Having arrived on VS400 I proceeded to check-in for EK3801
I had expected EK to put up banners and general promote this historic day, however this was sadly lacking,
At check-in I enquired as to J class availability, basically had any seats freed up?? - appears 1 window seat had opened up, I snapped it up, sure glad I did too!
I had to visit the ticket desk and pay the difference, took about 5 minutes then headed to the dedicated check-in desk for US bound EK flights, went smoothly enough thought the agent seemed to have trouble getting to grips with me leaving JFK for Europe on the same day after such a long flight!
Got my boarding pass and a lounge invitation, still not sure why they have to write these things out, seems like a waste of paper/card to be honest!
Passport control and security was pretty easy, again First & Business have a dedicated lane to use, saves getting in line with the great unwashed.
I will say the First/Business check-in area was not that great, looks quite dated compared to the layout/offerings from say BA and VS.
The walk from security brings you to duty free
great if you want to buy stuff, but a pain if you don’t want anything, masses of people, reminds me of T3 @ Heathrow, a zoo!
Once up to the next level, departures, I took a walk along to try and get some spotting in and snap some pix of the A380. Be warned, DXB is not great for spotting, it’s hard to read reg numbers of the planes parked at the gates and there are people everywhere, the whole place in the early morning is a nightmare to navigate, hot, stuffy, you’ll be drenched in sweat before you know it. I’ve not been here long but have developed a dislike for the place already.
After a quick walk to try and get in some spotting, enough was enough, decided to hit the lounge.
I chose the lounge closest gate 25, this being the gate allocated for our departure.
Upon arrival the reception agent wanted to take my lounge invite but I asked to keep as a memento of the day, no problem, she copied the details onto another and let me have the original, why copy the detail??
By now I was hot as hell, had a nice sheen of sweat on me and had been in the same clothes for some 10 hours, thankfully the lounge had a couple of showers and 1 was free. Whilst refreshing, the shower room lacked any form of ventilation, the ceiling was covered with damp stains and you were wet as soon as you had dried off, rubbish! – That said, I did feel much better even if I was soaked in a new layer of sweat!
Luggage for the trip
Shower
I managed to find a table next to the window, grabbed a paper, OJ and coffee, relaxation at last! – The lounge had free wifi so I checked my inbox and checked the most important web site in the world, A.NET to see what was going on, I noted Roni was already at the gate. A text or 8 to MissBA319131 back in London and I headed down to the gate around about 10am ish.
View from the lounge
There appeared to be nothing special at gate 25 for the flight, a passport & boarding pass inspection and I was through. I had been advised to show my ticket stub to the girls in the gate area to receive our gift – this was an Emirates bag with a couple of goodies, nice but quite poor compared to the gift SQ gave out on their inagural A380 flight.
The whole affair was quite a complete contrast to the SQ affair, I had expected EK to really promote this day, the inagural flight of their 1st A380 and the first A380 powered by the new engine alliance GP7200.
I sat near the window and managed to catch a couple of local’s who will never fly to LHR, really need to re-visit this place where I can get some good spotting in, it’s a paradise! – Anyway, I good looking chap approached, it was Roni! We had a bit of a chat, boarding for First & Business was called so we headed off, stopping for numerous pictures along the way!
Boarding
View of the boarding area
Here is our baby!
Roni heading down the jetway.
Once aboard we both headed right, me row A, Roni in K.
Pretty impressed with the seat, beats the pants off the VS seat I flew in on and is better than the BA Club World seat.
I will say the side window storage bins open too easily, your arm tends to move off of the arm rest and end up on the storage bin, usually making it open!
Power supplies, plug etc
Amenity kit
As expected, camera’s were in abundance as everyone took pictures of the fixtures and fittings, at this point we were allowed to visit First Class, so took the opportunity to get a few shots of the showers along with the seats.
More Business Class pictures
At the top of the front staircase is this water feature, it’s real too!
The crew served pre-departure drinks, water, OJ & Champagne - Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage 2003 – no guess which I took!
View from my seat
As per my last A380 flight, push took me by surprise, you don’t feel it, you only notice it if you happen to be looking out of the window at the time!
A short taxi out
and a long takeoff run wheels were up at 11:20, a small amount of applause could be head through out the cabin. The guy from Engine Alliance was behind me in 23B so I guess he was happy.
Climb seemed very slow, much slower than my SQ380 flight, so much so I did wonder if we were in fact climbing……………… thankfully we were!
Once the seat belt sign was extinguished that was it, the madness began, people all over the place, cameras out again, the rear bar area was packed, it’s a great place to hang out and much more user friendly than the VS area. I imagine it’s fantastic at night when the mood lighting is on, Roni has been commissioned to report on this on the return night flight.
The curtain divides have arrows on to show where to open
Here are a few pictures of the bar area:-
Me before it was set up
Seating in the bar area
EK top brass!
Door
Menu
Meal service began around 1pm Dubai time, I say 1pm, it depends where you were sat on the plane, some areas had finished their meals before others had received starters.
I took the Lamb with a salad to start, both were excellent as was the chocolate tart which followed, not good for my wedding diet though!
I chose the Californian Ridge red, an excellent choice which I stuck with through out the flight, very drinkable.
Toilet
After lunch Roni & I did a bit of exploring including heading down to the lower deck. The crew had pulled a retractable barrier to stop economy passengers trying to visit us, there were many on the stairs as we headed down asking how life was upstairs.
Galley
Down the back staits to the lower deck
The lower deck as you may know is all economy, mostly a 3-4-3 layout. The seat pitch appears to be quite generous, say 33 or 34, however, if travelling in this class, try and snag the forward section which ends at row 50, that’s the most private/smallest cabin.
I noted the rear lavatories had queues at least 10 deep at one point, nice.
The stairs to First Class
Economy with the window shades closed
Roni having a snack.
The crew were having issues with the galley equipment, several carts appeared to be abandoned through out the plane
Crew rest area in the rear of economy
Logo on the wall
After much roaming, and drinking at the bar I headed back to A.NET work.
At one point I got a bit tired so put the bed in lie flat mode, pretty comfortable, dropped off for about 4 hours.
Another snack when awake
Charging equipment
Last orders were taken at 21:00 Dubai time and served shortly after, well some were. Roni came back, his meal was over and done with, I’d yet to have the table set up!
Took the chicken this time, followed by the cheese plate, all went well except the wine never managed to arrive, nor did the port to go with the cheese, the error was realised but by then everything was pretty much eaten.
