NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 19151 times:
Mission A340: Emirates A340-500 MEL-AKL
Introduction
Auckland has been known to attract A340s from various airlines over the past decade. Aerolineas Argentinas fly the A340-200, Cathay Pacific, Lan Chile and Air Tahiti Nui operate the A340-300, Emirates bring the A340-500 and Thai used to operate both the A340-500 and A340-600 to AKL before switching them for the 777-200. Earlier this year, Emirates announced that it would discontinue the A345 services to New Zealand in favour of the 777-300ER which was now capable of flying unrestricted from Dubai to the East Coast of Australia. The increased capacity over the A345 means that Emirates will be benefitting much more from the restricted trans-Tasman crossings. I’d never been on an A345 before and it was a great opportunity to try it out or face having to fly half way around the world just to travel in one. Motivated by fellow A.Net Trip Reporter Globetraveller to jump on an A345, I was off to find a way to catch this wonderful plane before it left the shores of New Zealand after 7 glorious years of service.
Salutations and welcome to my 16th trip report. As mentioned above, this will cover the flight on Emirates’ A340-500 from Melbourne to Auckland. You ask: how do I get from Sydney to Melbourne to catch this flight? The journey begins with the answer given just below. As you may or may not have already seen, the prequel to this report is here: Mission A340: Aerolineas Argentinas A342 AKL-SYD (by NZ107 Sep 1 2010 in Trip Reports).
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 1, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 19303 times:
14 April 2010
If you had a read through my ‘Joyrides’ series and noted down the Australian domestic trips I took, you would have noticed my willingness to stick with Qantas for domestic flights in the future because of their reliability and service. Today was no different. I was dropped off at the airport by my cousin that morning. I’ve reviewed quite a lot about Qantas’ domestic service so it’ll be a semi-brief run through of the flight. Of course, the A345 is the main part of this TR. The SYD-MEL was earlier scheduled to be operated by an 737-400 but was changed for a 737-800 earlier that day.
Entrance to the domestic airport
Check-in counters
Check in was smooth using the self service kiosk. Although there was quite a chaotic queue to drop my bag off, I didn’t feel in any rush.
Boarding pass
Replica of Qantas’ first plane, the Avro 504K
Security line doesn’t look too bad
As I’ve reported before, there’s absolutely nothing landside.. So what else is there to do but head airside?
FIDS
Do I see a 738 at my gate?
Why aren’t you at my gate?
Part of Qantas’ heritage display
It was unfortunate that I didn’t have any time to explore that heritage part.. Maybe next time.
763 ready for pushback
Long jetway down to my plane; A330, A340 and A380 behind!
Soon after, it was time to board. 3 newspaper choices were offered which I think is quite impressive (SMH, The Daily Telegraph, The Australian).
Flight Information
14 April 2010
Routing: Sydney – Melbourne (SYD-MEL)
Airline: Qantas
Flight: QF461
Scheduled Time of Departure: 0845hrs
Actual Departure: 0849hrs (pushback), 0904hrs (rotate)
Scheduled Time of Arrival: 1015hrs
Touchdown: 1014hrs
Flight time: 1hr 25 min
Aircraft: Boeing 737-800
Registration: VH-VYL
Seat: 24A
VH-VYL is one of many 737-800s in Qantas’ fleet, registered in Australia on 11 January 2006 new from Boeing. Interestingly enough, this plane suffered an altimeter problem about a year before my flight which could have resulted in a crash similar to the Turkish Airlines 737-800.
With a very warm welcome just like on my previous flights, I was on the plane. The load was about 60-70% with an empty seat beside me. Interestingly enough, the safety video featured the new seats currently in use on the brand new Jetconnect 738s plying the Tasman.
GPS Mapping: SYD
Flight
MEL
Even for such a short flight, I’d like to be seated up here!
This is more realistic though..
Phone window comparison Crossing the crosswind runway
Still haven’t caught Yananyi yet although I’ve seen it many times
Lining up 34R with Sydney in the background
And off towards Melbourne
Sydney Airport, looking west
Sydney
Bondi Beach underneath the far canoe
Blue skies, blue ocean – what more can you ask for?
Crossing back over land Some scrub fire
I had just missed the breakfast service (by 15 minutes) as the last flight that has the breakfast service leaves at 8:30.. So a meagre alternative for that was this refreshment consisting of a muffin or a piece of fruit. So if you’re going to be flying with Qantas domestically soon and you’re departing around that time, just go for the one with breakfast!
Snack
Qantas have introduced this recycling bag for you to dispose of recyclables separately from food scraps etc. It didn’t seem like anyone cared so the flight attendant ended up doing most of the sorting anyway.
Recycling bag
Lavatory Cabin
Start of descent into Melbourne
Going to actually go into the city of Melbourne for once!
Nearly nothing but red kangaroos!
