ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1541 posts, RR: 54 Posted (3 years 6 days 3 hours ago) and read 28160 times:
I N T R O D U C T I O N Unsure how to introduce this, I bring to you yet another Cathay Pacific Trip Report. I have in the past, time and time again, provided insight and views on this airline that even the Gods of another universe are well versed in. Today, I have one more thing to show you -a First Class Suite experience- and this is probably the only dimension left within the CX world which I have not documented before.
There was a time, during a milk run’s past, where I had first sampled the wonders of a true First Class Suite. However, this experience was a victim of procrastination, and when today turned into tomorrow, next month into next year, I gave it a miss altogether.
Today, a redemption comes my way, same seat, similar experience, and “Short Hop, Big Suite” comes to mind. All in all, it is the perfect opportunity to revive the past, and base it around the current, and more succinct experience.
Perhaps I will stow my camera and notebook in the overhead locker, fasten my seatbelt, and enjoy my subsequent flights on Cathay Pacific as a non-alien passenger, as I think I’ve got this airline covered! But let’s see to it today, just one more time!
CONTINUED BELOW
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1541 posts, RR: 54 Reply 1, posted (3 years 6 days 3 hours ago) and read 28619 times:
WELCOME TO MY 23rd TRIP REPORT
This TR will cover the following flights on Cathay Pacific in First Class:
A) BKK – HKG (B747-400)
B) HKG – BOM – DXB (B747-400) – This is from a previous trip in January 2009
B A C K G R O U N D
Following on from Oman Air, this Trip Report is the second part of several that will document my trips to and within Asia.
I had limited my flight selection criteria for this sector to be within the Oneworld Alliance. There was a time when I was mildly entertaining the idea of an anti-FFP policy, but obviously that was never truly enforced and in fact, the reality of it was quite the opposite.
The true benefits began to flow after my Marco Polo tier was upped one level last year. Upgrades at the boarding gate are so frequent now, that it’s almost perfectly predictable each time. Since December last year, I was upgraded to Business Class on three out of four total sectors that I flew on Cathay Pacific. Needless to say, I am totally hooked!
Back to flight selection, my obvious choices for this route were Cathay Pacific and Royal Jordanian, both of which offered an array of timings suitable for me. However, I had built my Asia Miles account to qualify me for a free First Class ticket to Hong Kong on Cathay’s Suite. Luckily, it was also easy to process knowing how difficult it is to snag a redemption from CX. So Cathay it was, again!
O R I G I N
After spending one night in Bangkok, It was time to continue my journey to Hong Kong. After the usual hotel check-out and taxi affair, I reached Suvarnabhumi at 4pm. I was dropped off at Entrance 6 leading to Cathay’s check-in desks, alongside the likes of Qantas, British Airways, KLM, Aeroflot, and Mahan Air.
Entrance 6 leading to the departures area at BKK
There were no queues at the counters, however they were adequately stocked with staff who seemed collective and ready for an assignment. As such, I proceeded directly to the First Class section at 4:15pm.
CX check-in counters at BKK
I was seamlessly checked in without a hassle and the efficient agent handed me a boarding pass, lounge card for BKK, and another for the Arrivals lounge at HKG. At 4:20pm, it was time to move on.
Boarding pass to Hong Kong
Lounge card ex BKK
The Arrival lounge card ex HKG
At this point, I had some time to kill so the customary walk-around was a must. A lot of passengers were traveling at the time and the terminal was quite crowded, though not congested.
FIDS
A quick peek at EK’s slick counters
Everyone flies with EK!
A thought I’ve been entertaining for quite some time now
At 4:50pm, I received an SMS from CX, informing me that my flight was scheduled on time. I was also sent a previous message the night prior to advise me to arrive at the airport at least three hours before my flight’s scheduled departure time, in view of the political unrest in the Thailand, which had just begun at the time.
CX flight reminder
Passing through immigration and security, I was airside at 5:40pm. I wasn’t in a lounge mood, and instead I went looking for one of the many smoking lounges at BKK, which are strangely located in the lower level adjacent to the holding areas. At 6:15pm I proceeded towards Gate F5.
