Background:
May 2011, bad need to get plans and bookings started for the upcoming summer season. As it is not the most well kept secret to most of you anymore. Continental has been and still will be my favourite airline for many reasons. As the merger with United is already in progress, and rumours where going around that Continental’s Newark-Brussels flight would be going over to United metal. This summer would be one of the last chances to fly Continental, so I started looking to all kind of fares and combinations. After a while I found myself booked on Continental’s daily direct flight from Brussels to Newark and connecting trough to Greenville/Spartanburg International Airport. The aircraft combination would be a Boeing 777-200 for the long sector and the Embrear 145 from Expressjet on the short haul service to Greenville (See Part I)
After the long haul sector was booked it was time to look at some domestic sectors! Southwest airlines, a famous US-low cost carrier started flying into my regional airport of Greenville/Spartanburg international airport in March 2011 with quite a bit of advertising in the area. This is quite good news for the area since Greenville/Spartanburg is one of the most expensive airports in the US resulting in people rather driving +2hours to Atlanta or Charlotte. Well, since we are here. Time to book, I booked a flight from Greenville/Spartanburg to Fort Lauderdale stopping in Orlando Muncipal International Airport on their 737-700’s. (See Part II)
Still having about 10 days extra until my next flight it was time to make a small sidetrip. Looking into options some interesting choices popped out. Originally I wanted to catch a Star alliance comination with US Airways and Continental Airlines from West Palm Beach to Dallas FW via Charlotte, Philadelphia, Newark and Houston adding me 2 767-200’s on both routes. However, pricing changed and I had to look for something. Then I found something to Las Vegas on US Airways and Virgin America consisting a flight on the Boeing 757-300. I almost settled in for that one. However, after a lot of attempts to convince me by Planehunter, airbuseric (Eric), Flieger67 (Markus) and others.. They finally convinced me to try another combo consisting 2 767-200’s. The first flight would be with American airlines from Miami to New York JFK. I was not excited at all about this leg as I would not get any miles and I flew with them back in 2008 from New York JFK to Miami on the A300 leaving me rather mixed impressions.. Oh well, they deserved a second chance and try to clear my toughts. At least the flight would be operated by a 767-200. I would travel on to Philadelphia by train. (see Part III)
Since my next segment started in Fort Lauderdale, I needed to get to South Florida. Off course I could fly Southwest airlines down to Southern Florida. But logged them just a week prior did not made it to inviting take them again (however, I still think they are a great airline). Another option was flying US Airways directly to South Florida on a Airbus A319 or Boeing 737-400, still quite boring. However, US Airways operates a few flights between it’s hubs in Charlotte and Philadelphia with it’s Boeing 767-200 aircraft. Since the 767’s other mission is long haul, I opted to book the 767 flight to Charlotte connecting on to the Boeing 737-400 down to West Palm Beach.
Pre-departure:
After flying American’s 767 to New York and on by train to Philadelphia I had a day time to check out the city. As it would not be as large as New York or Washington, DC. I’ve found it to be quite nice. After using SEPTA back to town I went to see a local transport museum. Quite nice mock-up here.
City hall out on Market street
Financial district
Arts museum
Of course we cannot visit Philly without a cheesesteak, was quite heavy to digest. The fries did not even come near the Belgian ones.
What about a Duck Tour in Philadelphia (bus that will go in the water after a while)
Passing South street with it’s decorations.
Some nice residential area
And in the water
Benjamin Franklin Bridge to New Jersey
… carring cars, trains and pedestrians
Martime harbour
While we had an excellent tour guide, the ride itself was rather overpriced for what is was or to say it in some A.netter words ‘faux’… Once the duck tour was done, time for a leisurly stroll back to South Street.
But first, the liberty bell
Here in South street the ambience is on it’s best. Check this 50’s-style place.
Menu Jukebox
Great Milkshake
Restaurant Atmosphere
Grill
After a wonderful day in the city it was time to treat myself to another SEPTA ride back to the airport. Once in the airport I decided to check in using the kiosk for my flight to West Palm Beach, I was offered for 50 USD to change to an earlier flight leaving at 5.30 the next morning. No way… I kept my own 11.55 flight. At this time it was 21.00, just a few handful domestic flights and some A330’s to London Heathrow and Tel Aviv still to depart. Check in at the domestic terminal was very deserted.
My seat was 23G on my flight from Philadelphia to Charlotte and 19F on to West Palm Beach. Funny enough I already had a flight between Charlotte and West Palm Beach on the 737-400 in the same seat back in December 2010, the only difference was that the flight was taken in pure darkness. You can read this one here Propping Around The Upstate! (by MSS658 Aug 7 2011 in Trip Reports) . Then it was on to the shuttle bus that did not show op until 22.00, hands down for this one. While waiting I could hear some airport employees talking about how they wanted to make a fuss to a pilot on a recent flight of them. Very clear who I’m flying with again…
Next day I woke up about 7.00 for a 9.00 departure, this time the shuttle was hassle free and by 9.15 I was in the terminal.
Leaving Philadelphia airport
When I arrived at the B-terminal I joined the que for the security lane which went quite fast, until I passed the detector. An elderly lady gasped at me and said to me ‘I can’t believe they let you trough’ looking downwards. At first I was a bit confused, then I got the point. I had accidentally forgotten to putt of the shoes and nobody noticed it. I was quite surprised as well, not that I’m the person to do bad things.. But still.. Soon after that we talked to each other about our travels. They where flying to Chicago O-hare. Let’s check the FIDS, US1815 to Charlotte is still running on time, departure gate is gate A12 in the A-east concourse. A gate used for international longhaul flights. I suppose a gate area in the B or C Concourse (US Airways domestic departures) can’t handle a 767. Here is the FIDS
The plane would be arriving as US1512 from Charlotte and would be scheduled to arrive a little bit early in Philadelphia at 10.39. This would be the third leg of the plane since it already had flown inbound from Rio de Janeiro to Charlotte earlier as US801. With about 2,5 hours to kill I had time enough. Let’s first see the B-concourse which looked rather cramped, ok for this time of the day. But do not want to be here at rush hour
Then it was up to the A-concourse, underway things looking to be more modern… Hence the above corridor that leads arriving passengers to Immigration
With the bank of widebody aircraft still hours away from now you could find smaller jets to various places in the USA and the Caribbean. Like this Embrear 175 getting ready to depart as US 3291 to Charleston, SC
Since I had not eaten yet I quickly jumped over to have an all American Breakfast at Mc Donalds, quite nice and heavy.
After having lunch it was time to go over to the A-west concourse, on my way I found quite a few interesting things
Need a USB stick, cds, charger, USB connector or even a camera. Just swipe your card at this machine
Liberty bell, which one is the real one??
