January 29
Time for a slightly bittersweet piece of airplane art. This week, it’s a SpanAir Airbus A320 parked at Barcelona El Prat Airport in May last year.
As we all know, Spanair has now folded after negotiations with Qatar Airways ground to a halt on Friday 27th January.
More airplane art of course next week!
December 12
Narrow Minds and Narrow Bodies – To Denver with the New United, Aer Lingus and FlyBe – BHX-DUB, DUB-EWR-LAX-DEN, DEN-SFO-EWR-BFS, BHD-BHX
Or
NOT ANOTHER BLEEDING BOEING 757!!!
Hello dear readers. And welcome to my end of year trip. Why? For miles of course and to maintain status – so I don’t have to fly in January in a mad panic.
Newbies, Welcome to the madness that is a Kevincm mileage run trip report! It’s full of taking an airline by the scruff, satirical humour, hard and honest reviews and of course an epic dose of photography. And maybe an iPhone in a sick bag.
Regular readers will probably see the route above and laughed their heads off knowing what is to come. And yes, it’s as bad as it sounds 
Does Size Matter? Or is it what you do with it that counts? (The introduction)
With a few thousand miles still outstanding before the year is out, I was looking forward to a Eurotrip which was expensive and yielded a fair few miles. However, as usual, I was reading, and came across a Denver return trip. For under £280. Now whilst this may not sound exciting, it was route-able across the width of the USA – in other words – mega miles. And even though BMI looks like it’s being IAG’d (BA/IB and we might get.. umm… Avois instead) or Virgin’d (Flying Club Miles? Umm… Are Delta Skymiles worth more?), miles are always good.
Besides – as you all know it’s never about the destination – it’s always the journey for me.
Now whilst this is all good in principle, as I was looking, I found out this run would be solely on narrow body jets, and maybe I’m slightly prejudiced against narrow body airplanes that fly across the pond. Mainly because I love the room that you get in a wide-body such as the Boeing 767, The Boeing 777 Series or the Airbus A330 Series, compared to the “narrow” 3 x 3 you get down the back of a narrow body jet.
Or maybe I’m imaging it. Guess we’ll find out in this run if I do get over this prejudice – or not…
Now, this fare required a bit of thinking as it starts in Dublin’s Fair City and ends in Belfast. And there’s another bit of water called the Irish Sea between me and the start and end points. So of course, it’s time to buy positioning flights and timings. With a 9am pushback from Dublin, no early flight from Birmingham was going to make it in time, therefore I’m falling back on the good olde combo of “Aer Lingus and Travelodge” and considering the flight was a mere £26, and the hotel was €19… I wasn’t objecting at the price. Good value like that is hard to find
Getting back however was going to be another matter. As I intend to bring a few things back with me – some of a liquid nature – I was going to need luggage space. And if I wanted to fly “home” as opposed to flying into Heathrow with BMI and then cross London and find a train home, there was going to have to pay a luggage surcharge. Which leaves FlyBe and BMIBaby.
Now as I was lazy and waited to book my ticket back, all I was planning to take a midday flight home. By the time I got around to book it, most of cheap tickets had of course sold out, and all that was left that was cheap was… the late night special. As it departs 10 minutes before BMIBaby flight, I did a price comparison, and everything came together, FlyBe was cheaper by a good £10, where Flybe came away at £44.98. With luggage. And yes, I felt dirty paying for luggage. These “Low Cost” carriers will get you no matter how you try sadly.
So here is the map – people at the back can laugh… now.
Map by Great Circle Mapper – www.gcmap.com
So on the stats a new airline (FlyBe), and over 13644 miles to cover in 4 days.. This could hurt my back a lot…
Part I – Opening Salvos, BHX-DUB
As another day comes to the end of this System Administrator’s day, it’s time to head off from the office, and off to the UK’s 7th most used airport (yes Birmingham airport lovers – the few of you as you are, the traffic stats say you’re 7th this year, behind Edinburgh airport) – Birmingham Airport.
My stuff at the office
So it’s a bus from the back end of Birmingham, into the city centre, and off to the hell-hole known as Birmingham New Street station
Birmingham New Street – Birmingham International Train Station
£2 SuperSaver Return
As the clock passed 18:30, Supersaver tickets are the name of the game. And I can live with that since there was a Virgin Trains service departing at… 18:30. That works for me.
Being an off-peak train, it was of course packed solid. Still, for a 10 minute ride, it got me to the airport station – which is what counts.
Hopping onto to the air-rail link, I was deposited at the main terminal departures level.
Popping downstairs, I found the quiet Aer Lingus desks, and checked. I know a lot of people love On-Line Check-In, but for me, I like the sense of occasion of flying, and checking in is just one of those things to do.
Well – here we go again!
My boarding pass was issued, and I made my way up to Security, there I managed to set off the security arch. After a good touch down by the Birmingham security staff , I was let through.
The welcome agent – Hint – it’s a projection at the top of it.
Since I was flying “sans status”, I had to hang out in the main departure area. Which at Birmingham airport is not a bad thing as the only good thing about the ServisAir lounge is the free alcohol. So I spent some time vainly getting the local free WiFi to work unsuccessfully and watching the local colour. Boarding time came and it was time to head to Gate 54, where boarding had begun.
Boarding in full swing
I queued up, my boarding pass was beeped and I was allowed to walk downstairs and walk on the tarmac to the plane boarding by the back stairs.
Bird of the day.
Birmingham Airport – Dublin Airport.
EI277 – Operated by Aer Lingus, Airbus A320, Seat 23A, Economy Class
200 miles flown, 0QF Miles Earned
The plane was filling up nicely when I boarded, and I took my place aboard the plane. Still it wasn’t what I’d called packed – more like busy. I chucked by bag in the overhead bin, and sat myself down. A person joined me on the Isle seat, and boarding continued when a disorganised person arrived with the doors closing behind him. And lo and behold – I had a spare seat next to me.
This is quite acceptable to me.
The plane pushed back 10 minutes early, and at 2 minutes our stated departure time the A320 up into the air
The plane took off, with Birmingham City Centre passing to the left, then Wednesbury, Wolverhampton and then tracking north and the Irish Sea.
Central Birmingham
Wolverhampton
The state of the A320… has seen what I would say are “better days”. The leather seats are now showing their age – although they are nice and soft to sit in. The cabin itself, again has seen better days, with the strip lighting at the passenger edge just that shade of yellow where you know the plane has been flying around for a fair olde bit.
Now, Birmingham to Dublin is a very short hop. And with a 40 minute stated flight time, the crew sprang into action doing a drinks service.
I parktook of the option of falling asleep. Which was rather annoying, as I wanted to pick up an Aer Lingus A320 retro model plane. Oh well, I’m sure I’ll be on another Aer Lingus flight sooner rather than later.
All I knew is that I woke up 10 minutes before landing as the crew were buttoning down the plane.
Soon enough, Dublin bay appeared to the left hand side and the planed lined up for landing
Dublin Bay
Closing in on the gate
Overall: As usual, Aer Lingus delivered a good service and a comfortable flight. A tiny bit of looking after their planes wouldn’t go amiss though.
Of course, since the plane docked over the far of the 300 gates, it was a long hike to Immigration in T2. The immigration agent just glanced at my passport and waved me through. It was then the “hunt for the taxi rank. Which was successful in the end.
A short while later, I was dropped off at my base for the night – the Travelodge North Dublin Airport “Swords”
Part II, Travelodge Swords, Dublin Airport
Overnight: Travelodge Dublin Swords.
Price paid: €19+€5 for 24 Internet access
Yes, we’re back here. Why? €19 says why we’re back here compared to the HIX at €70 up the road near the airport. So lets quickly review.
A room with…
After signing the guest agreement in for the evening and purchasing my Internet access I went to my room, operated the key lock (with a real key) and settled down for the evening.
Yup – a real key
Double bed and a single bed
Bathroom
Sealed with a sticker
Forget the mega-amenities that you have in a posh IC or a Hyatt. This is bare bones. And you know what – I didn’t care. There was power, an Internet connection, a TV and the room was warm.
And the bed didn’t feel like a rock or a marshmallow. In other words, enough for a nights sleep. And with great respect, sometimes that is all you need. And it suited me to a tee.
Overall: Good value is hard to beat. And €24 for everything I needed… I’m not objecting.
Alas, 5:30 in the morning comes around far too soon alas, and it was time to pack the bag down, and check out. By 6:00 I was outside the hotel, and by 6:06, the shuttle bus had arrived. Another €5, and the bus took its sweet olde time winding its way round from another hotel, a couple of car parks, and finally parking up in Dublin Airport Coach station. Why they cannot route these buses through to the actual terminals is still beyond me still.
Anyway, another morning hike around the back end of Dublin Airport before entering T2.
I headed to the ICTS security check, and was let through to flight check-in, where I confirmed the route and seats. I was warned to get to the US Pre-Clearance checkpoint by 7:30. With an hour to go, I wandered off to find a lounge – Whilst BusinessFirst could use the DAA lounge, the Star Alliance lounge for me was… the BMI Diamond Club Lounge in the old T1
Lounge Stop: BMI Diamond Club Lounge.
I made my way in, and woke up the poor lounge attendant to find… near enough no-one there. I swiped in, logged on and settled in for a morning coffee – and a pre departure vodka and orange
It was just quiet. Which compared the chaos below, is not a bad thing. In some ways, a bad thing least of all it shows people aren’t using the facilities, and that Aer Lingus is caning BMI on the Dublin to Heathrow run. That or I missed all the LHR people.
As the clock ticked past 7:20, I packed up my trash and left her back to her magazine, and headed back to the 400 gates, and towards US Pre-Clearance
I was expecting the worst when I arrived, but there were no queues. My passport and customs form was checked as clear, and I was sent through to the agent. The agent took my form, confirmed what I was doing and what I do in the UK, and stamped my passport into the USA.
Now this is the way to travel kids. Immigration in seconds, rather than hours. Looking behind me, my timing again was perfect a queue was starting to form at the checkpoint.
Another x-ray scan of shoes and bags, and I was pre-cleared and headed to the gate. The gate pen was filling up nicely with what was looking like a full flight. I took advantage of the Eirecom “10 minutes of interwebs for free”, which filled up the time nicely to boarding – which started early.
The plane resting before the long TATL slog.
A final boarding pass check, then the escalators to Irish departures level where ICTS were waiting, asking questions. A few questions asked, and I was allowed to board the plane.
Part III – DUB-EWR
Dublin Airport- Newark International Airport
CO23 – United Airlines (As Continental Airlines) , Boeing 757-200WL, Seat 35F, Economy Class (New United Colours)
3193 miles flown, 3193 miles earned
I was welcomed aboard, and made my way down the back of the plane. Knowing the full length of what was ahead, I chucked the rucksack in the overhead bin, coat to the side, and settled in for the long flight. Eventually, I was joined by my two seatmates, and a quick look around the plane showed that every economy seat was accounted for.
Waiting
Looks like United made a few pennies on this route today – well not from me maybe, but that’s besides the point.
The safety video played again, and this time it seems Jeff Smiek is still walking around Chicago O’Hare with his staff, but is skipping anything to do with the United Mileage Plus Credit Card, rather just getting to the message of the video. It’s a welcome change considering UK people who consider Mileage Plus Credit cards get small beer in comparison to some of the US Credit Card deals. The safety video played (the same Continental video with Rhapsody in Blue dubbed over it) and soon enough, we were pushing back and under way.
We know who this is….
After allowing an Etihad A330 take off, and a BMI A319 land, it was our turn to take to the skies.
The course of the flight was… odd to my thoughts. Rather than striking out west on a traditional Great Circle route, we struck south west for some considerable time before turning onto a great circle path that take us way south of Goose Bay, Newfoundland and make landfall over the Boston area, before taking a path to Newark International.
Flightpath – taken later during the flight
It seemed however I got the first taste of what would the hallmark of the outbound… and inbound flights, which was medium turbulence. It was easier to count the periods where the seat-belt sign was off rather than on.
Because of this, service was delay. Eventually, first service begun
Yes – drinks and pretzels. And it seems that the Continental side of United has copied an idea from TED – cups of drinks and not full cans. And this became more evident later during the flight when they ran out of actual cans Coca Cola (something I’ve never seen at all in all my flying). Yes, it’s a very small thing, but if they’re not overloading the Coca-Cola on a flight… what cuts are being made to the service? It’s a big question..
Maybe it’s that time of year, but there seems to be a lot of cuts to the Continental IFE system in terms of content. And we all know whilst a nice big screen and easy controls make for a great IFE system, ultimately – it’s content that matters. And it was lacking this time.
So we can all guess what I did next.
Yup. For days of airtravel long gone.
Second service arrived – now what catering wonders were to come? Could Dublin louse up a meal… or can the caters actually cook a meal? Admittedly, the last meal I had on the US Airways DUB-PHL trip a few years ago was inedible (Macaroni cheese is not my idea of a meal – sorry) , so I was quite surprised to hear the two options – Chicken or Beef (and no vegetarian option). I went for Chicken, which came with rice, salad, a chibatta style roll and a pre-packaged brownie.
Meal tray
Salad
Chicken and rice
The chicken was cutable and tasted of chicken, and the rice not soggy. Normally a good combination and it was in this case. The roll could had been used as a WMD, whilst the salad was fresh (again – the Continental “salad” seems to be better than “old” United’s Green leaves). The Pre packaged brownie however… was a joke.
Service cleardown was comparatively quick as we bumped across the pond. I took the opportunity to grab some sleep in the meantime.
And when I was not sleeping…
As we started closing in on Boston, the snack service commenced, with a pretty box and a hot product. The hot product was a chibatta bread roll with mystery meat and a sauce, whilst the box contained a packet of french crisps and a Lily O’Brians Chocolate. And when the drinks service commenced, I got something odd – a full can of Diet Coke! 
Box’o'goodies
Inside the hot chibatta
The crew we seemingly friendly and engaging, but with a full load of a 757, were extremely busy through the flight.
Landfall
Somewhere over Massachusetts
With time slipping away, it was time to clear down and secure the plane as the pilot was expecting more bumps on the way down. And bumpy it was. A few turns and a while later, the plane was lining up for Newark International Airport
The plane landed, and after a while the taxi begun to the 100 gates, docking at Gate 112. After a short wait, the plane was connected to the jetway, and after waiting for the sea of humanity to move, I made my own way off the plane.
Overall: I can see why they choose the 757 for this sort of mission, and the economics of it probably make it work. However, it is tight down the back of the plane – in width more than legroom. Still the service in comparison to “old United” was slightly better with the catering options good (unless you’re a veggie) and a friendly service. The preclearance to the USA is just the icing on the cake.
The plane had docked in C Concourse at Newark, and connected directly into the USA without any customs formalities (those long completed in Dublin, so the arrival was treated as a domestic arrival. Or to put it bluntly – no TSA to deal with. Those of you who know of my “love” of the Transportation Security Administration was relived not to deal with them after a 7 hour 30 flight.
Newark C Concourse
Instead, I headed straight to the monitors to find a delay had been posted on the LAX flight with a big gate change from 126 to 86. I wandered down to the lounge
Lounge Stop: United Club (Presidents Club) C Gates near the 80x range.
I took the lift upstairs, and checked in. I then found a perch to do some blogging with, as well as grab a couple of cups of coffee. The lounge was comparatively quiet in comparison to the last time I was here (bear in mind the last time I came through EWR, it was a Monday late afternoon/rush hour).
The WiFI appeared to work for once – which was nice. And unlike the Red Carpet Clubs – no need to use silly T-Mobile WiFi keys. Again a simple thing.
I kept an eye on the board and with 20 minutes to go before stated departure I headed down to the gate – to find boarding had not even begun yet. No rush. And with a 1:30 hour layover at LAX, no rush at all from me… or so I thought…
Next flight at the gate…
Part IV – EWR, EWR-LAX, and a touchy feely TSA Experiance
Newark International Airport – Los Angeles International Airport
CO17 – United Airlines (As Continental Airlines), Boeing 757-200WL – Seat 32F, Economy Class (New United Colours)
2454 miles flown, 2448 miles earnedI wandered aboard when the call was made, boarding at 2L and greeted the crew, and headed to the back of the plane. It seems this journey was going to be pretty full, with holiday makers by the bucketload (with the odd frequent travellers). It also seemed like I had an seatmate at the isle who introduced himself to me. As the rest of the plane began to fill up, the middle seat still kept free right up to doors close – giving me some room after 7 hours stuck in the 757-200.As we were late boarding, we missed our slot but soon enough we were under way from Newark, pushing back from Gate 86, and taxing to the runway, before a powerful take off.
As we looped around Newark, a view came into view – a view of Manhattan. And what a view it was.
Newark at the botton, Manhattan at the top
Manhattan Island
The captain made a few calls on the horn, and also announced why the flight was so bumpy due to the high powered jet-streams which were flying against and advised people to keep their seatbelts on. Which some of the plane promptly ignored.
International IFE System – the bird was late in from a Glasgow run
I decided to attempt to see if there was anything different on the IFE system… and failed miserably. Although I watched 1 episode of 30 rock about 4 times to get to the end of it, I finally gave in and made myself another GhettoIFE system
James May – The Great Toy Train Race
Once the chop had settled down for a bit, the crew did conducted a service. And yes, I decided to risk arm and limb and risk one of United’s “Fresh” options with the Asian noodle salad box
The box looks nice…
Chicken, Noodle, Chilli…
Not bad at all..
And for a “paid” option, it wasn’t that bad in the least – actually it was quite passable. As we passed over Lake Michigan, the chop increased again to the point where the crew had to take their seats for a short while. I took advantage of the quiet time by dozing off here and there, and capturing the sights that mother nature laid out for me.
Lake Michigan
There was a second drink run, and a few other water runs too with the crew being friendly, whilst being semi strict over seatbelts in-case sudden turbulence.
Long way to go yet.
I merely took the chance to grab a few zzzz’s after not getting to sleep early the night before.
As we crossed Nevada and the Grand Canyon, daytime begun to turn to evening and the reds of the evening filled the cabin.
Evening reds
The Grand Canyon I think
Slowing for LAX
Decent was also bumpy as heck too as we lined up for LAX Airport, but we made it down in a hurry it seems.
Eventually we touched down at LAX, and after a taxi, we parked up. I said farewell to the frequent flyer next to me as he rushed to the exit. I sort of took my time as I didn’t know
Overall: A good flight. The big difference of an extra seat shows as the the space was much better than the previous flight. The use of an “international” bird on a domestic leg was appreciated with in-seat power. With a good crew, this made for a good flight. A shame about the chop…
LAX – A place for the touchy-feely type of people?
After looking where I was, I realised I was in T6. My “Old United” flight was going to depart from T7. This of course necessitated a hike to the next terminal. Now will the person who designed LAX please be taken away and evil things done to them. I honestly have not seen so little joined up thinking with an Airport than I have with LAX.
