http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/trip_reports/read.main/140209/
Username: MHTripple7
Posted 2009-01-05 21:42:33 and read 32767 times.
This TR will include the following flight segments:
- B6 64 TPA-JFK (A320)
- AI 102 JFK-DEL (B77L)
This Trip Report is the first of a few involving our journey to Bhutan. We chose DEL as a connection point to a Drukair (KB) flight from DEL to PBH (Paro, Bhutan) which departed the following day. We could have gone through BKK, however, this would require 2 more days, which would not have worked. Therefore, we had to find the fastest way to get to Bhutan. A trip report will follow shortly for the KB flight!
The two segments were booked separately as B6 and AI do not have an interline agreement that I am aware of. We would have liked to have taken DL to JFK (who interlines with AI), however, the earliest DL flight arrives less than 2 hours before the AI flight departs, which would be risking it considering we have to change terminals and such. It would fantastic if B6 started interlining or codesharing with international carriers out of JFK besides LH and EI. Anyway, we figured a 4 hour connection in JFK should be more than enough especially since T5 and T4 are right next to each other.
There were a couple of reasons we chose AI over CO and AA. One reason was because I’ve read great things about AI’s “Nonstop” product from these fantastic Trip Reports:
AI 77L BOM-JFK-BOM (with Pics/vis) (by AirIndiaOne Aug 17 2008 in Trip Reports)
Air India AI 102: 14/FEB/08: JFK-DEL: Y Cabin (by Abrelosojos May 4 2008 in Trip Reports)
AI 77L JFK-BOM With Pics (by The777Man Nov 15 2007 in Trip Reports)
Also, we were able to get seats in C for around $2,000 less per person than AA and CO on their ORD-DEL and EWR-DEL routes. Lastly, a ride on the 77L was WAY to hard to resist!
I easily booked an e-ticket for B6 on JetBlue’s website. Unfortunately, I cannot same the same about AI’s website. While the homepage looks nice, the booking process is very strange and unusual. You have to create some kind of account with them and it seemed like too much of a hassle. Therefore we decided to just skip out on using AI’s website. We usually use AMEX for international flights so we just used AMEX to book the AI flights. However, this proved to be a bit of a challenge as well. We tried to book the flights a little less than two months out and we were having problems with getting seats on the return flight on 05Jan09 (AI101). I checked the flight availability with KVS Availability Tool and the return flight was zero’d out except for First Class. So I basically repeatedly checked the flight availability for like 5 days until two seats opened up in J class on AI101. We immediately called AMEX and they were able to reserve the seats.
I called AI and the friendly agent was easily able to assign seats for my father and I. I later found out that seat selection can actually be done on AI’s website; however, the assignments cannot be changed after they’ve been selected. The seat map is one of the strangest I’ve every seen.
Online check-in was easy and convenient for JetBlue. We arrived at TPA about and hour and fifteen minutes before our flight and checking our bags was once again very simple. At TPA, you must take automated trams to each airside. B6 operates out of Airside A along with FL, NW, CO, and F9. The security line was longer than usual but didn’t take too long thankfully. Once through, we had about half an hour before our flight was scheduled to board at gate A14.
B6’s new flight to CUN
Our A320 to JFK
Airline: JetBlue Airways
Aircraft: Airbus A320-232
Flight: B6 64
Date: 27-Dec-08
Departure Airport: Tampa International Airport (TPA/KTPA)
Arrival Airport: New York John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK/KJFK)
Scheduled Departure Time: 09:32
Actual Departure Time: 09:28
Scheduled Arrival Time: 12:00
Actual Arrival Time: 12:19
Departure Terminal: Airside A
Arrival Terminal: Terminal 5
Class: Economy
Seat: 19F
Registration: N564JB
Estimated Load Factor: 98% Full
Boarding pass printed from my house
Typically B6 boards the back half of the aircraft through the rear stairs and the front half through the jetway in TPA. For some reason, they didn’t do this today even though airstairs were attached to the rear door. Anyway, we were among the first to board and were welcomed on board by a very friendly cabin crew member. I believe there was a total of three cabin crew on today’s flight. From what I understand, B6 configured their A320’s in a lower-density configuration so they could have only 3 cabin crew members on each flight.
The captain welcomed us on board giving us some brief details about the flight to JFK.
Pushback was a couple minutes early and we were somewhat relieved as we would have been completely screwed if we missed our AI flight.
A Hawaiian 767-300 parked at Airside C after flying OAK-TPA.
Takeoff did not seem powerful at all.
Right turn after departure
Unfortunately, the Live TV wasn’t working on the flight. However, the XM radio was working along with the live map display so it wasn’t a total loss. The F/A’s tried re-setting the system but it didn’t fix the problem.
XM Radio. This is a fantastic feature.