Touchdown
I asked to take a few pictures of the cockpit which I was allowed to do and then the kind pilot asked me if I wanted my photo taken! Of course I obliged 738 Cockpit
And after that I was off to explore Melbourne. The Skybus is the easiest option to get into town in, dropping you off at the Southern Cross station and from there offers a complimentary shuttle service to drop you off at your hotel in the CBD.
Probably the most photographed building in Melbourne – Flinders Street Station Federation Square
My friend also showed me around the University of Melbourne
Newman College Back in the CBD Yarra River at night
It was time to hit the sack early as the next morning called for an extremely early start, not that Markus would agree with it being early! I enjoy my sleep
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 2, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 19245 times:
15 April 2010
So, the day finally arrived. On this day, I would fly on the A340-500.
4:30am
The alarm sounds, telling me to wake up and get ready to go to the airport! A lot of people called me crazy to wake up so early and catch this flight.. I somewhat agree, but there’s no way I’d turn down a flight on an A345 like that, especially if they’re not going to be flying in this part of the world again for a while. I could have easily booked the opposite way and head to MEL first before catching AR back from Sydney but one way airfares are so much more expensive departing Australia for some reason and the AR flight was a bargain.
Enough rambling from me.. I shortly checked out and walked the 3 minutes from the hotel (4 Seasons Kingsgate if you’re so curious, no photos as it was extremely basic and chosen for its proximity to the Skybus terminal) to the Southern Cross terminal and hopped straight onto the bus which was waiting and left not long after I hopped on. There was absolutely no traffic at that time of the day so imagine the speedy 18 minute nonstop trip to the airport. I got straight off the bus and into the Emirates check in line.
Check In
FIDS – New Zealand destinations rule the board this early in the day
15 minutes of standing in line and with nobody in the First Class check-in counter, I was waved over by the agent. He was extremely professional, what one would expect flying First Class and they certainly chose the right person to be at the right counter! Efficient and smooth, I was soon on my way, super excited about the flight in front of me.
Boarding Pass – Wish this had an FIRST on it like the check in counter..
Nothing was open at such a crazy early time.. And nothing else to do but head airside. Security was different to how I experienced it on my last flight through Melbourne International. It was much more organised than the last time but strangely enough, the security check came before immigration.
Long walk down the pier
To get to the gates, you have to pass through loads of duty free stores
Ample seating at this time of the day
That’s my plane!
I had a wander around the airport and also down to the new concourse area which was just opened at the time of my previous flight departing MEL but I couldn’t access it then. It looks very nice.
New concourse
VA 77W
Not a bad departure lounge!
The corridor connecting the main part to the new area
Gate 10, where my plane is sitting.. Not quite ready for boarding
B-LAD Alongside my EK A345
Finally, people started boarding and it seemed like forever between going airside and actually boarding.
A6-ERG is one of ten A340-500s flying with Emirates today. They were originally assigned in 2003 to operate from DXB to the East Coast of Australia but Emirates have found that they can operate the 77W and A380 on this route and they are now being replaced by the larger aircraft. A6-ERG is infamous to those in Melbourne and also to the flight number EK407 (the flight number attached after turning around in Auckland to go back to DXB) – yes, this is the aircraft which was lucky to survive after major work on the frame after that tail strike. The rear pressure bulkhead was cracked by this and the whole rear section had to be redone so where better to get a replacement for it than the EY A346 that was driven up the blast wall?
So yes, I can sort of say that I also flew in an Etihad plane and also an A340-600 at the same time
It’s a great aircraft and I’m glad they restored it to flying condition, regardless of how much it cost them to save their face in having to write off an A345.
GPS Tracking: MEL
Melbourne City
Flight path
*The GPS had problems over Auckland (could be due to facing the ground when banking, hence losing signal) so I didn’t bother adding it.
Down the long jetway
So it was only here where I was able to get a clear view of the registration and it was nothing other than A6-ERG!
Look at the RG!
CX A333 back to HKG shortly
And I was finally onboard my first A340-500. The flight attendant was courteous as usual: “Welcome onboard Mr Young, the far aisle please”.
Once again, I continued walking down towards the back of the plane.
The window seat is mine for this flight More than sufficient legroom
The seat itself is pretty hard, especially on the corners. The edge of the seat is quite strange and really hard to describe. It’s unusually soft and seems somewhat uncomfortable. The headrest is the same design as what was on the AR A342 and would seem to be pretty uncomfortable for a long flight. At least it was properly fixed unlike the AR one, the ‘wings’ wouldn’t stay in place as well as any other seat I’ve been in. However, that is countered by very generous recline. There is this cool pocket on the front of the usual pocket that can be seen in the picture above and it’s a nice handy spot to put something like your phone in.. But the main disappointment was the size of the IFE box, shown below.
There wasn’t space for anything but luckily my seatmate didn’t have anything to store there and he kindly allowed me to store my backpack there. There was just enough room under my own seat for the camera bag without it being too uncomfortable for my feet.
