Globetraveller From Germany, joined Apr 2008, 373 posts, RR: 31 Posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 19 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
The good old days of flying revived in Singapore Airlines Business Class: Frankfurt am Main (FRA) to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
Two days after arriving in Germany on SQ26, it was time to head back to Malaysia. This is the return journey of the two part “Singapore Airlines Business: PEN-SIN-FRA” trip report, which can be found in respective order here and here. Enjoy.
Introduction
Having spent a little more than 48 hours in Germany, and with the jetlag just beginning to really take hold, it was time for me to head back the way I came. However, I already knew that I would be in good hands, because the superb crew from the previous flight would also be there to take me back home. In addition, I knew the seat next to me would be empty during the majority of your flight, as it was a supplementary seat for the flight crew.
So the field was set, the players were in motion and SQ25 was ready for departure. Let the flying begin.
Prologue: The Wonders of Germany
While I am aware that trip reports are meant to cover the aviation related aspects of a journey, I feel that it is sometimes worthwhile to see the destination of a particular voyage. I have therefore included some pictures of my trips to Germany. I trust you will enjoy the Wonders of Germany.
The magnificent Ettal Monastery in southern Bavaria.
The beautiful sunset over the endless fields in Hessen.
A fire breather at the annual Medieval Festivities in Wallenstein.
The colorful Wallenstein Castle at midnight.
A stunning sunset at the Hopfen Lake in Bavaria.
The seemingly never-ending gondola to the Zugspitze.
One of the many dazzling views from the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain.
An Alpine summer wonderland at almost 3000 meters (about 9800 feet) above sea level.
The world famous Eib Lake as seen from the Zugspitze.
Yet another brilliant sunset at one of Germany’s many lakes.
One of the three Königsschlösser (King’s Castles) near Füssen.
Arguably one of the world’s most famous castles: Schloss Neuschwanstein.
General Flight Overview
Airline: Singapore Airlines (SQ) Flight number: SQ 25 Origin: Frankfurt am Main International Airport (FRA) Destination: Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Distance: 6391 miles Scheduled departure time: 12:35 Scheduled flight time: 12 hour 00 minutes Class of Travel: Business Class Seat: 20K Aircraft: 747-412 Registration: 9V-SPB
Departure Airport
Sadly, my journey did not commence from the comfort of a home close to Frankfurt Airport, but at a train station some two hours away. Thankfully, I decided to indulge a little and bought a First Class train ticket. Naturally, the Intercity Express arrived at precisely 8:33 and departed exactly four minutes later at 8:37 - this was Germany after all.
As I waited at the train station, several Intercity Express trains blasted by.
The arrival of my Intercity Express, ICE 71, at the train station.
As I glided over the countless spectacular bridges and through never-ending tunnels at 250km/h, a Deutsche Bahn employee welcomed me onboard. She then continued to ask whether I would like something to eat or drink, but I declined since I knew there was still plenty of food to come on this long journey. Soon, the countryside gave way to a more urban landscape as Frankfurt grew closer.
The very empty First Class cabin on ICE 71.
In Frankfurt, my connecting ICE to Frankfurt Airport arrived at the same platform as ICE 71 - and not a second too soon. As the doors opened, everyone scrambled for the doors. The First Class section, on the other hand, remained surprisingly empty – not that this really mattered on a short ten minute hop.
Frankfurt (Main) central train station.
Yet another ICE with the beautiful train station in the background.
My train to Frankfurt Airport arriving on the left.
The final journey to the Frankfurt Airport Long Distance Train Station took precisely 11 minutes and I arrived at the airport at 10:30, two hours before the scheduled departure of SQ25. As I began to take the 10 minute walk to the Terminal 1 check-in hall, waves of passengers from arriving flights fought their way to the train station.
The upper level of the impressive Long Distance Train Station at FRA.
The long walkway connecting Terminal 1 to the train stations.
The outside of Terminal 1 at FRA.
As I arrived in Terminal 1, the check-in area was bustling with activity; numerous passengers were running around desperately trying to catch their flights and massive queues could be found at all check-in counters. Feeling a little sleepy and overwhelmed by all this activity, I decide to head straight for the Singapore Airlines Business class counter. Sadly, here too I found a little queue, but it was hardly noteworthy compared to the massive Economy Class and United Airlines queues nearby.
The hectic departures hall in Terminal 1 at FRA.
The massive world famous flight information board in Terminal 1.
The Singapore Airlines check-in area at Frankfurt Airport.
A very short, energetic and manly looking Asian Singapore Airlines agent came towards me as I lined up in the short Business Class queue. As she asked for my e-ticket in a deep, powerful voice, she reminded me more of a menacing body guard than a check-in agent. Once she was satisfied that I was in the correct queue, after closely inspecting my ticket, she moved on to ensure that all other passengers were exactly where they should be. As I watched her making her rounds, I could not help but smile at the perfection and efficiency with which she carried out her duties. It was quite a sight.
The very active Singapore Airlines agent at the check-in area.
Unfortunately, my queue remained at a standstill as a family at the counter seemed to have some problem checking in. Consequently, the Business Class queue grew far longer than when I had arrived - much to the alarm of the ever watchful Singapore Airlines agent. A few moments later, she could no longer bear the sight of the long premium queues and decided to rectify the problem resolutely: she moved the passengers from the internet check-in counter and the closest Economy counter aside and redistributed the premium queues in their place. In the end, I checked in at the internet counter.
The premium Singapore Airlines check-in counters in FRA.
The rather long Economy Class queue.
The lady at the Internet check-in counter was very German to say the least. She was friendly and efficient, but she lacked the Asian warmth and hospitality I have become so used to. As she confirmed my seat selection, she asked me whether I wanted change my selection since the seat next to me would be used as a supplementary rest seat for the pilots. Little did she know that this was the reason I chose the seat in the first place. At the end of all the formalities, the agent thanked me for flying Singapore Airlines and wished me a pleasant flight. Without further ado, I headed towards the concourse B security check and passport control.
The shopping and dining area in Terminal 1.
How come I am never lucky enough to win these cars at airports?
The clearly signposted way to concourse B and Gate B48.
One of the (few) highlights of Frankfurt Airport is the efficiency of the main security and passports checks. Both the fast-track queues and the normal queues are never absurdly long and they always move very quickly – I guess that’s why they call it German efficiency. Today was no different, and there were no significant queues at either of the lanes. I was through security in a flash and in less than five minutes I had cleared immigration as well. Nice.
The entrance to the main security screening area for concourse B.
In no time at all, it was my turn to get screened.
The short, swift moving queues at the passport control.
Sadly, Frankfurt Airport has little to offer in terms of great shopping and entertainment once one passes security. There are a couple of shops and one or two eateries, but that is about as good as it gets. Before retreating to the Lufthansa Business Class lounge, I needed to quickly go and address one or two formalities. At the customs office, where I needed to collect the official stamps for the Global Tax Free Refund, two Singapore girls were waiting in line in front of me. As the stewardesses were coming back out of the office, one of them recognized me from the previous flight.
“Good morning Mr. Globetraveller. How was your short stay in Germany?”
She had caught me off guard and I was stumped by the fact that she had recognized me, let alone remembered my name. I was at a loss for words. Little did I know that this friendly gesture would set the tone for the remainder of my journey.
This would, beyond doubt, be the best cabin crew I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing in my years of flying.
The nice Frankfurt Airport equivalent of an LCD information screen.
The rather gloomy looking shopping area in the middle atrium of concourse B.
The Customs office with the two Singapore girls queuing in front of me.
After I had finished at customs and bought a few magazines for the long ride home, I proceeded towards the Lufthansa Business Class lounge. Frankfurt Airport does not provide any particularly good views of the apron from the ground passenger level, but the limited glimpses did reveal the usual impressive array of widebodies. In addition, the weather was playing along again today and there was barely a cloud in sight.
