and drink for a domestic flight that was delayed just over 1 hour. Awesome service Garuda.
On the plane
The B777-300ER is a big plane! These are usually used for middle – long haul flight, but used on this short route due to the high number of passengers. The B777-300ER they used for my flight had Rego: PK-GIG which is decked out in the Garuda Retro livery.
This plane seats 318 passengers. With 8 First Class Open Suites, 42 Business Class flat bed seats and 268 Economy standard seats.
There is fairly good legroom in Economy for this 1 hour 40 minute flight.
I had asked one of the cabin crew if there was a window seat and she also told me the flight was full and no available window seats
So unfortunately, not a window seat which I prefer.
Shortly after take off the same cabin crew came to me and said 2 people had failed to board and if I liked she could move me to the window seat.
‘YES please’ I said and just moved down a few rows to second last row were I spent the flight looking out the window and enjoying the view over various cities on the way to Jakarta.
Entertainment System
The entertainment screen is fairly small and there is not a huge selection of latest release movies but this flight really isn’t long enough to watch a full length movie.
The flight map system is fairly old too and not interactive but still shows the cities you are flying over.
Food served onboard
Even though they had handed out snacks on the ground, they came around and provided us with a similar snack during the flight. This snack had a bread roll and piece of cake. Sadly no Beng Beng chocolate bar but they did give me 2 bottles of water.
The service
OUTSTANDING!
I have been a fan of Garuda for several years. I have flown a few times domestically in Indonesia as well as internationally from Sydney to Jakarta and I rate them as a great airline.
They won several awards at the Skytrax World Airline Awards last year in 2021 including Best Cabin Crew in Indonesia. I would say they are not just great in Indonesia but fit in with some of the top airlines in the world.
I find their cabin crew lovely. With the extra food they served when the flight was delayed and the lovely cabin crew coming and moving me to the window Seat, I rate the airline highly.
I really look forward to flying with Garuda Indonesia again real soon. [...]
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July 6, 2022Airline: Singapore AirlinesFlight no: SQ944Route: Singapore Changi Airpot (SIN) to Bali Denpasar Airport (DPS)Aircraft type: Boeing B787-10 Dreamliner Rego:9V-SCNFlight time: 2 hours 5 minutesTravel Class: EconomySeat no: 65KSeat width: 17.5 inchesSeat pitch: 32 inches
Check out the video of this Singapore Airlines flight review
This flight was the second leg of flying Singapore Airlines from Kuala Lumpur to Bali. You can check out the review of Singapore Airlines Kuala Lumpur to Singapore onboard the A350-900.
These flights were in April 2022. The 2 flights on Singapore Airlines from KL – Singapore – Bali cost me S$420 which is a very good price. I have searched for prices on SIA from Singapore to Bali and the prices now are over S$500 one way.
Singapore Airlines B787-10 Rego 9V-SCN
At the airport
I had arrived into Singapore Changi Airport at around 12pm and had a 4 hour layover until my flight to Bali departed. If you have to spend anytime in an airport, Changi Airport is the best airport to pass the time.
Singapore Changi Airport back to normal
I wondered around for awhile to check out how things were at the airport. The previous 24 hours I had passed through Sydney Airport and KLIA Kuala Lumpur International Airport and both of these were very quiet. Singapore Changi Airport was quite busy with loads of passengers and what seemed to be all retail shops opened.
I headed to my favourite food outlets at Changi, on the 2nd floor. Singapore Food Street is like a traditional hawker centre with small stalls selling traditional Singaporean food at reasonable prices. But this whole section was very sad with all the hawker stalls closed. Not sure if these have reopened again but I’d say it won’t be long before they do.
Singapore Food Street at Changi Airport
Hawker Stalls closed at Singapore Changi Airport
The 7-Eleven store and Burger King were still open so I grabbed a Wopper and watched the passing passengers through Changi Airport. I love people watching at an airport.
Before long it was time to board my flight to Bali. Singapore Airlines have a good system of boarding their planes, by calling sections starting from the back of the plane. As I was sitting down the back if the bus with all the cool kids, I was in the first group to board.
On the plane
There are 3 types of B787 Dreamliners. The B787-8 (57m, 186ft long), B787-9 (63m, 206ft long) and this B787-10 the largest (67m, 224ft long). My aircraft had the registration number 9V- SCN which joined the Singapore Airlines fleet in September 2019.
Singapore Airlines B787-10 Economy Class
This plane seats 337 passengers, with 36 flat bed seats in Business Class and 301 seats in Economy. It stretches all the way back to row 75. I was in row 65. This flight was full. The seats on this SIA B787-10 are the same as the seats on the SIA A350-900. There is a good amounts of legroom. I am 187cm tall and there was space between my knees and the seat in front.
Singapore Airlines B787-10 Economy Seats
Legroom in Economy Class on Singapore Airlines B787-10
There are are some small pockets on the seat in front to store your mobile phone and passport.
Storage pockets in Economy Class Singapore Airlines B787-10
Right next to the TV screen is a USB port to charge your mobile devices.
USB port in Economy Class Singapore Airlines B787-10
There is also this nifty little cup holder.
Cup holder in Economy Class on Singapore Airlines B787-10
Entertainment System
Singapore Airlines has one of the best Entertainment Systems in the skies. There is a TV Screen built into the seat in front which is touch screen and very responsive. The system is loaded with latest release movies, TV shows and music albums. There are around 1400 different options and different languages.
TV Screen in Economy Class on Singapore Airlines B787-10
They do have internet WiFi connectivity on their B787-10s. To connect for free you need to be a SIA Krisflyer member. You can join for free before you fly.
The flight map is an awesome 3D system which shows multiple views of the aircraft and which cities you are flying over. The Singapore Airlines flight map is my favourite.
Flight Map System on Singapore Airlines B787-10
Food served onboard
There was a meal served on this flight. I got a chicken pasta dish which was quite tasty. This was served with a chocolate ice-cream for dessert.
Meal served in Economy Class Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines have made changes to the packaging the food is served in to be more environmentally friendly. The food is served in a cardboard box instead of the old aluminium trays. The cutlery are made from a soft wood. Both the box and the cutlery are biodegradable.
Cardboard food box in Singapore Airlines Economy Class
Wooden Cutlery on Singapore Airlines Economy Class
While the changes in the packaging is a good step to be eco-friendly, I think Singapore Airlines also took this as an opportunity to reduce the quantity of food that is served to each passenger. This was not a big meal and I was still hungry after it and had to grab something to eat when I arrived into Bali.
The service
The Singapore Airlines flight crew are some of the best. Each staff I walked past while I was boarding greeted me with a smile
Other than the staff handing out the meal, I didn’t have any other interaction with the crew.
A great flight of just over 2 hours. Top marks for the awesome B787-10 Dreamliner, comfortable seat and awesome entertainment. While the food was tasty, the meal size was just not enough to keep my belly happy! [...]
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July 2, 2022Airline: Qantas
Flight no: QF922
Route: Sydney Domestic Airport (SYD) to Cairns Airport (CNS)
Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-200
Flight time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Travel Class: Business
Seat: 5A Window Seat
Seat Width: 17.6 inches
Seat Pitch: 31 inches
This flight was in June 2022, I had booked in advance in March and got a really good price for a return trip between Sydney to Cairns for a total of $436.52. Generally, you are looking to spend around $250 – $300 per way. There is always a good chance of getting a good price when you book in advance.
After booking the trip, I requested an upgrade to Business Class using frequent flyer points. For the leg from Sydney to Cairns I got instant confirmation of the upgrade. Most times you submit your request and do not find out if it is successful until about 24 hours before your flight. The upgrade from Economy to Business Class cost me 27,200 points.
Flying between Sydney and Cairns you can choose direct flights on Qantas, Jetstar or Virgin Australia.
At the airport
QF922 is scheduled to depart Sydney at 9.30am. I got to the airport at 7.30am and the Qantas Domestic Terminal 2 was pretty busy. This was a Saturday morning and at a time Sydney airport had staff shortages, so there were queues for the auto bag drop and to get through security but probably took about 20 minutes to check in, drop my bag and get through security.
Just a week before, Qantas had installed their new check in electronic kiosks which only takes a few seconds to check in and get your boarding pass and luggage tags printed. A big improvement on the older style kiosks.
The Qantas Business Lounge at Sydney Domestic Airport
With my Business Class ticket, I got access to the Qantas Business Class Lounge. Qantas also have the Qantas Club Lounge right next door but the Business Class Lounge is much nicer.