Cabin
Window
Hot towels were handed out before pushing back and it wasn’t long before we were off. Expected flight time was 3 hours 6 minutes. 11 languages were spoken by flight attendants on this flight.
Pushing back
Yananyi again!
A little bit more about the incident.. It was EK407 MEL-DXB in A6-ERG departing on Runway 16. Here I was on EK406 MEL-AKL in A6-ERG departing on Runway 16.. A near coincidence? Anyway, we departed smoothly and oh so quietly, nearly the same as an A380.
Lining up Runway 16
Not quite wide enough for a simultaneous view..
At least we are getting off the ground, albeit slowly!
Phew! No tailstrike today!
Positive rate
Through the clouds over suburban Melbourne
Glorious morning up here though
No gap like in the A380
It was a pleasant surprise to notice that the ICE introduction guide was much shorter on the A345 than on the A380. It meant I had more time to watch what I wanted. The ICE IFE system of Emirates has been well documented and I don’t need to go into depth about it, only to mention that this is the generation older than what we have today on the A380 and 777 fleets. If they had only upgraded the seats and IFE to the standard of the 777/A380, I believe that the A345 would be the best Emirates plane to fly in Economy.
About 45 minutes after takeoff, breakfast was served. The tray table’s hinge was fixed (couldn’t slide it out) and it was a bit small for the tray. I was finally able to choose the lamb (instead of eggs) on this flight and I must say it did not disappoint. It was very tasty and filling. I was watching Up In The Air while eating breakfast (it’s called brunch on the menu) at 41,000 feet.. Not much gets better than that! Especially on a smooth flight like what we had. The dessert of banana cake topped the meal off nicely with a sweet hit.
Tray table
Breakfast
After the meals were cleaned up, I was free to roam the cabin. I really like the A330/A340 series for the way it is laid out. 2 seats on the side is great and the cabin feels spacious. Of course, I love the mood lighting too but unfortunately I’ve never had an overnight flight making full use of it yet. The lavatory seemed standard but being clean is the most important aspect.
Front Economy cabin
Rear Economy cabin
”Stars” still shining
Lavatory
There wasn’t too much to see so I headed back to my seat. Soon after, they dimmed the lights to allow everyone to get more rest. The stars remained in the ceiling though. The duty free card also went around. Later on in the flight, I saw a water run being made by the FAs! I couldn’t believe what I saw – it was the first time in 4 recent flights across the Tasman with Emirates that they had someone on the water run. I have no idea why they don’t bother on EK412/413 (A380) but it was great to see the staff doing it on this flight.
Water Run!!!!!
And then, just like that, it was time to start descending into Auckland. After the MAF (Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries) video was played to tell everyone about the quarantine enforcements of NZ, the IFE died so I didn’t get to watch the end of the movie. But at least the cameras were still there to watch the landing. Landing was smooth as expected and the plane touched down with as much grace as it took off with. A short taxi into Gate 2 and I was home.
On downwind – Onehunga seen below and the main motorway to the airport
Long Final
Runway in sight!
Retard! Flare
MAS Kargo 744F!
Home and parked up at Gate 2
Back through J
This time, I asked the flight attendant if I could take a few pictures of the cockpit. She told me that it wasn’t allowed so I asked her if she could ask the pilots. Good thing she did because I was soon ushered through the First Class cabin and into the cockpit! I had a nice chat with the pilots who didn’t realise that this was the plane that tailstriked in MEL. I wonder if it’s taboo? A345 Cockpit
Make way for the Whale!
I breezed through the smartgate and I was back in kiwi land after another flight across the Tasman.
Conclusion
The A340-500 is a fantastic aircraft. The flight was very enjoyable due to the great service offered by the FAs, and also the onboard product. Give the A340-500 the seats which are currently in the 77L/77W and A380 and you have an Economy product which is unrivalled. It’s such a shame that the A340-500 will be leaving New Zealand for good on New Years’ Eve as the last service on EK434/435 via BNE will be made then before they switch the service to the 777-300ER. I’ll have no hesitation to fly the A340-500 in the future if I’m ever presented with an opportunity to fly in one again!
Thanks for reading everyone! Comments are greatly appreciated.
Regards,
Nicholas
Camera Equipment:
Canon EOS 400D
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
PlaneHunter From Germany, joined Mar 2006, 5427 posts, RR: 81 Reply 4, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 19002 times:
Hi Nicholas,
great to find the long-awaited EK A345 review! You did an excellent job again, very entertaining report with great high-quality pictures. I wish many more members would focus on quality like you do.
The A345 is indeed a nice aircraft. I once had the pleasure to fly on A6-ERJ between DXB and SYD some years ago.
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): I asked to take a few pictures of the cockpit which I was allowed to do and then the kind pilot asked me if I wanted my photo taken!
Nice!
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): A6-ERG is infamous to those in Melbourne and also to the flight number EK407 (the flight number attached after turning around in Auckland to go back to DXB) – yes, this is the aircraft which was lucky to survive after major work on the frame after that tail strike. The rear pressure bulkhead was cracked by this and the whole rear section had to be redone so where better to get a replacement for it than the EY A346 that was driven up the blast wall?