Hmm, a bit limp,,,,
Business Class with the window shades down
Descent
Wheels touched down at 16:30, not the smoothest landing ever though, I think he planted the plane rather than kissed the runway!
Total flight time was 13:10 on the dot!
the cockpit announced that the fire service would be giving the plane a water cannon welcome, it was noting to worry about.
Here is a picture of the event, I was lucky to catch it, such a short blast of water, don’t actually think it touched the plane.
One of these 2 is my next ride
Saw this bird in DXB earlier today
A slow taxi to Terminal 4, parking to the right of an Air India 77W, this plane would be heading for London later that evening.
Immigration was pretty heavy for this time of day, Roni has a US passport, he was through and outside having a smoke even before I got to a counter!
Once through we met up again, headed up to departures, then outside into the sun, lovely evening there, would have been nice to spend a night on the town, but no, return trip’s awaited us, me to LHR via ZRH, Roni back to DXB on A6-EDA.
We both headed to our respective check-in’s before meeting up to go and hit our lounges.
Thanks for some good company and conversation Roni, look forward to meeting up again.
The crew were excellent on this flight, nothing was too much trouble.
I don’t remember all the name’s (sorry) but Toby and Bec, many thanks, you were excellent!
Summing Up:
Whilst the service was patch at times, drinks not appearing with meals or second courses taking a long time to follow, this was all down to lack of time getting to know the aircraft, they got it Tuesday night, 3 days later they had the first flight, the small problems are quite forgivable at this point as they get to know the aircraft.
F & J cabins are excellent, layout is great, seats superb. Economy is pretty good but I’d not want to do this particular flight in economy, several passengers in the immigration queue who had flown in economy said they would not take the same route again, preferring to take a 1 stop flight instead.
Many of you will know this is my second A380 flight, both on inagurals. The A380 is a superb plane on which to fly, it is roomy and depending on customer fit out, a comfortable aircraft too. I might be wrong, but the SQ RR machine seemed quieter than this EA powered one, anybody else travelled on both and can advise their opinion?
Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed the trip so far, next part, LX15 & LX to follow!
Swissair4ever From United States of America, joined Aug 2006, 122 posts, RR: 0 Reply 1, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days 3 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
CXtra From Hong Kong, joined Jan 2006, 263 posts, RR: 0 Reply 2, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days 3 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Thanks very much for the report.
I really don't like that fake wood panelling that seems to proliferate in EK's premium cabins. Also, can't really see the point of the common areas - would prefer to enjoy the seat/IFE than try to make conversation with other pax. That's just me, though..
On the plus side, the A380 looks great in EK livery, and the food and IFE looked excellent.
BoeingATL From United States of America, joined Jan 2005, 144 posts, RR: 0 Reply 3, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
WOW. . .
this report is so over the top!!!! Wonderful, wonderful!
Evan767 From United States of America, joined Aug 2005, 2954 posts, RR: 2 Reply 6, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great work covering all aspects of the plane. I think that would be fun to be an Emirates bartender!
The proper term is "on final" not "on finals" bud...
Maxisno1 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2007, 212 posts, RR: 0 Reply 7, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days 1 hour ago) and read 32767 times:
Fantastic trip report, have been waiting for one on the EK A380! Those J seats look very nice, not sure about the TV though - I think I prefer the older ones that also seem much bigger. Glad you enjoyed yourself.
JAGflyer From Canada, joined Aug 2004, 3138 posts, RR: 4 Reply 8, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days ago) and read 32767 times:
Great report! The A380 is truly an experience, rather than just a flight. Especially when traveling onboard Emirates! The number of languages spoken by the cabin crew is amazing!
I'll take 100 litres a side AVGAS with Prist - C172 pilot
Ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1468 posts, RR: 55 Reply 10, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 3 days ago) and read 32767 times:
Mark!
Absolutely fantastic report!!!
Reading this report suddenly brought back the good memories! But then i realised, it was only two days ago! haha. Going to New York and coming back in a day, just makes it seem like such a long time ago! I'm actually feeling a little light-headed this morning hehe
It turned out that i actually did pre-select seat 23 A when i made the booking for the return leg. So i sat in your seat. While it added to the privacy factor, i missed all the action up front in the main Business cabin.
Thanks for sharing this! Mine is still in the works. Will be up and running soon !!
Regards,
Roni
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
AirlineBrat From United States of America, joined Jan 2005, 627 posts, RR: 1 Reply 11, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 22 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Your report was just incredible. All the photographs were fantastic. I like the way Emirates designed certain cabin details. The colors they selected complement each other well. It is obvious they spent a lot of time developing a classy environment.
I'm leavin on a jet plane. Don't know when I'll be back again....
Ojas From India, joined Mar 2008, 2633 posts, RR: 25 Reply 12, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 22 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent report Mark! Just fabulous , I would love to fly their premium products Very good pictures!
Though I must say why were the screens saying EK801 when the number was EK3801? Maybe the IFE is programmed for a 3digit flight number.
Ek surely has a good product to offer on the A380.
However, I must add that my Inaugural SQ B77W from BOM, where it was just an equipment switch, had more celebrations than this historic event. Too bad EK did not go ahead that extra mile.
Looking forward for more TR's!
A lion does not concern himself with the opinions of the sheep
N104UA From United States of America, joined Dec 2007, 886 posts, RR: 0 Reply 13, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 21 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great TR can't wait till I fly on EK A380
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): At the top of the front staircase is this water feature, it’s real too!
Is this on during take off and landing or does it turn off
"Learn the rules, so you know how to break them properly." -H.H. The Dalai Lama
PlaneHunter From Germany, joined Mar 2006, 5419 posts, RR: 81 Reply 14, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 21 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
What to sa, Mark - fantastic report with excellent shots! You've done a great job in putting it together so quickly for us!
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): Once up to the next level, departures, I took a walk along to try and get some spotting in and snap some pix of the A380. Be warned, DXB is not great for spotting, it’s hard to read reg numbers of the planes parked at the gates and there are people everywhere, the whole place in the early morning is a nightmare to navigate, hot, stuffy, you’ll be drenched in sweat before you know it. I’ve not been here long but have developed a dislike for the place already.
Exactly my thoughts, DXB is pretty bad not just for enthusiasts.
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): Pretty impressed with the seat, beats the pants off the VS seat I flew in on and is better than the BA Club World seat.
Looks really good in general - but I'm not a fan of that particular type of wood.
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): The lower deck as you may know is all economy, mostly a 3-4-3 layout. The seat pitch appears to be quite generous, say 33 or 34, however, if travelling in this class, try and snag the forward section which ends at row 50, that’s the most private/smallest cabin.
