#259642 by Guest
19 Jun 2009, 10:20
19 Jun 2009, 10:20
I checked in as soon as the desks opened,(right next to VX in T3),in fact they were just logging into their systems etc. I think it must have been about 5pm. I was the only passenger (or 'guest'as they like to call you)around, and was waved up to the biz desk. My boarding card was handed over in a funky little card wallet after a bit of a debate about which seat to give me, I opted for an aisle seat on a window block of 3, with a light load expected I hoped I might end up with all of them to myself.
I had already spent hours at LAX, it is almost completely devoid of landside facilities apart from in TBIT,and that is a gloomy chaotic place that really should have no place in an airport as busy and important as LA. My dilemma was wether to go airside 5 hours before the flight and hope that there was more on offer. I went through about 6, it was a good decision,a couple of eateries and drinkeries,a tat shop etc.but most importantly seats!
Time passed soon enough,I watched the Brisbane flight board which was a orderly affair with some amusing announcements playing on the Oz theme. When it pushed back I had a good view, anyone interested in planes would have to be in awe of the 777-300, it's an absolute beast of a thing and looks superb in the VA livery.
Boarding started about 11,I was in the first block of econ. seat numbers called and was soon at my seat. First impression; brilliant! loads of space, the cabin had a nice feel with the mood lighting and happy smiling crew chatting to everyone. I felt at home immediatly.
The window seat next to me was taken,but I was happy enough with the empty seat between us,later we put the armrests up and had a good space each.
Push back was on the nail at 11.45, followed by a quick taxi while watching an amusing safety video,and take-off.
After the climb I started playing with the IFE, it did a great job of keeping me busy through the flight. Dinner and drinks appeared, I had a beef something that was better by far over 2 BA club and 1 VS UC offerings that I was given on the same trip.
My small glass of wine with dinner was on the house, if I wanted any more it would cost me $6. I bought 1 more,in a leaky plastic cup that the charming FA then spilt over me. She couldn't have been more apologetic or helpful, it was't really a problem, and I told her so.I think she was genuinely mortified.
Time passed,a few snoozes, a few films etc. and quite a few wanders, the rear gally was always staffed, nothing seemed to much trouble,and I have never seen a cabin manager more totally on top of their job.He is an asset to the airline.
I stopped looking at the skymap after about 2 hours, all that ocean was doing my head in. Its very big.
2 hours out of Sydney breakfast was served, I made a wrong choice expecting the pancakes to be American style, when in fact they were sweet fruit filled ones. I left them untouched and concentrated on my caffeine intake.
Sydney looked stunning on the approach, a crystal clear morning,and after a gentle touchdown we were soon at the gate. A quarantine officer then came aboard and held the whole plane for 20 mins before allowing disembarkation. People were getting a bit miffed but we were off before anyone lost it.
That was it, my trans pacific, and I am pleased I did it with VA. They deserve a profitable future, and if they keep standards up Im sure they will rattle QF etc.
Edit to thread title by mod for clarity.... Nick