Gate F5
Inside the holding area
A friendly ground staff at the gate tore off my boarding pass and I was inside the holding area by 6:20pm. Judging by the amount of passengers waiting inside the lounge, the flight that evening seemed to be wide open.
My ride to Hong Kong
Pre-boarding was announced at 6:25pm calling for premium passengers, elites, and those with special needs. This was to be followed by Economy Class passengers called according to row numbers. Cathay Pacific has adopted an interesting mechanism of handling the boarding process for Economy Class passengers. While row numbers are announced, ground staff also walk around the gate area with placards that list the row numbers that are called for. Not sure how efficient this is, but I suppose it could help complement the vocal announcements.
At Door 1L of the aircraft, I was greeted by Serrafina, the In-flight Services Manager for our flight that evening.
“Good evening Mr. Hawi, welcome on board”
“Your seat 3A is right this way; my colleague will escort you”
By 6:30pm I was on board.
CONTINUED BELOW
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1541 posts, RR: 54 Reply 2, posted (3 years 6 days 3 hours ago) and read 28581 times:
F L I G H T
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Signature Cathay service commenced as soon as I boarded the aircraft. A very nice cabin crew escorted me to my seat, and another joined her after I had settled in.
“Welcome on board Mr. Hawi, my name is Kandi and this is my colleague Stephanie”
“Nice to meet you both”
“Together we will be taking care of you on this flight”
“Thank you”
“You’re welcome sir. May we offer you something to drink?”
“A glass of champagne please”
“Certainly. Please make yourself comfortable while I get it for you”
While settling into what seemed like limitless confines of my suite, I was amazed at the perfect balance between total seclusion and unobstructed openness that this seat design offered. Cathay Pacific may not have excelled at their latest Business and Economy Class offerings, but they certainly have hit the right note with First Class. The seat itself is also comfortably cushioned, and there is so much space around you that you can sit in almost any position you like, even while it is positioned upright. You can even have someone sit right next to you in the same seat, let alone sit right across from you for the usual “dine together” spinoff.
The seat
Leg space
Stephanie had returned from the galley with a bottle of champagne in one hand, and a glass in the other. After placing the flute next to my seat, she held the bottle in front of me to show me the brand that was on offer during the flight. Of course, I’m no connoisseur at this, but since this is First Class, I had to play the part and nod with satisfaction to signal a go-ahead for her to pour.
My glass of champagne
As for the cabin, it was definitely well-maintained given that this aircraft is 20 years old. However the rather modern look of the seats clashes with the cabin interior of the B747 giving the ambience a rather stark contrast between old versus new world. But from pictures I have seen, this seems to be more aligned on the 77W.
The cabin
Hot towels distributed
“Mr. Hawi have you ordered the vegetarian special meal?”
“Yes I did”
“I just want to confirm to you that it is on board”
“Thank you”
At 6:45pm, a pre-departure announcement was made by Serrafina.
“Ladies and gentlemen would you kindly take your seats as we are about to close the doors for departure. Would all ground personnel please leave the aircraft”
Shortly afterwards, our captain made an announcement and provided the usual routing information. He also informed us that our flight time to Hong Kong was to be a short 2 hours and 6 minutes.
The doors were closed, and the silence pressured through the entire cabin. At 7:05pm, we pushed back from the gate, and each of the four engines spooled into life one by one, transforming the sound effects from a single-toned muffled hum to gradual roar, leading into our taxi towards the runway.
EK 372 from DXB
Demonstrating different seating positions during our taxi to the runway
We took off at 7:20pm and began our journey to Hong Kong. The humble and deep sounds of the 747’s screaming engines are no comparison to any other aircraft in my opinion. Whether it is these same sounds that I practically grew up with or something else that cannot be explained, it is definitely the signal of absolute confidence that this machine is in total control.
Almost reaching cruising altitude, the cabin crew was released to prepare for the service. In the First Class cabin, this commenced with the Menu & Wine list distribution.