Two Lufthansa 747-400s being prepared for departure on the other side of concourse B.
Still alive and flying, Alitalia was also present – in a smaller fashion.
The airline which would fly me back to Germany in less than three weeks time: Qatar Airways.
The main Lufthansa Business Class lounge in concourse B is used by most major Star Alliance partners in Frankfurt. It is located on the second floor, above many of the large departures gates for long haul international flights. At the bottom of the stairs, a welcoming Lufthansa agent checked my boarding pass and wished me a pleasant flight to Singapore. This was quite impressive compared to the usual German standards of friendliness. I then proceeded up the spiral stair case to the main lounge entrance.
The entrance to the spiral staircase leading to the Lufthansa Business Class lounge.
Naturally, all Business Class passengers from other Star Alliance flights are welcome.
The rather dull looking entrance to the Lufthansa Business Class lounge.
From previous experience, the services on offer and the overall appearance of the Lufthansa Business Class lounge can quite easily be summed up in one word: rubbish. The lounge always felt rather worn and torn, there was no Free Wireless Internet, the food and beverage selection was nothing to write home about and the staff was never particularly friendly. However, if one approaches the whole concept of the lounge from another perspective, such as from the perspective of an aviation enthusiast, this lounge actually does have something to offer. The reason is simple: the lounge has some pretty stunning views of the tarmac. There are massive glass windows the majority of the way around the structure and everything, from the parallel 07/25 runways to the main taxiways, is in sight. So before I begin to criticize the other aspects of the lounge, here are some of the views I had the pleasure of experiencing.
A GF 340-300 landing with its bigger sister, a LH 340-600, taxiing in the background.
A Lufthansa A320 touching down hard on runway 25R.
A Lufthansa A330-300 touching down on runway 25R with reverse thrusters deployed.
I am a huge critic of the Lufthansa Business Class lounges in Frankfurt; frankly I think they are an embarrassment to the airline. However, it did seem like Lufthansa had recently taken several small steps to improve the lounge. There was still no free Wireless Internet, which is a disgrace these days, and the furniture had not been upgraded either, but the food and the service had improved in my opinion.
At the main front desk inside the lounge, I was once again welcomed by a Lufthansa agent. I then scouted around for a window seat facing the parallel runways 07/25, but there were no more couches available. In the end, I settled for one of the little, rather uncomfortable, restaurant style tables.
The main front desk inside the Lufthansa Business class lounge.
The somewhat gloomy grey, blue and yellow color scheme.
…and a Lufthansa 747-400 landing on runway 25R in the meantime.
One of the most notable improvements was the variety of food on offer. Having not had breakfast, I was expecting to have to nibble on cookies and Gummy Bears while I waited for lunch on my flight to Singapore. Surprisingly, hot dishes and soup were now on offer, as well as a variety of pastries, fruits and breads. I was impressed – and in high spirits as I would not have to go hungry for another two hours.
The main food section in the Lufthansa Business Class Lounge.
German bread, olives and eggs with a variety of fruits in the background.
The well stocked beverage section in the lounge.
I decided to have some soup with bread and the fruit salad to help kick start my long journey. The food was surprisingly good: the soup was a tasty hot mash of vegetables and the fruit salad was very refreshing. In addition, I also tried some of the pink sparkling wine, which had a pleasing strong fruity taste. While the food was not trend setting, it was good to see that Lufthansa had not just introduced food to the Business Class lounge, but also ensured that it was appetizing.
My soup, bread, fruit salad and pink sparkling wine.
The fruity and delicious sparkling wine.
The view through the massive window over my breakfast.
With all the food and the action outside the window, time passed quickly despite the lack of wireless internet. It was not long before the boarding time approached, and after catching an Iran Air A300-600 touching down on runway 25L, I headed for Gate B48.
An Iran Air A300-600 from Tehran landing on runway 25L.
After a brisk walk down the spiral staircase from the lounge, I was already at Gate B48. Most passengers had already cleared the ticket check and were eagerly waiting the first boarding announcement in the holding area.
The usual: ‘Have a nice flight, sir’ followed, as my ticket was torn and checked.
My Gate for SQ25 to Singapore today: Gate B48.
9V-SPB being prepared for her long flight to Singapore in the bright midday sun.
A Lufthansa A340-600 at one of the gates next to mine.
As soon as the waiting passengers heard the words ‘SQ25’ and ‘boarding’ in the same sentence, they all dashed for the door. Obviously Singapore Airlines had anticipated this and they ensured that priority boarding was ruthlessly enforced. After several passengers had tried and failed to board even though they had not yet been called, I decided I might as well fight my way through the crowds.
As I was bumping and pushing my way through, I banged into the in-flight supervisor. He quickly turned around to apologize profusely, and in doing so, he recognized me from the inbound flight two days before.
"Ah! Mr. Globetraveller!! It is so good to see you again!" he said loudly. "Let me take your bags for you. It is quite a push through here."
All of this commotion made some of the waiting passengers wonder what in the world was going on. I just played along and gave my hand luggage to the very instant in-flight supervisor.
The crowds blocking the entrance to the aircraft in the holding area.
A lot of banging and shuffling later, I had finally made it through the doors. The agent checked my ticket again and wished me a pleasant flight. As I took Jetway 1 to the aircraft, I continued to chat with the in-flight supervisor – who was still carrying my hand luggage onto the aircraft. At the end of the jetway he handed my bag to one of the other crew members, and that was the last time I saw my luggage until I reached my seat upstairs.
“Welcome Onboard, Mr. Globetraveller. It is a pleasure to have you back” repeated the in-flight supervisor as he finally had the chance to shake my hand. It was now beginning to sink in that this flight would be distinctly special and that this crew was out of this world.
I was onboard SQ25 to Singapore at 12:09, 26 minutes before scheduled departure.
Jetway 1 for First and Business Class passengers.
The very bare and ugly looking jetway to the aircraft.
Aircraft
Singapore Airlines was once the largest operator of the Boeing 747-400 in the world, operating a total of 42 of this kind of aircraft. However, today only 15 of the newest 747s remain in the fleet. Most of the 28 sold airframes were replaced by the Boeing 777-300ERs and A380s. Singapore Airlines uses the Boeing 747-400 exclusively on long haul flights to Europe, America and Australia. The aircraft are configured in the traditional three class configuration with 12 First Class, 50 Business Class and 313 Economy Class seats. One of the two daily flights to Frankfurt is flown by the 747-400 and the other by a newer 777-300ER.
Personally, I was very familiar with my aircraft today, 9V-SPB, as I had flown it on the FRA-SIN route several times before. Even though the aircraft was more than fourteen years old, the cabin was still in very good shape. Everything was clean and the seats were as good as new. The Business Class on all Singapore Airlines 747-400s is configured with the famous purple SpaceBed seats in a 2-3-2 configuration on the main deck and the 2-2 confirmation on the upper deck. Personally, these are still some of my favorite Business Class seats, because they offer good legroom, recline and storage.
This 747-412 had its maiden flight in October 1994. The aircraft is owned by Singapore Airlines and the first flight in Singapore Airlines colors was also in October 1994.
The reflection of 9V-SPB while taxiing in Frankfurt.
Flight
My boarding pass for SQ25 from FRA to SIN.
With my hand luggage now gone, I was greeted by the chief steward for the lower Business Class cabin - yet another “Welcome back, Mr. Globetraveller”, and another warm handshake. I was one of the first passengers onboard and the aircraft look impeccably clean, even though it had just come from New York an hour or two before. After another few greetings from familiar faces I made my way upstairs to my seat, 20K.