The Qantas Business Class Lounge have brought back the help yourself buffet food which had a good selection of breakfast foods like fresh fruit, yoghurt and they had some scrambled eggs and sausages for hot dishes.
On-board the plane
The plane used for my flight was a Qantas A330-200 with Rego VH-EBA. The plane name assigned is ‘Cradle Mountain’. This plane joined the Qantas fleet in December 2002. This is one of the oldest A330-200 in the fleet but has had the interior renovated so it is not showing its age inside.
With the interior upgrade came the excellent Vantage XL Business Class seats which are one of my favourite Business Class seats, so comfortable and practical.
The seat is a fully lay flat bed seat but as this was a morning flight and only 2 hours and 35 minutes to Cairns I did not use the bed function. When reclining the seat back to watch a movie comfortably, there is plenty of legroom. The points spent for the upgrade was a very good investment.
There are a few compartments next to the seat for storing your personal items and at easy reach is a USB port and Universal power socket for charging your devices or powering up your laptop computer.
There is also a set of noise canceling headsets hanging next to your seat which are very good quality and comfortable to wear, There was also a bottle of water waiting at the seat when I got onboard.
Entertainment System
The Entertainment system is a Panasonic eX3 with a very nice sized 16 inch touch screen. This system is loaded up with a choice of latest release movies and some old favourites, as well as TV shows and documentaries. With 2.5 hours in the sky I got to watch an entire movie. FYI I watched The Lost City with Sandra Bullock, Channing Tattum and Brad Pitt. Mildly entertaining. I am glad I watched for free on this flights rather than paying to see at the Cinemas.
They also had Free WiFi internet access on this plane but I did not use it.
The flight map is an old static map system but still good to see the progress of the flight I think the best feature of the Qantas Entertainment System is the One-touch button to switch between the movie you are watching and the flight map.
Food on this flight
A meal was served shortly after takeoff. We had a choice of a salad or this tasty Panini with Swiss cheese and Panchetta. This was served with a slice of sour dough bread, a Lindt Chocolate ball and a glass of juice. I was offered a glass of wine but being 10.30am I declined.
The service
For the service onboard this Qantas flight, all the cabin crew were in a good mood and all greeted me with a pleasant smile. With a 2 5 hour flight, the interaction with the crew was minimal.
I was on the left hand side of the plane and had great views on both take-off from Sydney and landing into Cairns. [...]
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July 1, 2022Airline: Malaysia AirlinesFlight no: MH140Route: Sydney International Airport (SYD) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-300Flight time: 8 hour 30 minutesTravel Class: Business ClassSeat: 5A Window seatSeat Width: 21 inchesSeat Pitch: 42 inches
Check out the video for this Malaysia Airlines flight review
I had booked this flight as the first leg of traveling from Sydney to Bali. I could have flown direct to Bali with Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Australia or Garuda Indonesia but I choose to fly Malaysia Airlines the long way round as the flight departs at after 10pm so allowed me to work all day then go to the airport in the evening.
This flight arrives into KL at 5am and I should have had another Malaysia Airlines flight departing to KL at 9am having me arrive into Bali around lunch time, in time for some afternoon beers.
Unfortunately, Malaysia Airlines cancelled the connecting flight and just scheduled me on the same flight 24 hours later. 2 calls to their call centre and they were not able to get me on any other flight and said they did not offer food or hotels vouchers for the more than 28 hours they expected me to stay in KL before getting to Bali.
I ended up booking flights with Singapore Airlines to fly that day to Singapore, then connecting flight to Bali. Cost me an extra $400 and I didn’t arrive into Bali until after 7pm.
I am still chasing Malaysia Airlines for a credit for the Business class flight they cancelled. I will post up a full review for the shocking customer service at Malaysia Airlines and will post a link here soon.
So this review is just for the flight from Sydney to Kuala Lumpur.
This was my first time flying with Malaysia Airlines and I was really looking forward to the onboard flight experience.
Malaysian Airlines A330-300 at Sydney Airport
At the airport
I caught this flight on Fright 8th April 2022, 1 week before Easter and the start of Sydney school holidays, so I was expecting Sydney International Airport to be busy. I arrived at 5pm and saw there were only 8 more International flights scheduled to leave, so the check in area was like a ghost town, the quietest I have seen it.
Flights from Sydney April 2022
Very quiet at Sydney International Airport
The check in at Malaysia Airlines counter was fairly straight forward. They had a separate queue for business Class and with a few people ahead of me in the queue, so I was checked in quickly.
Business Class Checkin at Sydney Airport
I had explained to them I was transferring to Singapore Airlines from KL to Singapore then onto Bali. They asked for my SQ flight numbers and loaded that on my baggage tags so they would transfer to my Singapore Airlines flights and I would collect my luggage in Bali. A nice touch.
Normally at Sydney Airport, Business Class passengers are given a pass to go through the Express Lane through security which i soon found has been temporarily closed. I joined the queue. While it was very quiet at the check in area, the queue was massive which took more than 1 hour to get through security. Out of 16 x-ray machines, only 3 were operating. While no announcements were made, some frustrated queuers suggested the security staff were impacted with staff being unavailable due to Covid. A high possibility this was true.
The Business Class Lounge at Sydney International Airport
When they gave me my boarding pass, they also gave me a pass to the Plaza Premium Lounge. As a OneWorld partner airline, I was expecting access to the Qantas Lounge. I asked the man at check in counter ‘Do I not get access to the Qantas Lounge’ he just abruptly said ‘No’, no explanation. I later realised the last Qantas flight was leaving at 7.30pm so guess the Qantas Lounge would close at that time.
Plaza Premium Lounge at Sydney International Airport
Due to the lengthy delay getting through security, I got to the Lounge at 8.50pm. They told me the Lounge was closing in 10 minutes at 9pm. So I had time to knock back 1 beer and a quick snack.
The Plaza Premium Lounge is only small but was right next to my departure gate and had views of my Malaysian Airlines A330-300. They had a help yourself food buffet with some salads a 3 different hot meals.
Inside Plaza Premium Lounge at Sydney International Airport
Buffet food at Plaza Premium Lounge at Sydney International Airport
Boarding for my flight started at 9.30pm so after being kicked out of the lounge I still had 30 minutes to roam the terminal before boarding. A very disappointing Lounge experience.
On-board the plane
I did get a quick look at the Economy seats and they did look quite comfortable but I was glad to be flying in Business Class.
Economy Seats on A330-300 Malaysian Airlines
I was really impressed with Business Class cabin on this Malaysia Airlines A330-300.
Malaysian Airlines A330-300 Business Class Cabin
.The seats were in a 1 x 2 x (1 or 2). On the left hand side there were all single seats, middle 2 seats and the right hand window seats alternated with 1 or 2 seats.
Business Class Seat at Malaysia Airlines A330-300
The Business Class pod was very comfortable, full lay flat bed seat and plenty of leg room even with the seat fully reclined.
Legroom in Business Class Malaysian Airlines A330-300
There were a few compartments for storing your small personal items.
Storage Area on Malaysian Airlines A330-300 Business Class
At easy reach there was a USB port and a universal power adapter to charge your devices or plug in your laptop if you have work to do.
The crew handed out a Business Class Amenities kit as well as a Hygiene Kit. The Amenities kit was a very nice leather satchel from Aspinal from London England. Inside there was all the standard items you normally get in an amenities kit – a pair of socks, ear plugs, eye shade, a hair comb, tooth brush and tooth paste, a small tub of mouth wash and hand moisteriser and lip balm. Inside the Hygiene Kit was a face mask and alcohol wipes.
Business Class Amenities Kit on Malaysian Airlines Business Class
Inside the Amenities Kit on Malaysian Airlines Business Class
Hygiene Kit on Malaysian Airlines
Entertainment System
The entertainment screen was a good size, not as large as other airlines I have flown with but still a decent size for watching movies. There was a good selection of recent release movies (most I had seen as I am an avid cinema goer) but for this flight I only wanted to watch 1 movie while eating my dinner, then put the seat in the lay flat bed mode and try to get a few hours sleep.
TV Screen on Malaysian Airlines A330-300 Business Class
The Flight Map system was an older style static map, not the full interactive maps you get on newer plans but was still good for watching the progress of the flight and seeing what cities we were flying over. As this was a night flight, there is not much to see out the window, so good to keep track on the map,
Flight Map system on Malaysian Airlines A330-300
Food on this flight
Apart from a bottle of water that was at the seat when I boarded, there was no welcome drink. Flying on most airlines in Business Class it is customary for a welcome drink, a nice glass of Champagne usually offered but not on this Malaysia Airlines flight. Boo.
