ba319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8278 posts, RR: 56 Posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 20 hours ago) and read 12849 times:
Hello dear A.Netters, welcome to my latest trip.
Some months ago Korean Air took delivery of their first A380, initially it was operated to NRT however additional aircraft quickly entered service enabling JFK, LAX and soon after HKG and CDG were added to the list, however CDG has since been downgraded back to a 747.
Once the schedules were loaded, it became clear you could fly from LAX to HKG via ICN with KE for about £450, given the distance this was a no brainier, a conversation with Brewox indicated he was interesting in the idea, so following a discussion on dates the trip was booked!
Option's on getting to LAX were numerous however we both settled on BA's 09:50 service as that would give us a good few hours spotting in the afternoon before flying out to HKG via ICN the next day.
Getting home from HKG would see us take different paths, Brewox would take the non-stop QF flight, I would take the RJ multi-stop, HKG-BKK-AMM-LHR, a good run for tier points this route!
Some weeks after booking, I noted that KE had tweaked the LAX schedule, this resulted in and aircraft change to a 77W, now that was not in the plan! - Just shows it pays dividends to keep track of your booked itinerary when you have 'interesting' aircraft booked.
A call to KE reservations, and 100 euro’s lighter, we were re-booked onto the following day’s service which was operated by an A380. The upside to this was a full day’s spotting in LAX, but the downside was a loss of a day in HKG, oh well, can’t have everything!
Let's fast forward to travel day.
Mrs BA319-131 had agreed to drop me off at Heathrow's a terminal 5, however it would have to be early as she had a meeting she was running near Birmingham - I won't go through the morning routine, I got dropped off around 06:20.
It was pretty quiet in the terminal
I had checked in the previous day on my iPhone but I still went to the machine to re-print a paper copy, despite being able to use the app for flights to the US, I figured it would be good to have a paper copy, just in case.
after that a quick visit to the passport and visa check desk before proceeding through security.
The queue was short, though a couple of people ahead were not quite prepared so were taking their time, the guy in front of me was grumbling about this, a bit of a cheek since he had not made any preparation, still had his coat on - at this point my iPad and liquids are in my hand, some people............
Security cleared, money purchased I stopped via the North Gallaries lounge to seek confirmation flight 279 would indeed depart from either B or C gates, B38 I was advised and it would be best to use the B gates lounge as this was pretty busy, suited me as that was my intent - I figured the B gate lounge would be quieter.
Early morning FID
A few pictures en-route to the train.
The train at the station
A few pictures from the T5B station area, I love the first one
T5B.
Escalator to heaven? - no, but not a bad place to rest before a flight.
Greeted warmly at the entrance podium and the various areas of the lounge we pointed out - I found a seat, dropped the bags and took a wander around.
The lounge was nice and quiet, a much more relaxing environment than the busy North Terminal lounges.
A spot of brekky, feeling a bit peckish now, been up since 3 (had trouble sleeping again).
View from the lounge
Breakfast over and a coffee or two drunk, Brewox appeared and not long later a couple of glasses of champagne appeared, what a great way to start an adventure!
The seat map during online check-in the previous day had indicated this was going to be a pretty full flight, with that in mind we headed over to the gate when the 'gate open' appeared on the monitor, we both had 2 carry-on bags and wanted to ensure no onboard stowage issues, read first come first gets the overhead space
ba319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8278 posts, RR: 56 Reply 1, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 20 hours ago) and read 13160 times:
25-10-2011
BA279
LHR-LAX
B747-436 G-CIVT Built 1998
Seat 62K Club World Upper Deck
1st Flight on this aircraft, 19th 747-400 flight
Sch Dep 09:50 Sch Arr 13:10
Act Dep 10:00 Act Arr 12:51
The boarding area slowly started to fill up, pre-boarding for those with children and those needing extra time started followed by boarding by rows and Gold/Silvers/Club passengers, time now 09:15.
The walk down the jetway was one of those painful ones where you get stuck behind a slow walker with a large bag who can't walk in a straight line which stops you getting past them, you know the type or am I just unlucky?
Welcomed at the door with a smile and directed upstairs, Brewox was ahead of me, we were the first two upper deck passengers to arrive, no worries about bag space and I'd totally forgotten about the side bins too, stacks of space!