Shoulder space seems to be more than enough.
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): The crew were having issues with the galley equipment, several carts appeared to be abandoned through out the plane
Not the best decision - what about sudden turbulences?
Anyway, I was looking forward to this report, it was a great read.
LACA773 From United States of America, joined Nov 2004, 3482 posts, RR: 1 Reply 15, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 21 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Mark,
Thanks so much for the wonderful TR and sharing another very special trip for you!
It's a shame EK didn't do more for it's for passenger A380 flight. I remember what SQ did for their inagural flight to SYD! That was lovely in itself. They were very generous with the goodie bags.
By chance did EK hand out a A380 model at least for the inagural flight?
It looks like EK does have a nice amentity kit. One of the best out there.
SpeedBirdA380 From United Kingdom, joined Jul 2008, 537 posts, RR: 2 Reply 16, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 20 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Bravo on a Wonderful TR.
Quoting Chrisrad (Reply 9): Quoting CXtra (Reply 2):
I really don't like that fake wood panelling that seems to proliferate in EK's premium cabins.
I find all the plastic fake wood disgusting, if it was done in a more restrained tastefull way then perhaps.
I agree. I think it look's cheap and tacky and there seem's to be so much of it!
I really like the "Personal Minibar" you get in the Premium classe's though, and I thought J class looked very comfortable.
The shower's looked nice too. - Did you speak to anyone who got to take a shower?
Pumaknight From United Kingdom, joined Jun 2004, 249 posts, RR: 0 Reply 17, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 18 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
wonderful - not as good as being on the actual flight, but certainly close enough. Thank you.
Singapore_Air From United Kingdom, joined Nov 2000, 13667 posts, RR: 26 Reply 18, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 18 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Could I ask for some elaboration on your perception of personal space in Business Class and how comfortable you thought the seat was as a bed and as a seat?
Rogerbcn From Andorra, joined Sep 2006, 1007 posts, RR: 18 Reply 21, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 17 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hola Mark!
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW! What a trip! Thanks for taking the time to write it and publish it here in such a short time! It is definitely the trip report of this summer!
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): I had expected EK to put up banners and general promote this historic day, however this was sadly lacking,
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): There appeared to be nothing special at gate 25 for the flight, a passport & boarding pass inspection and I was through. I had been advised to show my ticket stub to the girls in the gate area to receive our gift -- this was an Emirates bag with a couple of goodies, nice but quite poor compared to the gift SQ gave out on their inagural A380 flight.
I cannot really understand this lack of enthusiasm for such a big and important event. I have never flown EK or SQ but after reading about their inaugural flights on the A380 I think SQ made a bigger fuss that obviously hit the media all over the globe. I think EK missed some cheap publicity here.
Nice to compare the attention to details,
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): The curtain divides have arrows on to show where to open
and the lack of familiarity with the plane by te crew,
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): The crew were having issues with the galley equipment, several carts appeared to be abandoned through out the plane
There are some aspects that I do not fully like on this plane. The massive use of this plastic-wood decorations they have and golden garments; too baroque for me. I am more of: less is better.
BTW, in other TRs you showed us your empty plates after eating, is it part of your wedding diet?
Salut,
Roger
"At reise er at leve" H.C. Andersen (Travelling is Living)
Henkybaby From Netherlands, joined May 2008, 593 posts, RR: 5 Reply 22, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 17 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great TR. I will have to fly in that First Class cabin if only to have a shower on the plane. I really like the J seats as well.
Looks like EK have succeeded in creating a novel inflight experience, unlike the previous TRs I have read on A380 flights. Especially the aforementioned shower and the bar service. You being the expert, what do you think?
Midcon385 From United States of America, joined Dec 2006, 570 posts, RR: 0 Reply 23, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 16 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent TR! Thanks for sharing the EK A380 first flight with those of us unable to make it in person!
BritPilot777 From United Kingdom, joined Apr 2004, 1075 posts, RR: 3 Reply 24, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 16 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent trip report, with great pictures!
Their J product as well as their F does look impressive! Definately going to have to try give them a try!
Astuteman From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2005, 8608 posts, RR: 96 Reply 27, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 15 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quite superb trip report.
Feel like I was on the plane myself!
Great pics too.
Many thanks.
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): Climb seemed very slow, much slower than my SQ380 flight,
I'm guessing that would have been for 3 reasons..
1. This plane would be a fair bit heavier due to the longer sector.
2. Hotter ambient conditions on take-off
3. There's no Rollers under the wings of this one
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 23073 posts, RR: 60 Reply 28, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 14 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Mark !!!
Well what can I say .... was waiting for this and just knew you were the Man to do this TR !!
Amazing,fantastic,professional. I didn't look at it until now as I wanted to be at home without interruptions. I have to say this gets my favourite TR of 2008 . I felt like I was onboard. The photos were excellent and you showed me everything I wanted to see. On the downside you have just blown my travel allowance for the next 6 months as I really am so close to booking myself on this new Queen on the Skies. EK really have impressed me with this A380 cabin. The food looked fantastic and my mouth was watering until the toilet pic LOL.....
As David said , cool VC10 T shirt !! As for the wedding diet , if you need to go on one then theres no hope for me LOL.....
Looking forward to the LX TR in F .
Thanks again on a mission excellently accomplished.
Philip
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
BigMac From Suriname, joined Nov 2003, 305 posts, RR: 12 Reply 29, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 14 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent trip report! Thanks!
Quoting CXtra (Reply 2): I really don't like that fake wood panelling that seems to proliferate in EK's premium cabins.
I don't like it either (like many others). It's really cheesy.
Quoting Chrisrad (Reply 9): J class looks really cramped as well from the photos?
Agree here as well. The minibar should have been placed somewhere else or removed altogether (Not to sound like a snob but you're serving yourself in Business Class?). Without the minibar there would be a lot more open space.
From photos (emphasis) it looks like SQ's A380's have a more upscale and coherent look (seats, colors, fabrics).
Aviator86 From Australia, joined Jul 2008, 45 posts, RR: 0 Reply 31, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 12 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great report BA319!
Wow you are lucky to have been able to be on both inagural flights! Trully impressive. A rather stupid question about the bar area, but I was wondering if it is available to all passengers or only those sitting in first and business?
Anyways, great report and thanks for all those pictures!
EK773 From Malta, joined Jul 2004, 210 posts, RR: 2 Reply 35, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Thanks so much for posting the details of your trip. As has been said already, i really felt like i was flying along with you so thanks for taking the time and effort to share it with us.