When entering the A-east concourse, I noted the one and only carrier besides US Airways operating here. American Airlines uses this part of the concourse as well, as you can see this Maddog preparing for flight AA1165 to Dallas Ft Worth
It was 10.30 When I arrived at my gate and gate agents where preparing the arrival of flight US1512, my flight is still on time..
Still being about an hour before boarding I found a seat near the window where I could find some spotting oppertunities. Traffic at this side of the airport was mainly US Airways in different shapes and colors. Like this A320 in the old colorsheme registered N707UW
Or this Republic Airlines Embrear 170
Some more US Airways jets
Soon I went over to the desk to ask If the seat next to me was still open, I got a negative respond. Upon request the gate agent was more than glad to switch me over to 29G. An open two-seater in the back of the plane. Soon I could spot the nose wheel with 246 written on it. N246AY would be the aircraft operating US1815 to Charlotte this afternoon. While waiting I could see another interesting one. American Eagle 3836 from Chicago O’hare operated by a CRJ 700. N507AE is the bird.
Soon I noticed some crew members boarding the flight, would this be a crew change here in Philadelphia? Most probably so.. Boarding started on time at 11.25, since I was in zone 3 It did not took long before I was allowed on board of..
US Airways flight US 1815 from Philadelphia to Charlotte
Thursday, August 4 2011
Philadelphia (PHL/KPHL)- Charlotte (CLT/KCLT)
US Airways 1815 (United Airlines 2945)
Boeing 767-201ER N246AY Economy 29G.
Built and delivered to Piedmont Airlines on 3 June 1987 (N604P) Later owed US Air (N646US), before being delivered to US Airways on 27 February 1997 and re-registred on 15 November 2006
11.55-11.48 (Gate A12; wheels up on runway 27L at 11.57)
13.38-13.17 (Gate D13; wheels down on runway 18C at 13.09)
Est flying time: 1 hour 16minutes
Cruising Altitude: FL 400
Load factor: 70% in Y
Routing: Stoen-J75-GVE-LYH-SUDDEY-CLT Personal statistics
147th flight registered
10th flight in 2011
9th flight on US Airways
42nd flight on the Boeing 767
3rd flight on the Boeing 767-200 series
1st flight on N246AY
When walking trough the jetway there was no lound talking heard from the distance, when passing trough the front door the welcoming sounded not quite the same as American Airlines. Just a simple ‘seats’ to each and every passenger. Not so a warm begin to the flight. US Airways recently updated their Envoy in their 767’s to lie flat seats. While this is a luxery on flights such as this one to Charlotte, I found the cabin to look a bit cramped. Economy has been redone as well a few years ago with the new signature interior and leather seats.
When finding my seat in the second before last row, I could clearly hear a few flight attendants yapping and gossiping away. Clear and loud enough that the last few rows could listen in to the yapping without any troubles. Very professional start of the flight… A little peek out of the window gives a good view between the A-East and B-Concourse.
The load today was very light, so light that I actually only realize when writing this very sentence that I was supposed to be seated in 29A as opposed to 29G. Oh well, nothing we can do after 5 months. While boarding was in progress I decided to go to the back to utilise the gift trick . After a great thank you and some chatting the flight attendants went on with their conversation and I returned back to my seat. The first time a flight attendant was to bee seen in the cabin shortly before pushback to close the bins. Pushback was slightly ahead of schedule and the safety video rolled. Actually the 757 and 767 are the only ones where US Airways actually haves a safety video. All other aircraft are manual. Here you can see a small preview. Taken back in 2007 on a flight from Amsterdam and Philadelphia http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As0lOcwRwPM
Pushing back from the gate.
We taxied up to the cargo apron where we got to see a Boeing 727 owned by Captial Cargo
About 70% of the traffic here was US Airways, and you could see it. We overtook to Repbulic Airlines jungle jets
One in the old colors
And one in the new colors
Before even getting the change to spot the registrations we where already turning on the runway
At 11.57, the small wideboy jet started rolling on runway 27L commencing our short flight towards Charlotte http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra9nCMlCAJs
Passing straight over my hotel, for the ones who where at the recent Stockholm meet. It was about as convenient located as well.
Levelling off at 40 000 feet it felt like an excellent moment to take another A.net standard shot, legroom was pretty much standard
The thick blue leather seating is quite comfortable as well, even comfortable for a longer flight to Europe. With the cabin design redone in 2006 some signs of age where already showing. Here you can see the seat pocket.
In the meanwhile somewhere over Baltimore
Tray tables released to fins the usual advertising. Quite funny to see US Airways do it while quite a few Low cost carriers don’t see to bother about it…
And that’s not all the advertising, even some advertising will be done for the American Express divided miles card. As you can find here. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJluc_hVjf4
In flight entertainment was one big lcd screen up front and and a small old CRT somewhere in the middle of the Economy cabin
Virginia countryside
And closely after that Washington Dulles International airport
Usual Buy on Board business on today’s flight, since I had a 3,5 hour layover in Charlotte I did not opt to buy anything. Just some (iced) orange juice
Some of the flight attendants where thirsty as well, one flight attendant sat down in seat 29G to enjoy her drink. Nothing against the fact, but it just seems the US Airways way of doing business again. Note the curtains blocking of this 3-seater for long haul flights.
After an occasional bump, It was about 12.45 and our decent into the Charlotte area commenced. Somewhere over North Carolina
Gradually coming closer to the ground as the flaps are deployed.
I-485, the ring around Charlotte
At 13.09 our 767 hit the soil of runway 18C pretty hard. So hard that a bin actually opened. One of the flight attendants yelled immediately on the intercom ‘stay seated’ and soon running to close it while rolling out. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRDJkJdu5Vc
We are scheduled to arrive at the D-concourse giving us quite a nice tour of Charlotte’s airport. Like this one
… or this one
North Carolina national Air guard.
Wonder which airline has it’s hub here
Yup, US Airways haves it’s hub. Here you can see the commuter concourse E.
Right beside the D-concourse, used for international flights, It seems like we are the first.. Yayy
Different US Airways jets lining up for runway 18L
At 13.17 we came to a full stop at gate D13
Quick picture of the Economy cabin when disembarking
And another one of the Envoy cabin.
The pilots had already left, but I was allowed to make a picture from the cockpit door.
After some farewell bids, I was out in the concourse. It seemed like each crew member had his or her on schedule as they where bidding farewell to each other as well.
Transferring in Charlotte Douglas International Airport
The first stop would be the gate to have at least one decent picture of our aircraft. N246AY had about a rest time of 3,5 hours before starting her next mission to Madrid as US 748
Very calm D-concourse at this time of the day, only one A319 parked here. Arrived as US 1050 from Nassau a bit earlier
Now I was starting to feel hungry, time to go off to the found court in the centrall hall between concourse B and C. Looks a bit like Skycity in ARN, except that it’s post-security. Today on the menu was some Chinese food. Quite good for being fast food.