Cruising
Cabin shot. This is one B6’s newer A320’s with the new style overhead bins and PTV screens.
We then found ourselves holding for a bit, probably related to the very low visibility and cloud cover at JFK. Finally I noticed the flaps being deployed and we began our approach to runway 22L. I could not see the ground at 1,000 ft as a result of the clouds.
The flight crew did an excellent job putting the Airbus down smoothly and applause could be heard throughout the cabin, which is a rare event on U.S. domestic flights.
I thought it was great how during the arrival announcement, the crew said “Thank you for jetting with JetBlue”.
Taxi to T5 was quick and we held for an AA 777 departing from 22R.
B6’s new terminal is truly fantastic. It has a great selection of food and is nicely designed. What a contrast to JetBlue’s old T6!
It took us a while to get our bags, but we had 4 hours to spare so it wasn’t a huge issue.
This flight, even without the LiveTV working, still has me convinced that B6 (along with F9 and WN) are by far the best U.S. domestic carriers. Very friendly crew, new planes, PTV’s, and an overall great product put B6 at the top IMHO. Well done, JetBlue!
As far as I’m aware, the only way to get from T5 to T4 (where AI operates from) is to take the airtrain. I don’t think there are any sidewalks, but in retrospect we should have just walked on the road. B6 still uses the old airtrain station that served T6. Unfortunately, this requires a LONG walk. Fortunately, we got to walk across that huge “bridge” that connects T5 with the airtrain station, which is really cool. Once at the station, we had to wait for two trains to go through before the terminal loop train arrived. This took about 15 minutes. Once on the train, we realized that we were getting a nice tour of JFK as it was going the long way around. This is when I began to think about how JFK is probably one of the most inconvenient airports in the United States. I still love it though, just because it’s JFK.
One of these birds will be taking us to DEL. They sit in JFK for about 10 to 12 hours!
Anyway, we finally arrived at T4. It took us about 30 to get from the gate of our B6 flight to the AI check-in.
The airtrain actually arrives in the terminal. All you have to do is exit the train, go up an escalator and you are in the check-in area.
My attempts to use AI’s “E-Check-in” feature on their website proved to be futile. Every time I would get an error page that said “seat map failure”. Not a huge deal because I really wasn’t expecting it to work anyway.
Interestingly, AI completely separates their First and Executive class check-in area from the economy class area. F and C checks in at a remote stand next to where EOS used to be where there are two desks. Both the desks were staffed by outsourced workers along with an AI agent that seemed to be overseeing the check-in process.
The AI agent welcomed us and asked if we were flying to DEL in Executive class. She then tagged our carry on bags with Executive Class tags, that interestingly enough had the old logo.
There were two people checking-in in front of us and as soon as one of the desks opened and we tried to move our bags, the AI agent came over and told us not to worry and that we should not have to lift our bags. She informed that once they were tagged to DEL, the porters would take it over to be screened by security. How nice! Anyway, the check-in agent only required us to give him our passports and he checked to make sure we had visas. He was able to print our boarding pass very quickly and we were set. Also, he handed us an invitation to the Maharaja lounge. Our bags were tagged to DEL with a priority label on them, which had the new AI logo.
As were walking away, the AI agent said that if needed, she would be happy to escort us through security to lounge. So far, AI is looking really good!
Economy class check-in. The line was LONG. Before departing, I checked availability for Y and it was completely sold out.
T4 pre-security. Really nice, almost like a small shopping mall.
After having a slice of pizza, we headed through security to the lounge. Security was very quick and they have a separate line for F and C passengers, which is nice.
VT-ALC (going to DEL) on the left and VT-ALA (going to BOM) on the right with an SQ 747-400 departing to FRA later that night.
The old AI logo again lol. The new AI logo was used for the regular FIDS so this is interesting. Cool screens nonetheless.
The AI lounge is upstairs right next to EK’s lounge.
As we walked in, we were welcomed by a very friendly lounge attendant who took our invitation. AI’s lounge is very simple but nice considering they only have two daily flights to JFK and their premium cabins are relatively small.
One nice feature of the lounge is the great views it offers of the ramp.
AI mascot
At first, we were the only people in the lounge, however, more people arrived later.
JM A320 next to an NW 752.
At about 14:15, VT-ALC was towed to the gate.
I decided to leave my father in the lounge and walk around the terminal as I enjoy watching airport activity much more than sitting in lounges.
It was the final call for a JM flight to KIN I believe.
Boarding for our flight was called at about 15:00. The boarding pass said 14:30 but I knew that wouldn’t happen. An hour prior to departure is more than enough anyway.