There was no food menu to see what options were on offer for the dinner after takeoff and breakfast before landing.
The dinner service started with a drink service. They had my favourite Japanese beer onboard, Asahi so I had a can of this which was served with a bag of nuts. The staff poured the beer into a glass at my seat.
Drink service on Malaysian Airlines A330-300
There was no menu to show what food we would be getting. I had seen Youtube reviews for Malaysia Airlines Business Class seats and knew they served Malaysian Satay as an entrée before the main meal. This was the good stuff! So good! I love satay and this was very good. There was a choice of Chicken or Beef satay and they offered a mix of both which I took. The chicken and beef was both good quality and the satay peanut sauce had a good spicy kick to it. They did offer me a second serve of the satay which I declined as was waiting for the main meal…..which didn’t come. After a while I asked when they would serve the main meal and the informed me there would be no main meal as they were going to serve a full breakfast before landing. If they had a menu like most other airlines I would have known this and I would have taken the second serve of the delicious satay.
Satay Trolley in Malaysian Airlines Business Class
Satay on Malaysia Airlines Business Class
They did tell me they had snacks available which was just a few different types of sandwiches. I took a smoked salmon sandwich which was a bit dry and not so tasty. I should have asked them to bring that satay trolley back.
Sandwich Snack on Malaysia Airlines Business Class
Dry Salmon Sandwich on Malaysia Airlines Business Class
For dessert they served a small table of chocolate ice-cream which was tasty.
Dessert in Malaysia Airlines Business Class
I did get to have about 5 hours of sleep after the dinner and then the cabin staff politely woke me up about 1.5 hours before landing to be served breakfast. Breakfast was a full meal starting with some yoghurt with blueberries and a croissant and a half piece of cold toast, with a side dish of fresh fruit pieces.
Breakfast in Malaysia Airlines Business Class
Toast and Croissant Breakfast on Malaysia Airlines Business Class
They then served a very tasty fried noodle dish with chicken. This was really good. A very large serving and some good Malaysian spices. My belly was full, ready for a 5 hour layover until my Singapore Airlines flight
Fried Noodles Breakfast in Malaysia Airlines Business Class
The service
The service on this flight was very good. All the staff in the Business Class cabin were lovely and friendly.
The Cabin manager came to greet me when I first bordered and called me by my name which was a nice touch. He did say welcome back onboard, despite this being my first flight with Malaysia Airlines, I think he presumed as I had OneWorld Sapphire Status that I must have flown with MH before. All the over staff were very friendly and greeted me when I was boarding. Really good service onboard.
It is such a shame that Malaysia Airlines has such bad customer service. Offering no food, drink or hotel vouchers after cancelling a flight, long wait times to get through to their call centre and no response to several emails I have sent to get a credit for the cancelled flight. I am typing up a full review of my experience dealing with the Malaysia Airlines Customer Service center and will post a link here once it is published.
Overall this flight was great. A few disappointments like no welcome drink, no food menu and not knowing they would not serve a full dinner meal. The Satay sticks were a highlight. I do have a few more upcoming Business Class flights onboard Malaysia Airlines so look forward to more satay on these flights. I will make sure to accept a second serve next time. [...]
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June 6, 2022Airline: Singapore AirlinesFlight no: SG107Route: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) to Singapore International Airport (SIN)Aircraft Type: Airbus A350-900Flight time: 45 minutesTravel Class: Economy ClassSeat: 55A Window SeatSeat Width: 18 inchesSeat Pitch: 32 inches
Check out the video for this Singapore Airlines flight review from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore
I had originally planned to fly from Kuala Lumpur to Bali on Malaysian Airlines but good old MH cancelled the flight, with no other options to get to Bali, I ended up booking flights with Singapore Airlines from KL – Singapore – Bali. This review is just for the flight from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore.
Singapore Airlines A350-900
The KL – Singapore was the 2nd busiest International route back in 2019, just behind the Hong Kong to Taipei route. Now in 2022 it is still up there with one of the busiest International routes, as well as one of the shortest, just a quick 45 minutes flight. There are 6 different airlines that do direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore – Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, Scoot, Jetstar Asia, AirAsia and Malindo Air. With so many airlines and scheduled flights, you can get a good deal flying this route.
At the airport
Before the pandemic, KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) was a 24 x 7 airport, with flights arriving and departing at all hours of the day and night. How things have changed! KLIA was a bit of a ghost town when I arrived there.
Kuala Lumpur International Airport very quiet
I had arrived into KLIA onboard a Malaysian Airlines flight MH140 from Sydney which arrived at 5am. I had a 5 hour wait till 11am to get onboard this Singapore Airlines flight to Singapore, so had loads of time to check out everything here. Unfortunately things are not good at KLIA these days. When I arrived, everything was closed. No shops, no coffeeshops or bars to pass away the time.
Stores closed in Kuala Lumpur International Airport
I had to wait till 6am for the first coffees shop to open. That was the O’Briens Cafe on level 2 of Terminal M.
Cafe in Kuala Lumpur International Airport
Only a few of the retail stores opened at 9am, probably only about 40% of the total stores. International travel has a long way to go to recover back to the glory days!
Singapore Airlines board the plane by row numbers. Being seated down the back of the bus in row 55, I was one of the first groups to board the plane.
On-board the plane
Singapore Airlines A350-900 Economy Class Seats
The A350-900 plane (rego: 9V-SJE) which is a very new aircraft, joining the Singapore Airlines fleet in December 2021. This had 3 different classes, 42 Business Class seats, 24 premium economy seats and 187 economy seats. The Economy section is in a configuration of 3 x 3 x 3.
Economy Cabin on Singapore Airlines A350-900
The Economy seats have a decent amount of legroom, not that you really need a lot for this very short flight but these large A350-900 are usually used for long haul flights. They are used on this short route due to the number of passengers.
Decent legroom on Singapore Airlines A350-900 Economy Class
On the back of the seat in front is a seat pocket with space to store your passport, mobile phone and any other small personal items.
Storage Area for personal items on SIA A350-900
There is also a USB port right on the seat back which is perfect position for easy access. There is also a universal power adapter down on the leg of the seat.
USB port in SIA A350-900 Economy Class
The plane was mostly full but I had the 2 seats next to me empty which is always good.
Entertainment System
The Inflight Entertainment System on these Singapore Airlines A350-900 are state of the art systems with over 1100 movie and TV shows to watch. The screen in Economy Class is an 11 inch touch screen which is not huge but a decent size. I had forgot to collect the earphones when I was boarding the plane so I did not watch anything. I usually prefer to look out the window and was the earth go by below.
Entertainment System on Singapore Airlines A350-900 Economy Class
The Flight Map system is one of the best in the world. This 3D style moving graphics, rotates around the animation of the plane and shows all the cities you are traveling over. I alternated between looking out the window and watching the flight map. I love maps and this animated moving map is the best I have seen on any airline.
Flight Map on Singapore Airlines A350-900
Food on this flight
They did not serve any food on this very short flight, as the flight literally takes off, gets to cruising altitude and then starts to decent into Singapore Airport. The cabin crew did come around and serve drinks, a choice of tea, coffee or water. I was quite impressed they even did this considering it is just a short flight. I went for a nice hot coffee. No milk, just powdered milk which was just fine.
Coffee served in Singapore Airlines Economy Class
The service
With just 45 minutes in the sky, there is not a lot of interaction with the cabin crew, just when they are serving the drinks. I did notice that the Singapore Airlines crew all made an effort to greet you when boarding the plane and when getting off. These greetings are done with a smile, rather than the half hearted greetings you get on other airlines.
Singapore Airlines really do have great cabin crews, some of the best in the world! [...]
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January 28, 2022Airline: Rex AirlinesFlight no: ZL337Route: Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Sydney Airport (SYD)Aircraft Type: Boeing B737-800 Rego: VH-REXFlight time: 1 hour 10 minutesTravel Class: EconomySeat: 6A Window seatSeat Width: 17.5 inchesSeat Pitch: 30 inches
Rex Airlines Brisbane to Sydney B737-800
Check out the video of this flight review
Up until 2021, Rex Airlines was a Regional Airline, Rex actually stands for Regional Express. They had the largest fleet in the world of Saab 340s which is a Swedish twin-engine turboprop aircraft. Rex were operating regional flights in all regions of Australia except for Northern Territory.
In 2020, Rex Airlines purchased 8 B737-800s from the struggling Virgin Australia so they could start flying between the capital cities on the east coast of Australia. At the end of 2021, Rex had flight routes flying in and out of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Adelaide and Canberra. The route between Sydney and Brisbane started on 21st December 2021.