Mt seat to LA!
Cabin shot
View across to Brewox in 62A
View from the window
A few minutes later another couple of passengers arrived and after that the pre-departure drinks we offered, the usual water, OJ or champagne, I took the latter, Brewox was behaving and took the OJ - I'd already had my dose of vitamin C earlier in the day
Getting settled in
During boarding the captain came on the blower to introduce the flight crew and the CSD, our captain today was Bill Hibbit, senior first officer was Sean Wetherbey, who would also be flying us today, and due to flight duration senior first officer Elliott Nicholson was also in the cockpit, I must confess I don't recall the CSD's name, sorry.
Boarding was announced as complete @ 09:44, lucky me had an open seat next to me, no need to worry about putting the blind up to avoid having to speak to somebody
Push back took place 10 minutes late @ 10:00, though not far to taxi today, departures were from 27R.
Turning onto the active.
Heading to JFK perhaps?
CIVT took to the skies @ 10:25
I've not taken that many pictures as usual, the crew jump seats face my seat & don't want to push my luck with the crew. I took the odd picture during climb out, none are that great though as the sun was facing my side of the plane, however on the plus side the crew, Clare and Ingrid, did not appear concerned with my actions, that bodes well for some approach shots into LAX, if the sun is on the right side, will have to wait about 10 odd hours to find out.
Best of a bad lot with the sun and scratched windows!
both of my windows were quite scratched outside, so not great for pictures.
As the aircraft turned north away from the sun, the views improved, though quite a bit of cloud around over the London area, this seemed to be a theme across much of the country.
A short time after departure the seat belt sign was extinguished, the crew headed to the galley heading out not long later with today’s menus, amenity kits followed by hot towels, the first of many drinks runs followed.
Amenity kit contents
I took a G&T to start along with a Ginger Ale, these were served along with a bag of mix nuts, which were pretty good, some of the nuts served on previous flights have not really been to my liking.
GC, cheers
PH, cheers
So I'm quite relaxed now, tired I'll admit but sipping on my drinks and looking outside whilst I write up this report, nothing like real time trip reporting to keep it fresh.
I've not even finished the first drink when another drink run starts along with order for lunch being taken, I took another G&T with a sparkling water this time.
Nothing much to see outside, just lots of cloud with nice blue sky above.
Better look at the menu
Lunch service soon started, I took the Salmon and Trout roulade to start, along with this came the side salad, good size as usual, various breads along with offerings of wine to accompany lunch, I chose the Medalla Real Carmenere Gran Reserva 2008 from Chilie, a nice rich colour and wonderful flavours, not ideal for the salmon and salad but great for the beef I chose as the main which would follow.
The starter was very nice, I'd taken a risk on it, not a great fish fan, never had Trout before but really enjoyed it, the salad was good and the spicy lemon dressing gave its real kick, at one point I thought there were chilies in the salad - I love chillies, they seem to find their way into most of my cooking.
Starters cleared, drinks topped up and main meals distributed, I had chosen the beef option and I have to say it was very nice with lots of beef chunks, Brewox had chosen the same but he only had a few beef chunks in his.
It's 12:40 UK time now, mains have been cleared and deserts/cheese/ice cream are being offered, is the ice cream in influence from AA?
I took the pear and caramel delice with caramelised pear compote, very nice I must say.
I also took more water, wide and coffee, the mug had a big crack down it, not enough too allow coffee to seep though too much but had to miss - the coffee was flavourless, just a dark liquid, I should know better than drinking coffee on a plane, it's something most airlines just can't get right, that and things taste different at 36,000ft!
View outside, not much to see
Overall the meal service had been very good, I did like it that the crew always asked "Mr BA319-131" before they offered you food or drink, not had this on previous BA longhauls in the past, perhaps because some see my surname and think OMG, how do I pronounce that? - seems simple enough to me.........
It's 12:52 now, just had my meal tray cleared away, we are approaching the coast of Greenland
with the scratches on my windows the pictures are not as clear as I would like.
Clare suggested I try the main door windows on the lower deck, good suggestion as these were quite clear - apologies if you have seen too many of these, I found the views just stunning today, one of the clearest crossings I have had of Greenland.