Airline: Air India
Aircraft: Boeing 777-237/LR
Flight: AI 102
Date: 27-Dec-08
Departure Airport: New York John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK/KJFK)
Arrival Airport: Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport (DEL/VIDP)
Scheduled Departure Time: 16:00
Actual Departure Time: 16:00
Scheduled Arrival Time: 16:45 +1
Actual Arrival Time: 16:28 +1
Departure Terminal: Terminal 4
Arrival Terminal: Terminal 2
Class: Executive (C)
Seat: 14A later moved to 12A
Registration: VT-ALC
Estimated Load Factor: F: Unknown C: 40% Y: 98% (Only a few free seats)
Ticket jacket with new logo. Many airlines don’t use ticket jackets anymore, so this was nice.
Boarding pass with old logo
While walking down the jetway, I managed to get a nice picture of the EK A380. This is the first time I’ve ever seen the A380 and it’s impressive but ugly!
As we entered the immaculate 77L, we were welcomed on board by some friendly cabin crew members and they directed us to our seats. It seemed that AI 102 was to be a predominately male cabin crew. I must say that I was secretly hoping for something like this:
But I soon found out the service would be fantastic nonetheless.
But first, here are two pix of F. Very nice, but probably not as good as 9W, EK, SQ, and CX.
The mood lighting was already on as we boarded, which was great and very soothing.
The SQ 744 and the other AI 77L VT-ALA.
My first impression of the cabin was great. The colors were very well chosen IMO.
As passengers boarded, I could hear many of them remarking on how nice the plane was. I could not agree more!
We were offered a choice of orange, apple, or pineapple juice before departure. Note the old logo on the glasses.
The overhead monitors displayed a nose camera view during takeoff and landing. During the flight, they were not used. Also, right before departure the F/A’s turned off the IFE screens of all the seats not in use.
During pushback, the F/A’s handed us some very nice slippers along with an amenity kit. They also gave us gigantic water bottles and some very thick hot towels to clean our hands.
We were later given pajamas, which is not something most airlines do in C (old logo again).
The EK A380 again
The engines were soon started, which was very loud and powerful as the 77L should be. After waiting for an EI A330 to taxi in front of us, we began the short taxi to 22R.
Boarding announcement and takeoff video. There was a ton of condensation on the wing which was cool.
Click here to view the video.
Cabin shortly after takeoff. The rear business class section only had about five people. The forward cabin had more people.
Above the clouds
Sun beginning to set
A F/A then came over the P/A and welcomed us on board AI and gave us some advice about staying healthy on the long flight to DEL.
IFE remote
Executive seat fully reclined (the leg rest extends more). It’s completely flat (parallel to the floor) except for the leg rest which angles down a bit. Overall, a VERY comfortable seat.
Soon, an F/A handed us a pair of Bose noise cancellation headphones, which was fantastic.
I then decided that I would test out the IFE. The system is AVOD and kept me entertained for the duration of the flight, however, the movie choices are somewhat limited considering the long flights the 77L flies. Also, the moving map display was in metrics only, which was disappointing. It’s comparable with 9W’s system on their 77W’s but 9W has a better choice of music.
The meal service began about an hour after departure. Also during the time, the F/A’s came around and closed the window shades. I suppose this is to make the mood lighting more effective as the sun rises.
First, we received a snack before the actual meal began. This consisted of curry chicken along with something else I can’t remember.
As I was finishing this snack, we were handed menus.
Starter:
Main course. I chose the chicken curry and it was excellent. Possibly one of the best meals I’ve ever had on an airplane. After the meal service, the mood lighting switched over to blue.
As we were eating, we had a nice conversation the F/A serving us about India, Indian aviation and how 9W and IT seem to be in trouble. He said that the terrorist attacks in BOM have thankfully not had a huge effect on load factors into India, which was nice to hear.
Later, the cabin was darkened even more to a point where there was only subtle blue light. Shortly after this process, the F/A’s presented us with duvet covers and another pillow, which was bigger than the one on our seat before takeoff.
I was able to sleep comfortably for a couple of hours when I woke up and realized I was no longer tired. The F/A that we had talked with saw us walking around and offered us a mid-flight snack of Oreos and milk. Truly excellent service on today’s flight!
He also gave us sandwiches.
I slept a few more hours and watched another movie until the sun began to rise.
Some pics of the IFE
The F/A’s then came around with a drink service
For some reason, the safety card in my seat pocket was for the 77W, not the 77L. Also interesting to note was that there was no in-flight magazine on the flight. I’m pretty sure AI does have an in-flight magazine so perhaps they forgot to load it on board.
Breakfast was served approximately 2 hours before arrival.
We then flew over some mountains as we overflew Afghanistan.
Mood lighting!
Camera facing down
I decided that I would venture into the economy cabin before arrival and I have to say it looked very nice. It was almost completely full in Y, which was a good sign.
We began our descent about 30 minutes before landing. We landed on the new runway in DEL, 29L, and the landing was very smooth.
Click here to view the video.