I managed to get a promo price for this flight which was only $69. I had to pay an extra $10 to pick my seat which I was happy to pay to secure my preferred window seat.
At the time of this writing (January 2022) Rex only have 1 flight per day flying from Brisbane to Sydney, departing Brisbane at 11.30am. When this route first started, they had 2 flights scheduled per day. I would say they will increase the flights per day soon as passenger numbers increase.
Getting to the airport
Brisbane Airport is 14.2km from the Brisbane CBD where I was staying. I was traveling by myself, so the cheapest way to get to the airport is on the Airtrain. I got the train from Brisbane Central Train station and train ride is 24 minutes. The cost of the one way ticket from the city to the airport costs $19.50 which seems expensive but the cost of an Uber will be over $40 and a taxi a bit more expensive than the Uber ride.
Airtrain from Brisbane CBD to Brisbane Airport
At the Airport
At Brisbane Domestic Airport the Rex Airlines check in is located in the middle of the terminal, in the same area as the Jetstar check ins.There are electronic check in kiosks which are shared by Jetstar. These are very easy to use and checkin for me only took 1 minute.There is a bag drop check in area just behind the Jetstar check in area.
Electronic Check-in Kiosks at Brisbane Airport
I took this flight on 2nd January 2022 and Brisbane airport seemed to be recovered with a healthy number of passengers and all the food and beverage shops seemed to be open.
On the plane
The plane they used for my flight was the Rex Airlines B737-800 with Rego: VH-REX. This is an 11 year old Boeing 737 which joined the Rex fleet in February 2021. Before this, the aircraft had the registration of VH-VUU and was part of the Virgin Australia fleet from May 2011 and it started its life back when it was Virgin Blue in April 2010.
Rex Airlines VH-REX B737
They board the plane using the front and rear doors, so if you are sitting at the back of the plane then you will need to go down some stairs and cross the tarmac then climb up the stairs to board the plane. I was sitting in seat 6A so boarded from the front via the sky bridge.
The interior of the Rex Airlines B737-800 is exactly the same as Virgin Australia. While they have painted the exterior of the plane in the Rex livery, the interior has not changed since they purchased the planes. I guess there is no reason to change the interior as is is still in very good condition.
Interior of Rex Airlines B737-800
The legroom is the same as most B737s that operate in Australia. I am 187cms tall (6 foot 2) and there is a bit of room between my knees and the seat in front, enough for this short 1 hour 10 minute flight.
Leg Room in Rex Airlines B737-800 Economy Class
Entertainment System
Rex Airlines have activated the onboard WiFi Internet service but there is a cost to using this. It was $6.50 for a 30 minute internet browsing access or $9.99 for internet access for the entire flight. If you want faster internet speed to be able to stream video then it will cost $9.75 for 30 minutes or $14.99 for the full flight.
Internet WiFi Access on Rex Airlines B737
There is complimentary entertainment which you need to stream on your own device. You just connect to the onboard WiFi network and you can then stream the free selection of latest release movies and TV shows.
Free Entertainment on Rex Airlines B737-800
Food Served on this flight
You get a complimentary ‘meal‘ on this flight. While they call it a ‘meal‘ when you book your ticket, it is actually just a snack. On my flight they served a choice of tea, coffee or water and gave out a tasty snack of smoked corn and soy crisps. You can purchase soft drinks or beer and wine during the flight.
Food served on Rex Airlines Brisbane to Sydney
The service
Overall I give Rex Airlines 2 big thumbs up for this flight from Brisbane to Sydney. I had flown with Rex from Sydney to Gold Coast in 2021 and had previously flown on their Saab 340 from Bathurst to Sydney and all flights have been great.
This flight only cost me $80, so to get a snack onboard and free entertainment I think Rex is a great option to fly with and definitely gives some strong competition against Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin that operate flights on this same route.
One of the highlights of this flight was flying over Sydney Harbour. I was on the left hand side of the plane which gave me this spectacular view of the best harbour in the world!
Rex Airlines Flying over Sydney Harbour [...]
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February 7, 2021Airline: Qantas
Flight no: QF752
Route: Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Townsville Airport (TSV)
Aircraft Type: Boeing B737-800
Flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Travel Class: Economy
Seat: 11F Window seat
Seat Width: 17.5 inches
Seat Pitch: 30 inches
Check out the video for this Qantas Flight from Brisbane to Townsville
I was flying from Brisbane to Cairns and took a connecting flight to get me into Cairns airport late afternoon. When I booked my flights, there were a few direct flights from Brisbane to Cairns but it meant either getting to Cairns airport very early in the morning, or there was a evening flight which would get me into Cairns at around 9.30pm. I had plenty of time so was happy to take this connecting flight through Townsville.
Getting to the airport
I traveled from the Brisbane City Centre to Brisbane airport. The best option to get to Brisbane Airport is to catch the train. I boarded the train at Brisbane Central Station. The cost of my ticket was $19.50 which did seem to be quite expensive as the trip only takes 24 minutes, stopping at 7 stops along the way. Turns out the Brisbane Airport Airtrain is a private company which makes the tickets more expensive.
Before I left my hotel in the city I had looked to see how much an Uber would cost to get out to Brisbane Airport and it was going to cost $34.75 so much cheaper to take the train.
At the Airport
Qantas check-in was quick and easy, with both automated check-in kiosks that print your boarding pass and luggage tags and an automated bag drop, which you just scan your boarding pass, and off goes your luggage to be loaded onto the plane. There are plenty of Qantas staff roaming around the check-in area, so if you have any problems it is not hard to get their assistance. It was quite busy the morning I was at the airport (Christmas Eve) but there were plenty of kiosks available so only took a few minutes to check in and drop off my bag.
For food options at the Qantas domestic terminal at Brisbane airport, there is a Coffee Club kiosk right out the front of the building which I had grabbed a coffee and a tasty egg and bacon muffin. Inside, past security, once you go up the escalators there is a large food court with plenty of food options. Also right through the large Brisbane Domestic airport building, there are cafes and other food options like donut stores.
On the plane
Qantas use their main work horse, the Boeing B737-800 on this route between Brisbane and Townsville. This seats 174 passengers, with 12 Business Class seats and 162 Economy Class seats. I was delighted to find that my flight was being serviced by the Qantas B737 named ‘Retro Roo II’ which is decked out in the retro Qantas livery dating back to the 1950s.
Inside this Retro Roo II B737, the interior is modern an update date with the economy seats in a 3×3 configuration.
The seats have some good leg room, with me being able to fit my open hand between my knees and the seat in front. As this is a fairly short flight of 1 hour and 45 minutes, this was ample leg room for a comfortable flight.
Entertainment System
There was free WiFi Internet access on this Qantas plane. Before your Qantas flight, you can check the Flight Board to see if your flight is WiFi Enabled. See the pic below to see the WiFi symbol to show that your flight is WiFi enabled.
I could also access the Qantas Entertainment App through my own mobile phone. This plane does not have its own seat back TV screens so your only option for entertainment is to download the Qantas app on your own device.
There is also plenty to see out the window on the flight up to Townsville. Straight after take-off from Brisbane airport, we flew past Moreton Island. Also as you get closer to Townsville, you can see some of the smaller reefs that make up the southern section of the Great Barrier reef as well as some small islands.
Food Served on this flight
For this flight from Brisbane to Townsville, they just served a small snack which seems to be standard practice on Qantas now. I cannot remember the last time I was served a meal in Economy on a domestic flight in Australia. Maybe it is just the times that I am flying or maybe Qantas are just cost cutting like most airlines!
Our snack was a very tasty Tropical Mango and Passionfruit Cookie made by the Byron Bay Cookies Company. A very tasty snack indeed! This was served with a small bottle of water and choice of tea and coffee. I really need to stop ordering coffee on my flights as this coffee does not taste good. Mental note to self ‘choose tea next time!’.
The service
There is not much contact with the cabin crew to truly judge the service. Other than the pleasant greeting when you board the plane when the crew glance at your boarding pass, and them handing out the snacks and drinks, there really is no other contact. [...]
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January 30, 2021Airline: Airnorth
Flight no: TL180
Route: Townsville Airport (TSV) to Coolangatta Gold Coast Airport (OOL)
Aircraft Type: Embraer E170 Jet
Flight time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Travel Class: Economy
Seat: 10F Window seat
Seat Width: 17.6 inches
Seat Pitch: 31 inches
Check out our flight review video for this Airnorth flight from Townsville to Gold Coast
Airnorth was an airline that I had not heard of until I was at Townsville airport in December 2020 for a short layover between flights from Brisbane to Cairns. While waiting for my connecting flight, I saw an Airnorth plane arriving at the gates. When i need to fly from Townsville down to the Gold Coast, I ended up booking this Airnorth flight to experience this airline first hand.