But I did have chance encounter with the Theme building – as close as I’ll ever get to I suspect
As I entered non-sterile zone, I knew my luck had ran out – and I had to deal with my friends in the TSA. After ducking into the elite queue, I was directed to a Nude-o-Scope machine.
I popped my stuff through the converter and in the nicest possible way I said “I Opt Out. Manual Screening Please”.
A look of resignation passed over the security agent that I didn’t trust their beloved machines. The machines I have an issue with – it’s the people who operate them that I have the real problem with.
However, I was seen to within a minute, and an agent explained what he was going to do, and gave me my grope for freedom. He conducted the search meticulously, and carefully.
The agent put the swap in the Itemiser, and I was declared clean by the machine (And I know what an Itemiser looks like now thanks to Border Security Australia) and let on my way.
As usual i took my time packing my stuff away and I thanked the TSA in a loud non-condescending British Accent. And didn’t look back as I headed up the escalator.
With the minimal time I had, I could had skipped the lounge – but I wanted to check my mail and do a few bits on Boarding Area before continuing. With the flight going from 70A, there was usefully a United Club next door to the gate. How convenient.
Lounge stop: United Club (Red Carpet Club)
I was welcome to the club, with my boarding pass refusing to scan. The agent re-issued my boarding pass, but it still wasn’t playing ball. In the end, I was just granted access to the lounge, and given a WiFi key on entry.
For me, I did what i needed to – update my blog, check my mail, and swapped my memory card over.
Not the best pic – but the next bird already at the gate
I even had a time for a couple of espressos before the flight to keep me awake for a bit longer – bear in mind I was up at 5am UK time, and it was the best part of 2am on my body clock.
Soon enough, boarding time commenced, and I grabbed my trash for the final leg of the journey of the day – to Denver.
With the lounge next door to the gate, it was a quick walk, and boarding was in full swing by the time I got there – and I sneaked up on the Elite Access land as Zone 2 was boarding. I was beeped aboard, and after a short wait on the jetbridge.
Part V – LAX-DEN, Hyatt Summerfield Suites Denver
Los Angeles International Airport – Denver International Airport
UA364 – United Airlines, Airbus A319 Seat 30F, Economy Class (New United Colours)
862 miles flown, 860 miles earned
Channel 9: ON 
The shot of espresso was keeping me in good spirits as I greeted the crew, and made my way down to the back of the plane. I dumped my rucksack in the top bin, and the little day bag I purchased in Dublin by my side.As boarding continued, a couple parked up next door to me. However, it seems reading skills can be lacking… as they were in the ABC side of the plane rather than the DEF. And a lovely young lady suggested they move.This created the lovely thing of an empty middle seat. Again – what a lovely luxury.
And considering the amount of space I had – not a bad thing!Thankfully, everyone had turned up for the plane and we pushed back slightly early.The safety video played with different Jeff Smisek introduction, with Channel 9 on throughout, and taxied to the bottom of the runway before powering down the runway to take off into the now night sky.
Cabin view
As only an hour had passed, the chop was still pretty appalling out of LAX, and the seatbelt sign was on for a good 30 minute before conditions improved enough for the seatbelt sign to be switched off. As a result, drinks service was delayed. Such is life. On a two hour hop, this isn’t that bad. With an additional 25 minutes shaved off the Captain put his foot down with those tail winds – along with Channel 9 on and legged it to Denver.
Eventually, a snackbox and drinks service was carried out on the service. I took the opportunity to update most of my photo library I had shot during the day. Soon enough, the bongs went off and it was time to land in the dead of a cold night in Denver.
Again, I waited for the slightly more organised sea of humanity to clear, and I thanked the crew and headed into a very cold Denver Jet Bridge and into the B Concourse
Overall: Chop is one of those things you accept in flight. However, it seems the crew were in good spirits and willing to do a good service
The main terminal building
After negotiating my way past the the metro system and being welcome to Denver I made my way out of the secured area into the Terminal Building. It was then a matter locating the hotel telephone bank and ringing for a shuttle. This was handled quickly and effectively, and after using the free WiFi in the terminal, I headed outside to the biting cold of a Colorado night. The “bus” or should I say “SUV” arrived, and after a 5 mile drive, I was dropped off at the entrance to the entrance to the hotel.
HOTEL: Hyatt Summerfield Suites, Denver Airport
Price paid: $84+Tax a night
Those of you who know me may go into shock that I haven’t chosen an ICHG Hotel, and instead chosen a Hyatt. There are various reasons that only make sense to me. Namely, the promise of a morning breakfast included sort of weighed in which sort won in comparison to the Holiday Inn.
I was welcomed and I was checked in. The front desk clerk assigned me a 4th floor room after verifying my card.
on the way to the 4th floor – a longer term resident
Going into the room – it is truly a “longer term” stay suite as opposed to some suites stayed in. As in this place had a full kitchen, living area, bathroom, and a TV mounted on a rotating plyth.
Bed
Living area
Kitchen
Office
Bathroom
…and yes it had white ginger. Haters can continue to hate :p
The bed, whilst not the usual Hyatt bed I’m used to in the Regency was actually quite sleepable and well supported. The heating system also did a very good job of keeping me warm – convenient when you’ve been out in the cold of Denver.
The room was serviced on the days I was there – for longer term residents could choose not to have their rooms serviced if needed.
Breakfast was variable from the two days I was there – one day it was omelets and sausages, another it was scrambled eggs and what Americans call “bacon”, along with all the usual cereals, juices and coffees
As I’m in Denver, it would be a crying shame not to wander downtown. So it’s time for One Time Exception – a Walk in Denver.
Part VI – A Walk around Denver
One Time Exception – A Walk Around Denver.
Price: $22 for bus to and from the airportThe photosWith basically one day to explore Denver, once again, efficient use of time is required. I jumped a shuttle from the hotel to the Airport, and paid the $11 premium bus service to Downtown.Now I’d love to share some of the pics of going downtown, but the windows were a mess and the snow was making things fun. And yes, there was snow with a predicted daytime temp of -4 and a night time of -11. A bit chilly by my standards.Upon arriving, I discovered that the main strip (16th Street Mall) has a free bus service that takes you up and down from Union Station to the near enough State Capitol Building and back again. Whilst in the morning I walked a lot, as the day progressed I cheated and used the shuttle in the afternoon. My legs were getting tired… and the cold was starting to bite…
Two forms of art
Cow Snowed in
State Capitol
Art museum
Cleaning up
For those of us who don’t drive (or refuse to drive for personal reasons), a warning: Denver is defiantly “car required city”, with some cabs off the 16th Street strip, but not as many as I’ve seen in other cities. So plan accordingly… or find a flunky who can drive for you 
Part VII – DEN-SFO
Sunday morning came around like the ugly thing it is again, after breakfast and checking out, it was time for the off. On time, the shuttle van was ready, and drove the 5 miles back to the airport.
Now going through DIA, I noticed for the first time some of the luggage carousels. Or more precisely – the ski Carrousel’s. Now that’s a clever idea!
Clever!
I made my way up to the United check-in desks, passed the massive queue for economy and headed for the elite queues. I then began my battle with the United’s Mr Chicken. And failed as I could get it only to list two of the three segments of the day. Thankfully an agent came to my rescue, and did the check in for me manually, and tagged my goodie rucksack all the way to Belfast International. I thanked the staff (who were in love with my accent for some reason), and headed down from check in to TSA land. With the Star Gold on my Boarding Pass, I was allowed access to the elite queue, and I self selected a lane without a nude-o-scope in it.
I was through security in a few minutes, with no scans, or asking – only to find the tube of Carmex was in my pocket still.
Oops.
From there it was downstairs to then shuttle train. And what an amusing thing that is with the jovial jingles and happy sounding announcer. Maybe too happy. Still the train deposited me at the B Gates, and after getting my bearings, it was time to visit another United Club
B Gates
Lounge Stop United Club (Red Carpet Club) Denver-East.
At the entrance the dragon was awaiting, and was asking if I had an international segment on my flights today. I had all the coupons to hand so she ummed and ahhed, and kindly decided to let me in.
How kind.
I proceeded upstairs to use the WiFi to call home, check my mail and drink a few glasses of orange juice to properly wake up. And admire the view (bear in mind conditions were awful the day before, and the most of I’ve seen of Denver is at night – so this was my first view of the Rockies)
Soon enough, boarding time arrived, and it was down to the gate for the continuation of the madness that is the mileage run. The local signage confused me at first stating the flight was for Hong Kong, but then changed to San Francisco. So we have United doing it’s 1 flight number, 2 birds thing. Elite boarding was called, with people jumping in, whilst I patiently waited for Star Golds to be called. The gate agent on the other hand was telling people off as they cheekily went past. When my time came, I was waved through.
At the gate
I went down the cold jetway, onto my 3rd 757-200 in 3 days.
Leg 5 Denver International Airport – San Francisco International Airport
UA869 – United Airlines (as United Airlines), Boeing 757-200, Seat 29A, Economy Class (United Blue Tulip)
967 miles flown, 966 miles earned
Channel 9: Off 
Thankfully the welcome was warm – like the plane – when I boarded, and I once again made my way down the back of the plane. With the two bags I had, I popped the laptop and camera bag my the floor with the coat, and my backpack in the overhead bin.
The plane packed out with about one seat remaining aboard the whole plane – it seemed the early flight to SFO was popular today.
The safety video played on the overhead monitors (again a different one to the one I saw on the UA bird on Friday!) and soon enough we taxied past the Animal Gates at Denver, before turning and heading for the sky on a rolling takeoff. Again, those P&W 757 engines – like the RR 757 engines are powerful beasts and it felt like the captain wasn’t sparing the horses this morning.
The climb-out took us upward with Downtown Denver to left, before heading over the Rocky Mountains and onto San Francisco.
Climbout – Denver in the distance
Clearing the Denver/Golden area
As we climbed out, Elbow as playing on the iPhone, with an appropriate song as we cracked through the clouds
Drinking in the morning sun….
Service commenced with a snackbox and drinks service. I opted out of the snackbox, but had a diet coke to wake up on. Because of my sleeping pattern, I was more my “normal” sleeping pattern, so to me, this was Sunday wander outside the flat time. And yes, I’m lazy, but Sundays are lazy days.
Coke Zero
Against the sun
Again, the jet-streams were up to their usual tricks with a fair olde bit of chop, but nothing earth-shattering or drink spilling. People were still ignoring signs and heading for the small room.
In comparison to the Continental 757, the United 757’s… could do with a little love internally. Whilst there was nothing stand out bad, the cabin did look very tired and it could do with a Continental Cabin refresh – with some decent IFE.
Crossing California
Speaking of IFE, the TV monitors were working, but the audio in my row wasn’t. I flagged down a flight attendant when she was doing the drinks service who managed to bring the audio back. Sadly, the Captain wasn’t in a Channel 9 mood
Soon enough the snow on the hills had evaporated as we lined up for San Francisco with a gentle landing at SFO.
From nature to mankind
The plane speeded through to gates at SFO, docking at Gate 81 and once again the sea of humanity took its time disembarking.
Overall: For a 2 hour hop, the service was adequate and well delivered. The problems encountered were fixed and the staff friendly as usual. I just wish the captain had stuck on Channel 9…
A San Francisco panic
Heading off the plane, there was one priority – to get some decent chocolate for the folks back home and demonstrate the Hershey company doesn’t have an exclusive on chocolate in the USA. I quickly repacked my back on landing and headed off to the Ghirardelli chocolate shop (where I stocked up on bits for friends and family). Looking at the time on the board I had a good half hour before boarding – time for a United Club Visit
United Club (ex Red Carpet Club)
After a short wait as there was a queue, I was welcomed in the lounge and another WiFi Card given. It was then the usual opportunity to hammer the OJ Machine and sit down to do some image downloading.
I then had a look around. Where was the PITA Canon EOS 50D gone? Check bags. Nope. Under Coat? Nope. Under Chair? Nope.
To quote the opening line from Four Weddings: Oh ****, ****, ****ity ****! (fill in the stars )
I sunk the OJ in a flash and retraced my steps back to the gate where I asked a gate agent if a camera had been handed in. And someone must had been looking down on my that day as a slightly beat up 50D with a even more beaten up 17-40L lens was handed back. I profusely thanked the agent, cursed that I had no camera strap for that thing.
That and this EOS 50D and me are not getting on (for various different reasons I should add).
After the madness.. a bit of art
Camera in hand, I headed down to Gate 86 where the 737 was waiting for loading for the trans-con run. Boarding announced, and at the appropriate time, I made my way aboard.
Part VIII – SFO-EWR
Leg 6 San Francisco International Airport – Newark Liberty International Airport
CO1130 – United Airlines (As Continental Airlines) , Boeing 737-800, Seat 30A, Economy Class (New United Colours)
2565 miles flown, 2560 miles earned
Ok, I’ve been dreading this leg for a quite a bit – least of all of all the narrow body legs I’m doing, my head has some trouble of a 737 doing Trans-Continental distances. On second thoughts… Can I have a 757 back for this route please?As I was boarding, i was muttering myself about the length of the run when a voice asked if I was on a mileage run. To which I said yes and met a fellow traveller – circumknowitallwho – yes – had a FlyerTalk tag on his bag. Amazingly – they do work! We had a brief chat about our mad trips before I realised I was in the wrong row (oops), and headed to the row infront. I settled in for this Trans-con with late boarders slowly filling up the plane. Sat in the isle seat was a man heading off to Tel Aviv who was having great trouble finding a place for his bag – and in the end having to tag it all the way back to Tel Aviv. And that’s why you need to get aboard a plane in the USA quickly – to get the overhead bin space as the man and wife learned.
Still he had the middle seat – like I did to spread out into.
Eventually, the videos played. Firstly with Jeff looking godly around Chicago O’Hare…
Then the actual safety video.
The plane pushed back and it begun the taxi around SFO, finally lining in a queue of 5 planes readying for departure.
Now I lucked out again, with San Francisco to my left as we climbed out. I’ll let the pictures do the talking
Soon enough we turned away from the bay area and begun tracking eastwards to Newark NJ.
This is a way too short cabin for my liking…
In terms of IFE this bird was kitted out with LiveTV’s IFE product (with the introduction channel showing adverts mainly). Which is fine and dandy… for $6.99 a flight. So we all know what happens next.
Yes Harriet Jones. Ex Prime Minister. We know who you are…..
$6.99 or a sickbag with an iPhone? You should all know the answer… But the least they could do is integrate an Airshow client for free… oh well.
As I was mostly impressed with the Asian Noodle Salad, I again partook of another one, and remembered to ask for a full can of Diet Coke (which was delivered).
The crews were friendly, and did a couple of services before heading to the back of the plane. There was the odd water service too, with the staff being friendly. In fact.. very friendly. Definitely good to see compared to some Continental crews I’ve ran into in the past.
As the flight settled down into the long slog with a fair few bumps to Newark. It continued to plod its way slowly across the United States of America from the height of midday sunlight, to cloudy layers and then to dusk. I took advantage of the quiet time and grabbed a couple of hours sleep. By the time the plane had crossed over the midwest day had given way to night, passing through the reds of the evening, and then the inky blue and black of the night.
Almost night
Decent began about 30 minutes before stated landing time, with a full cabin clear down. Eventually, the cabin turned to night, and the plane lined up to land at Newark, with Downtown Manhattan to the left of me, lighting up the night sky.
In the words of John Madden… FOOTBALL!
As we approached the Newark area, the night lights twinkled away, with the MetLife Stadium lit up below. Eventually, Manhattan swung into view on the final approach to Newark.
Midtown Manhattan
The plane landed at Newark and after a short taxi past the A and B gates, the plane docked at the 90 gates. Again, I waited for the sea of humanity to dissipate before thanking the crew and making my way off the plane.
Overall: Not a bad flight overall. The flight attendants where engaging and felt like they wanted to be there. The 737 itself seemed to suit the mission it … even if that plane felt at tad small on the inside. The product seemed pretty rounded with the LiveTV product, and that spare middle seat – I tell you – It makes ones hell of a difference
After disembarking, I caught up with circumknowitall and we chatted about our mad trips, our mileage runs and other bits and bobs.
However, I had to split after a short while to pick up a few things and “enjoy” dealing with the Duty Free shop and get a few things for friends at work. And deal with the wonderful customer service and well staffed shops.
I’ll let you work out what was true in the previous statement and which is a slight at DruFry.
With that done, it was back to the United Club to chill for a bit.
United Club – C Gates (80ish Area)
I was welcomed to the club, with ID requested to access the club. I made my way back to the same place (but not before picking up a vodka and diet coke), and settled down to do a bit of typing and general stretching before the flight to Belfast.
In fact the Vodka and Diet Coke was so good.. I had another one. However after 2 vodkas and diet coke and a tub of snacky mix, the flight was called from the lounge. Once again, I packed up trash and headed down to the gate.
And at the gate my name was called. I was slightly excited. Was I getting an upgrade? Nope. I had left my Senator card in the lounge. Oopsie. 2nd oopsie of the day. I trundled back to the lounge where I collected my card, and headed back to the gate where boarding was just about beginning.
I collected my duty free, and then headed down the jetbridge.
The final 757 of the trip…
Part XI, EWR-BFS
Leg 7 Newark Liberty International Airport – Belfast International Airport (Aldergrove)
CO94 – United Airlines (Continental Airlines) , Boeing 757-200WL, Seat 35A, Economy Class (New United Colours)
3177 miles flown, 3257 miles earned
I was welcomed aboard, and again, the crew were in good spirits for this transatlantic hop this evening. Look at the how the plane was loading, closer to the front it was packing into 3 x 3 with the rows occupied. Further back, it seemed to thin out into middle seat free’s. And again the middle seat was free.
Home for the final leg
Eventually the plane filled up with the load it had that night (I’d say 80% or so down the back), and we pushed back a few minutes bit late for the comparatively short hop to Belfast.
The problem with East coast hops is not enough time for a decent sleep. With 6:30 block to block stated, we were to make the crossing in a rapid 5:30 minutes. Now if we chop off the first two hours for dinner service, and the last hour for breakfast and tidy down, that leaves a short 2:30 minutes for a rest period. And that’s short amount of time, no matter how you cut it! Even a tagon to LHR would only give you an extra hour.
The joy of Jetstreams.
Once again Jeff Smiesk came on in *another* video (I swear this trip I’ve counted 3 different Jeff videos), this time with a bunch of flunkies walking around Chicago O’Hare with him.
Soon enough, it was our turn to line up on the runway and let those Rolls Royce RB-211’s power us into the night sky.
The plane took off into the night sky, again, banking around Newark (not that I saw this time as I was on the “wrong” side of the plane), the MetLife Stadium was still lit up like a Christmas tree, and the plane begun to track northwards before resuming the great circle path towards Belfast.
FOOTBALL!
Lighted up
Meanwhile, the cabin was quiet
Soon enough it was time for drinks and dinner, with a choice of beef or chicken. I risked the chicken again. The tray was handed over… and here’s what we’ve got.
The tray
A Salad.. with cheese????