We taxied by the new terminal at DEL. Unfortunately, it could only been seen from the other side of the aircraft so I could not get a picture of it.
An AI 77W.
This looks like a B3 737 but I don’t know why it’s here.
SG 737-900ER. I had no clue they had this aircraft. It looks great in their colors.
FG 727 from Kabul. A very rare sighting!
It looks like you could just drive on to the ramp lol.
Thankfully, Indira Ghandi airport was actually very efficient this time though. They’ve done some renovations since I was there last March that seem to have helped a lot. It’s still no world class airport but at least the lines aren’t atrocious anymore.
Our bags came out quickly and we were soon on our way to the Trident Hotel in Gurgaon.
Conclusion:
AI was truly a great experience! This was by far the most comfortable flight I’ve ever experienced with great service, in-flight amenities, and food. The seat was among the best I’ve ever used as well. It was comfortable both sleeping on my back and on my side. My return flight is scheduled to be completely full in J so we’ll see if AI can keep up the same level of service with more people. Also, this was by far the smoothest flight I’ve ever had. The seat belt sign wasn’t turned on once throughout the duration of the flight!
Just some things I noticed, however:
The only place AI falls behind when compared to other Indian carriers is their cabin crew uniforms. The 9W and IT crews look much sharper than the AI crews but that’s just my opinion
Also, it was slightly annoying that the old logo was still vastly used nearly a year and half after the new one was introduced. This isn’t a huge deal at all but the new logo is so much better than the old one IMHO that it’s a little disappointing to still the see the old one still in use.
Overall though, a truly great experience. Nice job, AI!
Hope you enjoyed!
Feel free to take a look at my other Trip Reports:
Delta 767-400ER JNB-ATL In J W/Pix (by MHTripple7 Aug 1 2008 in Trip Reports)
South African 737-800 JNB-CPT In C W/Pix (by MHTripple7 Sep 21 2008 in Trip Reports)
South African BAe 146-200 LVI-JNB In Y W/Pix (by MHTripple7 Aug 14 2008 in Trip Reports)
Air Botswana BAe 146-100 JNB-MUB In Y W/Pix (by MHTripple7 Jul 23 2008 in Trip Reports)
Air France 777-300ER CDG-JNB In J W/Pix (by MHTripple7 Jul 23 2008 in Trip Reports)
Air France A330-200 DTW-CDG In J W/Pix (by MHTripple7 Jul 22 2008 in Trip Reports)
Delta 737-800 JFK-TPA (Pix And Vid) (by MHTripple7 Apr 18 2008 in Trip Reports)
Jet Airways 777 DEL-JFK Mar 28 2008 Pix (by MHTripple7 Mar 29 2008 in Trip Reports)
Jet Airways 9W707 W/Diversion (Pix) (by MHTripple7 Mar 22 2008 in Trip Reports)
Jet Airways 777-300ER JFK-DEL ( Pix) (by MHTripple7 Mar 21 2008 in Trip Reports)
Delta DL1836 TPA-JFK 17Mar08 (by MHTripple7 Mar 22 2008 in Trip Reports)
[Edited 2009-01-05 21:44:11]
Username: AirlineBrat
Posted 2009-01-05 22:34:39 and read 32767 times.
Wow, your trip report was fantastic!! It was really well written and your pictures were amazing. I definitely plan on reading more of your reports you have linked from this page when I get a chance. Happy Travels!!
Username: Richcandy
Posted 2009-01-05 22:40:08 and read 32767 times.
Hi
Great trip report. Air India used to offer a very basic business class product, the company I used to work for had very cheap nett fares in Business between LON & NYC.
The product now looks really smart.
Also love the AI Maharajah.
Alex
Username: N104UA
Posted 2009-01-05 23:00:05 and read 32767 times.
Great TR
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
the moving map display was in metrics only,
Well it does not make seance for an Indian carrier which uses the metric system to put it in U.S. Imperial system, I really have never understood why airlines do that
Username: Semsem
Posted 2009-01-05 23:27:23 and read 32767 times.
Food is impressive except for the Oreo cookies which I hate. I flew on an AI 707 in Y many years ago and it was great. And my father always told me of his AI flight on a Constellation in 1950. Thanks.
Username: AirIndiaOne
Posted 2009-01-05 23:36:35 and read 32767 times.
Great report ! I really enjoy reading long TRs with loads of pictures !
Journeys in the 77L are always comfortable. Not to mention, the food looks sumptuous
Username: Ryanair!!!
Posted 2009-01-06 01:10:12 and read 32767 times.
You can NEVER go wrong with indian curries especially in a plane... The flavours that come bursting forth are pretty indescribable! I love the colour scheme of the AI 777s, very calming and rich looking but at the same time not too opulently overwhelming.
Username: Globetraveller
Posted 2009-01-06 03:09:42 and read 32767 times.