At the top of the stairs, Selamat, the chief steward who had taken such good care of me on the way to Germany, stood smiling as I walked towards him. He was the one who had recommended seat 20K, because the seat next to me would be the pilot’s rest seat. He warmly shook my hand.
“It’s so good to see you again Mr. Globetraveller. I hope your stay in Germany was worthwhile.”
“Great to see you too. How are you and how was Frankfurt?”
As I slowly proceeded to my seat in the middle of conversation, I had images of the good old days of flying run through my head. The days when flying was a grand, enjoyable experience; when seats were large and the smiles were even large; when flying was a wonderful adventure, not just a means of getting somewhere. This flight was a throwback to the times gone by – and I was loving it.
Row 20 is the last row in the upper Business Class cabin.
My seat on SQ25 to Singapore: 20K.
After I had settled down in my comfortable seat, pre-departure drinks were served. I went for the Champaign as usual. The remainder of the boarding process was passing smoothly and it looked as if we would actually meet our 12:35 departure time – from past experience, the midday Singapore Airlines flight from Frankfurt is always delayed.
My glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve during boarding.
The boarding process was well and truly under way.
By 12:30, five minutes before scheduled departure, all passengers were onboard and the doors were closed. Just as on my flight two days before, the aircraft was completely packed. How Singapore Airlines manages to fill the day flight from Frankfurt on a Thursday I do not know, but I guess they just do. The only empty seat was the pilot’s rest seat next to me; all classes were 100% packed. Just before pushback, a Singapore girl then came around to pass out menus, eye shades and socks, and to take orders for post departure drinks. I ordered an Apple Spritzer.
Pushback occurred at 12:35, the exact time for departure. Impressive.
The massive starboard wing and PW-4065 engines from my seat.
The safety video being shown during pushback.
SQ25’s departure today would be from runway 18, which is better known as Startbahn West. This called for a very long taxi down the entire length of the airport, but I did not mind – there is always something to see in Frankfurt.
One of the numerous Lufthansa 747-400s being prepared for departure.
The one of the many A340-300s I had seen landing from the lounge.
Widebody heaven: Two 747s, an A340-300 and an A300-600.
The weather had been kind to me during my short stay in Germany and today was no different. There were hardly any clouds and there was no wind to speak of. It was pristine weather for flying and for taking pictures from the air. A little more than 15 minutes after pushback, SQ25 has reached runway 18.
Mmmmm… Lufthansa or Singapore Airlines?
A Lufthansa A340-300 being pulled to one of the gates for boarding.
Yet another Lufthansa 747-400. This one is just arriving at the maintenance area in Frankfurt.
SQ25 was first in line for takeoff and we quickly taxied onto the runway. Today was a hot day and the aircraft was very heavy, but the four PW-4056 engines had very little difficultly blasting us into the air. After a bumpy roll, the aircraft gently lifted off the ground at 12:56, 21 minutes after scheduled departure.
Liftoff over the forest surrounding Startbahn West.
The climb was smooth as silk as the journey to the tropics began.
The two starboard PW-4056 engines gleaming in the sunlight.
The views during the climb were stunning as the world below became increasingly small to the eye. It was not long before the seatbelt sign was extinguished and the crew got to work preparing lunch. Sadly, I had already watched most of the IFE programs I was interested in a few days before, but with more than 100 choices I eventually settled for the movie ‘300’. A little gore never hurts.
Goodbye Germany, as SQ25 turned left towards Singapore.
…and into the clouds with the flaps still extended.
The distinctly shaped windows on the upper deck of this 747-400.
Post departure drinks were soon served and lunch orders were taken as we were just about to leave German airspace. The food choices available all looked very appetizing so as usual, I asked for the inside scoop on which Main Event is recommended as the chief steward was taking my order.
“Mr. Globetraveller, what may I serve you for lunch today?”
“I’m stuck between the lamb and the beef. What do you think?”
“I would definitely recommend the beef. It is one of the best pieces of beef we serve on the network, you will not be disappointed.”
“Great. I’ll give it a try. Thank you.”
“Is there anything else I can do for you right now?”
“I’m good now, thanks. We’ll catch up later”
The front cover of the menu on SQ25 from FRA to SIN.
The impressive lunch selection after takeoff from Frankfurt.
My Apple Spritzer. A mixture of apple juice and bitter lemon.
One of the nice things about the day flight between Frankfurt and Singapore compared to the night flight is that everyone does not fall asleep straight after takeoff. Instead, the people were walking around, chatting and mingling with the other passengers and the crew. It was a really nice, ‘private jet’ atmosphere. As soon as I had finished my drink, I was asked if I wanted another. This time around, I asked for some apple juice with Perrier.
The Czech Republic beneath us.
My Apple juice mixed with Perrier.
Not long after, the chief steward and one of the Singapore girls came around with a trolley of Satay. Passengers could pick and chose what type of Satay they would like, as well as any condiments they wanted alongside the Satay. It was a nice and personal start to the lunch service.
“Can I entice you with some Satay Mr. Globetraveller?”
“Sure. I’ll have some chicken and some beef as well as cucumbers and onions please.”
“Certainly. How about some more Champaign or wine?”
“Maybe in a little while. I need to slow down a little with the alcohol.”
“Hahaha. Sure. I’ll come back to you then.”
The little Satay table set up before the actual lunch was served.
The chicken and beef Satay with cucumbers and onions.
The Satay pieces were very tender and tasty. Often I find that Asian airplane food is not authentic, but these tasted as if I had just bought them from a Hawker stall in Kuala Lumpur. That’s pretty impressive when you consider they were probably made in an airport catering factory in Germany. I like how Singapore Airlines put this little snack in before the actual lunch, because it made the entire service feel less rushed and much more complete.
The very comfortable upper Business Class cabin.
Clouds as far as the eye could see over Eastern Europe.
The Satay plate was promptly collected when I finished and the smell of more food soon filled the cabin. A short while later, the lunch tray was served. Once again, I wish that Singapore Airlines would introduce tray-less service in Business Class like Etihad, but that’s just me being a little picky. With my savory note, I also chose some German Riesling.
My lunch tray with the savory note, white wine and mineral water.
The presentation of the savory note was excellent, but the taste was even better. The smoked salmon was nicely chilled and it literally melted on my tongue. The balsamic vinegar dressing also added an extra little splash of tang to the dish, complimenting the roasted vegetables perfectly. It was yet another pleasantly surprising starter just as on SQ26 a few days before.
The delicious Smoked Salmon with roasted vegetables.
A fresh, hot cheese bread to go along with the appetizer.
By the time I had finished savoring every single piece of salmon, most passengers were already well into their main course. I really wished there had been a spare serving onboard – I really wanted another. Unfortunately, this was not to be. On the upside, the wine kept flowing and I soon switched to red wine for my main course. The main course was just as the chief steward had promised me: outstanding. The beef was brilliantly tender and the rosemary seasoning was to die for. I have to say, Singapore Airlines must take their catering very seriously, because this dish was yet another all-time classic.
The main course with red wine and water.
The beautiful pan fried beef fillet with Perigord sauce.
Some nice and hot garlic bread to accompany the main course.
As usual, my tray was collected as soon as I had finished my food. The service was not just impeccable, but also very down to earth and friendly. The crew treated the passengers as if they were guests in their home, and as if they were their friends. It was Asian hospitality at its best.
In terms of lunch, it was now time for the sweet note. This came in the form of coffee ice cream with chocolate cookies and vanilla sauce. I have a very big soft spot for ice cream, so this was right up my alley – it was good ice cream too.
The tasty coffee ice cream with chocolate cookies and vanilla sauce.
The dining experience then proceeded onwards with an assortment of cheeses. As always, this was served from a trolley where passengers could chose what cheese they wanted like to have. By now, I was completely stuffed from all the savory delights, but the chief steward convinced me that there was room for just a little more. I accepted. It must have been all the wine.