14:00, still about 2,5 hours to go. Time for some spotting! Quite a bit of variety here in traffic. In the domestic concourses B and C you could see
US Airways.. and a star alliance jet.
And US Airways…
However, nice viewing points over here I must say over here. Another great viewing point is in the E-concourse, the regional terminal. Here you can see N245AU that arrived just after us from Madrid as US749 and is now bound for a shorter flight to Philadelphia as US 798. Note the Charlotte skyline in the back.
Another great advantage about this terminal is you can photograph regional aircraft from quite an angle. Here is N261PS, soon underway as US2487 to Knoxville, TN.
Then up to concourse D where the European arrival bank was in full swing. Just about every type of widebody aircraft that US Airways haves is presented here. From the smaller 767 (Madrid) to the larger A330-300 (Frankfurt, London Gatwick and Rome FCO) to the newer A330-200 (Paris CDG). Flight on the 757 to Dublin are operated from one of the domestic concourses. However not really the opportunity to take to much pictures here, due to the exit for international Passengers blocking the way. I noticed the passengers and crew (pilots going in between the passengers) from the Frankfurt flight (US 705) disembark. Actually quite funny as half of that crew Looked very familiar from a flight a while ago from Frankfurt to Charlotte. Actually you can find this report here. US Airways A330-300's. Are They Really That Bad? (by MSS658 Oct 16 2010 in Trip Reports)
Another thing humours that I would notice quite a few faces coming from the Paris CDG flight (US787) a few months later of that same flight. N246AY was being fully prepared for its flight to Madrid
Between all the US Airways jets there is one foreign carrier that flies in to Charlotte. Lufthansa flies daily with it’s A340-600 from Munich. Today, D-AIQH would be operating LH 428 from Munich. Here she is taxing to her gate D12.
The old style FIDS shows everything is on-time for my next leg.
It was 15.45, time to head back to the gate. On my way I stopped at the C-concourse to get at least one decent view of the widebody action. Here you can find N273AY being prepared for flight US732 to London Gatwick in the far distance you can see N278AY bound for Frankfurt as US704.
My flight would leave from the C-concourse, gate C15. I arrived at the gate just a little bit before 16.00. Our plane had already arrived earlier this afternoon as US 748 from Miami. N460UW would be the bird.
Soon the boarding had started, at the same time the boarding at gate C17 for flight US 1833 to Myrtle Beach, SC. With gate agents of both flights speaking simultaneous making boarding announcements for both flights inaudible. Actually the B and C-concourses really need to be renovated since they are quite dated and crowded. At 16.10 Zone 4 was called and I was welcome to board.
US Airways flight US1017 from Charlotte to West Palm Beach
Thursday, August 11 2011
Charlotte (CLT/KCLT) – West Palm Beach (PBI/KPBI)
US Airways 1017 (United Airlines 2519)
Boeing 737-4B7 N460UW Economy 19F
Built and delivered to US Air as N786AU on 9 April 1991. Later transferred on to US Airways and re-registred to N460UW on 1 August 2006
16.30-16.29 (Gate C16; wheels up on runway 36C at 16.52)
18.20-18.19 (Gate B09; wheels down on runway 10L at 18.17)
Est flying time: 1hr 27minutes.
Cruising Altitude: FL 320
Load factor: 100% in Y
Routing: Buckle6 Departure-Buckle D-CAE-Beeno-OMN-FRWAY3-PBI Personal statistics
148th flight registered
11th flight in 2011
10th flight on US Airways
15th flight on the Boeing 737
10th flight on the Boeing 737 classic series
7th flight on the Boeing 737-400
1st flight on N460UW
When I boarded it was soon clear it was going to be a full flight while hearing the usual announcements to have everybody seated as soon as possible. After the by now routine gift and some talk it was back to my seat, like my December flight I was seated in seat 19F again. In the meanwhile the Myrtle Beach flight had pushed back
By now the sky was getting darker and darker. Seems like I’m starting to understand the rush now, there is some weather that could influence the on-time record of this flight. Soon my two neighbours came, an ex-veteran and a nervous basketball player would be in my seatmates today. Doors closed and we pushed back a minute prior to schedule.
Carolina fighters A319, I wonder if I will have you in a few months when I’m back in the US.
Or you?
We started out taxi for a standard 18L departure, until we suddenly stopped quite hard and literally made a you turn and started taxing back. I assumed that we where heading back to the gate. Eventually we taxied away from the terminal towards runway 36C.US Airways jets are scattered everywhere. The sky does not look to healthy anymore does it?
On our way to 36C
After a bit of taxing we joined the queue for takeoff, I could spot all the traffic of this one US airline taking off. Here is N533AU a classic jet taking off before the storm hits Charlotte
And some traffic behind us, from the CRJ to the A330… The A330 would operate US704 to Frankfurt and would be delayed for 3 hours due to the storm.
At 16.52, about 23 minutes after pushing back. The throttles where brought to full thurst and into the stormy North Carolina clouds we where. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2_jyNuO_o4
It got a bit bumpy, but hey.. What else would you expect with the wing colliding with this thing.
Was quite spectacular, ever for a seasoned flyer as me. Let alone the nervous flyer next to me. He was not liking it at all, every bump I got an (not on purpose) poke from my neighbour..
Things getting a bit better from 10 000 feet on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37nLQTpbhe4
Once we reached our cruising altitude of 32 000 feet. Things got a bit smoother, its looking a bit down there in South Carolina.
Legroom was rather cramped on this plane. No legroom pic this time, I hope you guys can forgive me for this. For the ones dying to see one. Please go to one of these reports, it’s for sure covered in here. US Airways And Irregular Operations! (by MSS658 Jul 17 2011 in Trip Reports) or Propping Around The Upstate! (by MSS658 Aug 7 2011 in Trip Reports)
Cabin was starting to show it’s age, you could see clearly that this plane had flown several flights.
Like here
Or here…
Soon the BOB service started, this time from the front of the cabin! Getting a bit hungry it was time to get a snack $3,00 for this small pack of cookies, quite a rip-off.
I found this Washington DCA crew to be a bit more motivated that the Philadelphia/Charlotte mix on the flight from Philadelphia. The rest of the flight passed by fairly uneventful. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0JmGr69XvE
17.45 approached and soon I felt the plane started to decent. We where following the Florida coastline
Quite a big marina over here
Soon the captain came on announcing that they we where just on time, West Palm Beach airport was just opened due to a huge thunderstorm on the ground.
Seat belt sign was on
We where making an approach on runway 10L, quite unusual. As matter in fact my first time for me, giving great views of the everglades.
Nice little airport down there..