Congratulations, you really got a famous plane!
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): So yes, I can sort of say that I also flew in an Etihad plane and also an A340-600 at the same time
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): It’s a great aircraft and I’m glad they restored it to flying condition, regardless of how much it cost them to save their face in having to write off an A345.
Yes, I really hope the same will happen in VH-OQA's case.
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): But the main disappointment was the size of the IFE box, shown below.
I had the aisle seat on the long DXB-SYD flight, so it didn't bother me, fortunately.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 3): I was finally able to choose the lamb (instead of eggs) on this flight and I must say it did not disappoint. It was very tasty and filling.
Impressive meal as usual!
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 1): I really like the A330/A340 series for the way it is laid out. 2 seats on the side is great and the cabin feels spacious.
It would be even better with 777-style bins...
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 3): I had a nice chat with the pilots who didn’t realise that this was the plane that tailstriked in MEL. I wonder if it’s taboo?
That's very odd! I guess the pilots didn't forget you for a while...
767747 From United States of America, joined Jan 2005, 1521 posts, RR: 28 Reply 5, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 4 hours ago) and read 18344 times:
Great report, NZ107!
Really nice pictures throughout your entire trip. Looks like Emirates provided a nice service on the MEL-AKL flight. Everything was documented so well, it felt like I was along for the trip as well!
akhmad From Netherlands, joined Sep 2005, 1961 posts, RR: 54 Reply 6, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 3 hours ago) and read 18155 times:
Hi Nicholas,
This report of yours is definitely worth a wait. I can echo PH on how amazingly crisp your pictures are. Your story makes me feel I was there with you. Very entertaining from the beginning until the end.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 1): It was unfortunate that I didn’t have any time to explore that heritage part.. Maybe next time.
Interesting hot spot. Does QF have any more heritage corner at other airports?
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 1): Blue skies, blue ocean – what more can you ask for?
That is all I want. It is rainy, cold and windy today in Netherlands.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 1): Qantas have introduced this recycling bag for you to dispose of recyclables separately from food scraps etc. It didn’t seem like anyone cared so the flight attendant ended up doing most of the sorting anyway.
A small but nice gesture in a way to preserve the environment. I just hope the passengers to be more cooperating.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 2): Not a bad departure lounge!
Wholesome meal. It looks delicious. EK never fails in food serving in Y.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 3): Later on in the flight, I saw a water run being made by the FAs! I couldn’t believe what I saw – it was the first time in 4 recent flights across the Tasman with Emirates that they had someone on the water run.
I hope EK will keep up this service.
I must say, what an enjoyable read for the weekend. Thanks a lot for sharing your experience with us.
Palmjet From United Kingdom, joined Nov 2001, 803 posts, RR: 17 Reply 7, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 1 day 1 hour ago) and read 17800 times:
Hi there Nicholas - thanks for your report. I enjoyed the return sector v much. Some nice flying weather as well.
I note that you mentioned that you used your Canon 400D.
I also recall you posted on another forum on A.net a few months ago about whether to upgrade to the Canon 50/60D or 550D. Did you end up upgrading your camera?? I'm in the same position at present, looking to upgrade.
Cheers P/jet
Ozark Airlines - When Three Swallows Would Get You There
FLIEGER67 From France, joined Sep 2003, 3759 posts, RR: 58 Reply 8, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 23 hours ago) and read 17475 times:
Hi, Nicholas,
really well done work, that´s what I call a detailed story with perfect pictures.
Do you see anyone else on the plane who notice about A6-ERG?.
The pilots dont want to know it!.
Had also an interesting experience at the AF lounge earlier in the week.
Free internet stations, all sites working till I try the aviation herald and further with some other websites around
aircraft accidents, these sites are blocked in the lounge, so AF dont want to see someone watching the AF incidents.
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter):
It was time to hit the sack early as the next morning called for an extremely early start, not that Markus would agree with it being early! I enjoy my sleep
BA319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 7886 posts, RR: 57 Reply 10, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 15 hours ago) and read 16765 times:
Hi Nicholas,
Great follow up to the AR jolly earlier in the year, a most enjoyable read.
Pictures are excellent as usual, a very high standard indeed.I must try harder myself on my next major trip, in a weeks time - finally adding the A340-200 to the log!
- This quite cool, I assume this 'device' is ok to leave running during flight?
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): I had just missed the breakfast service (by 15 minutes) as the last flight that has the breakfast service leaves at 8:30
- Interesting breakfast service finishes so early, here in the UK, BA run the breakfast service until 09:59.
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): Qantas have introduced this recycling bag for you to dispose of recyclables separately from food scraps etc
- I like the idea, wish more airlines would start initiatives like this.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 2): So, the day finally arrived. On this day, I would fly on the A340-500.