The Chicken
The roll could had been used as a WMD this time – it was that hard. Newark Catering seemingly had a few pennies extra to include cheese in a salad. This is getting dangerously creative out of this catering branch! The Chicken, rice and beans were edible – not brilliant, but not bad. Sadly, it’s still much better catering than you’d get out of IAD.
A drinks run followed behind, and I had finally worked out the trick of getting a full can of cola – ask for one! The first run gave me a cup, but the second run gave me a full can.
Even with all this caffeine in my system, I managed to rest against the bulkhead and get some good shuteye before the breakfast service. Which on this very short hop – came around too soon.
The breakfast service I’ve complained as being feeble in the past, but looking back at all the other carriers who do the EU<>North America run, (and it pains me to say this), Continental operated routes have one of the best breakfasts down the back of the plane.
Breakfast service
Melon
Yes. That did hurt me quite badly to type that. Compared with US Airways “Hot Danish Pastry”, Air Canada’s Banana Bread, and MainLine United’s Pastry and a Pot of Yorgart, the Melon and Pastry option seems to be the best in the sky.
Make of that what you will.
A drinks service again followed, and slowly, the inky black of night turned into blue, and then the reds of the morning begun to appear.
A Transatlantic dawn
At this point the decent into Northern Ireland began, and I was treated to a visual feast as it seems what we call snow had fallen overnight.
Snow
Decent continued, and headed out of over Belfast, out of the bay and turned for Belfast International Airport.
And decent continued into the snowy thing that is Belfast International Airport.
After a short taxi, the plane parked at Belfast International Airport sole jetbridge at 2L, and I took my leave of the still smiling crew.
Overall: A great flight with wonderful smiling crew who actually seemed happy to be doing a service on this run as opposed to a Continental Crew I’ve had in the past (yes you lot in IAH, I’m looking at you). The service runs that were conducted suited the length of the flight and all in all – a great set of UA/CO flights.
Part X: A Belfast Morning, BHD-BHX
As we’re back in the United Kingdom (or as my passport cover eloquently puts it “United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland”), it’s back to using real currency to buy things, which will be useful in a shake as I’ll need to get into town to grab my next connection. Heading to the Border there was a bit of a queue building, but I was seen to soon enough. After messing with my passport to get the reader to work, I was let into the UK. It was then a case of heading downstairs and collecting luggage. At this point, I said farewell to circumknowitall as my luggage began to trundle around the belt. Everything in hand, it was off through customs, then then hunt to find a cash machine. Why you might ask?
Alas, being at Belfast International Airport is much like being at a UK Railway Parkway station. In other words, the airport is in the middle of nowhere. This of course leads of the local bus company taking full advantage of you and charging a £7 for the privilege of a 20 mile bus ride. £7 plus another £2 to get to BHD later. Ouch. And of course, it was a single decker bus, so it packed out. Wonderful at 9am in the morning.
Whilst the Airporter would had been cheaper overall, the times didn’t work out right sadly – least of all with my extended connection.
Arriving in the city centre (and being victim to a bit of peak time traffic which was thrown into chaos thanks to a tiny bit of snow), I was dropped off at Linenhall Street, and I wandered into a Cafe Nero to 1) attempt to wake up in 2) repack my bags now that I was carrying a lot more than earlier.
City Hall
A Big Cappuccino and a bit of time to pack everything into two bags (that’s another challenge), and soon enough I was ready to face the world – or so I thought. I walked around Belfast, taking in the Christmas market at the City Hall, and wander eastwards, looping back towards Victoria Square… where the tiredness begun to hit me. Not so good when you’ve only been walking for about an hour and a half. In the end, I took refuge in a Starbucks with a Venti Americano with an extra shot to try and keep me awake. It also gave me the chance to download some pics and recharge the laptop.
Even this didn’t work…
An hour wasted there, I had another walk, and saw it was coming up on 2pm, and my body was saying “that’s enough of that”. I paid attention for once to my mind and changed course heading for the Europa Bus Centre, where I ponied up my £2 for a local ticket for a 4 mile trip in 25 minutes to Belfast City Airport.
Outside Europa Bus Centre
BHD
Pulling into the check-in area I saw that the 14:15 flight was still open. I checked briefly at the the sales desk, but they confirmed that the cut off had been passed and whilst the flight hadn’t even yet begun boarding, it was too late. It was nice of the ground staff to try, so I checked my bag in (3 kilograms under the brought limit of 15kg). With that tagged, I munched on the lunch I got a Tesco, emptied my water bottle and went through the quiet security lanes at BHD. The formalities were done within a minute as no one else was waiting, and I was in the departures area before 14:30. And yes, the earlier Birmingham flight hadn’t been called with a 40 minute delay posted.
Oh well.
I grabbed a coffee, and slumped down for a bit. Since I was within range of the BMI lounge (which as I was flying FlyBe, I couldn’t access), I grabbed their Internet connection and watched daylight turn into twilight into evening. Allegedly at 18:30 we were due to depart. And at 18:30… a delay was announced with the flight put back to 19:00. As 19:00 crept up, we were still waiting until 19:20, when the go to gate command was issued. And a sea of humanity moved at once down to the departures zone, and down into the cold waiting area where boarding passes were ripped up, and we waited for to board.
The final bird of the trip
The weather by this point had deteriorated, with a rain falling into the evening. Thankfully, we were allowed to board the plane keeping contact with the wet to a minimum.
George Best Belfast City Airport – Birmingham Airport
BE415 – FlyBe, Embarer 195, Seat 2A Economy Class
226 miles flown, 1 FlyBe Reward point earned.
I boarded the plane and made my way to 2A, whilst main loading was continued. With 62 people boarding, it was going to be a reasonably loaded flight.
The plane being an Embarer 195 as we know, it’s only slightly impossible to louse up one of these internally (normally displacing window and seats so they’re not aligned). This bird seemed to have the windows aligned correctly (well at the front of the plane anyway). During boarding the cabin crew were being very strict with seating positions due to “weight and trim restrictions”.
That and I wager they were hoping still to sell the expensive seats. This is FlyBe after all.
As the doors sealed up, 62 passengers were aboard, and soon enough it was time for pushback and a manual safety demonstration.
The plane taxied all the way to the bottom of the runway, turned in an impressively tight space, and the two GE Turbofans spooled up and rocketed the plane down the runway.
The cabin itself is a standard Embraer cabin – and lets face it – that’s not a bad thing. It means comfortable seats, a reasonable amount of leg space (if anything, the 30” advertised seat pitch felt a bit more than that), and with no one next to me, room to veg out.
Bulkhead space
Passenger service unit
Overhead space
Seat pitch
What they tout as their green fleet with Electrical Appliance labels
With a quick 40 minutes in the air the crew sprang into full sales drive mode, and seemingly did a good trade with 3 flight attendants aboard. Heck – they even had time to do a “duty free” service. And yes. I did partake for one reason alone.
Don’t look at me at that tone of voice. It’s not that I need to create more space for the model plane collection. Honest…
Again, people were buying so FlyBe must be doing something right.
With such a short flight time, the cabin was cleared down quickly, the plane secured before we commenced vectoring for Birmingham, flying over the city, then heading to Coventry before turning back for Birmingham Airport.
Touching down a mere 4 days from when I left the same piece of tarmac, the mileage run was almost over. The ERJ taxied over to the combined terminal (what in the old days I would had called the EuroHub or T2) and docked. Within minutes, a jetbridge had docked next to us, and the doors opened and I was on my way.
Overall: A reasonable experience in the air – spoiled by the weather and a distinct lack of communication from FlyBe over the delays on the ground. Sadly FlyBe in my eyes lives up to its old name: FlyMayBe. And I hate to be blunt, but there was a communication breakdown. More information and announcements were needed so people didn’t have to glance at monitors waiting for the next update.
After being cleared through arrivals, I went to the luggage belt (not carousel – it was a belt this time), where there was a 10 minute wait for luggage. Eventually, mine spat out and I was on my way.
Told you it was a belt…
Stumbling through Birmingham Airport, I somehow made it to the train station. Another £2 ticket was purchased and I descended to the platform where a Virgin service to Wolverhampton had just pulled in. 10 minutes later, I was at Birmingham New Street, before grabbing a cab back home, depositing me outside my block of flats.
Finally, 4 days, 13000 miles or so and 3 nights in the hotel – I was at my Front Door.
And after taking this photo, I unpacked, then headed to my bedroom and snored.
Closing up…
The two sides of United are… still two sided – the Continental Side and the “old” United side – and it shows in all sorts of ways with Ex-Continental routes calling themselves by the old name, and United having actually to interline luggage between itself. The different levels of service show with minor differences here and there in service offerings and operations. Even the United Clubs whilst re-branded show their Presidents Club or Red Carpet Club roots.
Now that United has one operating certificate, lets hope they start to merge the airline and the best of both cultures together. Because that would be a change I would like to see (to quote Jeff Smiesk). Still, it’s a stark improvement on United Mainline routes in October (where United put up quite a feeble performance that trip)
Transatlantic crossings in a Narrow body Jet – Unless the price is right, I’m going to stick to these wonderful Wide Bodied jets. With due respect, the Boeing 757-200 is a good jet doing this TATL job and makes economic sense to operate these thin and log routes. But if you’ve got a fully loaded jet and you’re down the back end, it is akin to Dante’s inferno with the lack of space onboard those birds compared with even a 767-300ER or even a A330.
If one was to compare the A320 series to the Boeing Narrow Body series, there’s 1ft 4 inches difference in the inner cabin dimensions – and it makes a works of difference in shoulder room. So dear Airbus, please design a Narrow Body Jet that can do extended TATL ranges without running out of gas in high headwinds please – that’s not an A319.
As one advertiser said – size matters, but it’s what you do with it that counts.
Aer Lingus as usual, delivered a good service in a short time frame. FlyBe on the other hand… yes, the on-board service was good. The wait and the lack of explanation of why our plane was delayed… was not good. It seems that not being prepared for a little bit of snow is an excuse for delays at BHD. Unimpressive… and just another reason why FlyBe live up to their misnomer of FlyMayBe.
The Travelodge… was a Travelodge. It did the job and I didn’t feel conned. These are all good things.
The Hyatt Summerfield Suites was a lovely discovery. From the full kitchen to a decent TV selection, to a bed that was comfortable. The free Internet access was a lovely bonus too. It’s a shame (like most Denver Airport hotels) it was 1) miles to get to and 2) in the middle of nowhere.
As for Denver. It’s a nice city…. but a car required city (as I have an aversion to driving normally), so I didn’t get the best out of the place. Put it like this: I wouldn’t be disappointed if Denver came up in a Mileage run at all again.
And that as they say is that for another year. No more flying till way into the New Year.
For my regular and not so regular readers, I’d like to extend a special thanks for putting up with more Economy Class drivel from me over the year and the exploits I’ve been on. For those too used to Business and First Class, I hope I’ve documented a dose of reality when your miles expire, your employer no longer pays for you to go in the big seats and you realise if you’re going away, it’s down the back. For the rest of us who travel in Economy, I hope I haven’t brought back too many nightmares
Coming up next… something a bit special. Ok, it’s going to very special.
Please join me in February/March for “Japan Bound – to Asia with ANA, Thai and Asiana featuring ANA’s Long Haul 787”
Comments welcome as always.
ADDENDUM:
If you represent an organisation who has been reviewed in a Trip Report and wish for clarification over any issue , please contact me directly at blog@ghettoife.com stating your credentials and the nature of the question requiring clarification. A response will be sent to you as soon as is possible.
September 18
It’s Sunday again, so it must be time for some airplane p0rn
This week, it’s a British Airways Airbus A321 and not a 777-200 (as I posted earlier) taking off from London Heathrow Airport
More of course next week!
December 20
It’s that time of the week again and it’s more airplane p0rn!
This week – an Aer Lingus A320 parked up at Dublin on a very cold winters morning.
November 29
It’s Sunday, so it’s time for some Airplane p0rn. This week its a US Airways A320 with Las Vegas as its backdrop
More next week!
November 7
The Autumn Run – Mixing Business with Pleasure with UA and US
LHR-ORD-LAX-LAS-(LAS-PHX-LAX-LAS)-SFO-LHR
Or “Go on… add me to the volunteer list please 
“
Welcome to the GhettoIFE.com version of this trip report. You can also find it at Flyertalk.com, however this will be expanded a bit more with a few more pictures and such… when I get 5 minutes (2 hours to post a TR is a bit… excessive!)
Previously…
LHR-BRU-LHR … or “How do you burn a £50 BMI voucher without too much pain?”
MAN-ORD on BMI (29/10 … or Did Kevin Make it to ORD?)
Kevin goes for a little mileage run on UA – ORD/CMH/IAD/EWR/ORD
ORD-MAN in BMI Premium Economy (with Pictures)
Kevin’s American Adventure – MAN-ORD-SEA-ORD-MAN (4 flights, 2 weeks) in Y..
ORD – MAN in BMI Premium Economy: How hard can a PE product drop? (also random moans)
LHR-PHL-SEA, SEA-PHX-ORD, ORD-PHL-LHR – In Y, Come and be scared with US!
LHR-SFO-LHR – If you’re going to San Francisco – SFO MegaDO Trip report
Gold Run – Mr Kevincm goes to Washington with EI and US
Long Haul Commuter Run – LHR-IAD-ORD and back with UA
Saying Goodbye to a Friend – Travelling for the wrong reasons – LHR-PHL with UA
The BA Y+/Y Class Long Haul Experience LHR-BKK/SIN-SYD and back on a bargain fare
—-
WARNING: This is a LOT longer than I thought it would be when I started putting keyboard to screen. Sorry!
Do I really need to introduce this report? Oh very well then! 
. This was going to be the usual Autumn audit of Economy class travel (for those of you who have forgotten, it’s the back of the plane, seats are upright, minimal space, etc etc etc) However, circumstances changed as things on the ground moved along. Be prepared for a few surprises than normal in this report…
Again – this will be a post a leg, with airports and maybe some sights thrown in
And now – the prologue
(you might wish to skip this bit if you want to get to the meat of this report. Those who wish to understand my madness may continue at their own risk).
So after returning to the after the never to be repeated BA Ashes Fare Sale, I realised that my regular October photography trip to Chicago was coming up again… which meant time to look at tickets. More importantly, it was time to examine where I was in the race for re-qualification for 10/11 (providing Diamond Club exists by the point of writing).
A lot of this madness was explored on the blog, but to recap.. Now I was planning a simple LHR-ORD-LHR with a mini mileage run originally. But then BA had to go and launch a LHR-LAS direct route. Why is that relevant? Well lets see, a bunch of BA board members would be aboard requiring people to “drink” with (uh-oh….).
So the route became LHR-ORD-LAS and back… Then one 3am morning (my traditional zombie time) I thought… lets add some fun to this run… How much could I push the ticket to?
Initially I was pricing this in lots of segments, and in the first instance, these were coming up cheaply. However towards when I actually started booking the trip, a lot of availability had dried up completely, and the “direct” flights were a lot cheaper than the segments (in fact, the only set of flights I could toy with were the ORD-LAS segments). However, tagging a trip onto San Francisco at the end of it made no difference to the price – with the extra miles that route gives (even though the pain of 10 hours in United E-), it seemed worth it.
Map as ever – Great Circle Mapper – http://gc.kls2.com
But there is still the matter of a few missing miles to hit *G for the year. The current situation would had left a gaping hole of 1300 miles or so. Adding more segment in would had been extremely costly alas (increasing costs by at least £200). Even Backtracking to ORD would had hurt in an attempt to keep everything in “V”.
Two options were available – either a segment run to the East Cost with United, or a segment run on the West Coast with US Airways. Both were looking good until I realised the amount of work I needed to do upon arriving in Chicago – so the East coast run was ruled out in favour of a Two state hop from Vegas. Whilst cutting down time there – I can always visit Vegas again – retaining Gold is a LOT harder…
Map as ever – Great Circle Mapper – http://gc.kls2.com
So that’s it – seats assigned for all runs (even after a little discussion over the phone with US Airways), and E- assigned for all the United legs as BA drained some of that cash earlier this year.
What could possibly go wrong?
Part I – Coaches, Heathrow T1 and Lounges.
After the disaster that was packing (and to be honest partially my fault for accepting more work that I should had) by 2am, I was ready for the off. A cab was called, and after he go lost finding where I live (cabbies are good at that) and wearing clogs instead of shoes, it was a quick dash to the coach station for the early bus to Heathrow.
This travelling light concept… explain it to me one more time…
National Express Service 210
Birmingham City Centre Coach station to Heathrow Central Bus Station
Soon enough, I was at Digbeth Coach station, with the coach loading. I had my ticket validated, and boarded.
Of course, at this time of night, only the usual nutters were travelling – with families. Thankfully a pair of noise isolation headphones I obtained from the last trip shut the families up.
At the first available opportunity, I fell asleep and slowly woke up when the coach was reaching M25. As I entered the Heathrow approach tunnel, my iPhone decided to play the following song
Hmm. This iPhone knows *FAR* too much about me. Has Steve Jobs actually made it sentient? 
Within minutes, I was ejected as my luggage was at Heathrow Central Bus station – in time for the long push to T1.
Heathrow T1
The Pictures
Heathrow T1 has changed a fair bit – least of all with all the premium areas springing up, but since a lot of the Star Alliance has moved in – it feels lighter and breezier than before.
The UA check-in queue system for Star Silver or Star Gold can be haphazard some days, clearly indicated as they were processing everyone from all queues.
Here is the exact conversation that took place between me and the queue agent
“Business class?”
“Star Gold – Economy”
“Follow me please…”
I was lead to the amazing place that is the First Class/United Global Services check-in section and checked in there. A bit of banter went on, and of course – I offered my seat for VDB if needed. It was kindly declined and I asked if I had time to go to both the BMI Number One and Star Alliance Lounge which there was a bright “Of course sir…”
Once everything was dumped at Zone Y for over-sized, it was off to security. Again no queues, and as I was passing a scanner, the agents opened a unit up for me. No objections were raised for a manual scan of my film and I was through quickly.
Then it was straight off through the rabbit warren that is the BMI end of T1 and to the Number One end of the lounge. As I entered, I had a brisk “Where do you think you’re going sir?” (travelling in my usual look I don’t exactly look like a business professional – more like a student…). A flash of the BMI Gold Card and her tone changed and a smile, – “Please come in sir…”
Lounge Stop – BMI Diamond Club – The Number One Lounge
Plenty of Flyertalkers have been through this lounge – and it is fast making a big impact in LHR T1 operations. But why? Is it something that can take on the holy grail of the Virgin Clubhouse at T1? Or is it an oddly filled space?
I was warmly greeted and given a quick verbal tour of the lounge as it was my first time there. I then had a walk round, looking at the well lit spaces, the small corners and finally, I grabbed a coffee, a few Lily O’Brien chocolates (Well… a certain BMI flyer doesn’t need them anyway when flying on his little EmBRUair ) and sat down.