Really is a shame there wasnt much fanfare for the departure from DXB. Considering the capacity constraints of the terminal at the moment i cant think of a place which could comfortably accomodate 489 passengers and guests
Fbgdavidson From United Kingdom, joined Oct 2004, 3663 posts, RR: 35 Reply 36, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Superb report with great pictures! I had no idea that EK's aircraft had been delivered or was in service until I saw this!
The J class product looks pretty good, ignoring the density of seats in the cabin the seat itself appears to have plenty of space rivalling many decent F class products. A shame they didn't go all out to have a absolute top of the line F product though. The A340-500 suite has been around for a few years, I thought they'd break new ground on that front...and no not by just putting in a shower I'm surprised they just opened up F class for everyone to take a look at!
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 37, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting CXtra (Reply 2): I really don't like that fake wood panelling that seems to proliferate in EK's premium cabins
- I've not been keen for lookijg at it in pictures, however once aboard, it actually looks much better, blends in well with the fabric colours used throught the cabin.
Quoting CXtra (Reply 2): Also, can't really see the point of the common areas - would prefer to enjoy the seat/IFE than try to make conversation with other pax. That's just me, though..
- It's actually a great place to hang out, at least on this flight!
- Nope! - I knew ,many people would be looking forward to this, so figured I'd put it together there an then.
Quoting Evan767 (Reply 6): Great work covering all aspects of the plane. I think that would be fun to be an Emirates bartender!
- Thanks, only missed out the front office! I don't think i'd want to be on that bar during sudden turbulence, will get real messy!
Quoting Maxisno1 (Reply 7): Fantastic trip report, have been waiting for one on the EK A380! Those J seats look very nice, not sure about the TV though - I think I prefer the older ones that also seem much bigger. Glad you enjoyed yourself.
Max
- Hi Max, thanks. J seats are very nice, TV is good too, not sued to the older ones so can't comment on those.
Quoting JAGflyer (Reply 8): The number of languages spoken by the cabin crew is amazing!
- I know!! - Was very impressed.
Quoting Chrisrad (Reply 9): J class looks really cramped as well from the photos? Dont know if it feels that way in reality
- No, must be the pictures, found the room excellent.
Reading this report suddenly brought back the good memories! But then i realised, it was only two days ago! haha. Going to New York and coming back in a day, just makes it seem like such a long time ago! I'm actually feeling a little light-headed this morning hehe
It turned out that i actually did pre-select seat 23 A when i made the booking for the return leg. So i sat in your seat. While it added to the privacy factor, i missed all the action up front in the main Business cabin.
Thanks for sharing this! Mine is still in the works. Will be up and running soon !!
Regards,
Roni
- Thanks Roni, was a great day. How amazing you had my seat back!! - I don't think I spilt anything so should have been ok
Look forward to reading your report inc the flight back, see you in NYC later this month.
Quoting AirlineBrat (Reply 11): Your report was just incredible. All the photographs were fantastic. I like the way Emirates designed certain cabin details. The colors they selected complement each other well. It is obvious they spent a lot of time developing a classy environment.
- Thanks, glad you got a feel for the aircraft, it's a great way to travel, at least upstairs.
Quoting Ojas (Reply 12): Excellent report Mark! Just fabulous , I would love to fly their premium products Very good pictures!
- Thanks, give them a try one day.
Quoting Ojas (Reply 12): Though I must say why were the screens saying EK801 when the number was EK3801? Maybe the IFE is programmed for a 3digit flight number.
- I noted that to, you might be right.
Quoting Ojas (Reply 12): However, I must add that my Inaugural SQ B77W from BOM, where it was just an equipment switch, had more celebrations than this historic event. Too bad EK did not go ahead that extra mile.
- Agreed, EK could have made so much more out of this PR wise, real shame.
Quoting N104UA (Reply 13): Great TR can't wait till I fly on EK A380
- I'm sure you'll be on the 1st one
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter):
At the top of the front staircase is this water feature, it%u2019s real too!
Is this on during take off and landing or does it turn off
- Not sure to be honest.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 14): What to sa, Mark - fantastic report with excellent shots! You've done a great job in putting it together so quickly for us!
- Hi Ph, glad you enjoyed.
Quoting LACA773 (Reply 15): It's a shame EK didn't do more for it's for passenger A380 flight. I remember what SQ did for their inagural flight to SYD! That was lovely in itself. They were very generous with the goodie bags.
By chance did EK hand out a A380 model at least for the inagural flight?
- I know, that SQ inagrual was historic, so glad to have been there EK did give us a model, but the quality is not that great, mine has broken front undercarridge, Roni had bent main gear ;(
Quoting SpeedBirdA380 (Reply 16): The shower's looked nice too. - Did you speak to anyone who got to take a shower?
- No, once the curtains were closed never saw another F passenger.
Quoting Pumaknight (Reply 17): wonderful - not as good as being on the actual flight, but certainly close enough. Thank you.
Could I ask for some elaboration on your perception of personal space in Business Class and how comfortable you thought the seat was as a bed and as a seat?
- Personal space was just fine, there is the shoe storage, magazine/book area , side window bins - my seat had 2 That said, I would have liked a small tray like BA have to place your stuff you want to chuck, say phone, wallet etc, the window bins are too big for things like this.
The seat was excellent, liked the reline positions, works well as a bed too, slept like a log for 3 to 4 hours, much nice than the VS seat/bed and thought it was better than the BA seat.
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW! What a trip! Thanks for taking the time to write it and publish it here in such a short time! It is definitely the trip report of this summer!
- Hi Roger, very kind words, thanks
Quoting Rogerbcn (Reply 21): I cannot really understand this lack of enthusiasm for such a big and important event. I have never flown EK or SQ but after reading about their inaugural flights on the A380 I think SQ made a bigger fuss that obviously hit the media all over the globe. I think EK missed some cheap publicity here.
- Agreed, SQ really know how to market something, however EK do to but seemed to miss the boat on this one, not sure why.
Quoting Rogerbcn (Reply 21): BTW, in other TRs you showed us your empty plates after eating, is it part of your wedding diet?
- Ha, I've been doing very well, thought did put on a few pounds after this, only 3 weeks to loose them in!
Quoting Henkybaby (Reply 22): Great TR. I will have to fly in that First Class cabin if only to have a shower on the plane. I really like the J seats as well.
- Coold, I want to see that TR!
Looks like EK have succeeded in creating a novel inflight experience, unlike the previous TRs I have read on A380 flights. Especially the aforementioned shower and the bar service. You being the expert, what do you think?