“Mr. Hawi, I will be serving you a starter of pumpkin salad and zucchini, and this will be followed by your main course which is bell-peppers stuffed with rice, tofu, and mixed vegetables”
“Great. Thank you”
“Most welcome. Here is the standard menu and wine list for the flight, if you would like to take a look”
“May I get you anything to drink for now?”
“A Bloody Mary please”
Menu
Wine List
As the crew was busy with the service preps, Serrafina made her rounds in the First Class cabin to personally introduce herself and welcome everyone on board.
“Mr. Hawi, I’m Serrafina, and it is a pleasure to welcome you on board again”
“Thank you, and nice to meet you”
“I hope you have enjoyed your time in Bangkok”
“Yes I did thank you”
“Mr. Hawi, I have to tell you that your eyes are very beautiful! They are so shiny and your eyelashes are nicer and longer than my own fake ones”
And this is how Cathay Pacific can transform what could be routinely robotic service into something quite on the personal level. It’s hard to explain, but it is definitely the right juggle between professionalism and something a little more personal; even a little flirting won’t harm anyone if that’s what it takes. Sometimes it is the more junior crew, other times it’s the ISM, but at some point during the flight, you know it will happen, but you won’t really know who or when.
My Boody Mary brought to me afterwards, with a bowl of cashew nuts
Flight Details
IFE Screen
Kandi offered me seconds on the Bloody Mary as she cleared my empty glass, in which I requested for it to be served during the meal. She then proceeded to set my table up for the meal service.
Table set-up with starter
Pumpkin salad starter
Bread basket etc
For a vegan meal, it was very tasty and met with all dietary requirements for my fasting. The salad was fresh and the pumpkin a little crunchy which blended well with the zucchini and asparagus. There also was a strong lemongrass flavor which added a little zest to it.
Once finished, my starter plate was replaced with my main course
Similar to the starter, the main course was also quite tasty. The rice and vegetables were perfectly cooked and heated, and the bell peppers added a sweet flavor to the meal. Once I was through, I was offered some dessert, which included a fruit plate of pineapple, papaya, grapes, and pomelo.
Fruit plate
It was pointless to watch any IFE after the meal service, as it was a short flight. So instead, I decided to explore the seat and the cabin.
More of the seat
Seat control & IFE controller / telephone
More of the cabin
Hot towels to conclude the service
At 9:50pm Hong Kong local time, our captain made an announcement to inform us that we would be reaching top of descent within 10 minutes and are expected for an early arrival at HKG.
“Cabin crew, 30 minutes to landing. 30 minutes to landing, thank you”
At initial descent, the seatbelt sign was switched on and the crew continued their preparations for landing.
At 10:30pm, B-HOR touched down at HKIA, bringing this flight to an end. During our taxi to the gate, I noticed the IFE screens displaying connecting flight information for transfer passengers. Seemingly, this aircraft was scheduled to continue onwards to London a few hours later.
On my previous Cathay flights in First Class, I normally left the aircraft regurgitating a fiery heartburn that eats away at my esophagus. Thanks to my healthy vegan meal, this time around I was feeling rather light! Thanking the crew for their outstanding efforts, I deplaned and proceeded inside HKIA.
D E S T I N A T I O N
Immigration at HKG during peak times takes no less than 30 minutes. The counters seem a little understaffed, and the queues slow-moving. Eventually however, I was at the baggage claim picking up my suitcase and then passing through customs and into the landside arrivals hall. It is always a great feeling to be back in Hong Kong!
Goodies from this flight
The next section will briefly document a previous flight I took in January 2009, most of which will only be pictures
CONTINUED BELOW
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
Actual Departure Time: 14:30 (Pushback) Actual Arrival Time: 21:15 (Touchdown)
Registration: B-HKD Condition: 17.42 years old, delivered to Cathay Pacific in 2004, previously owned by Singapore Airlines, and currently stored as N548MD
From left to right: Juliette, Tats, and Doris. Wonderful crew!
Prior to landing in BOM
Transit Stop at BOM
Business class cabin
Economy Class
BOM – DXB
New set of crew, new welcome drink!