Back over the town, flaps being extended
At 18.17 we made a touchdown on runway 10L ending my day of flying. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjJKSjNhgsw
Soon we taxied up to our gate which was B9. One of the main gates that US Airways uses.
Coming to a halt a few minutes after
When disembarking I could snap a cabin picture
Front office visit was also granted
After thanking the crew and bidding them farewell it was off to the airport
Arrival in West Palm Beach intl Airport
When deboarding the plane I immediately heard that the boarding of the next group of passengers was just commencing. This plane would fly back to Charlotte and on to Buffalo, NY. A quick pick to the large arrival FIDS.
Southwest jet, I wish I was flying you today.
No baggage claim for me, straight to the curb side where my mom was awaiting me. By 18h40 I was leaving the airport. Here is another picture of the storm that we just missed!
By 19h00 I arrived back in Palm Beach Gardens clocking the journey off at about 10 hours from Essington, PA.
Overall verdict
First of all it was a pleasure to catch another 767-200 flight. I found that the US Airways version of this plane had more nostalgic feel than my American Airlines flight a few days prior. I would not mind doing another one of these on a long haul journey. Service wise US Airways did not surprise me nor disappoint me, they got me from Philadelphia to West Palm Beach without any major issues. Tough I found the crew a bit lacking on motivation on my Philadelphia-Charlotte leg, thankfully it did not half spoil the experience unlike my SATA A310 flight earlier this year. Great work of the pilots and dispatchers of US 1017 for getting the flight in safe and even early despite the weather conditions in Charlotte and West Palm Beach. I must say I enjoyed my time in Philadelphia as well, not big but a pretty nice city to be in a few days.
Overall Remarks.
US Airways 1815 from Philadelphia to Charlotte (Total score is 68%):
Departure: 70% (open and clean airport, could get a bit crowded at peak hours)
Aircraft cleanliness : 70% (maintained well, some signs of age showing)
Seat Comfort: 70% (a bit on the cramped side but still comfortable)
Crew: 50% (No greet, not seen. Just when needed..)
Catering: 70% (Standard and easy BOB)
Arrival: 70% (Charlotte is an easy airport to connect trough.)
US Airways 1017 from Charlotte to West Palm Beach (Total score is 70%):
Departure: 60% (Concourse C is a bit crowded, low ceilings, bad acoustic)
Aircraft cleanliness : 70% (Clean despite its age, penmarks where seen)
Seat Comfort: 60% (Cramped but the leather seating made it comfortable)
Crew: 80% (friendly and kind)
Catering: 70% (BOB snackbites, ok for an hour and half flight! )
Arrival: 80% (Smooth and well signed)
As a bonus I would like to give a list of regs I spotted in Philadelphia, Charlotte and West Palm Beach.
Total facts in this trip report
2 New registrations (N246AY and N460UW)
Facts in the trip report series:
1 New Airline (Southwest Airlines)
1 New airport (Orlando MCO)
1 New type (B737-700)
6 New registrations (N78017, N11181, N424WN, N336AA, N246AY and N460UW)
Thanks for reading and viewing this trip report, I hope you enjoyed reading it. As usual, comments and feedback are always welcome
Stay tuned for my next trip report:
Jetting The Blue Way To New York!!
thegreatRDU From United States of America, joined Mar 2006, 2273 posts, RR: 3 Reply 1, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 9 hours ago) and read 10353 times:
Very very good TR I enjoyed it....very detailed and the pics were good....
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Carolina fighters A319, I wonder if I will have you in a few months when I’m back in the US.
deltamartin From Sweden, joined Dec 2010, 1059 posts, RR: 9 Reply 2, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 10089 times:
Hi Marc!
As usual a nice tripreport!
US Airways seemed decent, always nice to fly a widebody on a short route!
Cool pictures of the storm cloud, I had a similar experience once on a ARN-LLA-KRN flight, during the ground time at LLA a thunderstorm had appeared close to the airport, and after takeoff the cloud appeard outside of my window, it was really cool looking at those thunderstrikes at about the same height they originate. This was at dawn so the lightning strikes were really lighting the cloud up.
On the busride after my diversion to IAD, we passed a big bridge somewhere close to Philly, It might be that one. By the little I could see in the dark that night compared to your picture it looks like it might be.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Need a USB stick, cds, charger, USB connector or even a camera. Just swipe your card at this machine
I saw one of those at EWR this fall too, i rather like the concept.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): And closely after that Washington Dulles International airport
One of few American airports I can say "I've been there" about!
richierich From United States of America, joined Nov 2000, 4023 posts, RR: 6 Reply 3, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 9966 times:
Thanks for the TR - as somebody who has done a lot of US flying in the past 10 years, I am jealous because I have always missed the B762! In my experience, I found US's older fleet equipment (B737 Classics and B762, etc., judging by the photos) to be a big step or two behind their newer equipment (Airbuses). On-board service is on-board service, hit or miss on US, but the older planes look and feel tired.
I just had some comments on your report:
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): What about a Duck Tour in Philadelphia (bus that will go in the water after a while)
There was a Duck boat that overturned a couple of years ago in Philadelphia. I believe a few people drowned in the cold Delaware River. An interesting way to see the city though!
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Here in South street the ambience is on it’s best. Check this 50’s-style place.
Johhny Rockets is a chain restaurant and can be found in airports and shopping malls across the Northeast US if not across the country. There is a JR airside in BOS, for example. Great milkshakes!
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): In flight entertainment was one big lcd screen up front and and a small old CRT somewhere in the middle of the Economy cabin
Old school! The thrill of flying domestic widebody aircraft in the US is a rare one nowadays. The cabin definitely looks dated, and I'll take your word about the seat comfort, but what works for a 90 minute flight PHL-CLT is a completely different animal on a westbound 9-hour flight across the Atlantic! I love the B762 but there is nothing about this US Airways aircraft that would make me want to fly on it for that long! Not having PTVs is soooo 1995!
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Carolina fighters A319, I wonder if I will have you in a few months when I’m back in the US.
As pointed out, this is the Carolina PANTHERS A319, part of the National Football League. Unlike some sports, the NFL regular season is only 16 games long, meaning only eight home games in Charlotte for the Panthers fans. American football is a BIG DEAL in the US!
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Stay tuned for my next trip report:
Jetting The Blue Way To New York!!
As usual a nice tripreport!
US Airways seemed decent, always nice to fly a widebody on a short route!
Cool pictures of the storm cloud, I had a similar experience once on a ARN-LLA-KRN flight, during the ground time at LLA a thunderstorm had appeared close to the airport, and after takeoff the cloud appeard outside of my window, it was really cool looking at those thunderstrikes at about the same height they originate. This was at dawn so the lightning strikes were really lighting the cloud up.