Returning upstairs
Current location
water bottles were being distributed, it's a sign of time for a bit of shut eye, a few pages of my book and a glass of wine and indeed it was.
A little sleep later an update is needed
Time for refreshments
Another cabin shot
Mount Ranier.
One hour 43 to go and the main cabin lights were turned on, Clare was around moments later with hot towels, a sign afternoon tea would shortly be served, the choice today being coronation chicken and egg and cress sandwiches or salad with marinated Feta with chili-roasted aubergine, I decided to take the latter, I seem to recall having this a few years back on a flight to JFK...
Prior to afternoon tea Clare came back through collecting the now cold towels and various discarded service items, mainly empty glasses, whilst removing my clutter she asked if I wanted another glass of wine, oh well, twist my arm then!
Looking outside the landscape was changing, the mountainous areas were giving way to flat lands with wind turbines before returning to more mountainous terrain.
Clare returned with my glass of wine and enquired if I had managed to get any better pictures downstairs, nice of her to remember I thought, or am I the only only passenger banding a camera around?.........
ETA is now one hour 28 minutes away, the afternoon tea service starts.
It’s a great snack this, as soon as I tucked in I remembered I had indeed had this before, most enjoyable.
Took a cup of coffee too, not sure why, seemed a good idea…..
Meal service items were cleared away and the girl’s started to get the cabin ready for arrival, que trips to the loo’s to freshen up and get yourself ready and buckled in.
Washroom
Dust in the vent
Around 12:10 the front office came on the blower, though it was pretty inaudible, basically they were giving us a 10 minutes or so heads up to descent commencing.
True enough, descent started @ 12:22
– not a great looking day in the LAX area, though overhearing Clare tomorrow was supposed to be a much nicer day, I hope so, not packed any cold weather clothing!
CIVT touched down on 24R @ 12:51, almost 20 minutes ahead of schedule.
Serious rubber markings!
Taxi to stand was slow, not helped that we had to taxi all the way around back as our gate was on the far side of the TBIT.
The President had been in town, these birds brought the cars
Perhaps one of the last times I'll see these colours
Aircraft parking @ TBIT cannot do so under their own power, you have to have a tug to pull you into stand, it seemed we waited a while for the tug to arrive and attach, as a result delaying a few AA machines from pushing back.
From landing to gate arrival, it had taken some 20 odd minutes or so, always a frustrating feeling when that early arrival time is being eaten up, oh well, can’t do anything about it.
On stand, the new terminal works can clearly be seen
With the seatbelt signs off bag’s were grabbed, Clare & Ingrid thanked, Brewox and I hightailed it to immigration - several other longhaul flights had arrived and we wanted to be ahead of the crowds as much as possible, in the end it took around 30 minutes for immigration and around 5 for customs before we were clear to enter the land of the free, not that it feels that way at times these days……anyway, once outside, it felt like coming home, even though LA is not my home, there is something very special about the place and more so LAX, one of my favorite spotting destinations.
Hopefully you have enjoyed the report and pictures, feel free to drop a line,comment or question.
Part 2 will feature KE’s A380 service to ICN and onwards to HKG, hope to get this up in the next week.
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6115 posts, RR: 56 Reply 3, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 18 hours ago) and read 12605 times:
Hi Mark!
Thanks for a great report with nice pictures ! I especially like the ones of Greenland, amazing !
Service on BA seems okay and the food looks good.
Great deal on the Radisson! Really nice views from there!
I had just had my kidney transplant when you were here and couldn't go out or drive but next time you come here, let me know and we can meet up and go spotting together and have lunch as well.
Looking forward to rest of this series!
The777Man
Need a Boeing 777 Firing Order....Further to fly....GA, T5, CI and LX 777s
deltamartin From Sweden, joined Dec 2010, 1059 posts, RR: 9 Reply 4, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 16 hours ago) and read 12198 times:
Hi Mark,
great tripreport, for sure an enjoyable read.
The pictures of the lounge at LHR reminds me of the hours I spent in the T5A lounges a month ago. Looks similar to the T5B lounge but as you said, T5B seems to be much calmer.
Service on BA looks nice, all the food looks great, the pictures makes me hungry!