WiFi access is via “The Cloud” – was free of charge – just enter your the details and off it went – so much so the first blog post of this journey was made their (with awful pictures).
Here are some better ones
The Local
The Bar
Food Area
Coffee
And a sign of times that have changed…
This is defiantly a nice place to spend time, with excellent design and thought. Excellent work BMI.
One little critique – and its been pointed out by others before – the food options for breakfast are pretty poor (pan -au-chocalat, toast, croissants). So as had a long hike ahead, I thanked the staff for an excellent lounge visit, and hiked back across T1 to the other lounge option – the Star Alliance Common Lounge.
Lounge Stop – Star Alliance Common Lounge
After being let in, and being directed in, the first thing I noticed was how busy the lounge was. The second thing I noticed was the lack of plugs in the place now. In the end I made a nest in the business centre for another 45 minutes, stocking up on bacon rolls and sausage baps for a bit.
The Breakfast of Champions – A Proper Bacon Roll is always appreciated!
WiFi has changed in this lounge – it’s now a BT OpenZone WiFi hotspot – but within the lounge complex – it’s free. I quickly has some nibbles, a splash charge of the iPhone and the MacBook and soon enough – 7am had rolled around. Time for me to bid farewell to the lounge and begin the long hike.
Thankfully UA929 was assigned to Gate 38 – so the hike was quite short for once. Upon arriving, Zone 1 and 2 were being called, so I made myself present.
My boarding pass was scanned – and she said “Have a good Mr H… Hold it – You’re Mr Kevin…”
Hold breath – was it?
“Sir – 36K has been taken from you. You’ve moved you into 9H. Have a pleasant flight – your Star Gold has helped you today”
WOOHOO! BATTLEFIELD UPGRADE 
London Heathrow – Chicago O’Hare International
United Airlines UA929, 21/10/09
Boeing 767-300 New International Configuration,
Was Seat 36K (E-), Battlefield Upgrade to 9H (United International Business Class)
3953 miles flown, 3942 earned.
Channel 9: Well. I’ll explain about that in a mo…
The Pictures
(Apologies for the photography at this point – I couldn’t get to my main camera in time, and the service had begun by the time I wanted to get to it…)
Bouncing my way down the jetway, I made it to the plane and greeted the crew with a smile. Soon enough I was at my seat near the front of the plane (it’s a rare enough experience alas).
Slowly, I settled into my seat discovering the big space infront of me. Drinks were offered. Of course as I have learned from a certain other forum, “its never too early for Champagne”.
And thus a glass of sparkling something or other was consumed. In honour of Moomba, I present a plastic champers glass in its best state
Empty
As we were prepping to take off I discovered problem number 1 of the day – some person before me managed to break their headphones into the IFE system – resulting in me not being able to use headphones 
.
Oh well. Be British. Don’t grumble
Soon enough, the cabin was secured for take off and we were off into the morning sky. Now normally, you’d expect a 101 pictures – being in a middle isle doesn’t lend itself unfortunately – neither does the one problem with the new UA Business seats – the lack of at seat storage. Taking off backwards was an interesting experience – one that works well for the seating and the full flat nature of it when you need it.
Soon enough we climbed out – heading over London, Leicester, Manchester, out via Blackpool and Belfast, reaching our height of 34,000ft.
It was breakfast time. This is where problem number 2 manifested itself – the overhead light had gone bang too. In addition 9J’s light was doing a flashing on and off thing.
Rather than worry the crew at this point – I tried my best with the iPhone to get this trip report done (darned hard too!).
Firstly the lunch order was taken, with the purser darting back and forth by status. Being an op-up obviously meant I was near the bottom of the list – but thankfully – all options were available still.
Breakfast service was then carried out – firstly with a fruit tray and then 2 hot dishes or cold cuts were offered. I decided to live dangerously and have an UA Omelet.
Fruit Plate
UA Omelet
It wasn’t that rubbery – which was a nice surprise. The chicken sausage was as usual, completely inoffensive, the hash was hashy, and the onions… were earthy.
Still by this point – I was exhausted after being up for 24 hours with only an hour or two in between, so I popped the bed into a comfortable position and that was me out until the Labrador coast – a good 3 hours kip there. I had the bed angled upward slightly whilst also proved a bit of support too.
Moving onto the IFE system, this is an example of the Panasonic ex2 System in business and first, with full AVOD on a nice 15” screen. Image clarity was clear (I was watching Star Trek from row 9 …. With row 10’s screen) and the software and UI is clear and thought out. Now if I had a headphone socket, I would had really appreciated this – alas – not to be.
AVOD System
Lets move onto the seat. At 77″ in flat mode, it’s a very nice space. Even in a mid configuration, my feet were on the footrest fine and I could just relax and sleep in any given and set configuration. The padding is reasonably soft, with the lumbar support programme full of fun and games. Of course, like most modern business seats, there are power sockets and USB charging areas.
The Seat
Seat Controls
After a quick trip to the small room, I wandered to the Galley and explained what had happened. The flight attendant was very sorry, and without prompting, gave me an appreciation card. To be honest – I wasn’t expecting a card – I just wanted to let the team know so when the aircraft goes to maintenance, they can fix the issues…
Drink and Hot Towel
But time wandered on, and lunch was served.
To start off with – UA’s signature dish…
Hot nuts!
Starter – Regular viewers will note the wine glass is indeed full. What of? Oh come on… Chardonnay of course
Service was the carried out on a tray with the starter (salmon and a salad – of course add a sesame seed dressing and we’ll call it an Asian salad…).
Shortly after, I had the vegetarian curry – actually a very nice option – nicely spiced, although I still question the peas in the rice.
Desert followed of cheese or a triple chocolate desert thing. This again is another easy guess…
And of course, Chinese Diet Cola.
After this point, people had raised blinds and I wandered around the cabin a bit.
However, time was a coming on, and it was soon enough time to secure the cabin. At this time the purser came along and introduced herself, and apologised for the problems – and offered a bottle of wine with compliments. A simple act – but very nice of her to offer the wine for the technical issues that were beyond her control.
After a long taxi into T5, it was off with me to the border where I was stamped in, ID’d and greeted, and then of course the wonders that is “waiting for luggage to spit out”.
Unsurprisingly, BP1/2 luggage spat out first, then no priority, and finally – priority luggage appeared. Nice work ORD Luggage handlers 
. A quick visit to our friends at Customs, and once again – I entered the Land of the Free(TM)…
Overall: A very unexpected experience and a great surprise. The United Business product seemed to be very well rounded, and where needed – service recovery carried out. It’s occasions like this where you go with the flow, and manners and politeness can make a heck of a difference. Now if we can get some consistency with the ORD Luggage destroyers…
———————–
Hotel: Hyatt O’Hare
The Pictures
Once again, it’s back to this lovely hotel – except for one little issue – I was placed in the Executive wing. Now that may sound nice in theory, but it’s a substantial hike from one end of the hotel to the other. However, Hyatt Platinum was acknowledged, with WiFi given away as promised (probably the best beanie of Hyatt Platinum at $9.99 a day). As usual, the beds were sumptuous and comfortable, as were the surroundings, including the flatscreen TV and the bathroom.
To be honest – the room didn’t feel that executive-y – but it was good, with adequate working spaces. Next time, I’ll arrange to be in the main atrium. If you’re working until 2am in the morning, the shorter the hike back to the bedroom – the better…
Bell and Concierge were as good as ever, and prompt.
The bar was… full of marketing reps most of the weekend – but was reasonably efficient once the barperson worked out how to make a Cosmo and draw a diet coke from the machine (no – lets not go there )
Views
Rosemont Station at night
From the 10th floor in the main Atrium
The Restaurant
But anyway, Monday came soon enough. A 06:00 wake up and at reception by 07:00 – it was back the the Bunny….
Part IV – Bunny’s, Dragons, and Seats that go Bump in the Night…
Ah. Chicago O’Hare. Can I compare thee to a Autumn’s Day? Can I compare thee to the weather outside – wet and dreary. Yes? Oh Goody.
I wandered to PremExec Check-in, and dumped my pile of luggage, with LR’s signed on the tripods, and an option to put myself on the Volunteer list. Judging I was in 27F already, anything would be an upgrade from that – so I tapped it out. Pretty soon my boarding passes were spat out at me.
Looking at the queues, they were for miles around, so a check-in agent who needed to take my idiot sized luggage through directed me to a shorter priority queue. Quickly enough, it was a liquids scan, with a manual film scan (no questions). Soon enough I located that I would be at concourse C and foolishly decided to head to C17 as a lounge.
Through the Hypnotunnel… with Rhapsody in Blue playing in the background
United Red Carpet Club – C17.
Drunk: Coffee. Lots of it.
Bagel things consumed: Few
Juvenile laughter amount for the word “Smuckers”: Infinite.
A forced smile greeted me and I went to the enquiry desk to be told loudly and in a clipped style that “VDB’s would be managed at gate and I have no views of what’s going on”.
Nothing like friendliness eh?
Anyhoo, I went into the lounge to be disappear to see what wonders would be served this time of morning… and compared to the simple Star Alliance or even BMI Number One Lounge, I was in for the usual disappointment of mini muffins, bagel things, Snuckers, Fruit and Yoghurt.
Nothing like a healthy breakfast then…
But my hotspot access was still working – enough to phone the office and to do a bit of light surfing before the stamped at C25.
Ok – it had reasonable views art least
Of course, as soon as time allowed, I made my way out of this RCC with a mental note not to darken its doors again.
I wandered down to C25, with the Red Boarding Carpet lice swarming and politely inquired if my seat was needed. I was told a good chance – please take a seat.
5 minutes later – I was paged to go to the podium -I was being VDB’d and after a little discussion – I successfully VBD’d at the gate for the 10:10 flight (with an attempt to get me on the direct Vegas flight that was met with a raised eyebrow). A lot of tapping later, and two new boarding passes spat out with a Voucher. It was only after I walked away from the podium did I actually start reading it. Firstly I saw my LAX-LAS flight I had been reassigned an isle seat (which I would correct later), a DBC Free Voucher (that had to be corrected too) but the boarding pass for the ORD-LAX leg was saying 4J. A quick bit of math in my head and a look at the top of the boarding pass gave it
My First FIRST
As I didn’t want to experience the dragons in C17 again – I headed to customer service to get the seating assignment changed (and was upgraded to E+) and the DBC converted into Travel Credits (this trip is turning into rich pickings!) and then went to hang around the gate. More logical really as boarding was a few minutes away.
That and my iPhone is trying to tell me something again (Hint: Yana’s Aria – BA 1989 Face Advert)
Are you *sure* you’re trying to tell me something iPhone?
Soon enough boarding was called, and I bounced my way on-board to the wonders that is United Domestic First Class
Chicago O’Hare International – Los Angeles International
United Airlines UA531, 26/10/09
Boeing 767-300 Domestic Configuration
Seat 4J – United First
Channel 9: On
The Pictures
I was greeted and went to my seat a 4J. I thought the numbering was bit odd, until I saw the innards – a Boeing 767-300 greeted me. On top of that, a Window seat too. I quickly stowed what I needed, and sat down in the big recliner that was waiting for me.
Juicey…
Pretty soon a drinks round of orange or water was done as boarding continued. Service items were mostly collected up and eventually, the plane pushed back and taxied around.
After a while, wheels went up, and it was off into the big blue for a while. Service was delayed for 25 minutes as turbulence was a bit rough, but eventually, the flight attendants were released, so service could begin.
Yes – United’s Signature Dish. The drink might be familiar. Here’s a hint – there’s Vodka inside
An offer of a Turkey roll or an Asian Salad was made. I once again wondered what sesame dressing would be deemed as Asian today.
Don’t you hate being right
However – this is one of the better salads I’ve had in the air – least of all with size but with content. The salad itself was fresh – the chicken not overly dry. The Tomato Bisk was also very nice – very flavoursome.
Compared to some meals I’ve had in the air – it was very edible.
The flight then settled into a slow journey across the Americas, passing slowly away. I felt the need for a bit of IFE… and as the United options weren’t too hot – there was only one thing I could do…
Ghetto IFE system – compatible with United First (Family Guy: PTV)
The seat itself was well spaced at a 38″ pitch – adequate for a 4 hour flight, but still required the person next door to climb out if you want to go to the small room. Recline is of a mechanical nature as opposed to electric
Time passed, and slowly the journey came to an end, crossing the Grand Canyon…
with regular water runs…
and finally ending up in LAX, touching down on scheduled.
Overall: First is sometimes an overused word. Business would be a better descriptor in terms of the seat, and space (Least of all – compared to International 767). Still service was excellent and carried out with a smile. Nice one crew.
LA… LA..
Soon enough I was wondering around LAX T7. Looks nice and modern – and whilst I *could* go and get an In-and-Out Burger, I decided just to head to the lounge. An early start and a comfortable wait with an active WiFi account was an easy win here.
The RCC lounge at LAX is of MUCH higher quality that of ORD (if anything – B18 is the nearest thing that could hold a candle to it) with access to drinks and a wider range of snacks too. It was well lit, and with lots of natural sunlight coming in (if filtered with blinds), it was a very relaxing environment – enough to spend a couple of hours for the next flight without any particular panic.
The RCC innards
Coffee Bar
Food Menu
My plane at the gate
Boarding again was done by Zones, with Star Gold boarding after 1K/GS and F. I was assigned 10A – an E+ Row in-front of the emergency exit. Whilst this would mean minimal recline, for a 50 minute hop – that wasn’t that important.
Los Angeles International – Las Vegas McCarran International.
United Airlines UA378, 26/10/09
Airbus A320, Version 2 Configuration, Seat 10A
236 miles flown, 600 earned.
Channel 9: Off
The Pictures
The Encounter on taxi..
After a short taxi, we pulled up into the air and over the pacific, before turning inland and making the short hop over to LAS.
Obligatory A380 Photo – Both a QF747 and A380
Up again…
E+ Seat
A quick drinks run was done – this being an exTED route … drinks were done TED style
TED – Happy to Share Cola with Anyone – but in single cup! RAR!
However, there was still time to set up an IFE system…
However there wasn’t much time to drink it, and service was cleared up before landing in Las Vegas McCarran Airport.
Turning for LAS
The strip…
Overall – E+ wasn’t needed for this hop – but was appreciated by the Chicago Ground Team. Whilst a TED style drink may be appropriate – it does feel like it cheapens the service slightly. But again – 50 minutes from wheels up to down doesn’t leave a lot of time for a drinks run – let alone anything else…
And Welcome!
Hotel: MGM Grand
One of the bigger hotels on the Strip, the MGM is easily visible from McCarran Airport. Reception is tastefully done out with Leo the Lion standing guard.
Check in was painless, and a bellman helped me with my luggage to the back end of beyond – I mean the West Wing of the hotel. Which brings me onto my first tip: If you’re planning to stay at the MGM Grand… Bring Hiking Boots. You’ll need them.
Hike
The Room
The room itself is a King Bed, with all the usual amenities of that sort of style room – in other words, lots of glass and of course – an eerie green glow. Still at $59++ a night – I wasn’t exactly arguing.
Of course, after a couple of hours sorting myself out, I did the Vegas thing, seeing all the usual sights, getting enough calling cards to make my own Vegas deck, and of course taking far too many pictures that won’t appear here
However, I did decide to have a lil flutter, so I approached a slot machine in trepidation, and popped in a dollar… and on the very first go … I WON AT VEGAS
Yes It’s $5. $5 is $5. Your point being…
But bed beckoned. Because at 5am I would had needed to have hiked out of the hotel for the mileage run…
After ponying up for another expensive taxi, I wandered to check in, and confused the poor check in agent.
“Where are you going today sir?”
“Las Vegas”
“… oh.. you’re trying to confuse the computer”
“Two words: Mileage run”
tap tap tap…
“… and here are the boarding passes”
A short walk to the TSA who were in a friendly mood – film scanned by hand without questions and it was a short walk to the A Gates where my flight would go from.
As US Airways have pulled the lounge in LAS, it was off to waiting at the gate. However, there is one minor upside to this (apart from the slot machines making noises) – free WiFi!
How I’ll remember LAS airport…
Soon enough boarding came around, and once the person on the Segway boarded – as well as a couple of families, it was time to board in the first boarding group.
Las Vegas McCarran International – Phoenix Sky Harbour
US Airways US460, 27/10/09
Airbus A320, Seat 5F
255 Miles flown, 600 Earnt
The Pictures
Ah. Good old US Airways. You always know which bucket you’re sitting in. Defiantly one of America West’s old machines, the aircraft was in good shape – as was the seating. Boarding was very slow, and to be honest, I nodded off.
The announcements must had been quiet because I missed the safety demo (not that I read the card on boarding, counted the rows back and forward to the exits… call me old fashioned, but I like to know HOW I’m going to escape) and the next thing I knew – it was up in the air with us.
Clearing city limits
The crew managed a 60% service on this flight, however leaving Las Vegas and approaching Phoenix was pretty bumpy, so crews were trapped in seats a lot of the time.
Points for how many of those services are running…
Soon enough, it was time to line up for Phoenix, and we taxied into the B Concourse. This was my juncture to make use of my BMI Star Gold Card – and head for the lounge
Another airport – time to hike again
Of course, this meant a hike from one end of B concourse to the other and back again for about 15 minutes in a lounge. In the name of research of course
US Airways Club, Phoenix Sky Harbour Airport
Coffee’s drunk: One
Bagels eaten: 2
Muffins eaten: 1
Bagels smuggled out: 2
Juvenile laughter amount for the word “Smuckers”: 12 minutes at least.
Just a quick visit really to poke around and see what’s what. The lounge felt comparatively small for a “Hub” lounge, but the food options were stocked as well as they could be for a morning in a US lounge and the coffee was hot.
The Lounge
Another healthy breakfast
Enough to rest for a few minutes before picking up the rush of this run.
After wandering to the gate – two flights were listed. This was going to be fun. After a 10 minute delay to boarding, the LAX passengers were invited to board.
Phoenix Sky Harbour – Los Angeles International
US Airways Express US2611 operated by Mesa Airlines , 27/10/09
Canadair CRJ200, Seat 2A
370 Miles flown, 600 Earnt
Mesa.. Mesa… Messy air. There is a running joke that in express carriers, one does the following. Considering a Mesa friend of mine once said “We got compared how bad we were to Ryanair. I was proud”… how bad are they?
Boarding was a mess with both a plane for somewhere in the Orange County and LAX loading at the same time, with the LAX passengers being sent to the wrong jet…. before being sent back to our CRJ-200.
Inside the CRJ – we hadn’t closed up yet
Safety demo was done manually, with the flight attendant having to stop at each segment of the demo to show the mask and seatbelt – this is where Republics/Trans-State’s idea of recording the demo once, then allowing it to work on playback isn’t a bad idea.
After a short taxi, it was back up in the air for the second leg of this hop. Again – it was bumpy of out of Phoenix, but after a while the air settled down.