Hi Martin
Thanks for replying, I'm glad you liked the TR, no lightning strikes where (yet) to be seen on my CLT-PBI flight.
Quoting deltamartin (Reply 2): On the busride after my diversion to IAD, we passed a big bridge somewhere close to Philly, It might be that one. By the little I could see in the dark that night compared to your picture it looks like it might be.
It did went Northbound from the city on, so who knows
Quoting deltamartin (Reply 2): I saw one of those at EWR this fall too, i rather like the concept.
Quite funny still
Quoting deltamartin (Reply 2): One of few American airports I can say "I've been there" about!
Martin
Been there in 2009 as well on a CDG-IAD-ATL connection on AF/DL
Quoting richierich (Reply 3): Thanks for the TR - as somebody who has done a lot of US flying in the past 10 years, I am jealous because I have always missed the B762! In my experience, I found US's older fleet equipment (B737 Classics and B762, etc., judging by the photos) to be a big step or two behind their newer equipment (Airbuses). On-board service is on-board service, hit or miss on US, but the older planes look and feel tired.
Hi richierich
Thanks for commenting, Glad you liked it. I can only say to catch a ride on them before they go completly, they are still a handfull US domestics on US, AA and UA.
I can agree that the 762 and the 737 are not the newest ones anymore. But must admit I've seen more tired looking 333's and 319's than these planes I had today.
Quoting richierich (Reply 3): I just had some comments on your report:
Sure, go ahead
Quoting richierich (Reply 3): There was a Duck boat that overturned a couple of years ago in Philadelphia. I believe a few people drowned in the cold Delaware River. An interesting way to see the city though!
Heard something about that . Sorry to hear
Quoting richierich (Reply 3): Johhny Rockets is a chain restaurant and can be found in airports and shopping malls across the Northeast US if not across the country. There is a JR airside in BOS, for example. Great milkshakes!
Was the first JR I got to see, Must say I have yet been to far away from the beaten path in the Northeast (and AFAIK I haven't seen any in the South yet). Must agree on the milkshakes . Even if it is a chain the ambience was still great.
Quoting richierich (Reply 3): Old school! The thrill of flying domestic widebody aircraft in the US is a rare one nowadays. The cabin definitely looks dated, and I'll take your word about the seat comfort, but what works for a 90 minute flight PHL-CLT is a completely different animal on a westbound 9-hour flight across the Atlantic! I love the B762 but there is nothing about this US Airways aircraft that would make me want to fly on it for that long! Not having PTVs is soooo 1995!
Was nostalgic indeed! Personally I've found the 762 to look pretty good despite it's age. The 2006 refurb did help out a bit. I remember flying in 2007 longhaul from Amsterdam to Philadelphia on N249AU when the Envoy cabin had yet to be refurbed. J never looked so unappealing before.
Even with the 767 not being the most modern out there, I would still choose them anyday above the 757 or non-refurb 333 long haul or any A/C on shorthaul. The only plane IMO that does beat the 762 is the A330-200 that US just required. But that's personal.
Quoting richierich (Reply 3): As pointed out, this is the Carolina PANTHERS A319, part of the National Football League. Unlike some sports, the NFL regular season is only 16 games long, meaning only eight home games in Charlotte for the Panthers fans. American football is a BIG DEAL in the US!
Luxair747SP From Germany, joined May 2010, 444 posts, RR: 18 Reply 6, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 9702 times:
AIRLINERS.NET CREW FORUM MODERATOR
Hi Marc,
nice Tripreport of US Airways.
I enjoyed reading your experience of the classical Boeing twin jet.They are quite rare nowadays and you can be lucky that you caught one.
The product looks outdated, but what can you expect on such an oldie?
Thanks a lot for sharing, already looking forward to the next report
PlaneHunter From Germany, joined Mar 2006, 6190 posts, RR: 79 Reply 7, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 4 hours ago) and read 9651 times:
Hi Marc,
nice report about your US 762 experience.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Economy has been redone as well a few years ago with the new signature interior and leather seats.
I definitely prefer fabric seats on long-haul flights - and these seats don't look very fresh either. I'm also disappointed by the Business Class seats. US could do better!
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2212 posts, RR: 14 Reply 8, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 3 hours ago) and read 9475 times:
Quoting OA260 (Reply 5): Hey Marc ,
Very nice read and lots of nice pictures of the trip and Philly. Nice to get the B767 I wouldnt want to do it for a longhaul flight though.
Looking forward to the next one.
Regards
Philip
Hi Philip
Thanks for commenting, Glad you liked it. The 767 is pretty decent, Actually IMO better than most longhauls in the US Airways fleet (excluding all other options if course)
nice Tripreport of US Airways.
I enjoyed reading your experience of the classical Boeing twin jet.They are quite rare nowadays and you can be lucky that you caught one.
The product looks outdated, but what can you expect on such an oldie?
Thanks a lot for sharing, already looking forward to the next report
Cheers
Johannes
Hi Johannes
Thanks for commenting, glad you liked it.
Sure the product is not up to date, but still decent and suffecient.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 7): I definitely prefer fabric seats on long-haul flights - and these seats don't look very fresh either. I'm also disappointed by the Business Class seats. US could do better!
Prefer fabric as well for the longer. Must agree on the J-class, would not fancy a long-haul neither.
As said, I find the 762 to be one of the best in the US fleet (just the newer A330-200 beating it in my opinion)
However the last statement is personal!
roberts87 From Netherlands, joined Dec 2011, 660 posts, RR: 0 Reply 9, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 3 hours ago) and read 9441 times:
Thanks for posting, an interesting read!
I had a similiar flight path as you took to PBI on my flight from JFK to FLL in June, including the storms and nice view of the Florida coastline Quite a sight.
atrude777 From United States of America, joined Aug 2003, 5613 posts, RR: 54 Reply 10, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 3 hours ago) and read 9358 times:
Sweet Report! I don't mind flying US Airways and have flown them before as a Non-Rev, I actually did the same PHL-CLT flight only on an Airbus A330-200!
You're lucky to get the 767-200 with them, I have the 762 covered on American but would like to try it out on US Airways too.
Good pictures and the storm photos looks AMAZING! I just love flying around storms, I like the bumps!
Alex
Good things come to those who wait, better things come to those who go AFTER it!
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2212 posts, RR: 14 Reply 11, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 1 day 2 hours ago) and read 9230 times:
Quoting roberts87 (Reply 9): Thanks for posting, an interesting read!
I had a similiar flight path as you took to PBI on my flight from JFK to FLL in June, including the storms and nice view of the Florida coastline Quite a sight.
Hi Roberts87
Thanks for replying, glad you liked it.