ROGERBCN From Andorra, joined Sep 2006, 1140 posts, RR: 19 Reply 5, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 13 hours ago) and read 11823 times:
Hola Mark!
A great TR, as usual. Nice to see you doing this round the world to catch the new KE A380. A great pleasure to follow you along the coming reports.
I really enjoyed your BA flight experience, very nice as usual. Great seat, lovely food and enjoyable trip over LAX.
What a coincidence. I stayed at the Radisson as well, when coming and going to YYC last New Year's in order to catch my connection from and to MAD-BCN on IB.
Great to see you are back at your old-style photos showing how well mannered you are finishing all your meals
You had a really nice crew on this flight... they seemed to be very attentive and caring about your photo possibilities which is not always something expected from the crew... really nice of them.
Hope to read the following reports soon,
Roger
"At reise er at leve" H.C. Andersen (Travelling is Living)
Luxair747SP From Germany, joined May 2010, 449 posts, RR: 18 Reply 6, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 11 hours ago) and read 11686 times:
AIRLINERS.NET CREW FORUM MODERATOR
Hi Mark,
very nice first part of your RTW journey.
The service on BA looks good, especially the starter with salmon and a big salad looks very tasty.
Also the hardware on BA seems still to be one of the leading ones in Europe.
FLIEGER67 From Bulgaria, joined Sep 2003, 4424 posts, RR: 56 Reply 7, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 10 hours ago) and read 11457 times:
Hi, Mark,
sure a great starter to you´re around the world trip.
I like the pictures inflight with all that cold blue and white down there, superb.
Also the service looks like good, well done.
I´am for sure interested to follow the next part soon.
aflyingkiwi From New Zealand, joined Nov 2010, 490 posts, RR: 3 Reply 8, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 11233 times:
Hi Mark,
Great report!
It looks like you had a pretty decent flight with BA. The meals look great & it's also good to hear that you had a nice set of crew. I guess I'm not a big fan of those backwards facing seats. It must be a bit awkward having to face somebody for the whole flight though I guess the privacy screen is there to combat the problem.
AlwaysOnAPlane From United Kingdom, joined Sep 2010, 299 posts, RR: 2 Reply 9, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 11123 times:
Hiya Mark, a great start to a good looking set of reports coming up.
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Some weeks after booking, I noted that KE had tweaked the LAX schedule, this resulted in and aircraft change to a 77W, now that was not in the plan! - Just shows it pays dividends to keep track of your booked itinerary when you have 'interesting' aircraft booked.
A call to KE reservations, and 100 euro’s lighter, we were re-booked onto the following day’s service which was operated by an A380. The upside to this was a full day’s spotting in LAX, but the downside was a loss of a day in HKG, oh well, can’t have everything!
Good spot. Lucky you discovered it sooner rather than later.
So maybe a few pictures from In-N-Out and Imp Hill if thats your thing?
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Breakfast over and a coffee or two drunk, Brewox appeared and not long later a couple of glasses of champagne appeared, what a great way to start an adventure!
Well it's safe to say you won't find an argument from me over that statement.
.......
Interesting to see that from your first in-flight map you probably flew right over the town I live in. We get lots of ex LHR TATL traffic over Halifax and it looks like you were amongst them on this day. Cool.
The food looks great and you had good service from the sounds of it ( lots of drink runs ).
Enjoyed your pictures from the LAX approach with the partial wing/engine view.
signol From United Kingdom, joined Oct 2007, 2953 posts, RR: 7 Reply 10, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 6 hours ago) and read 11035 times:
Hi Mark,
nice start to a quick RTW trip! After your South American trip last year, I wondered if something equally big would happen this year.
To Fly, To Serve, seems like a good moniker for this trip, you were very well served. The beef main course doesn't look like much, but it is taste that matters! Good sized portions too.
Thanks again, and looking forward to the continuation!
767747 From United States of America, joined Jan 2005, 1761 posts, RR: 25 Reply 12, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 10897 times:
Great part 1, ba319-131!
Looks like you had another good flight with BA to LAX. Food looks really tasty, and how awesome to be upstairs on the upper deck! I haven't flown BA in years, but would like too again - unfortunately they don't fly to MSP; ORD is the closest.