Hi MHTripple7.
An excellent trip report. Great pictures and a very nice read.
The mood lighting just looked amazing with nice colours of the seats and the clean cabin. What a smart looking aircraft.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
It seemed that AI 102 was to be a predominately male cabin crew. I must say that I was secretly hoping for something like this:
Hahaha... I'm not so sure about that one, but I will say that I have usually found female crew to be nicer to me than male stewards... 
Thank you for all your efforts!
Globetraveller
Username: LH4116
Posted 2009-01-06 04:08:03 and read 32767 times.
Great report MHTripple7
Very nice and interesting report, the pics were great. In the video it looked like it was filmed in HD size. What camera were you using?
The AI lounge looked rather decent, i thought that it would have been better. The seats looked very nice and comfy, though i still found it a bit strange that the footrest wasn't completely horizontal.
The food looked nice, though it didn't look nice with that cheap looking white tray visible, they should at least have covered it with a bigger linen cloth, IMO.
Though there's one thing that i didn't find that nice at all. It was the mood lightning. IMO the food just looks bad and unappetizing when the mood lightning is on, shouldn't they have switched to regular lightning during the meal service?
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
The F/A's then came around with a drink service
That's one of the weirdest things i have ever. How comes that an Arabic coke can is served on a flight from the USA to India? That can must otherwise have been on the plane for quite some time.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
Breakfast was served approximately 2 hours before arrival.
Looks almost like an Y class meal, except for the napkin and china.
Thanks for posting.
Username: RGElectra80
Posted 2009-01-06 05:38:24 and read 32767 times.
It would be great if there were more trip reports like yours: lots of pictures and thoughts that were well-put together! Thanks for sharing your experience. I was in DEL in October and was surprised at the contrast between inside the terminal and the ensuing chaos that it is when you step outside.
Also, compared to its departures area, the arrivals is kind of dingy I thought.
Username: MHTripple7
Posted 2009-01-06 06:34:03 and read 32767 times.
Thanks for all the feedback guys!
Quoting N104UA (Reply 3):
Well it does not make seance for an Indian carrier which uses the metric system to put it in U.S. Imperial system, I really have never understood why airlines do that
That's true, however the 77L was bought for the sole purpose of flying non-stops to the U.S. so it would make sense for the movie map to have metrics and the U.S. system.
Quoting Globetraveller (Reply 7):
Hahaha... I'm not so sure about that one, but I will say that I have usually found female crew to be nicer to me than male stewards... confused
I forgot to add that the picture is of IT F/A's in case you didn't see lol. We had GREAT service on this flight, which was mainly male so I'm not really complaining at all.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
The seats looked very nice and comfy, though i still found it a bit strange that the footrest wasn't completely horizontal.
Yeah I'm not sure why it wasn't because there was definitely room. On the return flight, the legrest did seem more horizontal for some reason, but I was on a different aircraft (VT-ALB).
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
The food looked nice, though it didn't look nice with that cheap looking white tray visible, they should at least have covered it with a bigger linen cloth, IMO.
The presentation was probably lacking a bit, but it tasted great which is more important than presentation IMHO.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
Though there's one thing that i didn't find that nice at all. It was the mood lightning. IMO the food just looks bad and unappetizing when the mood lightning is on, shouldn't they have switched to regular lightning during the meal service?
Interestingly enough, the mood lighting was turned off for meal services on the return flight.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
That's one of the weirdest things i have ever. How comes that an Arabic coke can is served on a flight from the USA to India? That can must otherwise have been on the plane for quite some time.
Good question! I didn't notice that. Perhaps this aircraft did a run to DXB and the coke was loaded on board there.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
Looks almost like an Y class meal, except for the napkin and china.
Yes, the breakfast was a little disappointing compared to the dinner, which was fantastic.
Username: Ronerone
Posted 2009-01-06 12:11:48 and read 32767 times.
Excellent Trip Report MHTripple7!
It seems that AI is offering an exceptional product out of JFK! Pyjamas and slippers in Business Class? This is First Class service!!!
What was the breakfast choice you ordered?
The Indian Vegetarian breakfast option on the menu sounded mouth-watering! I had to run down to the kitchen and fetch me a bit to eat!
Quoting Ryanair!!! (Reply 6):
You can NEVER go wrong with indian curries especially in a plane... The flavours that come bursting forth are pretty indescribable!
Totally agree here!
Your Chicken Curry also looked delicious!
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
While walking down the jetway, I managed to get a nice picture of the EK A380. This is the first time I’ve ever seen the A380 and it’s impressive but ugly!
Is that only one aerobridge connected to it? Why was there no aerobridge for the upper deck?
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
The F/A’s then came around with a drink service
You got a Coke can with Arabic writing! .. How strange! LOL
Thank you for sharing this report with us. It was a true joy to read!