- Hi Henkybaby, First Looks great, but the showers did it for me, just amazing, the space in huge!
Economy looks regular run of the mill, though legroom looks better than most carriers. The J experience is very nice, the bar at the back is very cool, however if you don't like to mingle you won't use it.
Quoting Midcon385 (Reply 23): Excellent TR! Thanks for sharing the EK A380 first flight with those of us unable to make it in person!
- Thanks for reading Tim, hope you got a feel for it, perhaps you'll be on a First Flight and pass the experience on for us.
excellent TR and so many pics. Wonderful. Did you plan to meet Roni or was it a coincidence?
Cheers,
Stefan
- Hi Stefan, glad you enyoyed the trip & pictures. I knew Roni was booked for some time, I dropped him a few pms' before and after booking, so we both knew we were going to meet up, great chap too!
Quoting Astuteman (Reply 27): Quite superb trip report.
Feel like I was on the plane myself!
Great pics too.
Many thanks.
- Good, thanks.
Quoting Astuteman (Reply 27): Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter):
Climb seemed very slow, much slower than my SQ380 flight,
I'm guessing that would have been for 3 reasons..
1. This plane would be a fair bit heavier due to the longer sector.
2. Hotter ambient conditions on take-off
3. There's no Rollers under the wings of this one
- Agreed, I did suggest to the EA guy that the engines were noiser that the Rollers, don't think he liked that
Well what can I say .... was waiting for this and just knew you were the Man to do this TR !!
- Hi Philip, glad you enjoyed the trip.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 28): I have to say this gets my favourite TR of 2008 .
- Wow!! Thanks
Quoting OA260 (Reply 28): I felt like I was onboard. The photos were excellent and you showed me everything I wanted to see.
- That was the idea, covered pretty much all bases I thing.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 28): On the downside you have just blown my travel allowance for the next 6 months as I really am so close to booking myself on this new Queen on the Skies. EK really have impressed me with this A380 cabin.
- Me too, might not be many additional trips this year
Quoting OA260 (Reply 28): Looking forward to the LX TR in F .
- Should be here mid week.
Quoting MSYYZ (Reply 30): Very nice report and pics , thanks a lot for sharing . Economy class looked full to me , how about F and J ?
Wow you are lucky to have been able to be on both inagural flights! Trully impressive. A rather stupid question about the bar area, but I was wondering if it is available to all passengers or only those sitting in first and business?
- Thanks. The bar is for Business, though First can use it - can you imagine if all 399 economy passengers wanted to use it!!
Quoting Hywel (Reply 32): OK, you have an iPhone and you flew on the inaugural flight... I am OFFICIALLY jealous!!
-
Quoting F.pier (Reply 33): Great report!!!
I hope one day I'll fly the the 380, too!!!
- Give it time, only 6 flying but one day I'm sure you will get to fly her.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 38, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting RICARIZA (Reply 34): THANK YOU thank you thank you!!
This was a pleasure to read!!
Great TR!!
- Hi Ricariza, glad you enjoyed, many thanks for reading.
Quoting EK773 (Reply 35): Thanks so much for posting the details of your trip. As has been said already, i really felt like i was flying along with you so thanks for taking the time and effort to share it with us.
- Totally my pleasure, thanks for taking the time to work through it, it's pretty long!
Quoting Fbgdavidson (Reply 36): The J class product looks pretty good, ignoring the density of seats in the cabin the seat itself appears to have plenty of space rivalling many decent F class products. A shame they didn't go all out to have a absolute top of the line F product though. The A340-500 suite has been around for a few years, I thought they'd break new ground on that front...and no not by just putting in a shower I'm surprised they just opened up F class for everyone to take a look at!
- The J layout looks more crammed that it actually is one there. Lot's of the time the cabin felt quite empty when you walked around as the recline and bed sections are pretty private.
I too thought they would go for something new with First, but I guess they are quite happy with it's performance.
Quoting Fbgdavidson (Reply 36): I saw someone wearing that exact T-shirt on a flight from Singapore to Sydney last month!
Khaleej777 From United Kingdom, joined Jun 2007, 88 posts, RR: 0 Reply 41, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 5 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Thanks, Mark. We A.netters are lucky that one of the best trip reporters was there to cover what's probably the most exciting flight of 2008. Thanks for all the detail and photos. Yet another EK Business Class seat/product - anyone keeping a running total?
EICVD From Ireland, joined Mar 2008, 1946 posts, RR: 5 Reply 42, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 4 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Mark
That was some TR, simply excellent.
Some very interesting flights in the future, look forward to reading your reports on them.
Thanks for posting.
Burj From United States of America, joined Nov 2007, 760 posts, RR: 4 Reply 43, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 days 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Thanks for such a detailed trip report and for all the pictures! It totally made my day!
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 44, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 1 day 22 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Khaleej777 (Reply 41): Thanks, Mark. We A.netters are lucky that one of the best trip reporters was there to cover what's probably the most exciting flight of 2008. Thanks for all the detail and photos
Thanks so much for the kind words, at was all my pleasure
Quoting EICVD (Reply 42): Hi Mark
That was some TR, simply excellent.
- Glad you enjoyed, thanks.
Quoting EICVD (Reply 42): Some very interesting flights in the future, look forward to reading your reports on them
- Yep, some nice still still to come
Quoting Burj (Reply 43): Thanks for such a detailed trip report and for all the pictures! It totally made my day!
Luv2fly From United States of America, joined May 2003, 11570 posts, RR: 53 Reply 46, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 1 day 12 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
You have raised the bar for trip reports that is for sure. This was by far the most informative and utterly enjoyable read on the A380 so far. I have returned and read it twice so far it is that GOOD! Well done.
LHRBFSTrident From UK - Northern Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 589 posts, RR: 0 Reply 47, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 1 day 10 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent, excellent, excellent - I just happened to catch some of the 'From DXB departure gate' thread posts as the whole thing was unfolding - and then you posted this amazing TR - it really felt like going along!
Bravo!
Next up: LAX-LHR NZ002 Y SkyCouch! LHR-LAX NZ001 Y
Quoting Luv2fly (Reply 46): You have raised the bar for trip reports that is for sure. This was by far the most informative and utterly enjoyable read on the A380 so far. I have returned and read it twice so far it is that GOOD! Well done.
- Wow, great comments, thanks indeed!
Quoting LHRBFSTrident (Reply 47): Excellent, excellent, excellent - I just happened to catch some of the 'From DXB departure gate' thread posts as the whole thing was unfolding - and then you posted this amazing TR - it really felt like going along!
Bravo!
- Great, glad you enjoyed our trip, it was very special.