The assortment of cheese, fruit and crackers.
In the meantime, SQ25 was now over southern Russia and we had almost reached the Black Sea.
When I had finally managed to eat my cheese, one of the Singapore girls came around with some pralines. Once again, I could not refuse. Thankfully, this was the definitive end of the lunch service, because I was no longer feeling very well after so much food. By now, SQ25 was over the Black Sea and we had left Europe behind.
The rich chocolate pralines at the end of the lunch service.
Welcome back to Asia!
Bottles of water were handed out to all passengers after the lunch service.
Time now, to reflect on the SpaceBeds once again. Personally, they are still some of my favorite seats in the sky. I like their soft purple color and the generous legroom. They are also perfect for working on a laptop while lying on your side and I always sleep very well on these seats during night flights. I really do not see why people are calling these seats outdated or old, because they have everything one would ever need. I think the new Business Class is a little excessive. Who needs a seat that can comfortably sit two people side by side?
The more than sufficient legroom at seat 20K.
The SpaceBed in the completely flat position.
A first here on Airliners.net: the knee shot in the lying down position!
As I was taking the pictures of my SpaceBed, the chief steward came towards me gesturing towards the camera.
“I am sorry Mr. Globetraveller” he began in a much more serious voice than usual, “I must let the captain check whether you are taking any sensitive pictures.” Reluctantly, I gave him my precious little camera with hundreds of trip report pictures on it. I thought this would be the end of the report.
After one or two anxious minutes, the chief steward came back with my camera.
“I’m sorry Mr. Globetraveller, we had to add one or two pictures, because we noticed there is one part of the aircraft you have not yet covered.” Confused as to what this was all about, I quickly turned on the camera to see what he meant. Sure enough there were several new pictures: several were of the cockpit and some were taken through the cockpit windows! I was ecstatic and thanked the chief steward profusely. As I have already said before, this was not your average cabin crew.
The main flight controls on this 747-400.
The barren southern Russian landscape through the left cockpit window.
The cabin now became much calmer and most passengers either watched movies or slept. Outside, the sun was setting swiftly as SQ25 ploughed onwards into the night. Having eaten more than my daily allowance in one sitting, I too was feeling a little tired and decided to take a ‘short’ nap.
The upper deck after everyone had settled down and the service was finished.
The very short sunset over Northern Turkey.
The location of the aircraft, just before my ‘short’ nap.
A little more than three hours later I was woken up by heavy turbulence. The aircraft was swaying heavily from side to side with the occasional drop in altitude. Sure enough, we were now over India, which is notorious for turbulence during the monsoon season. Outside my window, I was given a spectacular lightning show.
The position of SQ25 when I woke up a little more than three hours later.
A glimpse of the amazing lightning show outside my window.
By now one of the first officers had come to sit in the supplementary seats next to me and he introduced himself to me as I ordered a Diet Coke. It turned out that he was actually from Penang and I talked to him for what must have been more than two hours. I was able to ask him a lot of aviation related questions, especially about the direction and evolution of Singapore Airlines. He had worked for the company for 15 years.
As the first officer went back into the cockpit, Selamat, the chief steward, took a seat next to me and I chatted with him for another hour or so. Who needs a world class IFE system when you have a nice cabin crew to chat with instead! As usual, the drink refills kept coming and the turbulence was relentless.
… and another drink; this time Diet Coke…
… and another apple juice, Perrier mix… you get my point.
Before I knew it, the chief steward had to prepare to take orders for breakfast. Time had flown by and I was saddened by the thought that this great flight would soon come to an end. Funnily enough, I had somehow managed to work up an appetite once again and I was looking forward to breakfast.
“Mr. Globetraveller? What can I do for you for breakfast?”
“I’ll have the grilled chicken breast please.”
“How about some Orange juice or Champaign now?”
“I’ll just have some orange juice with the breakfast. Thank you.”
“Certainly.”
The breakfast selection on SQ25 before touchdown in Singapore.
The breakfast service began soon after and once again the crew was exemplary. No passenger ever had to wait for anything; the crew was always one step ahead. My breakfast tray was served in no time and it initially contained fresh sliced fruits and some mineral water.
The beginning of the breakfast service on the upper deck.
My breakfast tray with fresh fruits, jam and mineral water.
The fresh sliced fruits - nicely chilled and very flavorsome.
The fruits were very nice as usual: juicy and nicely chilled. Soon after, a Singapore girl came around with a wide selection of pastries. She insisted I had two, but after my massive lunch a few hours before, I simply could not manage. As soon as I finished my fruits, the plate was cleared and I was served the Birchermuesli I had ordered.
My choice of pastry for breakfast.
The cup of Birchermuesli which followed after I had finished the fruits.
SQ25 was now cruising at almost 40000 feet over the Bay of Bengal. As if on cue, the turbulence started again. This always happens during breakfast from Europe to Singapore and today was definitely no different. Once I had finished my muesli, the cup was collected and the main event was served. The grilled chicken breast was yet another delicious dish: the mushrooms were especially tasty and I loved the thick sauce that accompanied the chicken. Very nice indeed.
The very tasty grilled chicken breast served with roasted tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms and roesti potato.
After breakfast, the majority of the passengers, myself included, began feeling very tried – it was now midnight German time and sleep deprivation started setting in. The turbulence finally started settling down as we crossed Kuala Lumpur and started our descent into Singapore. It was about time too.
The subdued upper Business Class cabin towards the end of the flight.
Singapore and my final destination, Penang, were finally in sight – well sort of anyway.
Sadly, SQ25 would be landing into Singapore in early hours of the morning and it would still be dark. This basically slaughtered any chances of taking some nice pictures of Singapore during the approach. With about 20 minutes until touchdown, the crew prepared the cabin for arrival. Far below us, the shining lights of Singapore and the neighboring Johor Bahru came into view.
The connecting flight information screen, with my ongoing flight to Penang at 8:05.
The hundreds of lights of Singapore below.
At 6:10 the landing gear was extended and SQ25 lined up with runway 20C at Changi Airport. The approach was very smooth and the views of the city below were fascinating. After spending more than 12 hours in the air, the 747-400 softly touched down on runway 20C at 6:15, 20 minutes before scheduled arrival. Singapore Changi Airport was still completely deserted at this time and there seemed to be no other movements on the tarmac.
On final approach over the ocean just before touchdown on runway 20C.
SQ25 arrived at Gate A17 less than five minutes after touchdown. Unfortunately, my journey with the wonderful crew and amazing food had come to an end. However, there was still one surprise in store for me. As all the passengers had left and I went to thank the chief steward for his outstanding hospitality, he told me to follow him with my camera. Sure enough, I was allowed to have a look at the cockpit myself this time around. I had not been able to do this since the events of 9/11 so this was a real treat and a stunning ending to an amazing flight. I was up on cloud nine.
The beautiful flight deck of 9V-SPB. A big thank you to the crew for letting me have a look!!
After another million ‘thank you’s and trading a few emails, I left 9V-SPB feeling distinctly disappointed. Not because this flight had not met my expectations, but because I knew something like this would probably never happen to me again. I had stepped back in time and found out what it must have been like to fly before oil was more than five dollars a barrel and before flying became normality.
I was in the airport terminal at 6:30, still five minutes before the scheduled arrival.
Arrival Airport
I now had one hour until boarding commenced for my onward flight to Penang. Unfortunately, SQ25 had arrived at the far corner of the Terminal 3 and it was a very long walk to the Silver Kris lounge. The Terminal was relatively empty at this time of the day, but there were several heavies arriving from Japan, Europe and Australia.
The long walk to the central concourse of the new Terminal 3.