- A moment in history has arrived!
Quoting NZ107 (Thread starter): I really like the A330/A340 series for the way it is laid out. 2 seats on the side is great and the cabin feels spacious
- I so agree, also the 767 is nice for the 2-3-2 layout.
Interesting that the tray tables were fixed and did not slide out, can't recall the last time I saw this on an airline.
Food looked good as always, you just can't fault EK for the catering so it seems.
So, you are missing the A340-600 and perhaps the -300? - I suspect Lan for the -300 on the AKL-SYD route? - What about a -600, any ideas on catching her?
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 11, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 11 hours ago) and read 16490 times:
Hi everyone,
Thanks for your responses!
First of all, thank you Suryo for pointing this out.. Here's the missing photo of the 738 cockpit.
Also another mistake I found.. The hotel was All Seasons, not Four Seasons as mentioned above.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 4): great to find the long-awaited EK A345 review! You did an excellent job again, very entertaining report with great high-quality pictures. I wish many more members would focus on quality like you do.
The A345 is indeed a nice aircraft. I once had the pleasure to fly on A6-ERJ between DXB and SYD some years ago.
Hi PH,
Thanks a lot for your comments! I'm glad I finally reached the holidays in order to write this SA Linhas Aereas">TR. I sometimes wish Australia was a little bit further away than it is so I could enjoy the flights I take for longer!
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 4): Yes, I really hope the same will happen in VH-OQA's case.
I'm sure they will - damage surely can't be as bad as the 744 which overran in BKK.. Yet they fixed that to maintain a no hull loss record.. But they were lucky it didn't pierce the fuselage! And you'd think RR would provide ample compensation.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 4): That's very odd! I guess the pilots didn't forget you for a while...
Haha, who knows!
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 4):
Be careful, you could get flamed by some a.netters for using that term!
I used it for my EK inaugural flight SA Linhas Aereas">TR title, nobody complained.. And I've kept on using it Maybe those who do that stay out of the SA Linhas Aereas">TR forum or just can't be bothered complaining to me
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 4): I cannot wait to read some high-quality reports about your upcoming adventure! Have a great trip!
Thanks! I hope I can create a good SA Linhas Aereas">TR from it..
Really nice pictures throughout your entire trip. Looks like Emirates provided a nice service on the MEL-AKL flight. Everything was documented so well, it felt like I was along for the trip as well!
Hi Matthew,
Thanks for your comments! My pleasure. Emirates basically sets the standard for service across the Tasman for the limited flights they provide. It is top notch stuff!
Quoting akhmad (Reply 6): This report of yours is definitely worth a wait. I can echo PH on how amazingly crisp your pictures are. Your story makes me feel I was there with you. Very entertaining from the beginning until the end.
Hi Suryo,
Thanks for your comments! Much appreciated. I'm still disappointed at the downgrade of quality when posting it up here.. But they do look better in full size.. Here's for the normal sized photos of this SA Linhas Aereas">TR and you'll find all the other TRs in different folders: http://picasaweb.google.com/bogey.nz/TRMissionA340EmiratesA340500#
Quoting akhmad (Reply 6): Does QF have any more heritage corner at other airports?
Nope, only Sydney. To a lot of Australians outside Sydney, Qantas can be known as Sydney Air as everything's basically based around Sydney.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 6): A small but nice gesture in a way to preserve the environment. I just hope the passengers to be more cooperating.
It's either that or they don't do it correctly but it sure eats into the FA's time.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 6): I hope EK will keep up this service.
So do I!
Quoting Palmjet (Reply 7): Hi there Nicholas - thanks for your report. I enjoyed the return sector v much. Some nice flying weather as well.
Hi Palmjet,
Thanks for commenting! Glad you enjoyed. Yes, weather was fantastic apart from the day I had in Melbourne where it was pretty cool!
Quoting Palmjet (Reply 7): I note that you mentioned that you used your Canon 400D.
I also recall you posted on another forum on A.net a few months ago about whether to upgrade to the Canon 50/60D or 550D. Did you end up upgrading your camera?? I'm in the same position at present, looking to upgrade.
Funnily enough, I went for a second hand Canon 40D instead and bought a 100-400mm. It's still an upgrade but a much cheaper option to provide me with better photos. It probably depends on how much cash you have because the 550D isn't bad at all so long as you are happy with the fps it delivers.. If not, the 60D looks quite nice.
Quoting FLIEGER67 (Reply 8):
really well done work, that´s what I call a detailed story with perfect pictures.
Do you see anyone else on the plane who notice about A6-ERG?.
The pilots dont want to know it!.
Hi Markus,
Thanks for your comments! Nope, nobody else seemed like aviation enthusiasts. Plus, you would only have noticed the registration when going down the jetway to the plane if you were actually searching for it.
Quoting FLIEGER67 (Reply 8): Had also an interesting experience at the AF lounge earlier in the week.