Regards,
Roni
Username: BA319-131
Posted 2009-01-06 13:12:27 and read 32767 times.
Great report MHTrippe7,
Really enjoyed the trip and pictures.
AI certainly seemed to have improved the product and as you say, thete have been other good reports too"
Looks like you made the right choice on this trip.
I know lot;s of carriers have the 2-3-2 in 777 J cabins, but I still don't like the idea of that middle seat for a premium product, not nice IMO.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
A trip report will follow shortly for the KB flight!
- Cool, don't think I've read one before.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
A Hawaiian 767-300 parked at Airside C after flying OAK-TPA
- Where? - Have I had too much wine?
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
I must say that I was secretly hoping for something like this:
- Wow, they are HOT!
Look forward to the next TR.
Regards
Mark
Username: Debonair
Posted 2009-01-06 13:48:07 and read 32767 times.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
This looks like a B3 737 but I don’t know why it’s here.
Most likely an UN peacekeeping mission... 
Username: MHTripple7
Posted 2009-01-06 14:13:58 and read 32767 times.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 11):
Excellent Trip Report MHTripple7!
Thanks a ton. That means a lot, especially coming from a great TR writer like yourself.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 11):
What was the breakfast choice you ordered?
I believe I had the poached eggs. Unfortunately, the biscuit is covering the actual meal.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 11):
Is that only one aerobridge connected to it? Why was there no aerobridge for the upper deck?
It appears so. I believe it was about to be towed to a hardstand where it waits for its flight to DXB later that night so maybe it had just been removed when I took the picture.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 12):
Great report MHTrippe7,
Many thanks, BA391-131.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 12):
- Where? - Have I had too much wine?
Oops, sorry I forgot to attach the image code:
Username: Vivekman2006
Posted 2009-01-06 20:32:15 and read 32767 times.
Excellent trip report MHTripple7. Looks like AI has successfully maintained its stellar service on the BOM & DEL Non-stops. I am yet to come across a TR where AI has disappointed!!!
How quiet was the 77L during cruise? Could you sleep comfortably (noise wise)?
Waiting for your Druk Air Trip report. 
- Vivek
Username: CO7e7
Posted 2009-01-06 22:10:51 and read 32767 times.
Fantastic report and excellent pictures.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
One of these birds will be taking us to DEL. They sit in JFK for about 10 to 12 hours!
Why do they stay for that long? I thought the norm was 6 to 8 hours?!
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
applause could be heard throughout the cabin, which is a rare event on U.S. domestic flights.
Funny you say that, on 12/22/08 I was flying from TPA to CLE on CO and after TD at CLE everyone in the cabin applauded... I was surprised... perhaps it was the crappy Cleveland weather!
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
The F/A’s then came around with a drink service
I found it quite interesting that the can of Coca Cola had arabic script on it and not hindi !
Thanks again for the great report. I look forward to reading more of your reports.
CO7e7
Username: PlaneHunter
Posted 2009-01-07 03:17:31 and read 32767 times.
Very enjoyable report with many nice pictures.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
Very friendly crew, new planes, PTV’s, and an overall great product put B6 at the top IMHO. Well done, JetBlue!
I can only agree. B6 is one of my favorite carriers.
PH
Username: MHTripple7
Posted 2009-01-07 03:49:33 and read 32767 times.
Quoting Vivekman2006 (Reply 15):
Excellent trip report MHTripple7. Looks like AI has successfully maintained its stellar service on the BOM & DEL Non-stops. I am yet to come across a TR where AI has disappointed!!!
Thank you, Vivekman2007! Yes their service was definitely fantastic. Interestingly enough, AI seems to still have their terrible reputation throughout India. Everyone we talked to said AI is terrible, always late, and always loses your luggage. I'm not sure if it has to do with the new aircraft but they are completely different than what their reputation suggests.
Quoting Vivekman2006 (Reply 15):
How quiet was the 77L during cruise? Could you sleep comfortably (noise wise)?
The 77L was definitely loud, especially sense I was right next to the engine, however, I didn't have any problems sleeping. Ear plugs and the noise-cancellation headphones probably helped.
Quoting Vivekman2006 (Reply 15):
Waiting for your Druk Air Trip report. Smile
Hopefully I will have it up later today. Unfortunately, it is on the return flight only. I wanted to do DEL-KTM-PBH but my camera was completely dead when I arrived at DEL to check-in. Thankfully though, my video camera was working so I was able to capture the approach into PBH on video.
Quoting CO7e7 (Reply 16):
Fantastic report and excellent pictures.
Thanks alot, CO7e7.
Quoting CO7e7 (Reply 16):
Why do they stay for that long? I thought the norm was 6 to 8 hours?!