Quite strange to see your JFK-FLL being routed as much inland as Charlotte, usually they go over the ocean from the Virgina/North Carolina border Southward untill almost over the PBI/FLL area (at least with me)
Quoting atrude777 (Reply 10): Sweet Report! I don't mind flying US Airways and have flown them before as a Non-Rev, I actually did the same PHL-CLT flight only on an Airbus A330-200!
You're lucky to get the 767-200 with them, I have the 762 covered on American but would like to try it out on US Airways too.
Good pictures and the storm photos looks AMAZING! I just love flying around storms, I like the bumps!
Alex
Hi Alex
Thanks for replying, glad you liked them. Being CO Onepass I seem to get US Airways a lot as well. I can only say to catch the 762's.before they leave. They do PHL-CLT quite often (and somtimes down to MCO). Good job scoring the 332. The best in the fleet IMO
Storm was quite specatular as well. Glad you liked the pics
USAirALB From United States of America, joined Sep 2007, 2681 posts, RR: 1 Reply 12, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 23 hours ago) and read 9011 times:
Nice TR!
I last flew the US B762 on was on Flight 9, PIT-LAX (PIT!!!!) back in 2001. I wish we knew what was coming a couple months ahead, and how it would changed everything, even air travel. I remember being served chicken and rice, or some kinda macoroni on the flight. Crew came by every hour with snacks. Was in the very last row in the middle section of the aircraft.
Was a great flight, and the plane still seemed modern at the time.
And I believe these seats have curtains because they may be used as crew rest areas? Don't quote me on that though.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): US Airways jets there is one foreign carrier that flies in to Charlotte
Actually AC flies to YYZ and Insel Air flies to CUR. BA used to fly here as well.
sultanils From Belgium, joined Mar 2010, 1185 posts, RR: 29 Reply 13, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 16 hours ago) and read 8593 times:
Hello MSS658,
Quite an enjoyable read once again. Awesome you got to manage a ride on those 2 classic. Now if DL and UA still have these -200 series as well, a ride on those would be your next assignment The crews on your flight indeed seemed rather surly. And you gave me a treat for God’s sake!
Nice views on the storm, maybe I would feel a little uneasy as well. That reminds me of a flight I took nearly 20 years ago on BA from MAN to JFK, on arrival we landed in a severe thunderstorm. Quite impressive and a bit scary as well.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): The fries did not even come near the Belgian ones.
They don’t even LOOK like fries, totally disgusting. I hope you did not eat that
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): I was offered for 50 USD to change to an earlier flight leaving at 5.30 the next morning.
50 USD? Quite a lousy offer if you ask me. Good you insisted or otherwise you would’ve missed ‘the classic’ 767.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): I was quite surprised as well, not that I’m the person to do bad things.
It’s really a bad thing to leave your shoes on. Is this still customary at security screenings in the US, taking your shoes off?
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): on my way I found quite a few interesting things
Need a USB stick, cds, charger, USB connector or even a camera. Just swipe your card at this machine
I must say the whole cabin on US Airways looks pretty outdated even if you say that they are refitted. Bland colors and seats, nothing that stands out and can add to a warm atmosphere on board.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Today on the menu was some Chinese food. Quite good for being fast food.
Couldn’t that be served on a proper plate, then it would look less like fast food.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Here is another picture of the storm that we just missed!
roberts87 From Netherlands, joined Dec 2011, 660 posts, RR: 0 Reply 14, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 15 hours ago) and read 8589 times:
Quoting MSS658 (Reply 11): Thanks for replying, glad you liked it.
Quite strange to see your JFK-FLL being routed as much inland as Charlotte, usually they go over the ocean from the Virgina/North Carolina border Southward untill almost over the PBI/FLL area (at least with me)
Yes, that's what I noticed on flightaware as well. There was some bad weather on the east coast that day though, perhaps an inland route was taken to avoid the storm.
I last flew the US B762 on was on Flight 9, PIT-LAX (PIT!!!!) back in 2001. I wish we knew what was coming a couple months ahead, and how it would changed everything, even air travel. I remember being served chicken and rice, or some kinda macoroni on the flight. Crew came by every hour with snacks. Was in the very last row in the middle section of the aircraft.
Was a great flight, and the plane still seemed modern at the time.
Hi USAirALB
Thanks for commenting, Your expercience really showed how much aviation had changed in the last decade. Having a ton of food and snacks on a US carrier in Y is something we can only dream of today!
Quoting USAirALB (Reply 12): And I believe these seats have curtains because they may be used as crew rest areas? Don't quote me on that though.
Correct, as stated in the TR
Quoting USAirALB (Reply 12): Actually AC flies to YYZ and Insel Air flies to CUR. BA used to fly here as well.
Quite an enjoyable read once again. Awesome you got to manage a ride on those 2 classic. Now if DL and UA still have these -200 series as well, a ride on those would be your next assignment The crews on your flight indeed seemed rather surly. And you gave me a treat for God’s sake!
Nice views on the storm, maybe I would feel a little uneasy as well. That reminds me of a flight I took nearly 20 years ago on BA from MAN to JFK, on arrival we landed in a severe thunderstorm. Quite impressive and a bit scary as well.
Hi Nils
Thanks for commenting, glad you liked it? Yup, crew on my PHL-CLT leg was not one to write home about!
correct, was quite surprised to see it. Have already seen it in different US Airports.
Quoting sultanils (Reply 13): I must say the whole cabin on US Airways looks pretty outdated even if you say that they are refitted. Bland colors and seats, nothing that stands out and can add to a warm atmosphere on board.
Bland/colors and seats are systemwide on US. Even the newer planes have the same athmosphere. However as noted already comfort-wise they do beat alot.
Quoting sultanils (Reply 13): Couldn’t that be served on a proper plate, then it would look less like fast food.
Quoting roberts87 (Reply 14): Yes, that's what I noticed on flightaware as well. There was some bad weather on the east coast that day though, perhaps an inland route was taken to avoid the storm.
I find it quite interesting that the milkshake is served in a coca cola glass.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): I decided to check in using the kiosk for my flight to West Palm Beach, I was offered for 50 USD to change to an earlier flight leaving at 5.30 the next morning. No way… I kept my own 11.55 flight.
LOL, I hope that's a machine error! They should be giving you 50 bucks for taking the early morning flight, not the other way around
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): I found the cabin to look a bit cramped. Economy has been redone as well a few years ago with the new signature interior and leather seats.
Cabin looks quite outdated. Such a shame that they use these aircraft on the transatlantic routes, at least to ARN when they used to operate it.
Those seats look really nice, assuming they were sold as First. Wasn't it possible to purchase an upgrade at the gate?
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Between all the US Airways jets there is one foreign carrier that flies in to Charlotte. Lufthansa flies daily with it’s A340-600 from Munich. Today, D-AIQH would be operating LH 428 from Munich. Here she is taxing to her gate D12.