It turns out Airnorth is the 2nd oldest airline in Australia, after Qantas. Airnorth has been operating for more than 40 years. A regional airline based in Darwin, they have scheduled and charter flights in the Northern Territory, Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia as well as over in East Timor. They mainly do regional flights within Australia and the International flight between Darwin and Dili East Timor which takes around 90 minutes to fly.
The Airnorth fleet consists of 2 types of aircraft, the Embraer E170 Jet and the Embraer 120 Brasilia. Both of these Embraer aircraft are made in Brazil. The Airnorth E170 Jet seats 76 passengers and a crew of 4 (2 pilots and 2 cabin crew) and the Embraer 120 Brasilia is a twin propeller plane seating 30 passengers and 2 crew (1 pilot and 1 cabin crew).
Booking the flight
Buying a ticket for an Airnorth flight is very simple on the Airnorth website. The purchase process is straight forward and easy to follow. When you purchase the ticket, you can enter your Qantas Frequent Flyer member number and will then earn QFF points and status credits for the Airnorth flight. It does take up to 6 weeks for the points to come through to your Qantas account.
Check out the Airnorth Website.
At the airport
Townsville airport is only a small regional airport but it is serviced by Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin, Airnorth, Alliance Airline and Regional Express (Rex).
You check in for Airnorth flights at the Qantas check in counters. I checked in for my flight about 2 hours before departure and there was no queue so only took a minute or so to check in.
If you are a member of the Qantas Club, you can gain access to the lounge with your Airnorth boarding pass but the Qantas Club is only open from 1 hour before any Qantas flight, so if like me, your Airnorth flight is not departing around the same time as a Qantas flight, then the lounge will be closed and you miss out on the lounge action.
For food options at Townsville airport, there is a Strand Cafe located before you pass security which serves up a great range of breakfast, sandwiches, burgers and some great coffee. Once past security there is The Brewery, serving a selection of cold or toasted sandwiches, burgers as well as some tasty pizza. There is also a bar tucked in the corner serving a range of tap and bottled beers, wines and spirits.
The prices of the food at Townsville airport is the typical expensive airport prices. I got a toasted ham, tomato and cheese sandwich with a large coffee and the bill came to $15.70.
On-board the plane
These Embraer E170 can fit anywhere from 60 – 130 passengers depending on the seat configuration. Airnorth have gone with a seat configuration of 76 seats (all Economy seats) in a 2 x 2 configuration. With this many seats, they have given considerable leg room with a pitch of 31 inches which gave me loads of space between my knees and the seat in-front. I am 187cm tall and felt very comfortable on this Airnorth flight.
This is the smallest jet plane I have ever flown on but it felt no different from flying in the A320 that Jetstar use (with 180 passengers) or the B737 that both Virgin or Qantas use (around 174 seats).
I was in seat 10F which is definitely one to avoid (as well as the opposite 10A seat). When I checked in I asked for a window seat and they confirmed I was in a window seat but when I got on the plane I found this seat to be pretty much in the centre of the plane, above the wing and it does not have a direct window right next to you. I had to stretch forward to see out the window of the seat in front. No big deal and it was not a huge stretch and I still got some lovely views of the Queensland coastline.
Entertainment System
There is no entertainment or WiFi Internet available on these Airnorth Embraer E170 Jets. Airnorth would normally have an in-flight magazine available to read, but thanks to this damn pandemic, all the in-flight magazines have been removed for health reasons.
This is only a short flight but I would still suggest to bring your own entertainment, book or magazine.
I suggest getting a window seat and enjoying the view out of the window. If the weather conditions are right, you will mostly fly over the water, down the coast of Queensland, with stunning views of the southern section of the Great Barrier Reef and you will also pass via the stunning sights of the Gold Coast beaches, and the skyscrapers in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.
Food on this flight
My flight departed Townsville airport around 11.30am (thought the schedule of this flight TL180 has changed to late afternoon). Even though this was a flight during lunch time, we were only served a snack but it was a good snack with a bottle of water, a packet of crackers with a salsa dip and a tasty coconut slice for dessert.
The service
This was my first time flying with Airnorth and I was really impressed with the overall flight experience. This is only a short flight so there was limited interaction with the crew but my impressions were good, with the friendly crew greeting me when I boarded and serving the water, snack and dessert.
With the very nice snack and dessert as well as the fact that you earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points, there is definitely reason to consider Airnorth for a flight. I am definitely looking forward to my next flight with Airnorth. I would love to fly with Airnorth from Darwin to East Timor. I just need the international boarder to open again. [...]
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July 18, 2020This is for all the Aviation geeks like me that like watching airline flight reviews. This is the Top 10 in my opinion and channels that I watch regularly – they also buy cheap youtube subs, but I guess it’s worth it. Let me know in the comments below if there are other channels that you can recommend.
Subscription numbers are at 18th July 2020
Sam Chui 2.21M Subsribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfYCRj25JJQ41JGPqiqXmJw
The Chief of Airline reviews. With more than 2 million subscribers, most people in the airline industry know who Sam Chui is.
With that much exposure, Sam gets some great opportunties to see behind the scenes of the airline industry, from seeing the kitchens where they cook the inflight meals, to getting access to the flight deck before the flight or haning with the cabin crew as they prepare the meals.
He loves what he does and it shows in his videos. He is the eternal optomist and he often sugar coats everything in every video. Well I guess when alot of airlines are offering him free flights to make videos about their airlines, then he graciously gives them great reviews. i would be pretty happy on flights that I didn’t have to pay for!
Captain Joe 1.35M Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC88tlMjiS7kf8uhPWyBTn_A
I have to be honest that I have never watched any of Captain Joe’s video. He makes it to the list with more than 1 million subscribers.
I will check out some of his videos soon and will update this review on his videos.
Josh Cahill 285K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJmkopWuQxI9U0NQaOcl68Q
Josh Cahill has some very entertaining reviews. I am not sure if he is the unluckiest traveller as he always seems to have some bad experiences like not being given a transit visa into China and spending 24 hours in Beijing airport.
While he gives honest reviews, he does seem a bit critical on lots of aspects of each flight.
I love to fly and most times I love most flights. Sure a bad cabin crew can spoil the flight experience but at the end of the flight I am usually pretty happy.
Josh seems to have something to complain about or he just picks the worst airlines in the world!
Wingin’ It! Paul Lucas 208K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzuKzSNb8hGV9DsqIBUb79w
I really like Paul Lucas’s airline reviews. His style is straight forward with no fluff. He says things how they are. No messing around, stright to the point.
He gives great critic on all aspects of the flying experience, from getting to the airport, the check in process, the lounge and the whole onboard experience.
DutchPilotGirl 185K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/user/Mascaralicious
I have not watched any of DutchPilotGirl’s videos. I will check them out soon and will update this description.
DennisBunnik Travels 98.9K https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQrk97MBH6DToctKRfQJcNQ
NeverNotFlying 57.1K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsC-uXusPANmGnuuhi7FTbw
Paul Stewart 44K Subsribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChEU4Y6IZ-xcuCQ8l0XDH4A
A great youtuber has makes honest reviews. I am surprised he has so few subscribers considering his great content.
One World Flyer 39.8k Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChH-Hz5BxUKDA0olzqcAGpw
I have been subscribed to One World Flyer for severals years now. He posts up videos every Thursday 12pm Hong Kong time.
Jayden is from Hong Kong but lives in Adelaide Australia. He started doing reviews just for the airlines that are part of the OneWorld Alliance but has recently branched out doing reviews for other airlines like Virgin.
Airline Spotter 20.6k Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbeKQYKceH8XGa3ExieCYzQ
Yoel Febrian 20.5K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9dCLulknzFEQeMS8N825Tg
Aviator Samy 12.3K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXXII-nL5iAqV6wUzyJWp1w
Some great content. His visually pleasing videos only have text subtitles with his opinions of the flights. Still entertaining.
NowGetThere 9.11K Subscribers https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUqNpZOVfJXyMfnfhuAxiUQ
My very own Youtube channel. Ofcourse I’m going to add mine to the list for the publicity.
This has always been a bit of a hobby for me. I don’t fly as much as many of the other Aviation Youtubers.