Free internet stations, all sites working till I try the aviation herald and further with some other websites around
aircraft accidents, these sites are blocked in the lounge, so AF dont want to see someone watching the AF incidents.
Interesting! I guess they don't want fear to spread within a cabin, especially after the AF A332 went down over the Atlantic.. Some might not want to know what flight number that was but are curious enough to check..
Quoting FLIEGER67 (Reply 8): Hey, you know there are only 24 hours per day!.
True, but I say for short journeys that it's better to be awake for most of the flight!
Quoting MSS658 (Reply 9): Nice report, I'm glad that you were able to enter the flight deck after all.
Thanks for your comments MSS658! The flight deck is a special trip at the end of the flight and I'm glad I've been able to go there quite often!
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): Great follow up to the AR jolly earlier in the year, a most enjoyable read.
Pictures are excellent as usual, a very high standard indeed.I must try harder myself on my next major trip, in a weeks time - finally adding the A340-200 to the log!
Hi Mark,
Thanks a lot for your comments, glad you enjoyed! I'm actually a little disappointed with some of the photos and I also had to leave a few out because they were blurry.. Then again I could just keep them in.. That shouldn't happen as much now that I have a better camera with much better ISO performance. Great to see that SA trip isn't too far away! I bet you're excited about this A342!
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): This quite cool, I assume this 'device' is ok to leave running during flight?
Hey, it's only a watch
But in reality and theoretically, yes - it should be ok.. Here's the link to the picture I took in Joyrides Part 3 saying that Jetstar allow them (a bit too small to read from the picture placed here)- http://picasaweb.google.com/bogey.nz...ridesDownUnder#5435853806626376274
So if JQ allow them, why would anyone else have a problem with it considering that they also fly Airbus aircraft? All it really does is receive a signal that would be coming towards the plane anyway.. The plane itself would more than likely use GPS. And it's unlikely that there'd be any interference caused by it unlike a transmitting device.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): Interesting breakfast service finishes so early, here in the UK, BA run the breakfast service until 09:59.
That's much better. I would think it'd be due to cost cutting but also the fact that there is no competition that serves any meals for free anyway so they can do as they please. It would be nice to see it carried on until at least 9am.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): I so agree, also the 767 is nice for the 2-3-2 layout.
Indeed, the 767 as well.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): Food looked good as always, you just can't fault EK for the catering so it seems.
Definitely - EK hasn't failed me in terms of the food and it seems like you've had similar experiences with them.
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): So, you are missing the A340-600 and perhaps the -300? - I suspect Lan for the -300 on the AKL-SYD route? - What about a -600, any ideas on catching her?
Just the A346 missing.. I flew on a couple of CX A343s to/from HKG a few years before my trip reporting days. I'd really like to try out LA on the AKL-SYD. I have a feeling that someone will be in a position very soon to be writing a LA report thought And no idea about the -600 just yet - the closest would have to be TG SYD-BKK but even that's quite some distance away. Then VS SYD-HKG possibly. AR are apparently looking at A346s to replace the A342s but anything could happen with them just like the Skyteam rumour which was spread a few months back. I guess they'll be around for a little while longer so I don't think there's too much of a rush in getting to it.
AI151 From United Kingdom, joined Dec 2009, 303 posts, RR: 17 Reply 12, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 8 hours ago) and read 16336 times:
Hey Nicholas,
A fab 2nd part to this TR and very nice that you managed to use 2 A340's on these unique routings. Definitely a shame that the A345 won't be visiting AKL anymore.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 1): I asked to take a few pictures of the cockpit which I was allowed to do and then the kind pilot asked me if I wanted my photo taken! Of course I obliged
It seems that slowly more and more cabin crews are allowing this which is good to see.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 2): Boarding Pass %u2013 Wish this had an FIRST on it like the check in counter..
You could have joked that the boarding pass was printed wrongly seeing as you used the First Class check-in desk.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 3): But the main disappointment was the size of the IFE box, shown below.
That doesn't look comfortable at all let alone a short flight. It would be terrible on a long haul flight.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 3): 11 languages were spoken by flight attendants on this flight.
Always good to have a multi-lingual cabin crew on board.
chepos From Puerto Rico, joined Dec 2000, 5826 posts, RR: 14 Reply 14, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 7 hours ago) and read 16221 times:
Thank you for sharing, very entertaining read. The approach into AKL looks beautiful (very green and scenic).
Quite the heavy breakfast served for a flight departing at 7:00 AM.
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 15, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 7 hours ago) and read 16194 times:
Quoting AI151 (Reply 12): A fab 2nd part to this TR and very nice that you managed to use 2 A340's on these unique routings. Definitely a shame that the A345 won't be visiting AKL anymore.
Hi Sandeep,
Thanks for your comments! It's good that New Zealand is the distance it is from Australia because it allows for tag-on flights such as in EK's case or a quick stopover for more passengers in AR/LA's case. Yeah, I'll miss the A345 in Auckland!