The relatively empty terminal building at 6:30 in the morning.
As I went inside the Silver Kris lounge, I was gently reminded by the Singapore Airlines agent that my connecting flight would depart from Terminal 2. This is fair enough, because it can be quite a long way to some of the Terminal 2 gates. Luckily, the lounge was very empty when I arrived and I headed straight for the showers.
However, my experiences in the new Silver Kris lounge and my final flight to Penang will be covered in Part II of this trip report.
The outside of the new Silver Kris Lounge in Terminal 3.
The bright orange pillars reflecting the rising morning sun in the Silver Kris lounge.
Overall Impression
Putting my overall satisfaction with this flight into words is difficult, but even thinking about it brings back warm memories. I do not think this is something that happens every day, because it was prefect in my opinion. Nevertheless, I believe that the amazing crew is largely responsible for the delights I was able to experience; from the in-flight supervisor carrying my hand luggage onboard to the chief steward frightening the living daylight out of me as he pretended to take my camera away for inspection – they were simply world class. I also like the upper deck on the 747-400 much more than the lower deck. There was much more space and the cabin had a distinctly exclusive feel to it. The food and beverage was also exemplary and I do not think I have ever eaten so much food in such a short period of time. I guess my waistline has paid the price. So would I recommend flying Singapore Airlines between Frankfurt and Singapore? I think the answer is obvious. You may not have the same experience I had, but you will still find that Singapore Airlines is a great way to fly.
Thank you for taking the time to read the first part of this trip report. I hope that I will find the time to post the second part soon. As always, any comments and opinions are welcome and much appreciated.
If you liked this report, you may also be interested in my recent six part trip report from Penang to Muscat.
Qantasistheway From Australia, joined May 2008, 302 posts, RR: 2 Reply 1, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 17 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Well I was just about to go to sleep for the night when I had a quick peek if anything particularly interesting had popped up on a.net and suddenly I see a trip report for SQ Business class by Globetraveller and I knew I had to read it. What a great crew, I'm sure this was a very memorable flight for you and it has probably only reinforced your very positive opnion about SQ. Business Class is always great but a crew that remembers you from a previous flight and seems to like you just makes it so much better and I hope that I can one day experience this. Hopefully I get such great service levels on my SQ J Flights at the end of the year however it will be mostly A380. Also the food looks great and what a great chance to see the cockpit. Your photography is also very good and all the pictures are clear, something that makes the trip report very worthwhile I think. Thank you for this report.
TravellerPlus From New Zealand, joined Nov 2008, 313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 4, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 14 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Great report Mr Globetraveller!
Its a pleasure to read about someone who has had a near perfect flight. No surprises that is was on SQ. The small and easily done personal gestures you received can makes such a diference to one's enjoyment of a flight. I wish some airlines would realise that outstanding service can actually cost nothing.
Only one very minor quibble, the correct spelling is Champagne, not "champaign". I noticed the same spelling in another report that might have been one of yours. The reason I noticed is because on both occassions, that spelling made me smile. It made me remember the few times I have had a "pain" in my head after drinking Champagne. All of them we worth the hangover!
Respectfully yours, TravellerPlus
What goes around comes around....unless your luggage is not on the carousel...
Airpearl From Malaysia, joined May 2001, 912 posts, RR: 39 Reply 5, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 12 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Globetraveller
What a great report. Thank you for sharing. I love the pictures, they're just top class - makes me want to visit southern Germany now, plus the bonus of spotting at Frankfurt... so, so tempting.
It seems like you had a wonderful flight on SQ - the crew seemed fantastic - and what a treat to be allowed into the flight deck!
CXtra From Hong Kong, joined Jan 2006, 263 posts, RR: 0 Reply 6, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 11 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
That was undoubtedly the best report I've read on a.net! Stunning, Mr Globetraveller, really well done! Comprehensive but selective pictures, the right amount of detail and lots of personal interest.
I must admit, apart from the contracted FRA ground services, there's seems to be nothing you could fault with SQ's product. Even calling it a 'product' probably doesn't do it justice. The food looked like first-class standard and the service.. well, there are some things money can't buy haha... ok, I'll stop there before I infringe someone's copyright
Again, many thanks for the time and effort you've put into this. And keep writing!
DocPepz From Singapore, joined May 2001, 1882 posts, RR: 4 Reply 7, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): Often I find that Asian airplane food is not authentic, but these tasted as if I had just bought them from a Hawker stall in Kuala Lumpur.
From what I understand, all satay servings are uplifted from SIN for no other station can actually make it properly!
Undoubtedly the best trip report I've read in a very long time. The crew sounded out of this world..... Looking forward to more of your reports!
Vivekman2006 From India, joined May 2006, 480 posts, RR: 3 Reply 8, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 9 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Excellent trip report Globetraveller!
I like the way the steward took away your camera "dejectedly" and came back with some more shots. These small things set the SQ crew apart from the others
Gjunnar From Germany, joined Sep 2001, 148 posts, RR: 0 Reply 9, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 8 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
I had already commented on your trip report flying to FRA and I have to say: this report is at least as awesome!! IMO the perfect combination of pictures of planes, airport, food, cabin and - as an extra treat - pictures of Germany; I'm glad you got to have a couple of great days in southern Germany. Also your writing is really special and entertaining.
Looking forward to many more reports!
Globetraveller From Germany, joined Apr 2008, 373 posts, RR: 31 Reply 10, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 7 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting Qantasistheway (Reply 1): Also the food looks great and what a great chance to see the cockpit
Thank you for your kind words Qantasistheway. The food was excellent and the chance to visit the cockpit was out of this world. It was one of the many highlights of this great flight.
Quoting Qantasistheway (Reply 1): Your photography is also very good and all the pictures are clear, something that makes the trip report very worthwhile I think. Thank you for this report.
I take hundreds of pictures for every trip report and only about 100 or so make it here. I guess there are bound to be some clear ones every now and again. Thank you.
Quoting HeartDoc (Reply 2): Purely amazing!!!, You are very lucky to have such an experience and an opportunity to fly frequently in premium classes.
Thank you HeartDoc. I am very lucky to be able to fly in the premium classes and I try to enjoy it and treasure it as much as I can.
Quoting HeartDoc (Reply 2): Most airlines these days frown on taking photos during flight, I am assuming SQ is differenct. The close-up shots...did you use macro option?
SQ has not had problems with me taking pictures. Sometimes I ask just in case, but they never mind. I always use the macro option for the close up shots; they just do not work otherwise.
Quoting Je89_w (Reply 3): and from your report, it seems as if you were in F! Lovely photos as well.
Thank you for your kind words Je89_w. It did seem like I was sometimes in F during this report. I guess that was just down to the amazing service I received.
Quoting TravellerPlus (Reply 4): Only one very minor quibble, the correct spelling is Champagne, not "champaign".
Thank you TravellerPlus. I think the last time I spelt it correctly, but I was never really sure. Thanks for pointing that out for me though; I will not make that mistake again.
Quoting Airpearl (Reply 5): What a great report. Thank you for sharing. I love the pictures,
Thank you Airpearl. I hope everything is well with you. I just saw your SQ report to Melbourne. I guess we are flooding Airliners.net with SQ J reports! I'll be sure to read it later.
Quoting Airpearl (Reply 5): Hope we hear more from you. Great stuff man.
You sure will. I'll kepp you updated. Thanks again for your kind words.
Quoting CXtra (Reply 6): That was undoubtedly the best report I've read on a.net!
Wow! What an honor CXtra. There are a lot of great reports on A.net, so thank you for those kind words.
I'm trying, but these reports take quite a while. I still have about 10 flights worth of pictures lying around. I hope to post them as soon as I can.
Quoting DocPepz (Reply 7): From what I understand, all satay servings are uplifted from SIN for no other station can actually make it properly!