Up we go again
Now the state of this CRJ…. Oh dear. Someone needs to show a little love to this aircraft. Uncared for would be one word. In need of a deep clean would be a better description.
Clean me!
Now I freely admit I didn’t have much sleep at all the night before, so I took the opportunity to doze. As it feels you’re in a sardine can in a CRJ-200, this isn’t too hard for ones head to rest against the bulkhead. Saying that, I drifted in and out enough to snap some pics, and saw a service being carried out – even requests for drinks after service was met with a smile.
Soon enough – the little CRJ was lining up for LA, and after a nice gentle touchdown, it was a quick taxi to the gate. Seeing that the earlier LAS flight had just gone to doors closed, I wandered off to another US Airways club to empty them of coffee and crunchy mix.
Overall: A little love is needed for the plane, but the basic service was reasonable and the flight attendant was in full smile mode. Whilst Mesa does have a reputation that puts it in the lower classes, lets put it like this: I’ve been on worse flights.
US Airways Club – LAX.
Fun with the coffee machine: Lots
What the hell I am doing drinking in LA? Waiting for the next flight obviously!
After being admitted, I found a nice corner to sit in. Again – this area had a T-Mobile hotspot (and another $7.99 goes fizzle) and started raiding the snack bar (woefully filled – but about right for US carriers I suppose), and I settled down.
Now there is one thing about this club – a distinct lack of sunlight as it is boxed in a corner practically – so it is a very “dark” environment. But still – it was a quiet time of day and not many people until boarding time – so I could get on with a bit of typing and catch up with “the real world”.
Soon enough, it was time to wander off again so I thanked the staff, and wandered down to the gate where I waited for the next flight.
Meanwhile in Southwest Land…
Los Angeles International – Las Vegas McCarran International.
US Airways US162, Seat 5F
Airbus A319, Seat 5A
The Pictures
After boarding and once again, stowing my stuff the plane filled up very quickly for this short hop back to LAS. Again – US Seems to doing well as all the seats seem to had been taken – mainly with connecting passengers (a lot of Japanese tourists as well as British tourists flying in for the Half-Term break).
Repairing the Encounter
Soon enough, we pushed back, safety demo completed and after a very short taxi from T1, we were up in the air going out over the pacific, before turning back inland.
Very quickly the flight attendants were released, and a drinks run was done, with a warning that would be a fair bit of turbulence at the end of the flight as there were dust storms in the Vegas vicinity.
Now lets get to the state of this poor plane. Whilst looking good on first inspection (the grey walls indicating this was either a post merger or US Airways plane), getting to the seat – things are little more visible that US isn’t showing the love, and nor are the passengers for that matter.
Wanted: Person to care for inside of Airbus A319. Apply in writing to US Airways, Tempe, Arizona..
Out of scientific interest I also decided to waste $7 on a US NapPack. So exactly what’s in one?
Well we have a blanket (made of very cheap fleece – not nice to the touch), a inflatable pillow (not too bad I suppose), Blindfold (Airline quality) and earplugs (untested) and a $10 SkyMall catalogue discount (laughable) and a bag to hold it all in (branded). Whilst not the best value in the air, it saves some costs for US, whilst also seemingly adding value for customers.
As we descended, the cabin was locked down early and out of the window, it was possible to see the dust whipping up. A comparatively gentle landing, and once again – I had reached Vegas.
Overall: Oh US Airways. A bit of love and care would go a long way with your aircraft. The service itself was good, and was paced reasonably for the flights and the clubs were acceptable. I however still think that US *really* needs to raise it’s game further now that Continental have joined the Star Alliance.
Well that’s enough US Airways isn’t it?
Another night at the MGM Grand – and some time catching up with FlyerTalkers, but as usual – time was not on my side.
Lets get back to the home run shall we?
After paying out another idiot amount for a taxi , I made my way to a heaving check-in. After a lot of flicking in my passport, the luggage was tagged with priority markers, and after being asked window or isle (and saying window), I was upgraded to E+ at check in.
A short hike, and I was at D Gates TSA. And this is where the fun began. If you’ve noted through this trip report, I’ve been asking for manual scans of all my film. Why? Well I’m an old fashioned so and so who 1) uses 120 film, 2) actually understands the damage X-rays can do to film and 3) If the packet on the film says “DO NOT EXPOSE TO X-RAY”, you follow that instruction.
So I got a full “it can be scanned, not it can’t, I want to scan it, I’ve had no problems elsewhere, strop, go off scan, tell me to mail it home next time (what and subject it to industrial X-ray… clever idea). You just have to LOVE the TSA for inconstancy.
To be honest, I just got out of the TSA zone, and headed to the gate. I wasn’t that fussed on Lounge access, and besides, it was a chance to catch up on mail before heading home.
After making sure no volunteers were required (yes – I would try it on ), I joined the queue and boarded in the first group.
UA567 – Las Vegas McCarran International- San Francisco International
United Airlines UA567, 28/10/09, 10A
Airbus A320S – ExTED Configuration
After boarded, I discovered to my delight that I had actually got an exit row – ok not the fabled Row 11 – but still a substantial amount of space.
My companion
However, this is defiantly an exTED aircraft (even though in United colours). Apart from the classic orange chet lines on the luggage bins, the big FlyTED.com on the back gave it away
TED is still Happy to see you! RAR!
Still the aircraft was clean, and looked in good condition. After being asked if I would be happy to perform the exit row functions, boarding completed and a long taxi ensued before the Airbus took to the sky.
Leaving Las Vegas…
Safety belts were left on for a bit due to turbulence in the area, thanks to the high winds in the area. Soon enough the lights were extinguished, and a drinks service commenced – will full cans of coke being issued
See TED. Full Can. RAR!
Again – once past the turbulence, a nice gentle flight. Soon enough it was time to batten down the hatches for landing and after a nice touch down, it was a short taxi to the terminal.
On approach for SFO
The doors were released quickly, and I made a bolt for the exit.
With a good 10 hours before my next flight, it seemed a waste to spend it in the RCC at SFO, so instead I wandered off to down-town San Francisco and explored some of the places I missed last time when I was doing the MegaDo last time.
However, time as usual evaporated quickly, and it was back on the BART to the airport. As I had my Boarding pass already issued, I proceed to security, where upon the scanner failed, and I was put in the glass box for 5 minutes for a pat-down.
After that little humiliation, I headed straight for the RCC. I was greeted by a friendly receptionist, and immediately given my two drink chits without prompting.
The SFO International RCC
After wandering upstairs, I found a nice window seat overlooking both the International and Domestic areas. A quick gaze out of it and I saw four fire engines… lights ablaze… what was going on. Soon enough I had an answer – with a United 737 taxing in (and after a bit of research, the last UA737 coming home
United Recommends San Francisco Airport Cleaning Services
More at www.ghettoife.com
The lounge itself is nice and airy, with the usual paid for bar and the mixes and cruets. Whilst not a brilliant selection (much like the LAX lounge), it still puts the ORD and IAD lounges to shame.
Soon enough 7pm rolled around, and I packed up my trash one more time and headed for the gate, where r Star Gold/Prem Exec boarding was announced, I made my way into the aircraft for the final leg home.
UA930 – San Francisco International – London Heathrow Airport
United Airlines UA920, 28/10/09
Boeing 777-200, Seat 42A
5368 miles flown, 5355 miles earnt
The Pictures
Alas, the only window seat that was open when I was booking was… 42A (lets call it seat 99Z. It felt that far back). For those who don’t know, 42A is basically the last row of a UA 777.
Row 99A..
Safety demo was done manually, and the aircraft pushed back on time. A bit of a taxi around SFO and the engines roared up for take off
Off we go for one last time
Nighttime over the bay area
Bear in mind, at this point – I was pretty tired with little sleep since Chicago, so my head was against the bulkhead, and soon enough I was out cold – missing the first drinks service – and trying to keep awake for the food service. I almost wish I didn’t looking at the what came out.
Ok… I’m taking a Wild guess and this logically must Cajun chicken – the rice might be a give away.
This was actually a reasonable in-flight meal.
After food, I zonked out again. The next thing I knew,6 hours had passed, and we were tracking southwards of Iceland, heading for Scotland – so I had by this point missed the mid-flight snacks, and I was pretty much trapped in the seat as I had a sleeping passenger who only woke up when the snack service arrived.
Speaking of the snack service – it’s the classic chewable tooth destroying Pretzel-bread….
The more things change…
A drinks run was done behind this – and at this point, I set up a Ghetto IFE system just to watch a couple of things, before switching back to Channel 9 for approach and landing.
Ghetto IFE System featuring Top Gear: Race to the North – Tornado (Steam Train) vs Car vs a Hamster on a Bike
After doing a loop of the north-western hold, it was through the cloud, past Windsor Castle, and a firm landing on the runway, and a quick taxi over to the other-side of beyond of LHR T1 – Gate 46.
And down.
A short hike to immigration as I disembarked – least of all the travelators are “under repair”, constricting the access-way and also making people exercise for once
IRIS for once was operational at T1, and after looking at the the mirror, I was let into the UK. My luggage was already on the belt (or off the belt in the case of the Ski Bag), so I made my way down to the Heathrow Connect.
Heathrow Connect, Class 334
Heathrow Central – London Paddington (£7.40)
The usual 25 minute journey to London – again, tickets were checked, no issues with anything. Upon arrival at Paddington, the Barriers were open – a very logical move considering how much luggage goes through there and the revenue protection done on the service itself.
A taxi to Euston to argue with Virgin Trains (apparently, the peak period for Virgin commences at 15:15, not 15:30 – nice of them to publish that ), then a Taxi back to Marylebone (with a meter runner), and I boarded the 16:00 to Birmingham Snow Hill.
Chiltern Railways, Class 168/2 “Clubman”
London Marylebone – Birmingham Snow Hill (Saver Return RTN portion only – £44)
Even though it was approaching peak time, the service wasn’t that packed out. I thankfully located a twosome seat, plonked my luggage down and crashed again between Wembley and Banbury.
The loads increased as the train passed through Leamington Spa – peak time had arrived – but there was no “pushing” or “demands” for space – people were comfortable.
Upon arrival at Snow Hill, I pushed my way through the barriers, found a taxi, and finally ended up at Chez Kevincm.
All done!
Where upon I unpacked, dumped the washing in the machine, and went off to get some Fish and Chips – and after a while – dozed off on the sofa.
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Trip Report Card:
OpUp’s: 2 (LHR-ORD in C, ORD-LAX in F) 
E+’s FOC: 2 (LAX-LAS, LAS-SFO)
Exit Rows: 1 (LAS-SFO)
Travel credits: $350
Channel 9 on: 3 out of 5 (probably 4…)
Vodkas and Colas Consumed: 3
Other vodka based products: 1
Whine: Lots. D
TSA’s annoyed: 2 (At LAS)
US Airways love: None
Before, I’ve always been on deadlines when I travelled – travelling with flexibility has really helped.
Overall a very good performance from United in all classes – a MAJOR improvement to the June trip, and I’d say an improvement from the Feb run. The crews were all reasonably happy, requests were met well. Again – a smile and politeness goes a long way. I’d say even the catering has improved out of SFO… but I could had been very lucky…
The Business and First Class experiences were enjoyable. Whilst I would not go out of my way to spend actual money (it’s called “prioritising” – I have other priorities in life), I can see how these products work, and when they’re delivered well – they work very well.
US Airways… is still US Airways. Even on short-haul, they’re performing – if insisting on TED like service on flights (Plastic cup of drink for you.. and buy our sleep-pack please).
I think with Continentals entry in Star Alliance – Hopefully, a good sharp kick has been delivered to both US and United to improve their products further. Well I can hope.
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Well that’s it from me for a fair old bit – partially to appease my bank manager and as Gold is sewn up for another year, I’m running low on Annual leave at work.
Feb and March are looking good for travel next year… and there is still the battle for *G qualification for either CO or BD next year. Ah the games we play…
Although my feet are very itchy still. Either I need to see a foot specialist – or I need to plan a trip…
May 20
Welcome to GhettoIFE.com!
I’m your host – Kevin – and I’ll be here to guide you through the maze of modern travel, and hopefully add some insightful comment and humour.
With GhettoIFE getting on for 2 years old, I’ve had a bit of a design refresh, and tidied up, so for older viewers who make it here – yes, it’s the same content will all the usual sarcasm as always.
As well as random posts on the days events, my trip reports and a few other bits, there will be a few “regular” slots including:
GhettoIFE.com is updated once or twice a day depending on what’s going on in the world when I’m at my base, and a lot less frequently when I’m away travelling.
All the posts have a slightly twisted and humours bent, and of course comments are open. Please feel free to drop your thoughts in.
I don’t Twitter, nor do Facebook – so it’s traditional email through the comment boxes or direct at blog@ghettoife.com
Thank you for choosing Kevin’s Ghetto IFE. We know you have a choice in blogs.
January 23
Welcome to Gold Run – Mr Kevincm goes to Washington with EI and US Airways.
Again – this trip report is a “republished” report from FlyerTalk.com (it’s original home), and in the spirit of GhettoIFE (where this trip actually originated the term), I’ve gone back over this Trip Trip report, tidying it up, cleaning it, correcting some spellings – and adding new photos that you haven’t seen before. So even if you have read this one before, spin through it – there’s “new content!”
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But first – a message from our sponsor!
Yes, it’s muggins again. Unlike the passionately addicted Moomba who’s forgotten what a Y tray meal looks like or Kiwi Flyer who does more miles than I can dream of, it is yet another trip in steerage for me. Some of course query the value of a Y class trip report – others just laugh at me idly for subjecting myself to this madness. I like to appeal to those who need comedy.
My normal rules apply to my trip reports – in other words, sarcasm abound, bad Brit humour, amusing anecdotes, random moans and YouTube videos that make no sense to anyone (well … someone with a bad sense of humour). Comments welcome in the box below 
Of course I should plug my photoblog which has the pictures for this trip, split into bite sized segments for you to enjoy
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So where were we last time…
Ah yes – the lack of 3155 miles to hit the magic BMI Diamond Club Gold to hit Star Gold.
As a lot of us on the European continent know, mileage running in the EU is 1) expensive thanks to taxes every 5 meters and 2) mileage earning is pants in the lower fare buckets, thus to get decent mileage, you have to fly J or C… with the cash needed to do those s0ort of runs.
So the aim of this run was threefold, yet simple:
1) Get me to gold
2) Get me on a flying start for gold next year
3) Try and do it with the minimal possible spend
See? I don’t do complex
Choices, Choices…
The choice… SWISS or US Airways? Do I do a J class special and minimise the pain, or go for the full on masochistic experience that is a 757 across the pond with a few extra segments?
I was all set for a J class overnight in Barcelona when US Airways started throwing silly fares flying from Dublin to Washington Regan National. Combine that with an easy start from my home airport (BHX), the struggling pound anywhere, and the math doesn’t lie. It was US Airways or bust!
After a bit of fiddling with the booking engine, I was getting multi-segment returns for $71 each way+ tax and the usuals.
Now leaving me with a booking engine can be dangerous…. as I discovered some segment hops were very good value. Modifying the segments proved to be … a dangerous mistake for my sanity (as good as my sanity is at 4am in the morning)
So the mile earning itinerary is:
DUB-PHL – US Airways
PHL-LGA – US Airways Express
LGA-DCA – US Airways Shuttle
DCA-BOS – US Airways Shuttle
BOS-PHL – US Airways Express
PHL-DUB – US Airways
An interesting note for doing these: Segments in the BMI Diamond Club program score 600 miles a pop. Therefore with 1 segment priced up the same as 2, it was mad not to take them up on the extra hops.
Alas, I don’t live in DUB… I’m nearer BHX. I could haul my backside down to LHR, but I’m not in the mood. Thankfully Aer Lingus have handy little BHX to DUB hop (yes – there is Ryanair route there that arrives a whole 5 minutes early, but even I have some limits) so its 8 segments over 3 days. I think that’s a new record even by my standards.
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
Ok .. this is difficult to work out, but on the left is the muddle that is LGA, BOS, GhPHL and DCA. On the right is the muddle that’s BHX and DUB. Easy? Whadaya mean no? Sigh.. you can have some maps too on each leg. Aren’t I nice?
To cut down costs, again I’ll be travelling with the small backpack only (as EI charges for checked luggage, so one bag it is – the one that I’ve managed to mangle at Chicago O’Hare a few trips ago), with the poor Macbook (the keyboard top is not wearing well), some lenses, a couple of cameras and a couple of clothing changes.
Of course visiting the USA requires filling in of an ESTA form which of course… actually, no – I won’t go into this. It’s just hassle to visit the land of the free(tm)
So… what can possibly go wrong? . Lets do the “Gold Run” (where’s Bob Holness presenting BlockBusters when you need him?) to Super Obama Land!
A tonal change before we go any further
This trip took place the day after the US Airways 1549′s bird strike incident at La Guardia. My compliments and kudos to the Captain and crew involved for landing the plane, getting everyone off safely. May those involved have a speedy recovery. As part of this trip report goes through LGA… so I’ll report there too..
To BHX
5am in the morning. Argh. Why didn’t I do a simple Swiss run? After packing out what was needed, it was a stroll to the nearest bus stop, and within a few minutes (even at 5:40 in the morning) the 82 turned up on scheduled. As its dead ‘clock, there’s near enough no-one on the bus, and it was a normal sluggish ride to New Street station.
5:30… on a Birmingham morning.
There was the option of reducing my costs further and taking the 900 bus from the city centre to BHX, but even I have limits.
Of course for taking the train – this means transiting through the dark bowels of Mordor Hauptbahnhof (also know as Birmingham New Street Station). A ticket machine swallowed £3.10 and spat out a ticket at me. Thankfully, with it being first thing on a Friday morning, there was next to no queues or a wait for a train, and off I went
London Midland Birmingham New Street – Birmingham international airport
Class 350 “Desiro”
6am – Nutters need only apply at this time of morning
Nothing out of the ordinary for a morning train service – mostly empty, but there wee enough people for a ticket inspection to be carried out (one of the few times it’s paid to be me. Within 10 minutes, I had pulled in to Birmingham International Train station, and proceeded upwards to the Air-Rail link.
BHX is however an oddball of an airport, partially due to its location halfway between London and Manchester and the shortish runway, Therefore, with a mixed population it gets a fair mix of long haul airlines (Emirates, Air India (when they want to run a service), Continental, PIA, Turkmenistan and US Airways in the summer). However, it contains a lot of charter, holiday traffic and of course the low cost carriers that the UK seems to be enamoured with. Thus it seems that although it is semi aircraft nerd friendly with an observation lounge pre security, but the full on shopping experience post security, with no natural light, no… nothing really apart from a BAA style shopping experience. Of course attempting to find a plug in this airport is akin to asking for the moon on the stick – it doesn’t happen.
There are a few little things I like about BHX, one of them being a bit of joined up thinking of how to link the terminal and the train station together.