Aah, good old Lufty! Adding some color to the seemingly dull mix of US domestic carriers at the airport. Still find it a bit interesting that they have upgraded the route to the A346, didn't know it was doing so well.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Soon the BOB service started, this time from the front of the cabin! Getting a bit hungry it was time to get a snack $3,00 for this small pack of cookies, quite a rip-off.
Hmm, I would say that price is quite standard at least for Europe. But then again, don't they offer a more proper cheese platter for only 5 bucks? Might have been a better choice. At least nice to have free drinks
That's all
//Jonas
I won't stop complaining until SAS reintroduces free service in Economy Class!
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2212 posts, RR: 14 Reply 17, posted (1 year 3 months 4 weeks 9 hours ago) and read 8347 times:
Hi Jonas
Thanks for your reply! Glad you liked it
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): I find it quite interesting that the milkshake is served in a coca cola glass.
Haha... have yet to notice that. Was more concentrated on the taste and quality rather than the glass
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): LOL, I hope that's a machine error! They should be giving you 50 bucks for taking the early morning flight, not the other way around
Welcome to your average US carrier! FCC fares and LCC service
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): Cabin looks quite outdated. Such a shame that they use these aircraft on the transatlantic routes, at least to ARN when they used to operate it.
Our opinions differ on this one (see some above replies-. Did they actually operate the 762 to ARN?
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): Looks quite sufficient as long as it's free. Did they offer any re-fills for free?
No re-fills offered. But I guess If one asked you could have one
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): Those seats look really nice, assuming they were sold as First. Wasn't it possible to purchase an upgrade at the gate?
Domestic upgrades where 200 USD. Pure luxery for a PHL-CLT leg. Tough cramped for a TATL leg
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): Aah, good old Lufty! Adding some color to the seemingly dull mix of US domestic carriers at the airport. Still find it a bit interesting that they have upgraded the route to the A346, didn't know it was doing so well.
Some variety, second summer season with the 346 now. Loads seems to be very good on the MUC-CLT leg. In the winter it goes back to a 333.
Quoting LH4116 (Reply 16): Hmm, I would say that price is quite standard at least for Europe. But then again, don't they offer a more proper cheese platter for only 5 bucks? Might have been a better choice. At least nice to have free drinks
Bigger platters are served on flights longer than 2,5 hours. Price/Quality I've found the European carriers to be better than the US ones
akhmad From Netherlands, joined Sep 2005, 2332 posts, RR: 53 Reply 18, posted (1 year 3 months 3 weeks 6 days 7 hours ago) and read 7885 times:
Hi Marc,
Another exciting story of your US travel series. I really like the way you introduce the US aviation world like what to expect on board and how to show your appreciation to the flight attendants. Your reports will certainly be my reference if I ever visit US.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Of course we cannot visit Philly without a cheesesteak
Good to know.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): The fries did not even come near the Belgian ones.
You and your homesickness.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): the only difference was that the flight was taken in pure darkness
This makes make me believe that there is always a second chance.
FlyingFinn76 From Finland, joined Jun 2009, 1705 posts, RR: 41 Reply 19, posted (1 year 3 months 3 weeks 6 days 5 hours ago) and read 7792 times:
Hi Marc,
Another nice episode of your latest US series. It's nice that there are still quite a few widebodies flying around US domestic routes. This report is very handy for me as I'm still trying to figure out what flights to take during my visit in June, would definitely like to log a widebody but my current plans don't include any. But let's see, it's still five months away... At least I'm flying YUL-YYZ with an Air Canada 763 (XM) so that's a nice start.
I've flown one 762, AA on the LAX-JFK redyeye and that was quite an old and tatty bird, but at the same time very comfortable and definitely more appreciated than a 757.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): After using SEPTA back to town I went to see a local transport museum. Quite nice mock-up here.
Looks a lot like the T trains in Boston.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Of course we cannot visit Philly without a cheesesteak, was quite heavy to digest. The fries did not even come near the Belgian ones.
Argh, that looks sinful! But yes, it is a must of course. I had one in Toronto once and that wasn't very good to be honest.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Here in South street the ambience is on it’s best. Check this 50’s-style place.
Would love to go there! Love these kind of places.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Since I had not eaten yet I quickly jumped over to have an all American Breakfast at Mc Donalds, quite nice and heavy.
Well, it is an American breakfast after all. I was shocked the first time I saw somebody ordering a full All American Breakfast to go at the SFO airport (not from McD) - the guy was handed a huge container which must've weighted a ton. I could never eat that much in the morning! Then again that dude weighted almost a ton himself...
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): as you can see this Maddog preparing for flight AA1165 to Dallas Ft Worth
Such a beautiful livery and plane! Maybe I should fly these birds some more times.
Looks a lot like Royal Jordanian's current livery!
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): And closely after that Washington Dulles International airport
Nice shot.
Quoting MSS658 (Thread starter): Between all the US Airways jets there is one foreign carrier that flies in to Charlotte. Lufthansa flies daily with it’s A340-600 from Munich.
I've been wondering how that route is performing - seems to be quite an odd one. But I guess LH gets enough connecting passengers to/from US to make it worthwhile. I know somebody who was always raving about what a great airport CLT is to enter the US and to connect onwards - none of the massive immigration queues and hassles of the usual gateways like JFK, ORD etc.
Another exciting story of your US travel series. I really like the way you introduce the US aviation world like what to expect on board and how to show your appreciation to the flight attendants. Your reports will certainly be my reference if I ever visit US.
Another nice episode of your latest US series. It's nice that there are still quite a few widebodies flying around US domestic routes. This report is very handy for me as I'm still trying to figure out what flights to take during my visit in June, would definitely like to log a widebody but my current plans don't include any. But let's see, it's still five months away... At least I'm flying YUL-YYZ with an Air Canada 763 (XM) so that's a nice start.
I've flown one 762, AA on the LAX-JFK redyeye and that was quite an old and tatty bird, but at the same time very comfortable and definitely more appreciated than a 757.
Hi Petteri
Thanks! Glad you liked it. US flies double daily between Philadelphia and Charlotte with the 767.
Coincidentally enough I flew YUL-YYZ on Air Canada's 767 as well!
It can be viewed here: Air Canada, North America's Hidden Jewel? (by MSS658 Nov 6 2010 in Trip Reports)
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Argh, that looks sinful! But yes, it is a must of course. I had one in Toronto once and that wasn't very good to be honest.
Just so greasy IMO
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Would love to go there! Love these kind of places.
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19):
I've been wondering how that route is performing - seems to be quite an odd one. But I guess LH gets enough connecting passengers to/from US to make it worthwhile. I know somebody who was always raving about what a great airport CLT is to enter the US and to connect onwards - none of the massive immigration queues and hassles of the usual gateways like JFK, ORD etc.