Quoting AI151 (Reply 12): That doesn't look comfortable at all let alone a short flight. It would be terrible on a long haul flight.
Depends if you have any carry on luggage and also if you wish to use the overhead bins. The legroom is more than sufficient so it doesn't have a big impact if there's nothing under there.
Quoting chepos (Reply 14): Thank you for sharing, very entertaining read. The approach into AKL looks beautiful (very green and scenic).
Quite the heavy breakfast served for a flight departing at 7:00 AM.
Thanks for your comments Chepos!
Yes, I like the approach into AKL not only because it's home but the nice scenery that is encountered going the "usual" way landing on 23L. I think it's actually quite good having such a nice breakfast offered. There basically isn't anything open in MEL that early and you arrive in AKL just before 1pm which to some could mean lunch time. I'll take a big meal like ones on EK any day!
PlaneHunter From Germany, joined Mar 2006, 5427 posts, RR: 81 Reply 16, posted (1 year 6 months 2 weeks 6 hours ago) and read 16169 times:
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 11): I'm sure they will - damage surely can't be as bad as the 744 which overran in BKK.. Yet they fixed that to maintain a no hull loss record.. But they were lucky it didn't pierce the fuselage! And you'd think RR would provide ample compensation.
The damage is severe according to some sources, but I'm confident it will fly again.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 11): Thanks! I hope I can create a good SA Linhas Aereas">TR from it..
pugsley From Australia, joined Jan 2010, 140 posts, RR: 0 Reply 18, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 15624 times:
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 2): I could have easily booked the opposite way and head to MEL first before catching AR back from Sydney but one way airfares are so much more expensive departing Australia for some reason and the AR flight was a bargain.
I've noticed this as well. Since your AR report and now this one i've been trying my hardest with my wife to let me just go plane riding for a couple of weeks between AUS-NZ. There is a new website that sells airfares http://www.wotflight.com/ and the flights out of NZ are significantly cheaper than the ones departing AUS, but what I love about this web site is that regulary you can find AR or LA business class airfares from AKL-SYD for AUS$280 one way, while busines class with QF or EK are around the AUS$800 on the same days, and their economy seats are only $250
Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10): I had just missed the breakfast service (by 15 minutes) as the last flight that has the breakfast service leaves at 8:30
- Interesting breakfast service finishes so early, here in the UK, BA run the breakfast service until 09:59.
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 11): Quoting BA319-131 (Reply 10):
Interesting breakfast service finishes so early, here in the UK, BA run the breakfast service until 09:59.
That's much better. I would think it'd be due to cost cutting but also the fact that there is no competition that serves any meals for free anyway so they can do as they please. It would be nice to see it carried on until at least 9am.
On QF short(MEL-SYD) and medium(MEL-BNE_ domestic flights, breakfast is from 0600 until 0830, while on long(MEL-PER) domestic services breakfast is served from 0600 until 0930. I am sure it is cost cutting that it finishes at 8.30, but between MEL-SYD, there often is a flight every 15 min on Weekdays.
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 19, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 6 days 16 hours ago) and read 15364 times:
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 16): The damage is severe according to some sources, but I'm confident it will fly again.
It'd be a long wait for them to get another one though.. And it's going to take some time for the engine issue to be fully resolved so maybe it can be repaired soon.
Quoting EK773 (Reply 17): Glad to see that someone finally managed to be served what appears to be the ever elusive EK lamb dish on OZ-NZ flights
Thanks for sharing your travels.
Thanks for commenting EK773! You're welcome! Yeah, I'm glad I have finally been able to try it.. It was a long time in the waiting too!
Quoting pugsley (Reply 18): I've noticed this as well. Since your AR report and now this one i've been trying my hardest with my wife to let me just go plane riding for a couple of weeks between AUS-NZ. There is a new website that sells airfares http://www.wotflight.com/ and the flights out of NZ are significantly cheaper than the ones departing AUS, but what I love about this web site is that regulary you can find AR or LA business class airfares from AKL-SYD for AUS$280 one way, while busines class with QF or EK are around the AUS$800 on the same days, and their economy seats are only $250
Hi Pugsley,
Who says you need a few days? One night can suffice for trying these planes out! Interesting addition to wotif, doesn't seem to have crossed the ditch just yet though. You can sometimes find these fare on the airlines' websites too.
Quoting pugsley (Reply 18): On QF short(MEL-SYD) and medium(MEL-BNE_ domestic flights, breakfast is from 0600 until 0830, while on long(MEL-PER) domestic services breakfast is served from 0600 until 0930. I am sure it is cost cutting that it finishes at 8.30, but between MEL-SYD, there often is a flight every 15 min on Weekdays.
Yeah, Perth is different.. I probably took that flight only to try the 734 (which failed anyway) because either a 763 or 738 were scheduled for the slightly earlier flight.
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1565 posts, RR: 73 Reply 20, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 5 days 19 hours ago) and read 14687 times:
Hi Nicholas
Great trip reporting, always nice to see you enjoy your travelling!