Good question. Maybe they are trying to get connection from the east coast or something (they have an office in LAX I believe).
Quoting CO7e7 (Reply 16):
Funny you say that, on 12/22/08 I was flying from TPA to CLE on CO and after TD at CLE everyone in the cabin applauded... I was surprised... perhaps it was the crappy Cleveland weather!
Yeah it was weird because I've never heard applause on a U.S. domestic flight.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 17):
Very enjoyable report with many nice pictures.
Thanks a ton, PlaneHunter.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 17):
I can only agree. B6 is one of my favorite carriers.
Definitely. I've never had a bad experience on B6. In fact, they've all been great.
Username: Nimish
Posted 2009-01-07 09:18:46 and read 32767 times.
Excellent report - thanks for sharing!
I'm glad to hear about the good service on board AI's 77L - it certainly seems a good choice for the India-JFK sectors. I wonder if they can extend the service from JFK to some point in Canada - to keep the a/c busy during the day
Username: Buck3y3nut
Posted 2009-01-07 11:57:21 and read 32767 times.
A great report. Its always a pleasure reading about airlines from back home especially when people enjoy it. Reports like these need to be read by many people who have the impression that Air India is a crappy carrier. Looks like with their new A/C, they have a new attitude towards service. The food looked great and the IFE also seems to be of high standards. Thanks for writing this report and I'm sure just like you, many others will read this report and not hesitate to book on Air India in the future.
Thanks
Username: HeartDoc
Posted 2009-01-07 14:00:06 and read 32767 times.
Nice TR!
I remember traveling on the old 747-200 AI long time ago and it was my worst experience ever to this date. It is nice to see an updated aircraft with nice seats and food appearing to be pallatable.
Looking forward to the return, any sneek peak to the first class cabin?
Username: AsoRock
Posted 2009-01-07 15:01:09 and read 32767 times.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
This looks like a B3 737 but I don’t know why it’s here.
This livery is a basic representation of Bellview Airlines branding (Nigerian airline). I know it has wet-leased 737-300s from a European carrier but what its doing in Mumbai is beyond me.
Username: Abrelosojos
Posted 2009-01-07 15:37:30 and read 32767 times.
I am laughing my ass off right now. I was on this same flight - and am pretty sure noticed you taking odd pictures. I shrugged it off as not being significant at that time. I wanted to do a trip report and take claim for the first J review of AI's product ... in my report from Feb (http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/trip_reports/read.main/125437/), I had mentioned I wanted to do this in J. Oh well. Now y'all have to wait for the return report of mine on DEL-JFK. I am very busy at work, but it is coming ... many of you will find the report interesting ...
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
There were two people checking-in in front of us and as soon as one of the desks opened and we tried to move our bags, the AI agent came over and told us not to worry and that we should not have to lift our bags. She informed that once they were tagged to DEL, the porters would take it over to be screened by security. How nice!
= Isn't it such a nice touch?
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
As were walking away, the AI agent said that if needed, she would be happy to escort us through security to lounge. So far, AI is looking really good!
= Yup. I am finding AI front line ground staff to be great ... now only if they can get rid of us some of the managerial staff at JFK!
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
My first impression of the cabin was great. The colors were very well chosen IMO.
= Totally agreed.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
Soon, an F/A handed us a pair of Bose noise cancellation headphones, which was fantastic.
= Yup ... in freaking J! It is better than anything I have got in F!
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
Later, the cabin was darkened even more to a point where there was only subtle blue light. Shortly after this process, the F/A’s presented us with duvet covers and another pillow, which was bigger than the one on our seat before takeoff.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Thread starter):
AI was truly a great experience! This was by far the most comfortable flight I’ve ever experienced with great service, in-flight amenities, and food. The seat was among the best I’ve ever used as well. It was comfortable both sleeping on my back and on my side. My return flight is scheduled to be completely full in J so we’ll see if AI can keep up the same level of service with more people. Also, this was by far the smoothest flight I’ve ever had. The seat belt sign wasn’t turned on once throughout the duration of the flight!
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 11):
It seems that AI is offering an exceptional product out of JFK! Pyjamas and slippers in Business Class? This is First Class service!!!
= I think the turn-down service was one of the best things of AI J. I loved how they made my bed for me. The AI product was an interesting comparison for me with EY J.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
Though there's one thing that i didn't find that nice at all. It was the mood lightning. IMO the food just looks bad and unappetizing when the mood lightning is on, shouldn't they have switched to regular lightning during the meal service?
= Actually, I like mood lighting for dinner ... especially on night flights.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
Looks almost like an Y class meal, except for the napkin and china.
= Trust me, AI meals are great.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 12):
I know lot;s of carriers have the 2-3-2 in 777 J cabins, but I still don't like the idea of that middle seat for a premium product, not nice IMO.