Quoting ROGERBCN (Reply 5): Nice to see you doing this round the world to catch the new KE A380
- Well it was my first RTW so had to make it special.
Quoting ROGERBCN (Reply 5): What a coincidence. I stayed at the Radisson as well, when coming and going to YYC last New Year's in order to catch my connection from and to MAD-BCN on IB.
- Not the best hotel but cheap, clean and free wifi, was great for planefinder etc apps when spotting at night.
Quoting ROGERBCN (Reply 5): You had a really nice crew on this flight... they seemed to be very attentive and caring about your photo possibilities which is not always something expected from the crew... really nice of them.
- Your right, I think the clear views made the views something special for all.
Quoting Luxair747SP (Reply 6): The service on BA looks good, especially the starter with salmon and a big salad looks very tasty
- Indeed was, quite filling too, the salad seems to have increased in size since my last flight.
Quoting FLIEGER67 (Reply 7): sure a great starter to you´re around the world trip.
- Cheers Markus, indeed a great start to the adventure.
Quoting FLIEGER67 (Reply 7): I like the pictures inflight with all that cold blue and white down there, superb.
- The views were stunning, I've stacks of pictures.
Quoting aflyingkiwi (Reply 8): I guess I'm not a big fan of those backwards facing seats. It must be a bit awkward having to face somebody for the whole flight though I guess the privacy screen is there to combat the problem.
- I love the rear facing seats, not actually sat forward facing on BA J. The screen is indeed great if you want more privacy.
Quoting AlwaysOnAPlane (Reply 9): Hiya Mark, a great start to a good looking set of reports coming up.
- I know, pays to keep track of your flights at times!
Quoting AlwaysOnAPlane (Reply 9): So maybe a few pictures from In-N-Out and Imp Hill if thats your thing?
- Unfortunately no, too busy eating burgers and plane spotting, made loads of new registrations
Quoting AlwaysOnAPlane (Reply 9): Enjoyed your pictures from the LAX approach with the partial wing/engine view.
- Thanks, shame the weather was so bad that day, very cold spotting that afternoon and evening - no cold weather clothing!
Quoting signol (Reply 10): nice start to a quick RTW trip! After your South American trip last year, I wondered if something equally big would happen this year.
- This years big trip kicks off just over 2 weeks
Quoting signol (Reply 10): The beef main course doesn't look like much, but it is taste that matters! Good sized portions too.
- It was actually really good, filling too.
Quoting 4xRuv (Reply 11): I don't really like the morning food service on the BA T5 lounges, the evening one is much much better.
- Agreed, the pm food offerings are more varied, when travelling for work I often have dinner in the lounge before a flight and then just have a beer or two before bed.
Quoting 4xRuv (Reply 11): I just love BA C, the private seats make the difference
- Agreed!
Quoting 4xRuv (Reply 11): BTW, where did you find that 450 pounds fare LAX-HKG on C?? That is a great price
- I use Kayak daily to keep track of things, at one point the cheapest one-way was just £250! - this with Air China. The competition across the pacific really keeps the airfares amazingly low x LAX.
OA260 From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 25129 posts, RR: 60 Reply 14, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 4 hours ago) and read 10780 times:
Hey Mark great report and I cant wait to read the rest Im looking forward to RJ !
Well BA look nice and the catering is also nice. I love the Salmon Parcel and the English scones and Clotted cream thats a big winner with me I am dissapointed by the crack in the cup not good at all. Shame the coffee was so bad LX A3 OA SQ TK seem to serve great coffee IMHO. Maybe take your Nespresso machine with you next time lol...
Anyway thanks for the great pics and look forward to part 2
abrelosojos From Venezuela, joined May 2005, 4919 posts, RR: 55 Reply 15, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 1 day 1 hour ago) and read 10634 times:
Mark,
What a great start to the RTW series. Seems like the flight on BA was text-book JCL. I was particularly impressed with the food after having seen some nasty BA JCL means here of late. Good to see them getting their form back. Look forward to the next installation.
nethkt From Thailand, joined Apr 2001, 987 posts, RR: 3 Reply 16, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 23 hours ago) and read 10501 times:
Wonderful stuff! And this is only the first part
I've always enjoyed your trip report out here, always 5 stars
I totally agree about LAX. One crazy airport with awful terminals. But I just love the LAX feeling. I don't know why.