After getting to EI’s check-in desks (I’m old fashioned – I don’t do this newfangled OLCI thing unless I have to) I found no queue, and was checked in with no bags, with a question asked of window or isle I’d like to be assigned into. I was issued my boarding pass and went through security. Again there were practically no queues for security and I was straight through, however I have to ding the airport for charging for ziplock bags (aka Kippy bags) at 4 for a £1… defiantly an expensive mistake if you haven’t prepared…
And then it was just a wait. And also scanning the press for US1549 little swim…
Papers with the news of the day.
Soon enough it was time to head to the gate.
My ride – Ryanair users might notice the odd things attached to the airport are called is an Airbridges… it means you don’t have to go outside
Leg 1 of 8 16-01
Aer Lingus Ei463, Birmingham International Airport – Dublin Airport
Airbus A320-200, Seat 15F
200 miles flown, 0 miles earned
The Photos
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
Amazingly, I had kept my new years resolution number, and successfully avoided yet another RyanAir flight (alas, I cannot be bothered, nor do I have the energy to engage in the RyanAir game of pay by Electron card, print your own boarding pass, pay for oxygen, etc. I’d rather pay the extras in the first place and be happy… which worked out to as massive… 96p.)
Boarding was a split affair, with the rear half of the plane called, then the forward half. Load factor was a about 66% – I couldn’t see a middle seat occupied at all. Crewed with 4 Flight attendants, service was split over 3 carts , so pretty good brisk service for those who wanted it before the crew went into a huddle for duty free (surprisingly for once – yes I did take part, and brought myself another model – yes. I’m sad enough to collect them ; ) – all done within 15 minutes of take off. They then split into a 3 at the back, 1 at the front, with one roving up and down the plane every now and again.
Off again!
Captain came on the over loudspeaker, with flight stats (20,000ft) and a specified early arrival at DUB (from 1 hour to 45 minutes – a short hop)
There are some reassuring things in the world. Aer Lingus’s BOB is of them. Unfortunately, as the pound has crashed against the Euro, this idea went out of the window fast.
I’m sad. And?
The flight itself was a mildly choppy affair – considering the cloud level, about right for the weather we’ve been having.
Morning skies
On landing, there was a short taxi to the gate – and a hold to clear some luggage off a taxiway before meeting the stairs for disembarkation at the D Piers
D2 Coming along nicely
My next ride..
Disembarkation was of course by Steps in the D Pier.
One down.. 7 to go..
Thoughts : EI are best handled in small doses – certainly not the stellar carrier they once were. From what I could see, they offered a quick and good service on in the air that has been no worse than other carriers over such a short distance. But then again, it is pretty hard to balls up a 45 minute flight….
At Dublin Airport
After arriving at the far D gates, I made my way into Ireland cursing the person who designed this pier, through Irish immigration (hand over passport, smile, go through), through baggage, and turned left and up – straight into US Airways check-in area. A delightful mix of paperwork was issued, with a data collection form for APIS, a wavier form to remind me to get over to customs queue by 9:30, as well as the I-94(W) (so much for ESTA) and customs form., and then over to US airways check-in.
After all the boarding passes were spat out, it was through security and off to the B pier for pre-clearance (after raiding Duty free for some cigarettes for my friend ).
Of course, there was a queue for pre-clearance that took about 10 minutes to the pre-check, and 15 minutes of hard queuing to see an immigration agent. After some gentle probing, I was asked for my fingers, thumbs, and face – and stamped into the USA. At this point, there was nearly an hour before departure… and to be honest- there’s not a lot to do in the pre-clearance area apart from wait, maybe drink something or eat something, and go to the toilet. Basic, but sufficient.
Boarding was of course the usual shambles with just family pre-boarding, even every man/woman/flyer for themselves, however, with just a rucksack, I wasn’t in a rush to get aboard as it was going to live at my feet
Leg 2 – US723, Dublin Airport – Philadelphia International Airport 16-01
US Airways, Boeing 757-200 (ETOPS), Seat 30K
Miles Flown: 3273, Miles Earned:3274
The Photos
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
The economics for a narrow body jet have always made me think that it’s great they can run thin and long services that otherwise were un-viable, yet as a cabin … a narrow body over the pond? Up until now I’ve always preferred wide body aircraft for these hops (least of all the for the on-board ambiance and feeling of room). Lets find out if I can remove my prejudices against the 757 on a long-haul run over the pond…
At the gate
I have been actively checking the seat map, only a few days before this flight for everything to be zero’d out. In act, looking through the cabin, there was only 5 seats I could see in Y that weren’t sold. Luckily, one of those seats happened to be next to me and the other seats were behind me. Some small luck I suppose.
Seats.. US Airways blue leather…
After a short taxi and a hold to let a few movements occurred, we took off, and had one of the bumpiest takeoffs I can remember (I’m sure that the unsecured US Airways pretzels that were in a bag behind me were happy bouncing as we took off), with a lot of chop whilst airborn for first 20 minutes before things settled down.
Take off
Unsecured Pretzels/Fiesta Mix :rolleyes
Of course, in-flight entertainment and US Airways seems to be an oxymoron with some very bad movie on the overhead screens that aren’t visible at a window, and the ghaul to charge $5/4€ for a headset, so I was prepared this time with the iPhone, loaded up with some proper IFE.
And lo. Ghetto IFE systems were born.
How to make a sick bag iPhone/iPod Touch holder (Ghetto IFE System – V1)
- ensure bag isn’t used
- rip hole in baggie
- rip hole large enough for screen
- rip hole in side so you can plug your headset in
- mount onto seat back
- enjoy entertainment
I didn’t realise this at the time, but I had actually stumbled upon one hell of a good idea which suits the iPhone/iPod Touch perfectly - a simple media system that could hold the content I have, which in economy is reasonably sized for purpose. The fact that I’m using an 8GB device is really my own fault – but it’s enough for a TATL run if you fill it with the right content and size it correctly. Remembering the bag is just a holder means that you can actually size any portable media device into a Ghetto IFE system, whilst actually it installed correctly and safely.
Cabin crew were very slow off the mark to be completely blunt, finally making their way to my seat with nearly 1½ hours gone. Alas, in meal terms, I was very restricted, and had the pasta choice. Lets just say I should really have had a irish breakfast or something in BHX as it was god awful. The bean salad was passable, as was the brownie (this time I was hungry enough to eat it at that moment in time).
Eww
To be honest, service was not great at all. Being in the second to last row, I seemed to be forgotten about more than once when it came to drinks or rubbish pick-up.
Over the pond
Which brings me onto the state of the aircraft – the seat pitch was thankfully not too bad – but this can be attributed to the clear middle seat for where junk can be stored. The seats themselves are leather, without adjustable headrests. It honestly feels like the aircraft has been taken out of domestic service, some Envoy seats added at the front of the plane, ETOPS certificate added with some winglets and shoved back into service. As a result, the aircraft was clean, but seats were looking worn, with the one in front of me trying to loose its cover at times. Nothing that a total refurbishment couldn’t fix…
Once the first batch of chop cleared, it was a nice flight, heading towards Greenland, where upon it chopped up again, not clearing until into the ice wastes of Canada.
A mid-flight service of orange juice from a can and unsecured pretzels from earlier were served, with water and pretzel mix available near the toilets – a nice touch if people wanted a nibble or 2 in-flight.
Towards the end of the flight the traditional US Ham and cheese bread thing that is totally plastic, but surprisingly edible was made available. This was welcomed and tasted how it looked – considering that lunch was a let down.
The US Ham and Cheese Chibatta – new teeth an optional extra…
Service was cleared down and the cabin was prepared for arrival.
Coming in over Philadelphia
The service landed into Philadelphia early – too early alas. From a 45 minute early to a fast arrival at the gate, we were then forced to wait 35 minutes or so whilst the jetbridge team were working out how to dock the plane to the airport
Overall: Not a stunning US Airways flight by any stretch of the imagination. The extra seat was pretty much core to a good journey, and thus it paid off well. The food was probably the worst I’ve had on a plane for a long time, so Kevin’s top tip: Avoid the Macaroni cheese . The 757 is still in my opinion a bit narrow and does feel a bit claustrophobic after a while, but considering the length of flight… it could had been a lot worse…
At PHL
After disembarkation, it was a walk from A6 to Immigration, where the pass-through was arranged for Dublin pre-cleared passengers. A saunter through customs, and I was within the United States of America. One of the joys of travelling without luggage is that its possible to move quickly and keep moving.
To make life a bit more painful my onward connections would be from the Express Commuter terminal – in other words I shelped over to the F gates. Whist nice enough, it lacks a lot of the main facilities of the A/B/C terminals at PHL, its just that – a commuter terminal. In other words, a fancy name for a bus station.
Alas, I tried to standby for the earlier La Guardia flights to no success (the first flight was delayed – the second flight was just as bad and they still wanted $50 to list for it). However, after hanging round the gate waiting for everyone else to board, I was asked I was boarding… and was issued a scribble pass.
Leg 3 – US4222 – Philadelphia International Airport – New York La Guardia Airport
US Airways Express operated by Piedmont Airlines, Dash-8-100 (37 Seat), Seat 5D
Miles Flown: 91, Miles Earned: 600
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
My ride at LGA
My first flight on a Dash-Trash (amazingly I’ve avoided them for so long, judging how many of them fill my local airport) , and my second trip to Urban New York.
Preparing for the off…
I boarded the plane without having to gatecheck anything and took my seat (being the last person to board the flight). After a few minutes, the doors went to close and off the little Dash went a-trundling around PHL before queuing up for take-off.
Up and away!
I suppose I’m not used to Prop aircraft at all (the last time I was aboard a prop, I was a lot younger, but the vibrations as well as the sensitivity to air pockets made it a fun flight. I’d say the most fun flight of the trip. As a such, it was a low level flight, so the whole landscape was before you.
Service was brisk, but there was a fair amount of drinks sold (I didn’t partake this time – I had a gallon of coffee before boarding the flight). Leg room for a small place was also very good for what it is.
Alas, I was assigned in the wrong side of the airplane , no pictures of Manhattan, but it was a very choppy and bouncy landing.
Still, it’s the most fun I’ve had in a plane for sometime. Could do with a pair of earplugs though…
At La Guardia
Looking at my arrival time, I had a choice – either hang around and check out the place – or head straight to gate 17 to see what space was aboard the flight..
It seems I’ve set a new record for the amount of time I spend in the NY/NJ area … 45 minutes. An improvement on the 5 minutes I spent last time at Newark, but one day, I’m going to have to actually visit the city
And if pigs will fly
Once the boarding had mostly been completed, I asked what was available – and took a middle seat (for that was what left).
Of course, there was a queue down the jetway, with a pilot and a few of us talking about US1549, and some of the glaring oversights (the lack of people wearing life-jackets, how long luggage takes to dry out and what Doggie will do with a slightly soggy A320. Personally, I think it would make a great museum piece… but that’s me…
Leg 4 – US2183 – New York La Guardia Airport – Washington Regan National
US Airways Shuttle, Airbus A319-100 (EOW), Seat 12E
Miles Flown: 214, Miles earned: 600
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
My ride at LGA
There’s always something reassuring getting back to an old friend. The A319 is one example – the relative shortness of it with the capacity and the design of it makes for a low chance of design mess-ups, and it shows. The aircraft was in very good condition, clean and the seat covers were all in place and not falling off. Rather good for US Airways actually.
After a short wait, it was a case of queue up, climb into the air, and begin the slow slog over to Regan National.
Whilst the rest of US Airways (US Domestic) seems to have abandoned free drinks, Shuttle has maintained it. And it seems everyone likes a freebie, with everyone partaking of drinks. Pretty soon there was a rubbish collection, and a lovely night-time approach to DCA… which I failed to catch at all thanks to the middle seat.
Is a 1 hours wait worth a middle seat? I’d say so.
After making my off the plane, it was time for a walk to the kerb and to find a transfer for the hotel.
Hotel – Hilton Crystal City
For this little trip, it was a matter of finding a bed for the night – pure and simple. Not much of a challenge when it’s the weekend before the inauguration. By some magic means, I scored a cheap Expedia rate for £50 for a Hilton in Crystal City. Considering I just needed it as a crash pad for the night , it met all my requirements for being cheap, well located, and easy to get in and out of.
The Bed and Room itself were well sized, and the facilities there were good – although like most Expeida rooms, you tend to hike halfway back and forth anywhere.
Lets put it like this: I’ve paid more for less in hotel rooms. This was one of the better bargains I’ve had.
Washington DC… T -4 Days to O-Day.
To make the best of the day as my departure wasn’t until 15:30, I decided to be a tourist and do some sightseeing, and focused my efforts on the National Mall. I was out of the hotel by 8am and hiking for most of the day, watching the Coverage vans trundle everywhere, and taking pics of anything that as randomly interesting.
I did however, make a special stop to the Smithsonian – National Air and Space Museum (and as this is an airgeeks blog, I think we can all appreciate that ). So lets have some images from that…
Soon enough, I wandered back out into the cold, and down to a convenient subway station – It was time to turn around and head for home… indirectly of course…
Back to Regan National
A nice simple transit system…. I’ve actually found one that exists in the USA! (Excluding the Chicago L… but that’s another matter completely – I understand it – not many others do ). After catching a metro back from Le Enants to Regan National, I made my way around the architecturally nice terminal that is Regan National. Check in of course was unmitigated disasters – I made my way into the E-ticket queue to be mistaken for a non-rev (I have to do International check-in for all legs). After sighing for 5 minutes, I queued in the First class queue (which technically I can now), and got checked in for all legs to Dublin.
The TSA… it seems the TSA at Regan have had some lessons in manners and were treating people nicely. My request for a manual scan of film was met without compliant and I passed through successfully, and took up a waiting perch for a bit as I couldn’t standby for the 14:30 flight without ponying out some more cash to US Airways.
Another nice feature (apart from the pretzel shop and the obvious Obama tat that people are selling) is laptop charging points – a useful pit-stop to charge before today’s fun and games of flights begin properly.
Boarding was done by rows – unusual I thought until I boarded…
Leg 5 – US2038 – Washington Regan National – Boston Logan International Airport
US Airways Shuttle, Airbus A319-100, Seat 8A
Miles Flown: 399, Miles Earned: 600
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
This flight is yet another segment on my mileage run – and in fact the longest internal flight out of the collection – and helped give me the most possible time in Washington DC by some mad reason.
After boarding, it was obvious this flight was lightly loaded with most people having half a row to themselves – a lot of space to stretch out in. Whilst in the row before the exit row and having no recline, I made my own recline once airborne.
Yup. airborne again.
Take off was reverse to landing – taking off away fro Washington DC before swinging around and flying off to Boston.
Downtown DC
Dulles
Another signs loads were light – drinks service was done by hand. Again – a free service on Shuttle services, so it was appreciated.
The flight itself was smooth, and tracked the east coast to Boston, with a cleanup of items, and where after a few fancy turns, we landed, and after a short taxi, docked and the doors were opened. By the time I was in the terminal building, it was night.
Overall: US Airways Shuttle is perhaps its strongest Y class product – it’s constant, delivered well, and delivered at the same level. For a Y class flight, you cannot ask for much more…
At Boston Logan International
Wha.. you can have illegal sea foods? 
One of those “little facts we don’t really care about” is that the retail side of Boston Airport is run by a Spanish airport group who have a monopoly in London (but not for much longer). Gotta admit – it shows with the in-airport music with advertising every few minutes .
A slow move from the Shuttle gates to the Express gates, and an hour and a half wait. Time to do some writing whilst the plane is being prepared…
Boarding was called in zones, with practically no one paying attention as normal…
EMB-175 at the gate
Leg 6 – US3160 – Boston Logan International Airport – Philadelphia International Airport US Airways Express operated by Republic Airways, Embraer 175, Seat 18A Miles Flown: 280, Miles Earned: 600
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
But enough BAA bashing and their lack of retail management. Time for a new aircraft type. This time, Embraer 175. As this will be my first time aboard one of the little E-Jets, I’ll try and positive.
Seating is 2 x 2, so it feels a little tighter than a 737 or A319, and yes – in classic US Airways Express configuration (so the windows are misaligned, but on the positive sides, the seating was comfortable (even in slimline configuration) and even though it was a 31” pitch, it felt a bit more than that.
The seat
Cabin
By amazing luck again, I had a clear seat next to me on my flight (although there was a fair load on the plane with only a few seats at the rear of the plane – enough to justify this class of aircraft on this route)
Taxing was a bit of a trek, but take off was quick, powerful and fast, pushing into the air very quickly.
Taxiing
Up and away again
After a few turns and an appropriate climb level, the electronics light was extinguished.
The ride was choppy only on landing, but otherwise was very smooth. In addition, I found the ambient noise levels to be very low (I was playing some music on the iPhone (Elbow – On a Day like this) to the point where the volume was at 40% – considering I’ve been needing 60/70% on the Airbus’s and nearly 80% on the 757, there is some real work done on accousitc the design this plane.
A service run was done again, with a brisk trade in drinks being done. This was one run, with 2 clean-up runs. The cockpit crew were nice and cheerful, however the cabin crew didn’t really want to doing this flight tonight, and thus service was passable (even though I’ve found in the past that Republic group airlines are the better regional outfits…).
On approach
On approach to PHL, a departure list was given of where to connect to – a very nice touch.
Landing
Again on landing at PHL, it was a quick landing and taxi to the gate – for where was a 5 minute wait get an airbridge driver, then a 15 minute mess around to initially try to get the gate onto the plane. In the end, a tug dragged the plane forward a foot, and the airbridge docked successfully.
At PHL (Again)
After the 2nd minor incident with a jetbridge (twice in 2 days – I’m lucky), it was straight off the plane, and the shelp to A22 West.
A Liberty Bell on the way to A22W
Art. Allegedly.
Although I am starting to warm to PHL as an airport, it is a bit expansive., which can mean great fun when trying to get from gate to gate in time.
Thankfully, by the time the Dublin flight was called, I was well within the A-West Part of the terminal, and when I got to the gate, it was empty – flight had boarded quiet early.
Leg 7 – US722 – PHL-DUB (Philadelphia International Airport – Dublin Airport
US Airways, Boeing 767-200 (Equipment Swap from Boeing 757-200WL) Seat 27A
Miles Flown: 3273, Miles Earned:3724
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
At this point, please understand that I’m getting knackered. More than normal. Some small part of me was hoping that I would misconduct here and have to divert to Heathrow (which had saved on the final Aer Lingus leg and instead would had been a Tube and a Train home). Alas, my luck doesn’t run THAT good.
Normally, I would expecting a queue and all the palaver that went with it when I board an aircraft. It was empty, then I noticed 2 isles upon boarding! Had I lucked out on a A330? Nope. It was a 767 instead! (alas the bashed up interior gave it away without trying). This mean overhead telly and TFT/LCD/Plasma screens at the front, however faster service throughout. In addition, the spare seat next to me when I checked in the morning had held, so a two-seater relaxayvous option was in full effect.