Hey there DocPepz. Your comment makes a lot of sense, because the Satay was just too good to be from Germany.
Quoting Vivekman2006 (Reply 8): I like the way the steward took away your camera "dejectedly" and came back with some more shots.
I am not sure I particularly liked it at the time, but looking back on it: I agree, its things like this which set this crew apart from the rest. Thank you for your kind words Vivekman2006.
Quoting Gjunnar (Reply 9): Also your writing is really special and entertaining.
Looking forward to many more reports!
Thank you Gjunnar, I am glad you also enjoyed this report. I can assure you, more reports are on the way.
LH4116 From Sweden, joined Aug 2007, 1364 posts, RR: 12 Reply 11, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 7 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Wow, that was one excellent trip report!
It was only until now that i have realised just how good the SQ crew is, the best treatment I've got from a crew was when a f/a did the effort to place a sandwich and drink on my tray table
The food looks excellent aswell. How comes that you didn't chose to fly on the 77W on the way back?
Thanks for the report.
I won't stop complaining until SAS reintroduces free service in Economy Class!
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7749 posts, RR: 57 Reply 12, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 7 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Hi Globetraveller,
Once again another stunning report, well written and some superb pictures along the way - I particularly liked those scenic German pictures, love the castle!
Considering the age of the SQ J product in the 744 fleet, it's still looks pretty good to be honest.
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): “I’m sorry Mr. Globetraveller, we had to add one or two pictures, because we noticed there is one part of the aircraft you have not yet covered.” Confused as to what this was all about, I quickly turned on the camera to see what he meant. Sure enough there were several new pictures: several were of the cockpit and some were taken through the cockpit windows!
- This is service and attention to detail above and beyond call of duty, just superb!
Caspritz78 From Germany, joined Aug 2007, 517 posts, RR: 0 Reply 13, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 3 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
What a great and detailed report. Thank you. The pictures are great and make the report very real.
I took SQ25 and SQ26 to and form JFK. I remember that the check-in for the SQ26 to JFK in the morning is much more civilized but the departure gate was C8 which looked like a large former storage building.
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): One of the (few) highlights of Frankfurt Airport is the efficiency of the main security and passports checks. Both the fast-track queues and the normal queues are never absurdly long and they always move very quickly – I guess that’s why they call it German efficiency.
Only problem is that the security check-points look like an old border crossing station from the time Germany was divided in West- and East-Germany. Open ceilings, cables hanging down etc. Not a very comfortable environment.
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): The main Lufthansa Business Class lounge in concourse B is used by most major Star Alliance partners in Frankfurt. It is located on the second floor, above many of the large departures gates for long haul international flights.
I remember when I was a kid and the public terrace on the roof of T1-B was still open, that where the Lufthansa Business Lounge is now was a restaurant. I think it was called Graf Zeppelin.
SQ772 From Singapore, joined Nov 2001, 1792 posts, RR: 5 Reply 14, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 2 hours ago) and read 32767 times:
Another entertaining report, Globetraveller! I read every single word, and am amazed at the service provided by this set of crew. It isn't everyday that you get crew going beyond and above service standards that are already one of the industry's best.
Then again, I have noticed that SQ crew seem to be showing more personality on my recent flights - from senior crew (who are usually one of the industry's best) to junior crew. Perhaps complaints about SQ's 'robotic' service have finally sunk-in... coupled by the fact that SQ has raised the education requirements of its crew from "O" levels to at least a polytechnic diploma or "A" levels in recent years.
Av8RDAL From United States of America, joined Jan 2004, 435 posts, RR: 2 Reply 15, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days 1 hour ago) and read 32767 times:
Great report, very good to read. Especially liked the photos of Bavaria at the beginning. That is one swell place to spend the summer months, let me tell you!
Maintain thine airspeed, lest the Earth rise up and smite thee.
Ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1424 posts, RR: 55 Reply 16, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days ago) and read 32767 times:
Hey Mr. Globetraveller!
WOW! .. and excellent report, with great detail, and my god, the pictures! what can i say!
I think u have raised the bar
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): While I am aware that trip reports are meant to cover the aviation related aspects of a journey, I feel that it is sometimes worthwhile to see the destination of a particular voyage.
It's always great to also include some pictures of the destination! Your pictures of Germany are absolutely amazing!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): Naturally, the Intercity Express arrived at precisely 8:33 and departed exactly four minutes later at 8:37 - this was Germany after all.
I remember one of my LH flights a long time ago, that departed AUH at around 7:59am (or some other precise time) and i kid you not, the plane pushed back at exactly that time! Amazing if u ask me!
That's crazy! A 'Business Class' lounge always should have free internet access i believe!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): How Singapore Airlines manages to fill the day flight from Frankfurt on a Thursday I do not know, but I guess they just do.
SQ has staffed some really shrewd and extremely knowledgeable group of route planners. They know exactly what they are doing, which markets they are in, and which others they want to go into in the future; even more than you, me, or anyone else!
I like to refer to them as the super-heros of route planning!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): A first here on Airliners.net: the knee shot in the lying down position!
LOL! This will be the new custom!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): “I’m sorry Mr. Globetraveller, we had to add one or two pictures, because we noticed there is one part of the aircraft you have not yet covered.” Confused as to what this was all about, I quickly turned on the camera to see what he meant. Sure enough there were several new pictures: several were of the cockpit and some were taken through the cockpit windows! I was ecstatic and thanked the chief steward profusely. As I have already said before, this was not your average cabin crew.
That is definitely personalised service! And i believe something like this can only be experienced on an Asian carrier.
Having seen me taking pictures in DXB before boarding my MH flight to EWR years ago, the pilot offered to borrow my camera to take pics of the cockpit for me. After takeoff he handed it back to me with several new pictures.
Once again, your TR was top notch! keep it up!
Thanks for sharing!
Regards,
Roni
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
Globetraveller From Germany, joined Apr 2008, 373 posts, RR: 31 Reply 17, posted (3 years 3 months 5 days ago) and read 32767 times:
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 11): Wow, that was one excellent trip report!
Thank you LH4116. I am glad you enjoyed it.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 11): the best treatment I've got from a crew was when a f/a did the effort to place a sandwich and drink on my tray table
LOL! You must definitely fly to the far East my friend. Even one flight would raise your bar of nice treatment considerably!
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 11): How comes that you didn't chose to fly on the 77W on the way back?
I had to attend a function in Penang on the Thursday I arrived, so the 744 flight got me back home just in time. Otherwise, I would have had even less time in Germany.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 12): Once again another stunning report, well written and some superb pictures along the way
Thank you Mark. Its always good to know that one of the best trip reporters enjoys my reports too.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 12): This is service and attention to detail above and beyond call of duty, just superb!
I agree. I was completely amazed and speechless by the end of the flight. The service was out of this world.
Quoting Caspritz78 (Reply 13): What a great and detailed report. Thank you. The pictures are great and make the report very real.
Thank you Caspritz78. Its good to know you enjoyed the report.
Quoting Caspritz78 (Reply 13): Open ceilings, cables hanging down etc. Not a very comfortable environment.
Hahaha... That is what Frankfurt Airport looks like everywhere! It seems that it is permanently under construction, or that the airport is always running out of money to buy new panels. It is all very odd if you ask me
Quoting SQ772 (Reply 14): Another entertaining report, Globetraveller!
Thank you SQ772. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Quoting SQ772 (Reply 14): Then again, I have noticed that SQ crew seem to be showing more personality on my recent flights
I agree with you here. I have already taken a couple more SQ flights since the one in this report, and the crew has been a lot less robotic and a lot more open.
Quoting Av8RDAL (Reply 15): Great report, very good to read.
Thank you Av8RDAL.