Menu BOM-DXB
Table set-up
Chicken Tikka starter
Another delicious vegetarian meal
Cheese plate
Fruit
One final cabin shot before arrival in DXB
C O N C L U S I O N
As expected, it was an excellent experience with Cathay Pacific. While the flight from Bangkok to Hong Kong was short and certainly not enough to prove the extent of the service levels, the crew still managed to deliver something exceptional. What more can one expect on a two hour flight?
We all know very well why they are my favorite airline, and once again this trip shows this. As for Cathay’s First Class product, I can only compare it with Etihad’s Diamond First Class, and no doubt that the overall experience with CX is miles ahead.
Goodies from HKG-BOM-DXB
This concludes my Trip Report. I hope you have enjoyed it, and your comments are always welcome!
Regards,
Roni
E Q U I P M E N T
- Camera:
- Canon 50D
- Canon 400D
AI151 From United Kingdom, joined Dec 2009, 303 posts, RR: 17 Reply 4, posted (3 years 6 days 2 hours ago) and read 28031 times:
Mr Roni, an amazing TR carrying on from the Oman Air one. CX First Class looked good before but with you're pictures, it looks even more stunning than before! The food looks amazing along with the presentation and the professionalism of the cabin crew.
Also the private card with you're name on it whilst eating is a very nice personal touch.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): The seat itself is also comfortably cushioned, and there is so much space around you that you can sit in almost any position you like, even while it is positioned upright. You can even have someone sit right next to you in the same seat, let alone sit right across from you for the usual “dine together” spinoff.
That has to be the most comfortable First Class seat I have seen besides the SQ Suites one.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Demonstrating different seating positions during our taxi to the runway
Pretty much how I sit in my living room whilst watching TV. Definitely a very wide seat.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): “Mr. Hawi, I have to tell you that your eyes are very beautiful! They are so shiny and your eyelashes are nicer and longer than my own fake ones”
A bit of flirting never harmed anyone especially as it hardly ever happens.
airpearl From Malaysia, joined May 2001, 934 posts, RR: 38 Reply 5, posted (3 years 5 days 23 hours ago) and read 27086 times:
Hey Roni, what a wonderful and gorgeous trip report - as befitting that for your favorite airline Thank you for sharing this trip with us. I was wondering if we'd ever see it, to be honest ~ haha ~ but I'm glad you decided to complete it. The CX F experience is one of my most missed, so thanks too for helping me relive it in such vivid detail and unbeatable photos.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Perhaps I will stow my camera and notebook in the overhead locker, fasten my seatbelt, and enjoy my subsequent flights on Cathay Pacific as a non-alien passenger, as I think I’ve got this airline covered! But let’s see to it today, just one more time!
I feel for you my friend - you really should try, at least once in a while. But if you're like me, then I fear you could be equally as hooked on the idea of trip reporting, as making the trip itself. It's hard to break free: the need to record and document and photograph becomes an obsession while later, a self-imposed deadline for the trip report becomes a source of angst... hahaha
Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): A thought I’ve been entertaining for quite some time now
What an excellent idea. I am sure your camera and notebook wouldn't be in the overhead locker for this one!
Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): I wasn’t in a lounge mood, and instead I went looking for one of the many smoking lounges at BKK, which are strangely located in the lower level adjacent to the holding areas.
You didn't miss too much. CX lounges at BKK are nothing special, though you could have gone to the QF one which is better imo. And btw, nothing is "strange" for me at Suvarnabhumi - I'd be surprised if something wasn't always a little wacky
Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Condition: 20.25 years old, delivered to Cathay Pacific Airways in 1990 as VR-HOR
It doesn't look at all like a 20 year old craft. Well done CX.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): I was amazed at the perfect balance between total seclusion and unobstructed openness that this seat design offered.
I haven't been on many F suites but based on what I'd flown I have to say this is the best of them, for me anyway. It feels roomier than those with doors and more private than those without. Add to that service from the top-class senior CX crews and you have - as you rightly say - the perfect balance.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): However the rather modern look of the seats clashes with the cabin interior of the B747 giving the ambience a rather stark contrast between old versus new world.