I’ve been doing reviews for over 5 years now. With reviews for more than 16 Airlines and 20 Airports
So far I have reviews for Qantas, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, ANA, Jetstar Australia, Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Pacific, Virgin Australia, Tiger Airways, Silk Air, AirAsia, Firefly, Vietnam Airways, Vietjet, Bangkok Airways, Aircalin and Fiji Airways. [...]
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January 22, 2020Airline: Cathay PacificFlight no: CX161Route: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to Sydney International Airport (SYD)Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-300Flight time: 8 hours 30 minutesTravel Class: Premium EconomySeat: 30A Window Seat – the seat not to sit in!Seat Width: 19.3 inchesSeat Pitch: 38 inches3
Check out the video for this Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong to Sydney in Premium Economy
Cathay Pacific have up to 5 flights per day from Hong Kong to Sydney. They leave at all times throughout the day to suit all different itineraries.
This CX161 flight leaves Hong Kong at 9.15pm and arrives in Sydney at 9.35am AEDT.
At the airport
I caught a taxi from my hotel in Wanchai on Hong Kong Island to the airport. The cost was around HK$300 and took around 30 minutes. There is a train to get to the airport but I find it much easier and quicker to get a taxi direct from my hotel.
This Qantas flight leaves from Terminal 1.
Terminal 1 Hong Kong International Airport
I had to queue to go through security just to get inside the airport. This is a new security precaution that the HK government has implemented to stop protesters getting into the airport and causing all sorts of disruptions. You have to show your passport and your confirmed flight which has to be within 24 hours of the time you enter. This process took less than 5 minutes so no big deal for the extra security.
Right at the entrance of Terminal 1 is a replica of the first plane that flew in Hong Kong. a 1910 Farman Bi-plane. This replica is well worth checking out for the plane enthusiasts. Read more about the replica plane.
1910 Farman Bi-plane replica at Hong Kong Airport
Check-in is very easy at the Cathay Pacific counters. Cathay Pacific have 4 rows of check-in counters. A row specifically for Economy, 1 for Premium Economy and 2 for Business class and First class passengers. There were no queues when I arrived around 3 hours before my flight so the check-in process was completed in a few minutes.
No queues at Cathay Pacific counters
Before you go through security there are a few restaurants and plenty of shops to check out. The restaurant includes a McDonald’s and some good Cantonese food.
There is automated gates to go through the immigration security. If you have a passport with an electronic chip you just have to insert your passport to get through security. You still need to pass your carry on luggage through the X-Ray machine but it only took a few minutes to get right inside the airport. Hong Kong airport is very well organised.
Once pasts security, Hong Kong airport is huge, with so many duty free shops and a huge food court with a large variety of food on sale.
On-board the plane
With a Premium Economy ticket, you get priority boarding ahead of the Economy passengers.
Premium Economy seat on Cathay Pacific A330-300
The Premium Economy seats on this Cathay Pacific A330-300 have a pitch of 38 inches (96.52cm). The pitch is the distance from the back of your seat to the seat in front. I was unlucky and got stuck in the first row of Premium Economy (row 30) which has a wall separating the Business Class cabin. While there is OK leg room with space between my knees and the wall, I was unable to stretch my legs out properly, with my feet cramped up against the wall. This made this seat particular uncomfortable especially when I was trying to sleep. Not the best experience on this flight as I had spent the extra money to get into Premium Economy so I could get some decent sleep on this night flight.
Leg room in Premium Economy
Feet cramped against the wall of Premium Economy
So tip to everyone, avoid this row 30 on the Cathay Pacific A330-300 in Premium Economy!
The other bad thing (not so bad but a bit annoying), is the entertainment system is on a swivel arm that comes out of the arm rest. This means you cannot have the swivel arm out during take-off and landing. In all other rows of Premium Economy there is a seat back entertainment screen so you can watch during take-off and landing.
Entertainment screen on Cathay Pacific Premium Economy
The crew come around before take-off and hand out a small Premium Economy amenities kit which contains a face mask like the n95mask, eye mask, ear plugs, a pair of socks and a tooth brush and tooth paste.
Premium Economy Amenities kit of Cathay Pacific
They also come around and give you a pre take-off drink. We had a selection of water or orange juice served in a plastic cup. No champagne was on offer like other airlines in Premium Economy! They also came around a 2nd time and handled out a bottle of water, then came again to hand out a cold wet towel for washing your hands and face.
Orange Juice before take-off
Entertainment System
The Entertainment screen is a relatively small 10″ screen. It is loaded up with heaps of movies and TV shows but as I mentioned above, in this row 30, you are unable to watch during take-off and landing. That’s not so bad as there is 8.5 hours of flying time from Hong Kong to Sydney.
You get to use a pair of good quality noise canceling headphones with the entertainment system.
Noise canceling head set on Cathay Pacific Premium Economy
The Cathay Pacific entertainment system also has an electronic flight map to track the progress of the flight. On the particular plane for my flight this was an old system. The new Cathay Pacific planes have the new Panasonic Avionics system with moving graphics on the flight map.
Flight map on Cathay Pacific Entertainment screen
In the seat pocket attached to the wall in front was a copy of the Cathay Pacific in-flight magazine called Discovery.
Cathay Pacific In-flight Magazine called Discovery
Food on this flight
There are 2 meals served on this flight from Hong Kong to Sydney. On my flight a dinner was served straight after take-off, then a breakfast is served about 1 hour before landing into Sydney.
The dinner service started with a drink and a packet of nuts.
Food service in Cathay Pacific Premium Economy
For the dinner main meal there was a choice of 3 different dishes:
Halibut fillet with tomato sauce, baby Chinese cabbage with wolfberries and steamed jasmine rice
Grilled lamb rack, shimeji mushroom, tomato, mashed potato with parsley and brown sauce
Rigatoni, spinach, tomato and roasted red pepper sauce.
I choose the Halibut fish fillet as it was listed as a Hong Kong flavoured dish. As soon as the food tray was put down in front of me I regretted my selection.
Food in Premium Economy Cathay Pacific
This dish had a very strong fishy smell, usually a warning sign that the fish was not fresh. I did try a piece of the deep fried fish and it did taste ok at first but after eating it there was that strong fish taste and smell in my mouth. I could not finish this dish! This is the first time on a Cathay Pacific I have not enjoyed the food. I very rarely order fish or seafood on a plane so will stay clear of these sorts of dishes in future.
The meal was served with an entree of a Middle Eastern grain salad with squid, lemon carrots and tahini dressing. Even though it was seafood, I did enjoy this dish. There was also a bread roll which helped fill me up.
The meal was saved with some tasty Movepick strawberry ice-cream for dessert.
Icecream for dessert Premium Economy Cathay Pacific
I tried to get some sleep but woke up every time I moved due to my feet being cramp against that damn wall. I probably only got 1 -2 hours sleep.
Breakfast was served and it this was back to the usually tasty food that Cathay Pacific serve.
There was a choice of 2 main meals for breakfast:
Cheese and herb frittata, pork sausages, streaky bacon, cannelini beans and button mushrooms
Dim sum selection with chicken glutinous rice, shrimp sui mai, chicken and fungus dumpling and Chiu Chow fun gor
I went for the Hong Kong style breakfast of dim sum.
Breakfast served in Premium Economy Cathay Pacific
This was served with seasonal fresh fruit, fruit yogurt, a croissant, jam and butter and of course some coffee or tea.
Dim sum for breakfast on Cathay Pacific
The service
This was the 4th flight with Cathay Pacific within 2 weeks. Each and every flight the service that the Cathay Pacific cabin crew provided was excellent. They were all a young and enthusiast who served with a smile.
Great service Cathay Pacific, I rank you as one of the best airlines in Asia! Well done [...]
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January 5, 2020Airline: QantasFlight no: QF43Route: Sydney International Airport (SYD) to Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar DPS)Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-200Flight time: 5 hours 30 minutesTravel Class: EconomySeat: 61A Window SeatSeat Width: 17.6 inchesSeat Pitch: 31 inches
Check out the video for this Qantas flight QF43 from Sydney to Bali in Economy
Qantas fly from Sydney to Bali once a day, leaving Sydney at 4.50pm AEDT and arriving into Bali at 8pm.
There are plenty of options on this route between Sydney and Bali. As well as the Qantas flight, you can also to choose to fly with Jetstar, Virgin, Garuda and Malindo Air.
Flight time between Sydney and Bali is around 5.5 hours.
Qantas Airbus A330-200 Sydney to Bali
The particular Qantas A330-200 for my flight was the plane named ‘Savannah Way’ rego VH-EBK which is just on 12 years ago, joining the Qantas fleet in 2008.