Quoting Av8RDAL (Reply 15): That is one swell place to spend the summer months, let me tell you!
Yeah, tell me about it! Summer in Bavaria was amazing. I have lived overseas for most of my life and I sometimes forget how beautiful my home country actually is.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 16): WOW! .. and excellent report, with great detail, and my god, the pictures! what can i say!
I think u have raised the bar
Hey there Roni! I hope all is well with you! Thank you for your gracious words, especially since they are coming from an excellent trip reporter such as yourself.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 16): and i kid you not, the plane pushed back at exactly that time! Amazing if u ask me!
LOL! I am not surprised in the slightest. I am always shocked by the German efficiency when I travel back home - it is just amazing to see.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 16): That's crazy! A 'Business Class' lounge always should have free internet access i believe!
I'm with you on that one, but apparently Lufthansa is not. I am so used to entire airports having free wireless internet for all passengers, so this always comes as quite a shock to me.
Quoting Ronerone (Reply 16): That is definitely personalised service! And i believe something like this can only be experienced on an Asian carrier.
I am also with you on that one. I guess that is why they call is 'asian hospitality'.
I'll be sure to keep you posted about my travels through Dubai in December.
Landingshortly From Austria, joined Jan 2008, 83 posts, RR: 0 Reply 18, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 19 hours ago) and read 32693 times:
This is by far one of the best trip reports I've ever came across. Thank you, globetraveller for giving me a very very joyful read!
I will be on SQ25 from Frankfurt to Singapore in Business Class too in a few months and I am very much looking forward to it. Will also be on the upper deck, but in seat 11K. Thank you for showing me what to expect on this route!
Intothinair From Germany, joined Mar 2005, 389 posts, RR: 2 Reply 19, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 14 hours ago) and read 32392 times:
Hello Mr Globetraveller, I recall your positive enthusiasm which you expressed to me at the function the same day you arrived, about this flight, so there was no doubt that I had to read this trip report! and I must say it was well worth it. Another excellent trip report, perhaps your best so far!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): I have therefore included some pictures of my trips to Germany. I trust you will enjoy the Wonders of Germany.
Germany is such a beautiful country, it's a shame that due to me having lived outside of Germany for most of my life I haven't been able to see even half of all those beautiful pictures you posted!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): A few moments later, she could no longer bear the sight of the long premium queues and decided to rectify the problem resolutely: she moved the passengers from the internet check-in counter and the closest Economy counter aside and redistributed the premium queues in their place.
Now that is what I call respecting and taking care of your premium customers, well done SQ!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): Surprisingly, hot dishes and soup were now on offer, as well as a variety of pastries, fruits and breads. I was impressed
Now that looks like a big improvement from when I was last in this lounge, for once, well done LH
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter):
SQ25’s departure today would be from runway 18, which is better known as Startbahn West. This called for a very long taxi down the entire length of the airport, but I did not mind
This appears to be rather normal for flights to SE Asia, I don't recall the last time I flew to Singapore or Thailand from Germany not having taken off from Startbahn West
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): “I’m sorry Mr. Globetraveller, we had to add one or two pictures, because we noticed there is one part of the aircraft you have not yet covered.”
Ryanair!!! From Singapore, joined Mar 2002, 4608 posts, RR: 34 Reply 20, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 13 hours ago) and read 32327 times:
Wow... Wow... What can I say but WOW... And what is it with a slew of SQ's JCL trip reports on the 747-400?? Not that I am complaining but it sure brings back a lot of memories! Sadly the last time I flew the 747 on the upper deck with SQ, it was still known as Raffles Class and the Ultimo seats.
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): I am a huge critic of the Lufthansa Business Class lounges in Frankfurt; frankly I think they are an embarrassment to the airline. However, it did seem like Lufthansa had recently taken several small steps to improve the lounge. There was still no free Wireless Internet, which is a disgrace these days, and the furniture had not been upgraded either, but the food and the service had improved in my opinion.
Geez... I don't mean to downplay FRA but the airport looks a tad depressing to me. After the warmth of Changi, the bright marvel of KLIA and HKIA, and I might dare say even the controversial Suvarnabhumi looks way better than the clinical and sterile FRA!
Ok... office canteen anyone? Ikea Cafe?
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): Singapore Airlines uses the Boeing 747-400 exclusively on long haul flights to Europe, America and Australia.
That's true. However, the 747-400 is also used on short hops to Bangkok and Hong Kong. There was a time during festive occassions like CNY, they were flown to Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur. And boy do I have a few stories to share about how rushed the crew was serving the meals on a 90 minute 747-400 flight to CGK! Trust me back then it was a full meal with choices!
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): He was the one who had recommended seat 20K, because the seat next to me would be the pilot’s rest seat.
Personally, I much prefer the seat at the EMEX. TONS of legroom in front of you.
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): The Satay pieces were very tender and tasty. Often I find that Asian airplane food is not authentic, but these tasted as if I had just bought them from a Hawker stall in Kuala Lumpur.
Ah, the much contested satay. They are uploaded in SIN by SATS Kitchen.
Quoting Globetraveller (Thread starter): “I’m sorry Mr. Globetraveller, we had to add one or two pictures, because we noticed there is one part of the aircraft you have not yet covered.” Confused as to what this was all about, I quickly turned on the camera to see what he meant. Sure enough there were several new pictures: several were of the cockpit and some were taken through the cockpit windows! I was ecstatic and thanked the chief steward profusely. As I have already said before, this was not your average cabin crew.
Damn... DAY-EM! It is always said that the attitude of the IFS sets the tone of the rest of the team. And I see why. If the rest of the crew was as good as you said they were, this IFS you encountered surely had a lot to do with it.
It has been a while since I last stepped on board the upper deck of a 747. It is unparalleled, experience second to none, and an exclusivity unmatched and the closest you would ever get to flying a private jet. The only pain I have is trying to stare out of the window as I find myself having to stoop a little lower to look outside. Otherwise, who am I to complain?
Fantastic read... I soaked in every single word.
Cheers
Ryan
Welcome to my starry one world alliance, a team in the sky!
HaYnFlyer From United States of America, joined Nov 2008, 115 posts, RR: 0 Reply 21, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 10 hours ago) and read 32116 times:
Great job Globetraveller!
I'm wondering if the creators of this website might think about giving you a commission for every one of us who you have inspired to become a paid member just so that they can leave feedback after being impressed by your excellent TR?
Either that or allow us readers to rate TR posts (say, with a star rating system which appears next to the TR listing) so that readers can peruse the best ones first. (First Class member votes can count twice as much a regular member, etc.)
Posts like yours are the reason I am now a paying member!
Only downside - now, I'll have to visit Germany....
Thanks for taking the time to do such a wonderful job.
"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts."
Ryanair!!! From Singapore, joined Mar 2002, 4608 posts, RR: 34 Reply 22, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 8 hours ago) and read 32028 times:
Quoting HaYnFlyer (Reply 21): Either that or allow us readers to rate TR posts (say, with a star rating system which appears next to the TR listing) so that readers can peruse the best ones first. (First Class member votes can count twice as much a regular member, etc.)
HaYnFlyer, in case you didn't know... The star-rating system was a feature from airliners.net of before way back then in 2001. I guess this has been done away when the webbie was revamped.
Welcome to my starry one world alliance, a team in the sky!
Globetraveller From Germany, joined Apr 2008, 373 posts, RR: 31 Reply 23, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 7 hours ago) and read 31902 times:
Quoting Landingshortly (Reply 18): Thank you, globetraveller for giving me a very very joyful read!
You are very welcome Landingshortly. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Quoting Landingshortly (Reply 18): I will be on SQ25 from Frankfurt to Singapore in Business Class too in a few months and I am very much looking forward to it.