I would beg to differ. Maybe it's just me but I think the nose section of the B747 is ideal for this style and seat configuration - the CX 77W F (nice as it is) is just missing that something.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): but it is definitely the right juggle between professionalism and something a little more personal; even a little flirting won’t harm anyone if that’s what it takes.
You've just nailed why CX service is so special... aah, how I miss it.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): For a vegan meal, it was very tasty
A CX ISM told me once that they never miss a meal catered out of BKK - apparently one of the best in the system. The food on all the sectors looked good.
Thanks again for this excellent trip report. Hope to see another one from you soon!
ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1541 posts, RR: 54 Reply 7, posted (3 years 5 days 14 hours ago) and read 25729 times:
Dear All,
Thanks you for your comments!
Quoting AI151 (Reply 4): The food looks amazing along with the presentation and the professionalism of the cabin crew.
Also the private card with you're name on it whilst eating is a very nice personal touch.
Quoting AI151 (Reply 4): A bit of flirting never harmed anyone especially as it hardly ever happens.
Heya Sandeep!
That's why i think CX is so special
Quoting airpearl (Reply 5): Hey Roni, what a wonderful and gorgeous trip report - as befitting that for your favorite airline Thank you for sharing this trip with us. I was wondering if we'd ever see it, to be honest ~ haha ~ but I'm glad you decided to complete it.
Hey hey Airpearl!
Thanks man! .. I tell you, it was a tough few years trying to get the HKG-BOM-DXB one rolling LOL
But i still have one more EK A380 TR left, and that should clear my backlog!
Quoting airpearl (Reply 5): I feel for you my friend - you really should try, at least once in a while. But if you're like me, then I fear you could be equally as hooked on the idea of trip reporting, as making the trip itself. It's hard to break free: the need to record and document and photograph becomes an obsession while later, a self-imposed deadline for the trip report becomes a source of angst... hahaha
It's become quite difficult to write up a CX TR! .. I need a jumpseat perhaps, or a cargo flight, otherwise i think i've spun them off in almost all ways i could haha.
Though i still take notes and some vids on those 'underground' trips. But unless there's an update, i will lay low on CX TRs for some time
Quoting airpearl (Reply 5): What an excellent idea. I am sure your camera and notebook wouldn't be in the overhead locker for this one!
Definitely not! .. Though i hope my camera could fit inside that MD82!
Quoting airpearl (Reply 5): You didn't miss too much. CX lounges at BKK are nothing special
I really did like the lounge in KUL (where i experienced my first upgrade). Not sure how similar that one is to BKKs though.
Quoting airpearl (Reply 5): A CX ISM told me once that they never miss a meal catered out of BKK - apparently one of the best in the system. The food on all the sectors looked good.
I do like BKKs catering a lot!
In fact, one of the best Pad Thai's i've had was on an EY flight from BKK.
Quoting EK773 (Reply 6): Another great report Roni. شكرا
I love reading reports about CX, in particular their First Class suites. It really looks so comfortable and practical.
Thanks EK773! Glad you enjoyed!
Cheers,
Roni
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
LH4116 From Sweden, joined Aug 2007, 1672 posts, RR: 15 Reply 9, posted (3 years 5 days 11 hours ago) and read 25233 times:
Good afternoon Roni, great report there! Always a nice read on yet another lazy Saturday.
Your flights in F class on CX looked great.
The food looked absolutely fabulous. Though the stuffed peppers main course, looked a bit dry to me.
The headsets on the other hand seemed a bit outdated. To me they looked like the old Bose QuietComfort 1. Perhaps they should might consider upgrading them
Thanks for sharing!
//Jonas
I won't stop complaining until SAS reintroduces free service in Economy Class!
Aeroflot001 From Argentina, joined Oct 2009, 384 posts, RR: 0 Reply 10, posted (3 years 5 days 8 hours ago) and read 24852 times:
Great trip report. The service seems excellent except that nothing on the menu sounds appetizing to me hehe.
The aircraft must be immaculate with the amount of cleaning crew that come onboard.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 1): Luckily, it was also easy to process knowing how difficult it is to snag a redemption from CX. So Cathay it was, again!