Can't believe we both flown the infamous A6-ERG across the Tasman!
Quoting NZ107 (Reply 11): I have a feeling that someone will be in a position very soon to be writing a LA report thought
That person is currently onboard LA801 to AKL somewhere over the Tasman! I am sure you will get the first hand news from him personally soon
Enjoy your upcoming holiday and is this means school is all over and you're graduating ?
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 21, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 5 days 12 hours ago) and read 14485 times:
Quoting N178UA (Reply 20): Great trip reporting, always nice to see you enjoy your travelling!
Can't believe we both flown the infamous A6-ERG across the Tasman!
Hi Sam,
Thanks for your comments! Yeah, any trip I do is solely for holiday purposes so far so it's all for fun!
Quoting N178UA (Reply 20): That person is currently onboard LA801 to AKL somewhere over the Tasman! I am sure you will get the first hand news from him personally soon
Indeed, hopefully will have some fun tomorrow.
Quoting N178UA (Reply 20): Enjoy your upcoming holiday and is this means school is all over and you're graduating ?
Thanks! Uni's over for another year but one more year to go before I graduate!
airbuseric From Netherlands, joined Jan 2005, 3735 posts, RR: 52 Reply 22, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 5 days 3 hours ago) and read 14231 times:
Hi Nicholas!
I really enjoyed reading this report. Great pics and of course you beat me getting on that A345. Definitely something special. I must say, the meal looks very good again on EK. Looking forward now to your VA experience
Regards
Eric
"The whole world steps aside for the man who knows where he is going"
NZ107 From New Zealand, joined Jul 2005, 4894 posts, RR: 50 Reply 23, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 4 days 10 hours ago) and read 13941 times:
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 22): I really enjoyed reading this report. Great pics and of course you beat me getting on that A345. Definitely something special. I must say, the meal looks very good again on EK.
Hi Eric,
Thanks for you comments! Glad you enjoyed it! Haha, it's not hard when the A345s have been visiting AKL basically since they were inaugurated back in 2003. But the end of an era is nigh, only just over a month left of service to NZ.
EK never fails on the food front, well especially not on a trans Tasman flight!
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 22): Looking forward now to your VA experience
VA? Seems like you got it mixed up with my country's flag carrier
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1565 posts, RR: 73 Reply 24, posted (1 year 6 months 1 week 3 days 19 hours ago) and read 13565 times:
Hey Nicholas
Forgot to mention I always think the catering from NZ for Emirates are the best. Actually much better than from SYD (can't comment on MEL/BNE ) Know a few crew also think the same, they starve themselve and eat a full dinner on NZ-Aust flight!
Notice your RR number just sky rocketed
Sam
25 NZ107: Hi Sam, I actually don't have much of a perspective of that! Of the last 4 flights I've taken, only one has been departing NZ.. And I guess you'd get
26 Luxair747SP: Hi Nicholas. very nice TR and remindes me so much of my time in New Zealand, but planning to go back on a holiday in 2011. The A345 looks like a very
27 NZ107: Hi Johannes, Thanks for your comments! Not a problem. I'm sure some of my other TRs can remind you of your time in NZ! Unfortunately they're becoming
28 ronerone: Nicholas! Another outstanding TR from you, and especially one on my absolute favorite aircraft of all time! I know you are a hardcore 747 fan, but i c
29 BNEFlyer: Great report Nicholas I arrived back in BNE from AKL last night on my very first EK flight, EK435, A6-ERF. After reading your report a few days ago I
30 NZ107: Hey Roni, Thanks a lot for your comments! Glad you enjoyed it! I had to do it sometime and it was a matter of when before having to make a journey ha
31 ronerone: I hope so! Didn't get the bag in J. Only in Y on the return flight! Cheers, Roni
32 BNEFlyer: Hi Nicholas By free flowing I mean that the crew were more than happy to serve everyone as much alcohol, or other drinks, as one wanted. Love when a c
33 NZ107: Haha, they don't make the J passengers sort their rubbish! Yep, most good carriers would do this.. But I'm a little surprised that there were no wate
34 pugsley: Hey Nicholas, it was great to sign into facebook today and see this link to your trip report. I've not had airliners.net on facebook for long, but i'
35 NZ107: Hi Pugsley, Thanks for your comments! I strive to do the best I can. Indeed, it's the first time one of my TRs has been posted up on A.Net. I've seen
36 PlaneHunter: Hey Nicholas, you aren't talking about Tiger Australia, are you? I can only say that I felt really uncomfortable on HS-TJH. PH
37 NZ107: Down here, the term TT is also used as an abbreviation of trans Tasman (NZ-Aus) and it was used in the context above. I've vowed never to fly with Ti
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Flight Information
Crossing the crosswind runway
Some scrub fire
Cabin
738 Cockpit
Federation Square
Back in the CBD
Yarra River at night
More than sufficient legroom
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