Waiting for pushback at PHL
Boarding was completed on schedule, and we pushed back. After the video died once, the classic US 767 safety video was put on. A short taxi later, the plane took off into a very cloudy Philadelphia sky and away.
Accelerating away
I must be picking the crappy flights recently on TATL runs as I seem to get nothing but chop these days on TATL runs. This flight was no difference with chop all the way with the seatbelt sign on nearly all the time.
Climbing out
After electronic use was ok’d, the immigration card run were distributed (one advantage of heading “home” to an EU country – no landing cards to fill in
Getto IFE system… installed
I hinted at the 767 disrepair… where to begin. Seats were not reclining that well, the seat pocket in front of me was broken, and the plane just didn’t feel looked after and loved unlike the Shuttle A319s, the E175 or to a point – the 757 I came in over in.
From what I glanced – the Envoy space refit had been done, and they actually looked better business class seats than the old style ones that are installed on the A330’s, but the seating in the back is once again blue leather seats.
Dinner was Chicken and Rice with sweetcorn and beans – I’d go as far as to say Cajun Chicken, with the usual salad and a square of carrot cake.
The chicken – dryish, but better than nothing. The rice – soggy as heck, the sweetcorn… I didn’t know it was impossible to mess up sweetcorn. The only things that weren’t’ messed up were the salad and the carrot cake. The roll was only low level damage capable, so not that bad. The service was lights down all the way from PHL to DUB, and as far as I could tell, there was also no pastry/breakfast coffee service as well.
Soon enough the skies lightened a bit, as it was coming up the 7:30, the cabin lights came on for final clean-up, then dimming for landing
Coming over Dublin
Turning
Landing was powerful, and after taxing back, there was a delay on hooking up the airbridge (again – I’m having all the luck with them this trip), and the plane slowly emptied out.
At the gate
My ride at DUB (It was best I could do 
)
Back at Dublin
After a quick clearance at passport control back into the EU, I made the mistake of leaving the secure area to see what was what heading back to BHX.
Alas, I forgot that the first flight was at 06:30… with the next at 13:45 and no check in before 10:45
To say I was mildly annoyed at myself would be an understatement . After confirming this, I wandered back to Arrivals (ground side) and had breakfast (A Chicken Creaser salad I picked up in PHL) and a can of coke obtained from US Airways. Then it was a case of hooking up to a spare power port and time to charge the laptop and camera after some quiet heavy work.
With a 5 hour connection, normally that’s plenty of time to go into Dublin’s fair city – but for once, I honestly felt like I should be curled up somewhere and not on a cold bus going into a cold city. After a good 2 hours it was time to fight with the Self Checkin Machine, which unhappy spat out a boarding pass at me.
Security was… to put it lightly, I thought the TSA had took over. Started loading up the trays… and all of a sudden, one was pushed off by an agent as he pushed a set of trays back off the rollers. The tray that just happened my laptop and thus landed happily.., on a nice concrete floor. After a half hearted apology, and the equipment was checked, thankfully no short term damage was found. Long term damage on the other hand … give it time.
One final raid of duty free for my friend (she’s done well out of me), and it was off on the long hike to the A-Pier, which is in an absolute state (I remember the A pier being nice and bearable… it’s now low cost semi-hell with metal benches, with some of the facilities that used to be there ripped out. A shame.
After finding an empty beach, it was time to just rest for a bit as I didn’t have any euros to go shopping with, plus I’m a bit tired for some odd reason
Eventually I woke up and queued near the gate, with boarding begun at 13:20 for the flight.
Leg 8 – Ei473 Dublin Airport – Birmingham International Airport
Aer Lingus Airbus A320-200 Seat 8A
Miles flow: 200, Miles earned: 0
Map generated by the wonderful Great Circle Mapper http://gc.kls2.com
A quick climb out and a few turns, it was a quick 45 minute flight back to Birmingham. Standard service (drinks and food), with no one taking part in Duty free this time.
After remembering that I had a camera and I had woken up a bit, I started taking a few pics.
Landing was on schedule, and after taxing towards gate 58, the plane stopped short of the airbridge, and we were all bussed off.
15 minutes later I was through security, luggage pick, the little shuttle train and on the train home.
Impressions:
Aer Lingus: I wonder about EI and it’s place in the airline world these days. I can see what it’s tried to do (ala BMI’s modularisation) with short haul cheapness and long haul service… but with the way the industry is consolidating and contracting… is there a place for EI? Or will it ultimately be doomed to O’Leary’s “charms”? I suppose the biggest praise of EI I will give of it is this: It isn’t Ryanair. That alone scores points for me.
US Airways long haul: Ok, I knew exactly what I was letting myself in for. A crapped out 757 with tight as hell seat pitch. But US has to realise that its competitors are biting at its heels – even those who use 757′s (paging Continental and American). Much as I think a full internal refit with slimline seats, AVOD and a few more toilets would really help the aircraft, I don’t honestly think Douggie and those in Tempe AZ actually care as long as they see the $$$ roll in. A shame, as there is real potential for these routes to make serious money if advertised as an “alternative to London” and “An easier way to fly into the USA”. It’s fine running an aeroplane that distance, but please match a quality of service that is to go with it. The 767 service with due respect is very much a missed opportunity – a chance to really pull out the stops and make a product that people would use. Alas, they’ve just decked out Envoy and put a couple of new TFT screen on the plane (better than UA’s 747′s… but still). UA has proven you CAN do something good with a 767… so there’s really no excuse…
US Express: Ok – whilst not 100% relevant, the DashTrash flight was a lot of fun – probably my highlight of a trip. I won’t go out of my way to catch one again, but if the price was right. The ERJ-175 was another good highlight of a modern, well looked after aircraft, and if this is what BA is buying for their fleet, I can see a lot of happy flyers. It’s comfortable, low ambient noise and its a nifty little mover. Just a shame I had the most depressed Republic crew I’ve come across….
US Shuttle: I actually am impressed with US Shuttle – it seems they load some of their better employees on these shuttle flights, and maintained a level of service throughout. The planes were in good condition, and looked well cared for.
Right. That’s it for another two months. Next up is a March report on UA. After being abandoned by BMI it’s a choice of UA or US. And I’ve had enough US for a few months at least… so guess who my next trip report is about
Where to I hear you ask? … you’ll know soon enough..
Oh… and finally.. .what was this all for?
Earned the HARD way
September 25
Come and be scared with US! US Airways – LHR-PHL-SEA-PHX-ORD-PHL-LHR
It seems that the publish button went off when I was editing this for keywords. Oh well. Same rules as all the redux trip reports – a bit of tidying, spell checking and some extra images…
As per usual, this trip report is filled with photos, insightful (and not so insightful), witty (and completely sarcastic) comment, and of course, the little details that as travellers, we come to know, notice and laugh/cry/go ballistic at. I’m travelling in Y… I’m allowed one luxury at least!
I’ll be updating this as the trip progresses, and of course will happily natter on about things that are completely irrelevant . Standard Photos rules apply (ie, the best of will be featured here – everything else on my Photoblog – which of course, I encourage you to visit ).
Preamble:
Well its time for me to travel again, and alas, I’m being completely original in my destinations (have a look at my flight memory… yes the same cities again). With a standing invite in Seattle, and a bit of catching up to do in Chicago just after, this seemed like the perfect late summer break I need after doing my normal work for “mother service”.
This time, as well as the flights, I’ll be doing more “trip” aspects of the report (as opposed to a flight report)- so public transport, hotels, what I didn’t do, etc will be factored in to round off the report). Well I can try at least can’t I people?
Booking
Normally I’m a loyal BMI supporter. I’ll happily pay a bit more to fly with them and abuse lounge facilities etc etc. At £100 more to fly them, however much I love BMI, its not worth £100 ($200) more (or is it? I’ll work that question out by the end of this report).
So off to Kayak and co, and route research was done. At one point I considers BA/AA (nice direct flights, but £620, UA (with routing’s to SFO) for £580 and even Northwest for £580 (Tempting, but still in the 25% mileage land) Of course CO’s BHX-EWR hop was tempting, but the thought of crossing the pond in a 757 still doesn’t exactly make me happy.
However, a little digging on Kayak, followed by a bit of delving into the US Airways website gave an attractive price of £484 at peak season (not too wallet crunching), with a nice 12+k of status mileage too (and we mustn’t moan at status miles)
After using the Amadeus-like booking engine that’s available to the UK users of US Airways website, the following convoluted routing was booked:
London Heathrow > Philadelphia > Seattle Tacoma > Phoenix Sky-Harbour > Chicago O’Hare International > Philadelphia > London Heathrow
Map provided by the most wonderful Great Circle Mapper – http://gc.kls2.com
For those of you who aren’t map readers:
Far Right – LHR (London Hellhole)
Where everything comes together – PHL (Philly)
Top Left – SEA (Seattle)
Bottom Left – PHX (Phoenix)
The chink in the link back to PHL from PHX – ORD (Chicago O’Hell).
A lot of new firsts for me, including 2 new airports, NOT going through Chicago T5 International (- Those who know know why are invited to look back at my constant blathering about ORD T5 in previous reports and its complete and utter uselessness) and risking US Airways.
And an Open Skies flight (and no I’m not talking about the BA mini-me airline ), this is one of the new routes that have appeared since Open Skies finally opened up LHR a bit more. So as NW, AF, DL and US moved into Heathrow thinking of easy pickings and to “lower fares”, so I’ll be looking at if they provide value in comparison to my normal routing’s.
A check in June proved to be interesting as US decided to schedule change a few things – thankfully just times (with a few more precious minutes at PHX)
So there’s the planning done. I mean to say – How bad could it be? (apart from the little gun incident, the lack of pretzels, lack of IFE on the domestic legs, charges for everything – do I now have to tip even??? – maybe I should had spent that extra £100…)
So onwards!
Off to LHR!
National Express
Birmingham Digbeth (Oxford Road) – Heathrow Central Bus Station
Being based in heart of the country (Birmingham) of course, its a choice of rail or coach to get to London (as London is the centre of the UK and there is no other life beyond London so some say, and to send an aircraft 100 miles to LHR is considered a bit silly by others). So once again like most of my adventures I booked a coach journey. £29 later for a 06:15 departure from Birmingham, to arrive at LHR for 8:55. The next departure might had got in for 10:30… but knowing Heathrow traffic, that would had left the times dangerously close for my liking (and yes – I’m one of these people who insist on arriving 3 hours at least before a flight).
As i had been up packing and repacking (you try lugging a studio around – it gets on your nerves very quickly) a 2hour doze was the best I was going to get. I called my local cab company which after they relived me of £5, I was at Digbeth station.
The coach arrived as I did thus, not a lot of time was wasted, and u was quickly aboard and then let the coach and weave its way down to LHR via BHX, Banbury and finally Heathrow 3 ours later. Enough time for a few z’s, but not enough for a full kip.
The coach finally pulled into Heathrow Central bus station, where I was disgorged out of the coach and I collected the ski bag and rucksack.
Tradition states that I go inside and wait for a bit with check in not due to open for a while. This was the perfect time to grab a coffee to attempt to stay awake until my friend arrived
Heathrow T1
After I caught up with my friend who would be my travel companion for this little jaunt, we proceeded to check in , which was thankfully uneventful, with of course the fun of negotiating luggage prices.
There are some little blessings for being a *A Silver (and these are little ones). As most of you are aware, a lot of the US Airlines are doing impressions of RyanAir (sans Michel O’Leary’s charm and wit) and charging for every little thing. Thankfully they 1) haven’t tried it on Long Haul international routes and 2) my silver spared me the indignity of extra luggage charges, as well as my friend as we’re on international legs.
After a quick cigarette break for my friend (the last one for a good 12 hours for her), it was time to pass through security and the rat run known as Terminal 1.
As per normal, it was the standard LHR shoe shuffle, but the laptop remaining “in bag” (thanks for the introduction of 3D scanners), and we were clear into the Heathrow Mall… I mean Terminal 1, but not before registering for IRIS
IRIS seemed to be busy with use today, and with building contractors coming to take a peek at the office, they closed it after I had re-enrolled into IRIS.
LHR sends people to sleep – FACT!
Alas being a Silver, no free hopping into the BMI lounge to get a hit of coffee, so it was stuck in the public zones awaiting the departure call. This being BAA of course and to maximise your time shopping at their shops, no calls are made until about 45 minutes of your flight (with the lights changing from Boarding to Last Call as fast as you can blink).
After the long hike to gate 40, and another APIS check, I was finally through, with boarding commencing by class then two grouped zones.
Obligatorily A380 photo
My A330 in the distance.
US Airways US729 LHR > PHL,
Airbus A330-300, Seat 16H, Economy
Booked Departure time: 13:05 BST, Booked Arrival Time: 16:10 EST, 12th Sept.
Boarding was completed in zones, with Envoy, then economy seating in groups. We were seated later as we were “closer to the front” in row 16. A good thing really as these seats have an inch or so extra room so it didn’t feel like a total sardine can.
Boarding was through 1L, stampeding the exclusivity of Envoy and through to Economy.
Safety demo was done manually – surprising as the unit had AVOD screens.
Lets see how cheap we are then. Headphones. $5, alcoholic drinks $7 . Since I hadn’t brought my United ones, it was back to the cheap over the ear jobs that get sore after 10 minutes. I really need to invest in a pair of noise-cancelling ones one year.
The aircraft pushed back on time, and after a chug around Heathrow, we turned onto the runway, and strgiht up in the the big blue.
Off again!
After takeoff, it was a a it turbulent and cloudy – a nice start. What didn’t help was the seat wasn’t exactly behaving. If I lent back too much the seat started leaning back of it’s own accord.
After a while, the IFE started (AVOD), however, where is the airshow function? Didn’t seem to be one . The addition of an old edition of Click, Fast Track, and How I met your mother
IFE Boots!
Service began after 30 minutes , with a sales pitch for the headphones (Guilty), and then lunch and drink service (alcohol declined) and a “meal” service.
Lunch – of sorts.
Hmm. Ok, taking this apart – it was Chargrilled chicken with mash with peas in a Spanish sauce (main – although to be honest, I’m not sure if the sauce would have been anywhere near spain), Bean Salad (side), Chibatta bread (Rock level). The portions were a bit small, but as far as TATL Y food goes, it was edible. That’s’ all you can ask for in Y I suppose.
The seat itself. A bit worn, and a bit narrow I think, and with a few cables here and there… this A330 has seen better days.
How bad can it get…?
Even Envoy looked a bit tired – think BMI Premium Economy for those who have seen my previous reports. Personally, I’m not sure if I would pay for the extra – especially for a 7 hour 39 minute hop. I’ll think about that on the return leg.
Why in the blue…
Drink runs were reasonable, with FULL cans of Diet Coke served *hint hint*, with softs remaining free for me, not a bad thing as that what I mostly drink
AVOD selection was reasonable ie – not great, but I’ve had worse selections in the past
The flight itself started soothing out after crossing into the Atlantic, but it was sill heavily cloud covered. After 3 hours – the llghts finally went down.
The flight itself was quite choppy with cloud cover from end to end for all practical purposes – a shame as I was looking forward to Greenland as usual.
Mid-route, there was a pretzel and orange juice water run. Standard Pretzel fare, small, nibbable and overdone with salt, where as the orange juice came from a can. Oh the fun.
Midflight.
Towards the end of the flight, there was a snack run with turkey ham and cheese herb bread warm snack.
Yes, it was completely artificial. But at this point of the game, it tasted *good*.
Little did I know that this snack would have fuel me…
At PHL
The A330 pulled into PHL on scheduled… but then the chaos commenced. It seemed that every other long haul flight had pulled in at the same time, thus the queues were horrendous. As the time ticked on, we moved forward slowly. 60 minutes later we finally got seen to.
The INS agent was firm but friendly, digging deeper with each probe. Amazingly, they can’t fathom the concept of people visiting the USA for fun. Oh well.
A quick run to the belt, and the luggage was already offloaded. Rather than pay PHL a cent more, we headed to Customs where they were practicing their Eric Cartman impressions today (You WILL respect my authoritah!). This didn’t help, as it was 17:20 and our bird was pushing back in 25 minutes. We made it through, and through to recheck the luggage.
It was then a straight run for the plane, after clearing TSA. Of course the queue I was pushed into had the scanner break down. So after going into another queue, I was screened, and my friend and I rushed to the gate, where boarding had been pretty much completed, and the door pretty much closed behind me.
US Airways US753 PHL > SEA
Boeing 757-200WL, Seat 14F
Booked Departure Time: 17:55 EDT, Booked Arrival Time: 20:53 WDT
In June, the first equipment change came out from a A321 to a B757 (with a slightly more advantageous arrival time)
The last time I was aboard on of these was an ORD-SEA-ORD leg on UA in E+. This of course being US Airways, no E+ seating, thus it was time to be squished all the way for the next 6 hours (and it didn’t help that the person in front of me reclined her seat after take off)
Of course, now everything is chargeable, it makes that journey slightly more hellish. And with no time to get anything, I was held captive to US Airways random demands for drinks and snacks.
Sigh.
The equipment that we were booked on today was a complete surprise of a Wingletted Boeing 757. Pam Ann would had been happy.
Although boarding was probably done in zones, by the time I got to the gate with my friend, boarding was mostly compete.
After boarding completed, the aircraft did a taxi around PHL as the runways reversed, and it was back off into the cloud.
Safety demo was done on the overhead CRT monitors.
The grey of Philly…
The adverts played, then some movie was also put on. As I couldn’t be bothered to get the headphones out, I just typed for a bit.
Food run was done and we both went for the turkey sandwich option. At $7, overpriced, but I wasn’t in a position to argue. To be fair, it wasn’t that bad – the bread was drying slowly and the turkey lacked some moisture, but I’ve made worse at home. The crisps and cookie were passable and the coffee… at a buck a cup, it wasn’t that bad, but did lack some umph.
Buy on Board…
The flight itself wasn’t that bad, but deeply could covered, so for the first 4 hours, it was seatbelts on at all time. Quite a choppy ride for a lot of the journey.
Clear at last…
757 Cabin
The crew seemed to be pretty good for the first 3 hours, before disappearing off to hide fir a bite but they made regular walkthroughs the cabin.
Warning – beauty shots ahead
Obligatory winglet shot
On approach to SEA
Landing in Seattle was quick, and after a short taxi, the plane pulled into the gate. After the aircraft shut down (and the lights went off too), we deplaned.
Luggage delivery – was slow to put it blunt. The CLT service had arrived before us , so was occupying the belt for some time. I was half expecting the luggage still be in PHL, but then 2 suitcases and a very familiar rucksack spat out of the belt, and an almighty rumble from oversized luggage.
Everything arrived
A short trolly push to the link bridge, a queue for a taxi and about an hour after we touched down and got luggage and at the hotel – we had arrived.
Thanks fudge for that.
I was expecting worse, but at the end of the day, it was a pair of good flights, but with US immigration being more useless than normal. Nothing outstanding, yet nothing that was completely below the belt. The US Domestic leg was actually pretty good with the amount of walkthroughs the crew were doing.