I don't fancy those beautiful, super clean due to extreme chemical products used, terminals/airports.
They are not real and raw to me. LAX is something amazing!!
I love the walk from TBIT to T7 from my BKK-LAX to LAX-SJC flight. It will always be remembered as no more non-stop BKK-LAX
Many thanks and can't wait for part ii!
Don't be annoyed knowing the passengers around you are non-revs and op-upgraders, be grateful for them. Life is beautifu
jetblast From United States of America, joined Nov 2004, 1201 posts, RR: 11 Reply 17, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 22 hours ago) and read 10488 times:
Excellent report! 62K looks familiar as I flew it on CIVH not too long ago!
sultanils From Belgium, joined Mar 2010, 1215 posts, RR: 29 Reply 18, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 16 hours ago) and read 10278 times:
Hello Mark,
Quite an enjoyable report.
The BA business cabin looks attractive and private. Can’t tell if the F/A’s were attractive (one particular a.netter from Germany always mentions these things ) but friendly and efficient they were for sure. Nice food, that beefy thing looks very tasty indeed.
I hope you had a good spotting session in LAX, I think there are quite some interesting things to see out there.
FlyingFinn76 From Finland, joined Jun 2009, 1705 posts, RR: 41 Reply 19, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 15 hours ago) and read 10168 times:
Hi Mark,
A very nice appetizer for what is promising to be a very good and varied meal - start with mama BA, KE A380 as the main course and some Jordanian dessert - yummy!
Good to see that you are still traveling and more importantly writing about it!
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Once the schedules were loaded, it became clear you could fly from LAX to HKG via ICN with KE for about £450, given the distance this was a no brainier,
That's a bargain. Nice to see some carriers offering great one way fares as well.
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): A call to KE reservations, and 100 euro’s lighter, we were re-booked onto the following day’s service which was operated by an A380. The upside to this was a full day’s spotting in LAX, but the downside was a loss of a day in HKG, oh well, can’t have everything!
Ahh, this shows it pays to keep checking your reservations in advance, at least the most important one. Although big props to AF, when I was booked to fly the A380 CDG-LHR they proactively called me and asked whether I had noticed that on my day of travel the equipment had been downgraded to a bog standard A321. They even offered to change the days for free, but unfortunately I had already fixed my other travels...
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): A few pictures from the T5B station area, I love the first one
Hmm, those three colors (and your route) remind me of AF's short lived attempt to operate LHR-LAX when the Transatlantic open skies agreement came into force some years ago. Wasn't very successful, apparently then...
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Breakfast over and a coffee or two drunk, Brewox appeared and not long later a couple of glasses of champagne appeared, what a great way to start an adventure!
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Push back took place 10 minutes late @ 10:00, though not far to taxi today, departures were from 27R.
Are you sure? Judging from your photos you took off from 09R as you were on the right hand side and you show photos of T4 with Delta and Air Malta parked there...
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): I love chillies, they seem to find their way into most of my cooking.
Me too!
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Starters cleared, drinks topped up and main meals distributed, I had chosen the beef option and I have to say it was very nice with lots of beef chunks,
Hmm, doesn't really look like my favorite kind of dish, but glad you liked it. That's the freedom of choice, after all!
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6115 posts, RR: 56 Reply 20, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 10 hours ago) and read 9833 times:
airbuseric From Netherlands, joined Jan 2005, 4068 posts, RR: 51 Reply 21, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 7 hours ago) and read 9675 times:
Hi Mark!
Really nice first episode of the RTW trip you made, kudos to BA, fantastic service. I like your home carrier these days, really good experiences all around usually.
I must say that the meals look really nice on this longhaul, though I'm not a fan of the J-class seating on the 744's. I flew the backward seat once (13J I believe it was), but felt not so roomy and not so much 'business class feeling' about it.
The Greenland and Mt Rainier pictures are breathtaking! Good job!
Looking forward already to part 2..
Regards
Eric
"The whole world steps aside for the man who knows where he is going"
lukeyboy95 From Papua New Guinea, joined Apr 2008, 953 posts, RR: 34 Reply 22, posted (1 year 4 months 2 weeks 4 hours ago) and read 9513 times:
Hi Mark.