Quoting Hywel (Reply 48): If you don't mind saying, how much did it cost to upgrade to J? And how much was your Y ticket originally?
- The one way Y fare was £774 when I booked, the upgrade was the difference in cost to the J fare on the day.I got lucky as this was the last J seat, freed up by a cancellation, not saying what the extra £ was, other than it was more than double the original Y ticket price. I will say given the event again, I'd do the same and pay the fare, especially as the party on this flight was in J, Y was just like any other ordinary flight apart from Roni & I taking pictures
STT757 From United States of America, joined Mar 2000, 15274 posts, RR: 55 Reply 50, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter):
CO EWR-HNL – 764 (J)
HA HNL-ITO – 717 (Y)
HA ITO-HNL – 717 (Y)
HA HNL-OGG – 717 (Y)
HA OGG-HNL – 717(Y)
When are you flying to Hawaii?..
My Wife and I are flying CO EWR-HNL (in J) in a couple weeks, we are also flying Hawaiian air to and from Maui.
Airpearl From Malaysia, joined May 2001, 913 posts, RR: 40 Reply 51, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 1 day 3 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Mark
Absolutely have to quickly add to the long list of accolades. Congratulations on this top class report, and thank you for sharing this experience with us. A great, great set of photos!
Between you and Roni, A.netters have now seen the whole plane. Thanks again Mark!
Absolutely have to quickly add to the long list of accolades. Congratulations on this top class report, and thank you for sharing this experience with us. A great, great set of photos!
Between you and Roni, A.netters have now seen the whole plane. Thanks again Mark!
Mk777 From United States of America, joined Oct 2006, 1180 posts, RR: 0 Reply 54, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 13 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
I loved your TR. Very well written.
The pictures depict your wonderful experience on the EK A380.
Wow, DXB looks like a fish market, so many people, no wonder your perspiration never ceased. I guess the new terminal will make it a much better airport.
I loved the pictures of the showers in the first class. the whole ambience looks beautiful. I love the whole bar concept too, i think its fun.
I preferred your food over roni's, i guess being indian, i prefer to eat other kinds of food when traveling.
Anyway, here is hoping you can be on EY and QR's inagurals, hopefully to IAD with QR, hey maybe i will join you guys if that happens.
I can see you have a busy season of traveling, cannot wait to see your upcoming TR's
DanTaylor2006 From UK - England, joined Feb 2006, 439 posts, RR: 0 Reply 55, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Another fantastic trip report of Emirates first inaugural A380 flight! Very easy to read and the photographs are fantastic.
The Emirates A380 interior certainly does look quite decent, although I think I prefer SQ F and J cabins, as the grey in EK J doesn't really do anything for me, and I dislike the 'wood' they use in F! It may look different when you're there, however, I wouldn't know. Saying that, the seats do look fairly comfortable and reasonably private (J, that is, since F can be made entirely private ). There certainly seems a lot of space onboard, which would definitely appeal to me on a flight of that length! It's why if I ever fly to Australia I'd aim to fly on an A380 for the lengthier of the two sectors, simply for the space more than anything (oh, and to say I've actually flown on one ).
I find it strange they had very little 'fanfare' at DXB though, considering SQ's efforts on nearly all their inaugural A380 routes! Come on EK... it's your first A380 and first scheduled A380 to N. America... it's not like you to pass an opportunity!
Once again - what a fantastic report, and I look forward to reading further reports from you! Thanks!
Airbuseric From Netherlands, joined Jan 2005, 3735 posts, RR: 52 Reply 56, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 8 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi, Mark!
I've read it already a few days ago, but it too me a long time to complete your supurb story about your EK A380 travels! Well written, and as usual, fantastic pics
It seems to me that EK now offers a truly topclass product for at least, Business pax to the USA. I would really feel myself at home with them. It's for me, such a detour to take this bird anywhere I wonder what European carriers will do and offer once their A380 get delivered. Maybe I've to try out their new inflight experiences then...
btw, difference between J and Y class seems to be enormous on this plane when I see your pics. But do you think Y class is also much better (like seatpitch/food) on this aircraft in the EK network or compared to other carriers?
So, thank you for posting this review on the EK A380.
Cheers,
Eric
"The whole world steps aside for the man who knows where he is going"
Industrybuff From United Arab Emirates, joined Dec 2003, 340 posts, RR: 1 Reply 59, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent Trip Report .... but some photos wont open on my PC ... do you
have a link to photobucket or where the pics are stored !
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4883 posts, RR: 50 Reply 60, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 32767 times:
Stunning TR! Funny how you took 2 cameras onboard.. I've never seen a person take a pic of an SLR - usually they take all pics with it and don't get a chance to take a pic of the camera :P
Those Economy seats look cramped.. I'm going to be confined to those seats in Feb when I catch EK412 from SYD-AKL. Can't wait! I hope to take some awesome photos..
F9Animal From United States of America, joined Dec 2004, 4439 posts, RR: 34 Reply 61, posted (3 years 9 months 3 weeks ago) and read 32767 times:
Wow, very nice report. The service looks wonderful on Emirates. I can't wait to see your first trip report on the 787 when it gets up and flying! I am sure you have that planned?
By the way, the pictures were excellent. What kind of camera do you have?
Ansett767 From Australia, joined May 1999, 1021 posts, RR: 2 Reply 62, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 6 days 23 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great trip report and interesting photos! Thanks so much for the wonderful insight.
In fact I was at JFK (same terminal- just came off VS 45 from LHR) when you arrived! I was in the queue with all the arriving passengers from the A380 on 1 August! I didn’t know it was the first flight until I saw everyone with the goody bags!
So I was probably standing in that god damn awfully long customs queue with you (which took an hour!). It’s a shame you arrived early as all 500 passengers were 10 minutes ahead of schedule (and us!) which caused me to miss my connecting flight and wait 5 hours for my next one! Damn you all! Hehe only kidding.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 64, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 5 days 11 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Industrybuff (Reply 59): Excellent Trip Report .... but some photos wont open on my PC ... do you
have a link to photobucket or where the pics are stored !
- Thanks, glad you enjoyed. Re the pictures, just checked are all working - don't have a link as they are in a large open file with everything
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 60): you took 2 cameras onboard
- Yep
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 60): I'm going to be confined to those seats in Feb when I catch EK412 from SYD-AKL. Can't wait! I hope to take some awesome photos..
- Let's hope so, look forward to your TR.
Quoting F9Animal (Reply 61): I can't wait to see your first trip report on the 787 when it gets up and flying! I am sure you have that planned?