Congratulations! I just knew that you were ought to be the person who got such things done.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Of course, I’m no connoisseur at this, but since this is First Class, I had to play the part and nod with satisfaction to signal a go-ahead for her to pour.
No connoisseur? Are you sure?
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Demonstrating different seating positions during our taxi to the runway
Roni, are you attending any Power Yoga class?
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): Mr. Hawi, I have to tell you that your eyes are very beautiful! They are so shiny and your eyelashes are nicer and longer than my own fake ones”
The attendant could have not said that unless she made an eye-contact with you. What a charming remark, did it not make you melt?
ba319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8258 posts, RR: 56 Reply 12, posted (3 years 5 days 3 hours ago) and read 24287 times:
Hi Roni,
Good to see you flying again, always enjoy reading your TR's, quite possibly the best we see here on A.NET.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): There was a time when I was mildly entertaining the idea of an anti-FFP policy, but obviously that was never truly enforced
- You know I've looked at this too, but can't seem to leave them behind.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Marco Polo tier was upped one level last year. Upgrades at the boarding gate are so frequent now, that it’s almost perfectly predictable each time. Since December last year, I was upgraded to Business Class on three out of four total sectors that I flew on Cathay Pacific
- Impressive, looks like CX do look after their FF.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): It is always a great feeling to be back in Hong Kong!
- I know the feeling, great city!
CX F looks excellent, love the look and space of the seat in the cabin.
Love the signed notes by the FA's, a really nice touch, not something you would normally expect.
Food and presentation looks excellent, though this is something I would expoct ins CX F.
Not keen on the new J class, looks just like the VS J cabin, from experience, don't like!
airbuseric From Netherlands, joined Jan 2005, 4015 posts, RR: 52 Reply 13, posted (3 years 5 days 2 hours ago) and read 24145 times:
Hi Roni,
wonderful report we have here once again. Your delivering First Class reports to use. Good job!
And your photography skills and use of the lenses are great, good light and nice subjects.
For sure CX F is more my taste compared to their herringbone J-class, which I fully dislike personally.
Regards,
Eric
"The whole world steps aside for the man who knows where he is going"
767747 From United States of America, joined Jan 2005, 1748 posts, RR: 26 Reply 14, posted (3 years 4 days 23 hours ago) and read 23877 times:
Ronerone,
Another one of your fantastic reports with amazing pictures! Wow, Cathay Pacific just looks to be so amazing up front ... every detail in the service/food service seems to be so carefully thought of ... I hope I get a chance to fly them!
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6079 posts, RR: 56 Reply 15, posted (3 years 4 days 18 hours ago) and read 23422 times:
A very very nice trip report with fantastic pictures! CX First Class looks amazing!! I also like the attention to detail and especially like the orchid at every seat. I have never been in F on CX but even in J or Y they are one of my favorite airlines to fly.
The777Man
Need a Boeing 777 Firing Order....Further to fly....GA, T5, CI and LX 777s
SOBHI51 From Saudi Arabia, joined Jun 2003, 3008 posts, RR: 17 Reply 17, posted (3 years 4 days 13 hours ago) and read 23052 times:
Salam Roni
Great TR as usual. Wish i have the time to do some flying myself, even if i can, i will never manage a report half as good as yours.
I know it was a short flight, but i was not impressed with the dinner menu on the BKK-HKG flight, for F class not that much choice, on the other hand the veggie meal looks great.
ojas From India, joined Mar 2008, 2785 posts, RR: 23 Reply 18, posted (3 years 4 days 13 hours ago) and read 23049 times:
Hi Roni,
A fab report once again. ( And all the praises, accolades for your TR, it is almost a routine process  
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): While settling into what seemed like limitless confines of my suite, I was amazed at the perfect balance between total seclusion and unobstructed openness that this seat design offered. Cathay Pacific may not have excelled at their latest Business and Economy Class offerings, but they certainly have hit the right note with First Class.
Good to know that,
Quoting ronerone (Reply 2): It’s hard to explain, but it is definitely the right juggle between professionalism and something a little more personal; even a little flirting won’t harm anyone if that’s what it takes. Sometimes it is the more junior crew, other times it’s the ISM, but at some point during the flight, you know it will happen, but you won’t really know who or when.