Hotel: Ramada Hotel, 5th Avenue, Downtown Seattle
The Ramada Inn in Seattle is in one of those nice positions where it’s 6 blocks to the needle, 5 blocks to the centre and 6 blocks to the waterfront. Of course having lazy people with me meant we were taxi’ing it most of the way.
The room itself wasn’t bad – telly, bath, two doubles. Booked on a expedia special rate so comparatively cheap. The staff were very friendly and good, except for the final night where the power went out in the room except for one plug. This was a pain. Alas no compensation offered. Overall, it’s a comparatively cheap hotel with reasonable rates and normally good service. Recommended mostly, if cheap for the heart of Seattle.
Part II – The American Odyssey (Or will my luggage make it???)
For this leg, its pure internal flights, so we get see US Airways in all its wonderful glory. But first – the check-in.
After pootling back to SeaTac, the joy of check-in was carried out. This was interesting as 1) the agent confused Las Vegas, NV for Phoneix AZ. Then it got better. A bag was overweight. This would be fine, except the tar weight on the scale was pre-set at 5.5lb. Grumble.
After convincing an agent to reset and reweigh it (which amazingly then met the luggage regs), it was time to head over to security.
Now the grand Pooh-Bah of the TSA, His Kipness Kip Hawley the first (as some might call him – the idiot) deemed that the should be 3 sorts of lanes for different passengers – Family, Casual and Expert. Fine in theory. Except when they’re NOT Implemented and everyone just ignores them anyway!
As per usual, a metal detector lane was shut, followed by and kid running around and annoying the X-ray agents. Ah the joy of the TSA carnival. Then of course, it was unpack and give the TSA Shoe fetishists their fix of smelly shoes. Polite enough, but I suspect there could had been a lot better organization of the security lanes and the management of the lanes.
They call it art…
With about 40 minutes to go, we made it past security and after a short walk to gate A2 for our A320 that would take us to Phoenix.
Boarding was conducted in zones, and seemed to be managed well.
US Airways US143 SEA > PHX, 5F
11:20WDT, ETA, 2:12 Mountain Daylight time
Airbus A320-200.
Boarding was the usual chaos even though it was zoned as there was a full flight, so the usual carnival of “where do I stick my bag in the overhead” was in full swing. I just went for under the seat option.
As this was an ex America West aircraft, it was of course tight as possible seat pitch.
Once loaded, the fight deck were feeling a bit chatty and gave us what to expect, before the safety demo was done (video on drop down screens). The aircraft itself had signs of age, but was clean and seemed to be in a reasonable state. Take off was quick, and we were up in the air in no time.
Climbing out
After a while, it was possible to use electronics as the adverts rolled. A drink and snack trolley then ran, with a low take-up rate on drinks and an even lower rate on snackboxes. After the service, the crew again went into hiding, apart to do a few rubbish runs.
Landing at Phoenix was bumpy, but after a couple of minutes we were taxiing to the gate, and the exit scrum began
At PHX
Welcome to Phoenix Skyharbour International in Tempe. Arizona. Home of US Scareways. Land of the lost
For an “international” (and I’m using that in the lowest possible sense – ONE international a flight a day to London), it .. errm… an odd airport. For a fortress hub, it was very busy, people rushing from point to point – well at the A gates where the flight we took landed . Immediately, the priority was lunch, as to be honest, neither of us were looking forward to a US Airways snackbox. Thankfully from the gate exit, there was an ASAP California Pizza shop. This was used to the full effect, although I doubt the pizza has been to as many times to California as I have.
Pretty soon (a 52 minute gate to gate connection), it was time to board. Only a short stop today as we were due to jump on the next plane to Chicago.
US Airways US007 PHX > ORD 5F
EDT 15:04, ETA 20:22
Airbus A320-200
Another flight, another Airbus A320. Again, when looked after they’re nice aircraft. This being US Airways of course “looking after the cabin” seems not to be in dictionary (this is another ex American West aircraft), with the fabric seats seeing better days (and looking like they’re falling apart). Again another solid flight for this 3 hour hop. During boarding, the advertisements were at full volume so another minor annoyance.
Cabin Shot
Push back was on schedule, and after a taxi around the airport, the plane took off up into the ski again.
Take off was a bit choppy and pockety, but once up high enough the flight smoothed out nicely.
Once a safe altitude was declared, pizza with everything was consumed. And then the world was right again.
Pizza!
Again the drink and snackbox service did the rounds, with a few people taking part in it – the majority not. And at this point Miss 4F decided this would be as gooder time to invade my personal space as any, and recline fully back into my laptop.
Sigh. For those of us with Macbooks, we all know there is a limited amount of openness and tilt. After aiming the hinge correctly, I finally had a comfortable typing position.
More Beauty shots
Sunset
Again, the staff did a couple of rubbish runs, but hid in the galley mainly. The flight turned mainly from day to night and the bright grid of Chicago was visible. After looping over the lake we made our approach and landed.
Of course – we pulled into the “wrong” gate and had to wait for a ground crew to drive the bridge over. Normally not concerning – except I took a look at my luggage and saw my tripod bag wrapped in TSA tape.
At this point, I went into minor panic mode – what had those goons done now?
My worst fears were confirmed when I made it to the belt and saw that the TSA had indeed opened up the bag, and failed to repack it correctly – with damage to the contents inside. Which is nice as I needed the contents for some photographic work.
GRRRRR
I wonder if I can sue the TSA $800 for damages to equipment and projected income? It’s worth a thought I think.
Thank you agents of Kip Hawley at Seattle – next time LEARN to repack luggage. Of course I emailed a complaint which I suspect will be completely ignored.
Overall: A pair of normal flights within the USA. Service was neither stellar or lazy, however, the TSA need a firm kick up the sensitive bits over handling of luggage.
Hotel: Travelodge, Chicago.
For the first part of the stay, a downtown location was picked, thanks to a special offer care of Formula 1 and Expedia.
On East Harrison, its not a bad hotel. The Green/Orange line is a bit annoying, but the rooms are clean comfortable and reasonably sized . I’m not arguing much there. In addition there is a little Thai restaurant downstairs and a Dunkin donuts over the road.
My planning may suck sometimes, but this is one of those few times where it came all together.
Internet access was quite frankly so up and down it resembled me having one too many hot curries.
Not bad for par for course. Put in some double glazing into the room, and I’d be REALLY be happy to cut the noise down a bit.
Hotel: Crown Plaza, O’Hare (well Rosemont – close enough the same difference)
You’ll forgive me if i don’t write too much about this hotel as I was stuck in a corner shooting pictures all weekend of people. Ah the joy of being a jobbing portrait photographer (and holding a special Sunday Sale entitled “The Kip Hawley Fire Sale” – I have nothing if a sense of irony)
As a Priority club member, I had my free internet access, although I was annoyed at the jammers in the ballroom areas which prevented access to the room WiFi networks. This was a royal pain up the backside.
The room itself was fine, but like all the rooms, the aircon were handling cold, but not the humidity. Sunday dinner was at the hotel bar, and oh dear. They forgot our food order totally, and after profuse apolgies with provision for desert and extra drinks, a Rack of Ribs and Salad appeared. Nicely cooked, but the service was lousy. However, they 1) apolgised and 2) Made up for the error. This scored some extra brownie points.
Hotel: Red Roof Inn, E Ontario Ave, Downtown Chicago
My friend insisted we spend an extra day shopping in Chicago, and I wasn’t prepared to pay the extortionate rates that the Crown Plaza wanted. Nor was happy stuck in Rosemont (it’s a conference and hotel dump – with as many things to do as I have Gold memberships on all my programmes – none), so it as back downtown – this time into the heart of the city. My friend was very happy with me as this was one of the few smoking rooms I found in Chicago. The room itself was a bit pokey, but again was clean, plenty of power sockets, and the bed was comfy for the job, Good enough for me!
Now for a couple of special reviews – FOOD!
Cheesecake Factory, under the John Hancock building (My Evil Empire HQ) .
It’s dark, with odd accents, but the service was reasonably quick. I went for a “tons of fun burger with fries”.
Lets put it like this – its one of the few burgers I’ve ever used a knife and fork to dissect. Very tasty and filling – and a steal at $10.95.
Pizzeria Due, East Ontario
It is said by that ask 10 Chicago people what their favourite pizza joint is, you’ll get 10 different answers. Here’s my answer to that question
This is one pizzeria I do use as it really feels like a bit of Chicago hidden away, with real people who enjoy their city. We went for a Medium Sized Numbero Uno Pizza with pepperoni, sausage, tomato and cheese – DEEP.
The term “mmmm” applies here. And for two people with drinks and ice cream for under $35, defiantly worth it (with two slices left over – enough for breakfast for both of us the next day.
Ok enough of food and hotels – Back to flying
Part III – The Voyage Home
Parting Chicago is sometimes a sad affair alas. Good friends and good times had by all… as well as some business. But now the serious business of getting home now comes to the fore.
Trips via Chicago have one important diversion. The ORD Shop. Yes, I am sad and I collect aircraft models of what I’ve flown or been on. However, shock and horror, it’s closed. Not good. How the heck am I meant to geek with someone about model planes before I go home any more?
Check-in
After popping back upstairs check in completed, with bags tagged to London and one bag marks “Heavy – 52Lb” and both baths tagged with priority tags (for the first time this journey). After making sure the TSA didn’t wreck the bag again at the baggage screening point, it was time for my friend to have one last smoke, and through to the TSA shoe fetish carnival. Again, priority lanes were completely ignored.
After a short wait (well for Chicago), we were through and at the gate 50 minutes before flying. With the luggage carnival, that’s not bad going at all.
US Airways US1571 , ORD-PHL, 6C, 16:25CST Departure, 19:20EST Arrival
Boeing 737-400
The 737-400 at the gate
And boy this little tin can showing its age. Normally I’m one to loosen my seat-belt once the plane seat-belt sign goes off. Not on this old tin can. (I would had actually pushed for a nice EMB-195 or another ‘bus… but instead, we get this pile of plane).
The plane was painted up in US airways white, and looking all pristine on the outside. However, if first impressions ever counted, this plane would defiantly be left at the bar all evening. The seats were worn, and the plane had definite throwbacks to when it was last refurbished, and the old onboard phones plated up . Load factor was 100% (something that was pretty common with all the internal flights), and boarding was quick.
Safety demonstration was done by hand as there were no monitors.
Hey – Aren’t I meant to be aboard the BMI plane back home???
After a short taxi past the international terminal, we were dumped into the Penalty box for 15 minutes, with the captain being quite chatty, explaining what had happened . It was then a nice roll down the runway and up for the journey to PHL.
Up and away!
Service was reasonable, with no adverts, and just a drinks service that I did not partake in, after which the crew disappeared, with the first class attendant working her herself well through the curtain.
See you Chicago!
After passing into Michigan, I zonked out until 30 minutes to PHL. At this point, the sun was setting, and the work was looking wonderful.
Sunset behind the wing.
As dusk fell, we landed in PHL to be put into the penalty taxiway, with again the captain giving updates from the flight deck. After a 10 minute wait and with flights stacking behind us, we pulled into out gate on the C concourse for the long hike to A West concourse.
Waiting to cross the active at PHL
An Unexpected Club visit to the Envoy Lounge.
I had resigned myself to hanging around in the public terminal for the next hour and 15 minutes by the time I had dropped my friend off at the club. Then my mobile phone went off with an invite.
So here’s a quick Envoy club review!
Located in the back of beyond (or near gate A16), the envoy club is on a mezzanine level above this. Initially an offer was made for Envoy Sleeper for both of us if I upgraded, but I declined.
The lounge
The club itself had a selection of pasta based snacks and salads, a very good coffee machine and of course, a bar, where I partook of my usual flight/pre-flight tipple – Double Voddy and Diet Coke. With Absoult vodka. Urp.
Urp
A very relaxed lounge with big comfortable seats, and quiet work areas. The lounge itself was very quiet as the LHR flight is one of the last out of the evening. At just before 10pm, the flight was called from the lounge, and my friend and I slowly meandered to gate A23 for our connection. Boarding again was zoned, with pre-boarding, then zone 1 and Envoy, then zone 2 and 3 (where I entered the plane).
US Airways US728 PHL-LHR , 34A : 22:45EST Departure, 10:15 arrival BST
Airbus A330-300
The plane home.
At this point, my friend and I parted ways – after a bit of chatting to US, I secured her a GoEnovy upgrade. I wasn’t really prepared to waste $500 (£280) to jump up to a business product for a short flight, and decided to be happy by myself down the back.
Now why all the way back in Row 34 you might ask? Before I checked in at ORD, I made the effort to check the seat map… and half of the plane was empty at the back. So after a bit a cajoling the agent at ORD, I shifted towards the back of the plane with the option of a spare seat next to me (and that’s how it remained for the flight – bonus! )
The Two Seater Relaxyvous option
I did a little bag check, and low and behold, I discovered the TSA made a mistake – I had left a OPENED BOTTLE of WATER over 100ml/3fl ounces in my bag! Great screening TSA ORD T2 !
Oh agents of Kip!
After a short pushback we were guided to the runways which was quiet, lights were dimmed and it was up into the big black sky.
This wasn’t alcohol induced. Honest.
PHL at night.
Service was sluggish but was done by hand at the back of the cabin which was a nice personal touch.
Food
Ok – From what I could work out, it was softish bread (throwing it would had only caused minor injuries to people), a green salad (it was fresh), Carrot cake (A square of cake) and from what I could taste, it tasted like beef in a black bean sauce with rice. Diet coke was served at the same time.
Although the portions were smallish, they were sized ok for a late night snack. The Beef was edible, but was the poor cow was defiantly hung, and quartered and sliced into lots of little quarters.
A coffee and drink service was done, with another shot of coffee to help get over the earlier double voddy, followed again 30 minutes later with another coffee (with one getting the joke that when turbulence hits – it is of course time for the HOT STEAMING COFFEE service ) .
After an hour of flight, it got quite choppy, and the Captain switched on the fasten seatbelt light, where it remained on for the majority of the flight. As Night turned into day if anything the chop got a lot worse, leading for the crew to remind people more than once that the seatbelt light was on, and that return to your seat was the order of the day.
Dawn
If anything, both TATL legs have been the choppiest I’ve been on – normally there’s only a little bit of chop each way – these two have had fairly solid chop both ways.
The crew was responsive to requests for drinks and the like – although no walkthroughs, they were amenable
Over the southern tip of Ireland, Breakfast was a single Apple Danish Pastry, served after with a drink. Oh dear oh dear oh dear. Definitely a reheat job (granted it was hot) but not that large and to be honest – not that filling! In addition the drink cart was running a bit slow as people were waking up.
As we passed Southern Ireland, the plane begun it’s descent. Considering that we were due to stand at 11:05am, there was a very high chance that we would be in UK land/airspace by 9:35 and down by 10:15 (depending on LHR). Again, the ride of the Irish sea was very choppy.
Windsor Castle
After looping twice in one of the stacks, we passed over Windsor Castle, and touched down on the same runway this adventure begun on, and near enough the same gate we departed from. It was then a long hike through to immigration. At this point IRIS was closed, but the UK/EU citizen queue was… empty bar 1 person. Within seconds, I was through border control.
Over the M25 – Almost down.
After a quick break, it was off to luggage claim, where the LHR luggage handlers are as good as most of them ignoring any priority tags.
Once past Her Majesties Custom and Excise agents, I was “free” and back in the United Kingdom.
After bidding my friend farewell, it was time to me to make the long slog back to BHX. Normally at this point, I would be heading to a coach. But with an 10:15am arrival, plus I *really* wanted to stretch my legs, it would be better to catch a train….
Heathrow Connect (HEC)
Heathrow Central -> London Paddington
Class 334 EMU
HEC’s are cheap in comparison to the Heathrow express (£6.90 vs £15 for an extra 10 minutes on a train – it’s a saving I’m happy to bear. As I have enough luggage to sink a small ship, I decided HEC over my normal mode of transport – the underground. Purchasing a ticket is relatively easy enough from a machine, and the journey itself wasn’t a problem. What I hadn’t realised is that I needed a ticket to exit Paddington. After playing hunt the ticket, it was found and after making odd faces, I was let through.
After getting off the HEC, it was a quick hop into a Cab to Marlyebone for the final leg of the journey
Chiltern Railways
London Marlyebone -> Birmingham Snow Hill
Class 168 DMU (£5 E-fare)
I normally use this route out of London on the grounds 1) its a cheap route and 2) although it takes slightly longer, its a pleasant enough journey. That tied with a £5 ($10) fare really sums it up. I had arrived an hour early for the train, and rather risk penalty fares or change fees, I just sat it out for an hour waiting for the train.
After nearly twisting my ankle and amazing people with how much its possible to carry, I secured a table which was shared with another person, plugged the laptop in and promptly closed my eyes until about half an hour from home.
Almost there
Home!
Closing comments
Well I made it home. Intact with everything.
Was I right to be scared with US Airways with all the nickel and diming that’s been going on? I think to a point I was, especially with the contents on the Buy on Board and $2 here and there for diet cokes to keep me going. The fact that we were buying food at airports (with equal variability) says a lot and US needs to improve its BOB product. With Star Silver recognised once, I think agents need to reminded that *S’s are people too.
Little things like amenity kits always help in Y, but again, nothing offered. Granted a cheap cutback, but anything to save the pennies – like the headphones it seems.
Another and geeky kind of moan is the distinct lack of Airshow. They have the Rockwell system and no AirShow? That is again, a bit cheap, but as I like track progress, very annoying when I’m try to work out where the hell I am…
The A330 LHR-PHL/PHL-LHR legs – I don’t honestly know if this service works really. The timings of it quite frankly are odd. Whilst they may work as a last minute East Coast > EU connection, I don’t think it works the other way, and maybe they should reconsider retiming the service so it runs slightly earlier and returns as such to give more of a day for people, and more. As US seems to be reducing Gatwicks role (ie closure of the club, some services going 757), US must work on a better plan for Heathrow and either introduce a Charlotte service or introduce more fortress hub links, otherwise the Heathrow plan will be left in disarray, and with almost nothing to fall back on in Gatwick.
The domestic legs – again, like any flight it was crew dependent – get a good crew or a good captain makes up for the odd nickel here and there. Get a crew that hides behind the curtain at every possible time and it goes sour and quiet quickly.
The biggest let down and annoyance was the TSA. Unsurprisingly, the TSA never got back to me with the complaint about what they trashed at Seattle, without so much as apology for the inconvenience caused. Disappointing so say the least and a right total annoyance.
The TSA needs to learn again how to 1) treat people with respect, 2) stick to the own regulations they make up, 3) enforce the priority lanes and management of them, 4) stick to their own silly rules and 5) RESEPCT PEOPLE’S LUGGAGE AND PUT IT BACK AS THEY FIND IT (and if Chicago TSA can do it right, so can the Seattle lot!) .
Right. One day at work, and the flying doesn’t stop here. Its off to San Francisco with me!