- No, not really, not sure how much of a special event it will be to be honest.
Quoting F9Animal (Reply 61): By the way, the pictures were excellent. What kind of camera do you have?
- Thanks, cameras are a Sony DSC T9 & Canon EOS 400D
Quoting Ansett767 (Reply 62): o I was probably standing in that god damn awfully long customs queue with you (which took an hour!)
- Sounds about right!
Quoting FLIEGER67 (Reply 63): Quoting Ba319-131 (Reply 58):
- Certainly was Markus, perhaps we can do the LH first A380 flight?
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 67, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 4 days 13 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
- Thanks Karan, yep, we sure did, can't wait to do it again!
Quoting Karan69 (Reply 65): any reason for not taking a direct return to LHR.
- I decided to use up some mileage on the return to keep the costs down, BA were sold out in F & J for mileage redemption that evening so I looked over at Star, however there are no Star Alliance direct flights between JFK & LHR these days, quick shocking reall - hence returning via ZRH.
- Pretty weak bag really, a 1/500 model of the plane and a pen, a signed first flight cert & an Emirates 'The Future has arived' brochure.
Quoting Karan69 (Reply 65): How would rank up VS against EK in J, if you take out the factor of the aircraft
- Based on the 2 flights, I'd take EK again. VS had better ground facilities, these being check-in and the lounge. Onboard, EK has better seats and onboard facilities/service.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 66): I've never done one before and I don't want it being bad
- We all have to start somewhere, I'm sure it will be great.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 66): Might take 2 cameras too lol
Ndebele From Germany, joined Apr 2001, 2893 posts, RR: 27 Reply 68, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 2 days 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Mark,
your reports never cease to amaze me, this time a really special one, and all those nice pics. Thanks so much for the detailed report covering EK's newest toy - it was interesting and a pleasure to read and watch!
Contact Air From Germany, joined Apr 2001, 1154 posts, RR: 16 Reply 69, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 2 days 7 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Mark,
thanks for this very special report! You provided lots of interesting details of this inaugural flight, and your pictures give a really good impression of that new bird.
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): I had expected EK to really promote this day, the inagural flight of their 1st A380 and the first A380 powered by the new engine alliance GP7200.
To be honest, I would also have expected a bit more celebration around this event.
Wow, that's really long. I agree with the statements in your report: when travelling in Economy, I would rather prefer a flight with a stop over this non-stop service.
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): the cockpit announced that the fire service would be giving the plane a water cannon welcome, it was noting to worry about.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 70, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 1 day 12 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Ndebele (Reply 68): your reports never cease to amaze me, this time a really special one, and all those nice pics. Thanks so much for the detailed report covering EK's newest toy - it was interesting and a pleasure to read and watch!
thanks for this very special report! You provided lots of interesting details of this inaugural flight, and your pictures give a really good impression of that new bird.
- Hi Christoph, glad you enjoyed, thanks for reading
Quoting Contact Air (Reply 69): I agree with the statements in your report: when travelling in Economy, I would rather prefer a flight with a stop over this non-stop service.
- Yes, certainly on a long haul such as this one.
Quoting Contact Air (Reply 69): Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter):
the cockpit announced that the fire service would be giving the plane a water cannon welcome, it was noting to worry about.
DALCE From Netherlands, joined Feb 2007, 1495 posts, RR: 8 Reply 71, posted (3 years 9 months 2 weeks 19 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Mark,
Great report of a great experience!
Although there are quite some differences compared to the SQ 380, it still is a magic bird in the skies.
Thanks for sharing this tremendous story!
Cheers,
Joost ( D-ALCE )
flown on : F50,F70,CR1,CR2,CR9,E75,143,AR8,AR1,733,735,736,73G,738,753,744,319,320,321,AB6. Next flights AMS-ZRH-AMS on
Industrybuff From United Arab Emirates, joined Dec 2003, 340 posts, RR: 1 Reply 75, posted (3 years 9 months 1 week 5 days 21 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
BA319-131 thanks so much for an amazing trip report. Its so amazing infact
that I plan to ride the EK 380 from to JFK early October as non rev staff ticket
have checked the loads and its wide open ... and I mean WIDE !!!
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 76, posted (3 years 9 months 1 week 5 days 6 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Industrybuff (Reply 75): BA319-131 thanks so much for an amazing trip report. Its so amazing infact
that I plan to ride the EK 380 from to JFK early October as non rev staff ticket
have checked the loads and its wide open ... and I mean WIDE !!!
- Cool, glad you enjoyed, look forward to reading your report, roll on October!
Aleksandar From Serbia, joined Jul 2000, 3173 posts, RR: 38 Reply 77, posted (3 years 9 months 5 days 4 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great TR!
Seems that you and Roni had a great experience and it is even better that you two met. It is always better to be with someone who shares your aviation enthusiasm
Seems that you and Roni had a great experience and it is even better that you two met. It is always better to be with someone who shares your aviation enthusiasm
- Thanks, glad you enjoyed the trip. Indeed, was really good to meet up with Roni, we had a ral fun flight, in fact Roni and I both happen to be in New York at the moment, we met up for a coupe of beers the other night, was good
KL773ER From United Kingdom, joined Nov 2007, 200 posts, RR: 0 Reply 81, posted (3 years 8 months 3 weeks 6 days 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
EXCELLENT trip report. It's amazing how quiet that plane is... I saw it reversing on 22L day before yesterday and IMHO not nearly as loud as the 744. Thank you for sharing.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 82, posted (3 years 8 months 2 weeks 2 days 5 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting ANITIX87 (Reply 79): Great Report! Third time I read it beginning to end.
- Thanks, glad you enjoyed
Quoting ANITIX87 (Reply 79): the list of languages spoken aboard is impressive! Anyone can be catered to!
Quoting BMIFlyer (Reply 80): Great pics too, made me feel like I was on the plane myself
- Good to hear, shows I manage to get some detail across.
Quoting KL773ER (Reply 81): EXCELLENT trip report. It's amazing how quiet that plane is... I saw it reversing on 22L day before yesterday and IMHO not nearly as loud as the 744. Thank you for sharing.
- Thanks for reading and commenting. The 380 is quiet, really quitet, especially inside.
Babybus From United Kingdom, joined Dec 2003, 3228 posts, RR: 5 Reply 83, posted (3 years 8 months 1 week 1 day 17 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
I've really enjoyed reading this and I loved the video of the take-off. It was a fitting tribute to the A380 to hear people clapping in the background.
You wonder what EK are up to when you see what they could be doing in the way of weight/fuel savings. The water feature at the top of the stairs seems a bit OTT.