That's just your love for CX speaking nothing else .
But truth is also that we have seen few SQ v/s CX battles on A.net in one form or the other.
Cathay Pacific is one airline I'm actually looking forward to travel, but unfortunately ex- India either the product was outdated, and that many people around me did not like CX at all. As of today I would not travel them except if I'm flying US west coast - India OR if I'm in a position to travel Firs class.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Immigration at HKG during peak times takes no less than 30 minutes.
In that respect BOM is MUCH better. Even during peak times 10-15 minutes is maximum.
The pictures were superb and thanks for your multiple insights into CX, feel like I've flown them many times, while in reality it is just 2 round trips
Thanks for sharing!
A lion does not concern himself with the opinions of the sheep
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 9): The food looked absolutely fabulous. Though the stuffed peppers main course, looked a bit dry to me.
The headsets on the other hand seemed a bit outdated. To me they looked like the old Bose QuietComfort 1. Perhaps they should might consider upgrading them
Quoting Aeroflot001 (Reply 10): The aircraft must be immaculate with the amount of cleaning crew that come onboard.
Mr. Casablancas!
As i had mentioned previously, my main gripe with CX (as silly as it may be) is that their headsets are NOT sealed in a plastic wrap, both in F and J. Im sure they are sterilized and clean, but its just this obsessive need to see it
I would also think that their headsets are a few generations behind as well. But i'm no expert though.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 11): The attendant could have not said that unless she made an eye-contact with you. What a charming remark, did it not make you melt?
She did make eye contact, and she caught me off guard. I didn't know what to say lol
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 12): Good to see you flying again, always enjoy reading your TR's, quite possibly the best we see here on A.NET.
Thanks for your kind words Mark! We need to travel again soon mate!
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 12): Not keen on the new J class, looks just like the VS J cabin, from experience, don't like!
From pictures, it seems that even VS seats are more spacious. But it also seems that the more recent 77W's with CX feature wider seats (i think).
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 13): And your photography skills and use of the lenses are great, good light and nice subjects.
Thanks Eric!
This means a lot coming from you!
Quoting 767747 (Reply 14): I hope I get a chance to fly them!
Hi 767747! Hope you will also share your experience with us when you do!
Quoting The777Man (Reply 15): I have never been in F on CX but even in J or Y they are one of my favorite airlines to fly.
Hi The777Man,
I totally agree!
Quoting jbbmonster7 (Reply 16): Just flew in CX last week in first class on the 773 and I loved it. Awsome TR!
Glad you had a good time with CX jbbmonster7!
Quoting SOBHI51 (Reply 17): I know it was a short flight, but i was not impressed with the dinner menu on the BKK-HKG flight, for F class not that much choice, on the other hand the veggie meal looks great.
Salam Sobhi!
They could use a little more choice with dessert i think!
Quoting ojas (Reply 18): That's just your love for CX speaking nothing else
Hi Ojas!
Bilkul!
Quoting ojas (Reply 18): In that respect BOM is MUCH better. Even during peak times 10-15 minutes is maximum.
And believe it or not .. ahem, AUH too
Cheers,
Roni
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
Looks a lot like Dubai's new terminal holding areas
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): and instead I went looking for one of the many smoking lounges at BKK,
Now that you've opted for healthier vegeterian meals, why not opt to not using the smoking lounges as well . (Just a suggestion from me, who is so intolerant to second hand smoke )
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): While row numbers are announced, ground staff also walk around the gate area with placards that list the row numbers that are called for. Not sure how efficient this is, but I suppose it could help complement the vocal announcements.
So then, not everyone had piled up at the gate lol.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): After placing the flute next to my seat, she held the bottle in front of me to show me the brand that was on offer during the flight. Of course, I’m no connoisseur at this, but since this is First Class, I had to play the part and nod with satisfaction to signal a go-ahead for her to pour.
Hmmm is there a "First Class Protocol" booklet somewhere. (Not that I would ever be in need of one lol)
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Demonstrating different seating positions during our taxi to the runway
Fortunately your feet did not reach the headrest, like I've seen a pic here on airliners.net
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): “Mr. Hawi, I have to tell you that your eyes are very beautiful! They are so shiny and your eyelashes are nicer and longer than my own fake ones”
That is a nice comment, very personal!!