Sydney International Airport
At the airport
The Qantas Check-in area is at Row C of Sydney International Airport. The check-in process is fully automated with electronic kiosks which you insert your passport, confirm your flight and the machine prints out your boarding pass and luggage tags.
Qantas Electronic Check-in Kiosks Sydney International Airport
You attach the luggage tag to you bag and take it over to the automated bag drop, scan your boarding pass and off goes your luggage to be loaded onto the plane.
Qantas Automated bag drop Sydney International Airport
At the back of the check-in area is a service desk if you have any issues with checking in or have queries for the staff.
On-board the plane
The Qantas A330-200 have 2 classes, with 28 Business Class seats and 243 Economy seats, so a total of 271 passengers. The Economy section has a configuration of 2-4-2. I had a window seat in seat 51A.
Economy Class Qantas A330-200
With a pitch of 31 inches, I had enough space between my knees and the seat in front. The seat pocket was loaded up with an iPad (entertainment unit) and the Qantas in flight magazine. Once you take the iPad out, this gives you a tad more leg room.
Economy Seat Qantas Sydney to Bali
Leg room in Economy Class Qantas Sydney to Bali
As this is mostly a day flight, leaving Sydney at 4.50pm and arriving into Bali at 8pm, I didn’t sleep so was generally comfortable on the flight. The seat reclines back only a few inches but enough to stretch out a bit and watch a couple of movies. I did nod off for a short while.
Entertainment System
The plane used for my flight, the plane named ‘Savannah Way’ rego VH-EBK, does not have seat back entertainment screens. Instead in the seat pocket when you get on the plane, there is an iPad which is configured with the Qantas entertainment system which has loads of latest release movies, some classic movies as well as TV shows and documentaries.
Qantas Entertainment Unit Sydney to Bali
The iPad entertainment system also has a flight map so you can track the progress of the flight.
Flight map on Qantas Entertainment Unit
There is an attachment in the seat in front which allows you to mount the iPad which puts it in a great position to watch, just like a proper seat back entertainment screen. Though during take-off and landing you need to take the iPad down from this attachment. Also the entertainment system seems to be controlled centrally on the plane. As the plane was descending into Bali, they turned the entertainment system off which was annoying as I had 5 minutes left to watch of a movie so missed the ending! First world problem!
Other A330-200 within the Qantas fleet do have entertainment screens. On the flight back from Bali to Sydney, the A330-20 on that route did have the entertainment screens built into the seat in front, so you were able to watch the entertainment from as soon as you got on the plane until you pulled into the gate on arrival.
Next to where the iPad gets mounted, there are 2 USB ports, 1 is for plugging in the iPad, the other you can use to charge your electronic devices like your mobile phone or tablet.
USB ports in Economy Qantas A330-200
In the seat pocket is also a copy of the excellent Qantas inflight magazine which has some great travel articles and loaded up with advertisements.
Qantas Inflight magazine
Food on this flight
1 meals was served on this 5.5 hour flight. In Economy there was a choice of 3 different dishes. A vegetarian dish, a chicken dish and the one I chose, the beef and mushroom ragout with pasta. The meal was served with a piece of foccacia bread and some tasty cheese and crackers. A satisfying meal!
Food served in Economy on Qantas
A drink was served with the meal. Beer, wine and spirits were available but I just chose a classic Coca-Cola to have with my meal.
After the meal was completed, the crew came around and handed out dessert which was a Weis dairy free coconut and raspberry bar. They also served tea and coffee.
Weis Bar for dessert on Qantas flight
Not a bad meal for economy class. Nothing too exciting but all tasted good quality.
The service
Apart from the welcome on-board, and the crew serving dinner, there was not much interaction with the crew. They all seem nice enough but being a short flight, I didn’t need anything else but the meal service. [...]
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December 6, 2019Airline: Cathay Pacific
Flight no: CX750
Route: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-300
Flight time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Travel Class: Economy
Seat: 43A Window Seat
Seat Width: 18.45 inches
Seat Pitch: 32 inches
Check out the video for this Cathay Pacific flight CX750 from Bangkok to Hong Kong in Economy
Cathay Pacific flight CX750 leaves Bangkok at 11:40am and arrives into Hong Kong at 3.30pm.
Cathay Pacific has up to 7 flights per day flying from Bangkok to Hong Kong. Planes used on this route range from the A330-300, Boeing B777-300ER and the Airbus A350-900. When booking a flight on the Cathay Pacific website, just click on the Flight Details to see what plane is scheduled for the flight.
I caught a taxi from my hotel on Phloenchit Road in the heart of Bangkok, in peak hour traffic, leaving my hotel at 8.30am. The traffic getting out of the centre of Bangkok was very heavy. The total trip took just under 1 hour and cost just under 300 Thai Baht.
If you are getting a taxi to Suvarnabhumi Airport for a Cathay Pacific flight, get the taxi driver to drop you at the far end of the taxi drop off area. The Cathay Pacific check-in counter is located close to Entrance number 7.
At the airport
I arrived at the airport 2.5 hours before my flight. There were no queues at the Cathay Pacific check-in counters so the whole process only took a few minutes.
Once past security it was about a 10 minute walk to get to the departure gate. There is plenty of duty free shopping and a huge selection of food outlets.
There is a few different free Wi-Fi internet services available at Suvarnabhumi Airport but most you need to enter some sort of identification number. This was not just your passport number. I presume it is some sort of Thai ID number, a 13 digit number, so not having one of these I was unable to connect to most of the services. I found a free Google WiFi service which I was able to connect using my mobile phone number as my id number but this service was very slow and dropped out when I tried to use it. Alot of the food outlets also have free WiFi. Once you have purchased something, they will give you a password to connect to their WiFi service.
On-board the plane
I was given Priority boarding as I am a Gold Qantas Frequent flyer.
Economy seats on-board the Cathay Pacific A330-300 have a pitch of 32 inches, which is the distance from the seat back to the seat in front. I am 187cm tall and with this pitch it gives some decent leg room, with plenty of room between my knees and the seat in front. I was able to stretch out comfortably with my feet under the seat in front.
Attached to the seat pocket are some smaller pockets for storing your passport, mobile phone and boarding pass. This is the only storage space other than the other head bag storage.
Entertainment System
There is a touch-screen entertainment unit built into the seat in front which is loaded up with heaps of latest release movies and TV shows. The screen size is 8.9″ which is a bit on the small size but this being a fairly short flight, I didn’t really notice the size of the screen and was happy to sit back and watch 1 movie during the flight. Next to the entertainment unit is a USB port for charging your electronic devices.
The entertainment unit is powered by the awesome Panasonic Avionics system. As well as the entertainment, there is also and animated flight map for checking the progress of the flight and seeing which cities you are flying over.
In the seat pocket is a copy of the Cathay Pacific in-flight magazine called Discovery. This is quite a good in-flight magazine. As well as the many full page advertisements, there are some great travel articles on the destinations that Cathay Pacific fly to.
Food on this flight
1 meal is served on this flight from Bangkok to Hong Kong. This flight CX750 takes off at around 11.40am, and shortly after take-off the cabin crew come around and serve lunch.
There were 2 choices available. A fish and rice and the meal I choose, a traditional Thai green curry chicken with rice and pumpkin. The meal is served with some fresh sliced fruit, a bread roll, some tasty Haagen Dazs ice-cream and a cup of water. The crew also serve an additional drink with the meal and then tea of coffee after the meal.
The Thai green curry was very tasty. This is the 3rd flight on Cathay Pacific in less than 2 weeks and all the meals have been great. They sure do serve some great food on Cathay Pacific!
The service
Great service. 3 flights on Cathay Pacific, 2 in Economy class and 1 in Premium Economy and all the flight crews were friendly and efficient. Serving with a smile. Great service Cathay Pacific. I would not hesitate to fly with Cathay Pacific again. [...]
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December 3, 2019Airline: Cathay PacificFlight no: CX653Route: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)Aircraft Type: Boeing B777-300Flight time: 2 hours 30 minutesTravel Class: EconomySeat: 43A Window SeatSeat Width: 18.5 inchesSeat Pitch: 32 inches
Check out the video for this Cathay Pacific flight CX653 from Hong Kong to Bangkok in Economy
There is a good selection of airlines to choose to fly between Hong Kong and Bangkok. I choose Cathay Pacific as they are a member of the One World Alliance so I was able to earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points and status credits for this flight. For this flight between Hong Kong and Bangkok I earned 550 points and 15 status credits. Cathay Pacific has up to 7 flights per day flying from Hong Kong to Bangkok so should suit all schedules for departure and arrival times.