The food looked stunning and made me instantly hungry.
Cheers
and with that..cabin crew, seats for landing please.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 84, posted (3 years 8 months 1 week 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Babybus (Reply 83): I've really enjoyed reading this and I loved the video of the take-off
- Thanks Babybus, glad you enjoyed
Quoting Babybus (Reply 83): It was a fitting tribute to the A380 to hear people clapping in the background.
- Yes, this is my second A380 first flight, clapping seems standard!
Quoting Babybus (Reply 83): You wonder what EK are up to when you see what they could be doing in the way of weight/fuel savings. The water feature at the top of the stairs seems a bit OTT.
- I know what you mean, I thinks it is OTT too, a bit of a waste really.
Quoting Babybus (Reply 83): The food looked stunning and made me instantly hungry.
BW424 From Trinidad and Tobago, joined Sep 2008, 1237 posts, RR: 0 Reply 85, posted (3 years 7 months 3 weeks 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent trip report.Its amazing how F an Y travel has revolutionized!!!First time seeing a digital route map like that one on the flight.(3D with graphics!)
It is what we think we know already that prevents us from learning.......
Davescj From United States of America, joined Jun 2007, 2135 posts, RR: 0 Reply 86, posted (3 years 7 months 3 weeks 5 days 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great TR! I am so envious that you not only were on the A380, but EK's J to boot!
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 87, posted (3 years 7 months 3 weeks 4 days 6 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Oa260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 23073 posts, RR: 60 Reply 88, posted (3 years 7 months 2 days 16 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
The topic has come up about the luggage lockers on the new QF A380. I see from your photos that EK seem to have gone for ALL new style lockers. IMHO EK still have the best cabin design so far. I presume there are no old style lockers on either deck on EK?
OLYMPIC AIR - ΟΛΥΜΠΙΑΚΗ "Η ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ΨΗΛΑ" "GREECE FLYING HIGH"
PKflyer From Pakistan, joined Apr 2008, 46 posts, RR: 0 Reply 94, posted (3 years 3 months 3 weeks 1 day 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hello Mark.
I must say this Trip Report stands out from all your other ones as it had more detail and some fantastic pictures. Overall, I think the A380 will turn out to be a fantastic find for EK and all the other carriers. Thanks for sharing!
Kind Regards
Arslaan
My name is Khalid and NO I am not a bloody terrorist!
FCA767 From United Kingdom, joined Nov 2006, 1677 posts, RR: 0 Reply 95, posted (3 years 3 months 3 weeks 16 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
For the ones asking about economy...I sat in Singapore's Economy...very nice and spacious...infact the distance between the seat and the window was big enough to pass a bucket to the passenger behind...
Singapore on the non-inagural flight passed champagne down...though that might have been on my 747 leg but I can't remember...
The A380 also had pretty xmas decorations...
I liked the Seating area they had...but I bet that is only for 1st class! I would like this seating area downstairs so you can at least streth your legs...
Singapore one didn't section off upstairs
tbloemink From Netherlands, joined Mar 2010, 112 posts, RR: 0 Reply 97, posted (1 year 6 months 3 weeks 2 days 9 hours ago) and read 21963 times:
Quoting BA319-131 (Thread starter): The seat pitch appears to be quite generous, say 33 or 34, however, if travelling in this class, try and snag the forward section which ends at row 50, that’s the most private/smallest cabin.
Confirmed, I had 46K on EK 372 on August 12, 2010. It is the best cabin place you can get. Boarding via 1L, 4 lavatories and the feeling you're on a very small and wide jet, if you don't realise that there are many seats behind and above you.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 101, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 4 days 13 hours ago) and read 19754 times:
Quoting tbloemink (Reply 100): Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 96):
I think so too, looking forward to my QF flight
QF A380? Please keep it off your mind QF had grounded all their whalejets after that emergency landing
- Already flown, this EK TR dates back to 2008, my QF A380 flight was Feb 2009.
aalh004 From New Zealand, joined Mar 2010, 4 posts, RR: 0 Reply 102, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 2 days 18 hours ago) and read 19040 times:
Excellent trip report. Really enjoyed the extensive coverage of all the classes.
Im flying in business class next week on the A380 in seat 20K. Seat 23K is currently also available. Based on your experience in those bulkhead seats, would it be worth it for me to switch to 23K? Seat guru says they are "very private". Did you find the bulkhead annoying?
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 103, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 2 days 7 hours ago) and read 18771 times:
Quoting aalh004 (Reply 102): Excellent trip report. Really enjoyed the extensive coverage of all the classes.
- Glad you enjoyed, thanks for reading.
Quoting aalh004 (Reply 102): Im flying in business class next week on the A380 in seat 20K. Seat 23K is currently also available. Based on your experience in those bulkhead seats, would it be worth it for me to switch to 23K? Seat guru says they are "very private". Did you find the bulkhead annoying?
- I thought 23A and therefore K are some of the best seats due to the bulkhead privacy, and it's a smaller cabin section too.
The bulkhead is no issue, at least not that I found - would be happy to choose the same seat again.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 105, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 2 days 6 hours ago) and read 18705 times:
aerobus12 From Norway, joined Oct 2010, 50 posts, RR: 0 Reply 106, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 2 days 6 hours ago) and read 18692 times:
What
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 105): - I hear ATC is interesting work too, had a friend in it years ago
When I applied earlier this year (i'm on my first year, I thought it was going to be a real fun job, talking to lots of nice people and working with what I love, airliners. But now I see what it really is about, it's stressful, shift working and makes you very tired. I am thinking about quitting after Christmas, as then I will have some months to think over whether I will apply for some economy/marketing studies (to try to get a job in the airline industry) or if I will take a gap year and maybe go to USA. I'm not sure.
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7877 posts, RR: 57 Reply 107, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 18359 times:
Quoting aerobus12 (Reply 106): Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 105):
- I hear ATC is interesting work too, had a friend in it years ago
When I applied earlier this year (i'm on my first year, I thought it was going to be a real fun job, talking to lots of nice people and working with what I love, airliners. But now I see what it really is about, it's stressful, shift working and makes you very tired.
- I must admit the chap I knew did take time off for stress, not wanting to put you off, think your there already - he had a bit of a breakdown too, had to leave the job.
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QF had grounded all their whalejets after that emergency landing
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![_](javascript:compressPost('131574','1','1','40','EBGflyer',' " target=_blank>http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z...5.jpg ....around the same time I took screendumps Now I have a better idea what is was like up','')){kind=link}