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): From left to right: Juliette, Tats, and Doris. Wonderful crew!
This is one feature of your reports that never fails to disappoint me! I can be assured some cabin crew pics will be included.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): We all know very well why they are my favorite airline, and once again this trip shows this. As for Cathay’s First Class product, I can only compare it with Etihad’s Diamond First Class, and no doubt that the overall experience with CX is miles ahead.
Yes we all know how much you love CX, but EY had to be mentioned in as well lol
PlaneHunter From Germany, joined Mar 2006, 6183 posts, RR: 79 Reply 21, posted (3 years 4 days 8 hours ago) and read 22613 times:
Hi Roni,
what a nice surprise to find one more of your excellent reports. They definitely belong to the very best on a.net.
CX's product looks great in general. Interesting to see they had mood lighting on B-HKD.
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): Perhaps I will stow my camera and notebook in the overhead locker, fasten my seatbelt, and enjoy my subsequent flights on Cathay Pacific as a non-alien passenger, as I think I’ve got this airline covered!
Not a good idea!
Quoting ronerone (Thread starter): And this is how Cathay Pacific can transform what could be routinely robotic service into something quite on the personal level. It’s hard to explain, but it is definitely the right juggle between professionalism and something a little more personal; even a little flirting won’t harm anyone if that’s what it takes.
After flying on 95 different carriers I can confirm CX flight attendants belong to the best I have ever met. They deliver a professional and personal service - and the girls aren't covered by make-up as much as others...
ba319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8258 posts, RR: 56 Reply 24, posted (3 years 4 days 4 hours ago) and read 22314 times:
Quoting ronerone (Reply 19): Thanks for your kind words Mark! We need to travel again soon mate!
- I know, had hoped it might have been a LH A380 domestic, appears not to be the case, will have to look at something else in the future, lets see what crops up.
25 MasterBean: I thought it would be a lot of effort reading such a long report but as usual the photos are so vibrant and the report written so brilliantly it was e
26 thaia345: I really have to agree you on this one Roni! ...Smoking lounge rules! hahahah SO far the most kick ass one is TG F smoking room of course. Nice for y
27 777way: Tattered jeans in F class. Once again fantastic photography even if there was no text it would be enough, bewildered by the meat starters (ceaser, tik
28 oa260: Hey Roni, Great report and fantastic pics as usual. Some nice personal touches there. I have to say I dont like the Y class cabin but the F and J clas
29 Vivekman2006: Hi Roni, That's a brilliant trip report! You seem to have mastered the art of taking cabin and seat photos. Those angles seem impossible to me CX is o
30 ronerone: Hi flightsimboy, Vegan meals this time around only because i was fasting for lent (the trip was before Easter) As for the standard vegetarian meals t
31 hausauflennon: I absolutely enjoyed this trip report! The meals look very tasty and from all your accounts, were indeed enjoyable. CX is an airline I'd like to try i
32 ronerone: Thank you hausauflennon! TG is one airline i have not flown yet. Would be interesting to see how they really compare with CX! Cheers, Roni
33 hausauflennon: You should! I don't know how they measure up now, a decade later, but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience then! They were warm FAs...genuinely warm,
34 NZ107: Hey Roni, Another superb TR as usual. It certainly shows us how excellent CX's F product is. Amazing photos of a class I won't be experiencing for a w
35 ronerone: LOL .. Glad you enjoyed it Nicholas I plan to make up for THAT trip Yes, and frankly it can also be quite dangerous for me A lifetime diamond member!
36 NZ107: Sure hope so! Can't remember if it was CAI or AMM which sounded more interesting.. It was great as quite a lot of the ground staff at AKL knew him an
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Thank you for sharing this trip with us. I was wondering if we'd ever see it, to be honest ~ haha ~ but I'm glad you decided to complete it. The CX F experience is one of my most missed, so thanks too for helping me relive it in such vivid detail and unbeatable photos. 
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