Quite good actually, in the high season the 346 fills up quite well. Star alliance traffic hub-to-hub and the BMW plant that is not that far away (near Greenville/Spartanburg airport, covered in quite a few trip reports of mine) are surely a few big factors.
Immigration can be quick, unless you have a 3 A330's arriving at the same time. Then it can be a bit longer (what happened to me last month)
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): What's an "ex-veteran"? Someone who returned to active duty?
You can leave the ex off, seems like writing TR's after midnight.
USAirALB From United States of America, joined Sep 2007, 2681 posts, RR: 1 Reply 21, posted (1 year 3 months 3 weeks 6 days 1 hour ago) and read 7686 times:
Quoting MSS658 (Reply 17): Some variety, second summer season with the 346 now. Loads seems to be very good on the MUC-CLT leg. In the winter it goes back to a 333.
Actually, the A346 has flown to CLT since 2008! I have even heard that LH asked CLT to model the 748I at their current gate(D12). LH gives us in CLT who get tired of US a great opportunity to fly across the pond. Flight is really expensive though.
My only concern is whether LH will leave CLT is US should ever leave *.
CLT-MUC has the third highest TATL O/D in all of NC, after CLTLON and RDULON.
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2212 posts, RR: 14 Reply 22, posted (1 year 3 months 3 weeks 5 days 16 hours ago) and read 7521 times:
Quoting USAirALB (Reply 21): Actually, the A346 has flown to CLT since 2008! I have even heard that LH asked CLT to model the 748I at their current gate(D12). LH gives us in CLT who get tired of US a great opportunity to fly across the pond. Flight is really expensive though.
My only concern is whether LH will leave CLT is US should ever leave *.
CLT-MUC has the third highest TATL O/D in all of NC, after CLTLON and RDULON.
Hey USAirALB
Thanks for the insight! Good to know all this information. Must agree on the price, not cheap at all (as any LH TATL flight btw.. ) I once had the chance to fly BRU-MUC-CLT on LH (US codeshare). But (unafortunaly) opted for the FRA connection on US, which I did regret.
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6083 posts, RR: 56 Reply 23, posted (1 year 3 months 3 weeks 5 days 6 hours ago) and read 7440 times:
Hi Marc !
Thanks for another great report with great pictures in this series!
Nice for you to try another 762! It still looks a bit old even with the "new" seats. I flew US a couple of times via CLT when I went to Asheville including a flight JFK-RIC-CLT on a Fokker F.28-1000 .I had some great flights with US back then (1989-90) with flights on DC-9-30, 732, 733, 734 and 727-200. Great to see that they have more widebody flights now including domestic ones like your flight.
Johnny Rockets is indeed a nationwide and I really like the concept. Reminds of the movie Back To The Future.
Good to see you got some good numbers while spotting on your trip.
Looking forward to your next report!
The777Man
Need a Boeing 777 Firing Order....Further to fly....GA, T5, CI and LX 777s
Thanks for another great report with great pictures in this series!
Hi Lars
Thanks for commenting, glad you liked it
Quoting The777Man (Reply 23): Nice for you to try another 762! It still looks a bit old even with the "new" seats. I flew US a couple of times via CLT when I went to Asheville including a flight JFK-RIC-CLT on a Fokker F.28-1000 .I had some great flights with US back then (1989-90) with flights on DC-9-30, 732, 733, 734 and 727-200. Great to see that they have more widebody flights now including domestic ones like your flight.
Yea, always nice to get a classic. Even if they are not up to date. However US still does not have that much widebodies. Just a handful 762s and 330s. The only domestic flight is the CLt-PHL sector.
Quoting The777Man (Reply 23): Johnny Rockets is indeed a nationwide and I really like the concept. Reminds of the movie Back To The Future.
Still funny that It's the first one that i've noticed!
25 FLIEGER67: Hey, Marc, just back from the States, sitting in the KL AMS crown lounge and time to follow youre story. Well done, nice pictures and let me confirm,
26 LGWflyer: Hey Marc! I have been looking forward to this TR, and great it was! I loved all your pics of Philly at the start and also the CLT ones too. I have see
27 MSS658: Hi Markus Thanks for reading and replying to this trip report after an overnight long-haul. I can understand how tired you might have been . I'm glad
28 LGWflyer: Yeah but I have a feeling you might get N919FJ next time you hop on a US CR9! Haha we have both been on the same A333 and 734 now lets finish with th
29 SR117: Hey there Marc Many thanks for the excellent report on US Airways. I've heard many things about them and have never tried them first hand, but am glad
30 MSS658: Hi Ricardo Thanks for commenting, glad you liked it. My vision on US Airways is getting from A to B on time and cheap and on-time and succeed here in
31 signol: Hi Marc, thanks for the detailed report! Nice mix of destination, airport and in flight pictures. And kudos for the cockpit photos. Our nearly 2 year
32 QFKangaroo747: Thanks for another interesting trip report, Marc. You provided a lot of detail with your descriptions and photos. I've never flown US before so I foun
33 BAViscount: I wonder if it's the same 762 that I flew on with Piedmont LGW-CLT back in June 1987. If it is it certainly was in better condition back then, especi
34 MSS658: Hi Signol, thanks for replying. Glad you liked it. A bit, but still bareable. Hey QFKangaroo747 Thanks for replying. Glad you liked it. I'm happy if
35 kgrb: Excellent trip report as usual, Marc! I always enjoy reading reports on US Airways and seeing your 734 photos brought back fond memories of flying bac
36 airbuseric: Hi Marc, I was glad that you took our advises and got yourself also on this 767-200. I envy you about it, this subtype is a missing part of my log, an
37 MSS658: Hi kgrb, thanks for replying! Glad you liked it. PHX would be a good idea, just not in the summer Hi Eric It was indeed nice catching the 762 one mor
38 Parton87: Hello Marc! Thanks for another great report. Nice that you was able to catch another wide body on a short flight Glad you make it from Charlotte befor
39 MSS658: Hi Robert, I'm glad my reports kept you entertained on this sunday evening! I'm glad we just got off the ground on time as well It's the U S of A for
40 stasisLAX: Could have been the double-decker Girard Point Bridge that carries Interstate 95 over the Schuykill River close to PHL, or the Walt Whitman bridge be
41 MSS658: Hi stasisLAX! Thanks for the nice words! Greetings Marc
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. After a great thank you and some chatting the flight attendants went on with their conversation and I returned back to my seat. The first time a flight attendant was to bee seen in the cabin shortly before pushback to close the bins. Pushback was slightly ahead of schedule and the safety video rolled. Actually the 757 and 767 are the only ones where US Airways actually haves a safety video. All other aircraft are manual. Here you can see a small preview. Taken back in 2007 on a flight from Amsterdam and Philadelphia
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. Sorry to hear
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