= This is kind of funny ... while I would not want to be stuck in a middle seat, the seats are surprisingly roomy. Perhaps something to do with generous pitch?
Quoting AsoRock (Reply 22):
This livery is a basic representation of Bellview Airlines branding (Nigerian airline). I know it has wet-leased 737-300s from a European carrier but what its doing in Mumbai is beyond me.
= Plane Hunter?
Thanks for sharing. I have one coming up on AI as well ... along with some really random carriers.
Saludos,
A.
Username: MHTripple7
Posted 2009-01-07 17:34:31 and read 32767 times.
Thanks for the comments, everyone!
Quoting Buck3y3nut (Reply 20):
A great report. Its always a pleasure reading about airlines from back home Smile especially when people enjoy it. Reports like these need to be read by many people who have the impression that Air India is a crappy carrier. Looks like with their new A/C, they have a new attitude towards service. The food looked great and the IFE also seems to be of high standards. Thanks for writing this report and I'm sure just like you, many others will read this report and not hesitate to book on Air India in the future
Agreed completely. I really hope that people who have had a bad experience with AI in the past will give them another chance on their new aircraft, especially the 77L and 77W.
Quoting HeartDoc (Reply 21):
Looking forward to the return, any sneek peak to the first class cabin?
Actually, I also took C on the return. I just took those pictures during boarding at JFK.
Quoting Abrelosojos (Reply 23):
I am laughing my ass off right now. I was on this same flight - and am pretty sure noticed you taking odd pictures. I shrugged it off as not being significant at that time.
HAHA, no way! Wow that's great. Where were you seated if you don't mind me asking?
Quoting Abrelosojos (Reply 23):
I wanted to do a trip report and take claim for the first J review of AI's product ... in my report from Feb (http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/trip_reports/read.main/125437/), I had mentioned I wanted to do this in J. Oh well. Now y'all have to wait for the return report of mine on DEL-JFK. I am very busy at work, but it is coming ... many of you will find the report interesting ...
I look forward to reading your TR! What day did you return out of curiosity? I'm pretty sure the return flight (AI 101) was heavily delayed a couple of times due to the fog in DEL in the past week or so. Thankfully my return flight on Jan 5 left on-time.
Quoting Abrelosojos (Reply 23):
= Trust me, AI meals are great.
Definitely. As I said earlier, probably one of the best meals I've had on an aircraft.
Username: The777Man
Posted 2009-01-07 19:10:54 and read 32767 times.
Very nice report with excellent pictures! Very good choice especially when you consider you paid less on AI than you would have on AA/CO.
The777Man
Username: Gr8Circle
Posted 2009-01-09 09:46:27 and read 32767 times.
Quoting MHTripple7 (Reply 10):
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 8):
That's one of the weirdest things i have ever. How comes that an Arabic coke can is served on a flight from the USA to India? That can must otherwise have been on the plane for quite some time.
Good question! I didn't notice that. Perhaps this aircraft did a run to DXB and the coke was loaded on board there.
Unlikely.....the cans probably got into the inventory at DEL off some flight from some ME destination and subsequently got loaded onto this flight...doesn't necessarily mean it was old....could have been received in stock less than a week ago....may even have come off some other airline being served by the same inflight catering service at DEL...
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 11):
Is that only one aerobridge connected to it? Why was there no aerobridge for the upper deck?
Not enough passengers...? 
Quoting Nimish (Reply 19):
I wonder if they can extend the service from JFK to some point in Canada - to keep the a/c busy during the day
Great idea! They can extend the flight to YYZ easily and be back in JFK by evening.... 
Quoting HeartDoc (Reply 21):
It is nice to see an updated aircraft with nice seats and food appearing to be pallatable.
AI's food has always been good.....their only strong point through the periods when their service otherwise touched lows.....
Username: HAWK21M
Posted 2009-01-09 22:06:45 and read 32767 times.
Excellent TR.great effort with those pics,made the TR all the more interesting to read.
regds
MEL
Username: MHTripple7
Posted 2009-01-11 07:20:35 and read 32767 times.
Quoting The777Man (Reply 25):
Very nice report with excellent pictures! Very good choice especially when you consider you paid less on AI than you would have on AA/CO.
Thanks, The777Man. Yes we got a great deal. In fact, with these prices it amazes me that people continue to fly CO over AI on this route. I suppose CO has better connections and is just more known amongst Americans. This flight and the return had way more Indian pax than Americans. They should start codesharing with American carriers to capture more passengers from various U.S. destinations.
Quoting HAWK21M (Reply 27):
Excellent TR.great effort with those pics,made the TR all the more interesting to read.
Thanks a lot, HAWK21M.
Quoting Gr8Circle (Reply 26):
Great idea! They can extend the flight to YYZ easily and be back in JFK by evening....
That could work, at least it does for LAN.
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