Cathay Pacific B777 Hong Kong to Bangkok
Some of the other airlines that fly from Hong Kong to Bangkok include Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, Hong Kong Airlines, Bangkok Airways.
At the airport
Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1
Check in for Cathay Pacific at Hong Kong International airport is a breeze, as Cathay Pacific have 4 rows of check-in counters, with rows dedicated to Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class. I arrived at the airport 3 hours before my flight and there were no queues, so the whole check-in process was completed in just a few minutes.
No queues at Cathay Pacfiic Check-in counters
Travel though security at Hong Kong airport is also quick as they have automated gates that accept passports with electronic chips.
Before you travel through security there are a few restaurants and shops but once past security you enter the ‘Hong Kong International Airport Shopping Mall’ with a huge food court and the biggest selection of shops I have ever seen.
I had access to the Cathay Pacific lounge due to my Qantas Frequent Flyer status but I didn’t get to the lounge as there is some great plane spotting to be done at Hong Kong Airport. There are huge floor to ceiling windows which gives you great views of the planes at the gateway or the ones taxiing.
Planespotting at Hong Kong Airport
On-board the plane
There is a dedicated boarding queue for Premium Economy which gets priority boarding over Economy Passengers.
The Economy seats have some very decent leg room at 32 inches between the back of the seat and the seat in front. I am 187cm tall and there was plenty of room between my knees and the seat in front.
Economy seat on Cathay Pacific B777-300ER
Good legroom in Cathay Pacific Economy class
Entertainment System
There is a nice touch screen entertainment unit which is powered by the excellent Panasonic Avionics system which is loaded up with heaps of latest release movies and TV shows.
Cathay Pacific Entertainment Unit
Next to the entertainment screen is a USB port for charging your electronic devices.
There is also the awesome flight map with animation showing the plane and the cities you are passing over.
Panasonic Avionics Animated Flight Map
One of the best things about the entertainment on this Cathay Pacific B777-300ER is that you can watch the camera that is mounted under the plane. It is switched on while you are on the ground so you can see the ground crew preparing the plane for take-off. Then take-off and landing is awesome to watch!
Camera mounted under the plane on take-off
Also in the seat pocket is a copy of the Cathay Pacific In-flight magazine called ‘Discovery’ which has some great travel articles in both English and Chinese.
Cathay Pacific Inflight Magazine
Food on this flight
As this is a 2.5 hour flight, only 1 meal is served on board. This flight leaves Hong Kong at 12pm, so shortly after take-off the crew come around and serve lunch.
There are no surprises that the food on Cathay Pacific is really good. For airline food, Cathay Pacific does a great job to deliver good quality and tasty meals. In Economy there was a choice of 2 meals, a Fish with Rice or the meal that I choose, this chicken with Chinese sausage, rice and vegetables.
Food served in Economy on Cathay Pacific
The chicken and Chinese sausage was a great combination, packed with your typical Hong Kong / Cantonese flavours. The meal was served with some fresh seasonal fruit pieces, a bread roll, cup of water and a tasty chocolate ice-cream for dessert. The crew also served a drink and after the meal tea and coffee.
The service
The service on this flight was great. The crew were young and enthusiastic and really served with a genuine smile. On all my flights with Cathay Pacific, I always find the crew to be very warm and friendly. It is great to see a crew who seem to enjoy their jobs. It does make a big difference to the service that you receive.
Great job Cathay Pacific! [...]
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December 2, 2019Airline: Cathay PacificFlight no: CX110Route: Sydney International Airport (SYD) to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)Aircraft Type: Airbus A330-300Flight time: 8 hours 40 minutesTravel Class: Premium EconomySeat: 32A Window SeatSeat Width: 19.3 inchesSeat Pitch: 38 inches
Check out the video for this Cathay Pacific flight CX110 from Sydney to Hong Kong in Premium Economy
I booked this flight through the Cathay Pacific website and entered my Qantas Frequent Flyer as Cathay Pacific is part of the One World Alliance so I can earn Qantas points and status credits. For this flight I earned 4950 Points and 30 Status credits.
Cathay Pacific have 4 flights per day from Sydney to Hong Kong. The planes used vary from this A330-300, the B777-300 and their new A350-900. My flight left at 8.50am Sydney time and arrived into Hong Kong at 3.25pm Hong Kong time.
Cathay Pacific A330-300
At the airport
I arrived at the airport just before 5.50am, more than 3 hours before the flight. There was a sign at the Cathay Pacific counters saying they open 3 hours before the flight. Well, they didn’t open the counters until about 6.10am, keeping a whole bunch of people waiting for more than 20 minutes. Not good Cathay Pacific!
Counter open 3 hours prior to flight
Onboard the plane
With a Premium Economy ticket you get priority boarding on to the plane.
The Premium Economy section of this A330-300 is only 3 rows in a 2 – 3 – 2 configuration. I was in the very back row of this section.
Premium Economy Seat on Cathay Pacfific A330-300
The seats have a width of 19.3 inches and a pitch of 38 inches which gave plenty of room between my knees and the seat in front. I was able to stretch back and my legs comfortable stretched out under the seat in front. There is a small foot rest that folds down but I didn’t use this as was more comfortable with my legs stretched out.
Legroom in Premium Economy
Reclined Premium Economy Seat on Cathay Pacific
The seat only reclines back a few inches. As this seat was in the back row with a wall behind it, it could have reclined further but I guess all the seats are designed the same.
There is only a small storage area attached to the seat in front where you can store your passport and mobile phone.
Small storage area in the seat in front
The crew handed out a drink before take-off with a choice of water or orange juice. No champagne was on offer.
Drinks served before take-off
They also handed out a Premium Economy amenities kit which contained an eye mask, pair of socks, ear plugs and a tooth brush and tooth paste.
Premium Economy Amenities Kit on Cathay Pacfiic
Entertainment System
There is a touch-screen entertainment unit which I would say is about 11 inches in size. This unit was powered by the Panasonic Avionics which is one of the best entertainment units in the sky. This was loaded up with a huge selection of latest release movies in both English and Chinese.
Entertainment Screen Premium Economy Cathay Pacific
Next to the entertainment screen is a USB port for charging your electronic devices. You also get a pair of good quality noise-canceling headphones to use with the entertainment system.
Noise canceling headset on Cathay Pacific
The flight map was a modern animated map where you could see an animation of the plane and the cities you are flying over.
Excellent flight map on Cathay Pacific flights
I did not notice if there was a universal power adaptor in the arm rest but I was not looking to do any work so didn’t need it.
Food on this flight
One word for the food served on this flight = Awesome!
Cathay Pacific really do a good job serving up tasty food! On this flight between Sydney and Hong Kong, 2 meals were served. A breakfast was served after take-off and a lunch was served about half way through the flight.
For breakfast there were 3 meals to choose from. The first was a Tomato and mushroom frittata, chicken sausage, potato rosti and spinach.
The other choice was a Stir fried egg noodles with barbecued pork in hoisin sauce and choy sum. As we were flying to Hong Kong I chose this Asian breakfast and it was delicious. Nice thick noodles and the barbecued pork was delicious. This was served with some fresh seasonal fruit, fruit yogurt and a croissant with butter and jam. Delicious breakfast to start the flight.
Breakfast in Premium Economy Cathay Pacific
For the lunch, there were 3 meals available:
Stir fried ling fillet with soy sauce, egg fried rice and stir fried vegetables.
Braised beef short ribs, mashed potato, green beans and carrot
Vegetable lasagna
I went for the braised beef short ribs and this was another tasty dish. The beef was so tender and packed full of flavour and the mashed potato nice and fluffy and the vegetables were firm, not soggy.
Lunch served in Premium Economy Cathay Pacific
This lunch was served with an entree of smoked chicken with pumpkin couscous salad with bread and butter.
After the meal was finished the crew served tea and coffee and a delicious Movenpick ice-cream for dessert. Now as with most airlines, the ice cream arrives rock hard. You need to wait for about 10 minutes for it to thaw before you can get your spoon into it.
Movenpick icecream for dessert
2 excellent meals on board Cathay Pacific.
Now I did notice that this was the exact same meals that were served in Economy. As i was in the last row of Premium Economy, I could see them handing the same meals there. I had presumed they served different meals in premium economy but all the same as economy. Luckily the Cathay Pacific food is really good!
The service
The service on Cathay Pacific is among the best in the sky. I found all the crew on this flight friendly and serving with a genuine smile. It is refreshing when you fly that you get the whole crew to be lovely, not a cranky one to deal with. Big thumbs up for the service on Cathay Pacific. [...]
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