Nice... I'm sure you will have a great flight! I wish I could come along for the ride!
Quoting Intothinair (Reply 19): Another excellent trip report, perhaps your best so far!
Thank you Intothinair. I know you have a lot of pictures of your recent travels, so why not create a trip report yourself...!!! I'd like the TG FRA-BKK-PEN sectors very much!
Quoting Intothinair (Reply 19): Germany is such a beautiful country, it's a shame that due to me having lived outside of Germany for most of my life I haven't been able to see even half of all those beautiful pictures you posted!
I agree with you entirely. Before summer, I had never been to half of these places. Its a beautiful country - if you know where to go.
Quoting Intothinair (Reply 19): Now that looks like a big improvement from when I was last in this lounge, for once, well done LH
Hehehe... Yes, I was a little shocked too... I was already prepared for Gummy Bears, only to find proper food. Not bad in my opinion.
Quoting Ryanair!!! (Reply 20): Wow... Wow... What can I say but WOW... And what is it with a slew of SQ's JCL trip reports on the 747-400??
Hi there Ryanair!!!. I was just thinking the same when Airpearl also posted his trip report. I guess everyone is soaking up the good old 747-400 before she goes away for good.
Quoting Ryanair!!! (Reply 20): Geez... I don't mean to downplay FRA but the airport looks a tad depressing to me.
I agree completely. The airport does look very depressing, but at least it is very efficient. To be honest, I'd rather not stand in secuity for a million hours than have a beautiful airport. It's the German way i guess, but I'm not saying that I dislike KUL or SIN - don't get me wrong.
Hahaha... So true! Thank god the views out of the windows were a little better.
Quoting Ryanair!!! (Reply 20): Fantastic read... I soaked in every single word.
Thank you Ryanair!!!. I'm glad you enjoyed the trip report.
Quoting Ryanair!!! (Reply 20): Damn... DAY-EM! It is always said that the attitude of the IFS sets the tone of the rest of the team. And I see why. If the rest of the crew was as good as you said they were, this IFS you encountered surely had a lot to do with it.
I think everyone in this crew was amazing. I guess I got lucky. Obviously the IFS was outstanding too, but I think the chief steward stood out the most. He was the most personal and the most attentive steward I have ever seen.
Thank you HaYnFlyer and welcome to Airliners.net!!
Quoting HaYnFlyer (Reply 21): I'm wondering if the creators of this website might think about giving you a commission for every one of us who you have inspired to become a paid member just so that they can leave feedback after being impressed by your excellent TR?
LOL! Now that's an interesting idea!! I could then spend the commission on more tickets to write more trip reports... Nice! On a more serious note, I think that seeing thousands of enthusiasts read my trip reports and receiving great feedback is good enough to keep me writing. This website has a lot of great trip reporters and I am just doing my best to keep my standard in line with them.
Quoting HaYnFlyer (Reply 21): Only downside - now, I'll have to visit Germany....
I am sure this is not a downside. You will have a great time and some very fond memories to take home with you.
Quoting Ryanair!!! (Reply 22): The star-rating system was a feature from airliners.net of before way back then in 2001.
I was not aware of this either. Do you know why they stopped using it? I guess it is because they added the 'views' count instead.
Redcenterflyer From Australia, joined Feb 2008, 59 posts, RR: 0 Reply 24, posted (3 years 3 months 4 days 6 hours ago) and read 31855 times:
Thanks for the pic of the zugspitz. I spent 10 weeks in Garmisch one summer 10 or so years ago going to a US army school. Also spent a few ski trips there as well. I love that part of Germany!
25 Buck3y3nut: Hey Globetraveller, Excellent trip report. I really enjoyed the pictures and the trip report. It was so awesome of the crew to get you pictures from t
26 Sebjacques92: WOW!! Amazing Trip Report!! Where do i start? the SQ business class product looks really nice and your experience with the cabin crew was quite incred
27 Globetraveller: Hey there Redcenterflyer. I'm glad you enjoyed the pictures of Southern Germany. It is a very nice place and you were very lucky to be able to stay t
28 Singapore_Air: Singapore Airlines trip reports rarely surprise me but yours certainly did. I think I shared a part of your enjoyment on that flight ! I agree with yo
29 FLIEGER67: Hey, Mr. Globetraveller, finally I´ve finished that great read around your memory trip back in time on SQ. I´ve started three times, you collect suc
30 Nicholaschee: Great follow up to Part 1 Enjoyed reading it. Looking forward to my SQ J flights in 2009.
31 MAS777: sorry but to me - this (Satay) will always remain Malaysia Airline's trademark... *wink*[Edited 2008-11-11 00:24:33]
32 Ryanair!!!: Nah, the star rating system was used together with the "view count". Like I mentioned, the rating function was removed after one of the many updates
33 Globetraveller: Hi there Singapore_Air. Its good to know that I was able to take you on this amazing journey with me through the trip report. I definitely agree with
34 Coolfish1103: The Lufthansa lounge in Frankfurt sure looks like those cafeteria in the big office buildings... but I guess the food and drink is more important than
35 LH459: Is that Kassel-Wilhelmshöhe, by any chance? A friend of my mother's was one of the architects for that station, so it's nice to see it again after s
36 Globetraveller: Hey there Coolfish1103. I actually think that the presentation and decoration is just as important as the food and drink. However, the reason why I d
37 MAS777: Actually - i am a fan of LH, dare i say it... I find that with Star Alliance - choices are still limited for KUL and whilst LH might take slightly lo
38 LH459: Well, I should recognize it--I saw many slide shows of the construction of that station back in the early 90s. My mother's friend, the architect, was
39 Globetraveller: I agree with you completely. However, when I booked my ticket for this trip, three days before the departure, LH was even more expensive than SQ. Nev
40 PerthGloryFan: I have to add my congratulations on a superb trip report. And, yes, as others have said, we were right there with you as we read it! The pics of Germa
41 NZ107: Superb TR! Such amazing pics, especially of Germany! I think I'll run out of superlatives if I keep going on! Absolutely breathtaking. Now I wonder if
42 Globetraveller: Thank you very much PerthGloryFan. Thanks for reading the TR. I am sure you could! Just take lots of pictures and notes and you are almost there! Hah
43 RebelDJ: What a fantastic trip report!! If I didn't have to get back to work I'd read all your others right away. Keep up the good work, the quality of the pic
44 Triple7man: It sounds like you had a wonderful experience on SQ. I'd like to see how Raffles class compares with first class and economy class, but I hear whateve
45 Globetraveller: Thank you RebelDJ. I hope you managed to find the time to read the other trip reports as well. The quality of the pictures is not too bad right now.
46 Akhmad: What an excellent trip report, Globetraveller It was indeed very sweet. Can you give me more non alcoholic cocktail recipes? Suryo
47 Globetraveller: Thank you Akhmad. Thanks for reading and commenting on the trip report. Hehehe... I think SQ has quite a few more on offer. I'll come back to you on
48 FCA767: All of what people said...Plus I love the way you take pictures inside+Further inside and then through the window to give the perspective of the sheer
49 Globetraveller: Thank you FCA767. I am glad you enjoy my pictures. I try to take as many as possible of all aspects of the aircraft, because it is much easier for me
50 FCA767: Yes...I enjoy doing pictures and video mainly rather than text...text usually hurts my eyes after a while...especially when im on 10 hours per day I
51 Globetraveller: Yes, I know exactly what you mean... Pictures can say more than a 1000 words anyway. Still, without text, it is very difficult to convey how good the
52 LH431: Wonderful trip report! It was a pleasure to read about your SQ experience. This TR is even better than the outbound one. Ah, train station Kassel Wilh
53 Globetraveller: Hi there Jonas. Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the trip report. I agree with you here. I think that in many countries in the EU
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