Great start to your report series. I enjoy your report style and this was a very detailed account so thanks.
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1): you get stuck behind a slow walker with a large bag who can't walk in a straight line which stops you getting past them
I am a magnet to these people. Its the swaying I can't stand - on pavements too.
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 2): clear to enter the land of the free, not that it feels that way at times these days……
Interesting. Had exactly the same thoughts in a recent border crossing. Definitely not welcomed in - felt much like a fortress and I was a no-gooder trying to enter.
BA looked really good on this run. Thought the preparation of the beef dish could have been a little improved. But all others were perfect. Good to hear of friendly pro-active FA's too.
PlaneHunter From Germany, joined Mar 2006, 6219 posts, RR: 79 Reply 23, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 6 days 21 hours ago) and read 9319 times:
Hi Mark,
great report with nice pictures, I had been looking forward to this series! BA's C Class product seems to be fine in general, but I don't like the cabin layout. Most of the food looks good - except for the main course!
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Some weeks after booking, I noted that KE had tweaked the LAX schedule, this resulted in and aircraft change to a 77W, now that was not in the plan! - Just shows it pays dividends to keep track of your booked itinerary when you have 'interesting' aircraft booked.
A call to KE reservations, and 100 euro’s lighter, we were re-booked onto the following day’s service which was operated by an A380. The upside to this was a full day’s spotting in LAX, but the downside was a loss of a day in HKG, oh well, can’t have everything!
Good to hear you managed to switch to the other day.
palmjet From United Kingdom, joined Nov 2001, 1053 posts, RR: 16 Reply 24, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 6 days 16 hours ago) and read 9100 times:
Hi Mark
Great first part of your RTW travels. I am looking forward to the reading about the other sectors as well.
Glad you managed to change your flight to ensure you flew on the KE Whalejet! Phew.
Seems like a nice flight across to LAX on BA too. I know some people don't like th cabin layout in BA JCL but l find it refreshingly different. It's quite unique and not like all the other Euro carriers out there who quite frankly, apart from Swiss, have moderately uninspiring JCL interiors and layouts. I am, of course, a fan of AY though and their nice blue seats (and that's just the old JCL cabins!)
LAX looked very chilly when you arrived - shame the weather was not better. Still, some great pics - including those over Greenland. Nice stuff. I really want to go there one day - especially after CrimsonNL's report on his Air Greenland flights last year.
4xRuv From Israel, joined Dec 2003, 387 posts, RR: 2 Reply 25, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 6 days 11 hours ago) and read 8971 times:
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 13): I use Kayak daily to keep track of things, at one point the cheapest one-way was just £250! - this with Air China. The competition across the pacific really keeps the airfares amazingly low x LAX.
On C? Why don't I ever see those fares? how long before the flight did you book it?
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Some weeks after booking, I noted that KE had tweaked the LAX schedule, this resulted in and aircraft change to a 77W, now that was not in the plan! - Just shows it pays dividends to keep track of your booked itinerary when you have 'interesting' aircraft booked.
Lucky you were able to change for a relatively small fee, but annoying you hasd to change in the first place
Quiter and nice. The open cieling give a much better impression of space
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1): The walk down the jetway was one of those painful ones where you get stuck behind a slow walker with a large bag who can't walk in a straight line which stops you getting past them, you know the type or am I just unlucky?
Happens to me ALL the time!
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1):
Boarding was announced as complete @ 09:44, lucky me had an open seat next to me, no need to worry about putting the blind up to avoid having to speak to somebody
Cheers! I thought they had Tanqueray or something in the front?
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Overall the meal service had been very good, I did like it that the crew always asked "Mr BA319-131" before they offered you food or drink, not had this on previous BA longhauls in the past, perhaps because some see my surname and think OMG, how do I pronounce that? - seems simple enough to me.........
In all my recent flight, only once was I called by name (on ET). Nothing even in LX F.
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Clare suggested I try the main door windows on the lower deck, good suggestion as these were quite clear - apologies if you have seen too many of these, I found the views just stunning today, one of the clearest crossings I have had of Greenland.
Great pics!
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 2): Brewox and I stayed at the Radisson LAX, nice and close and just $60 per night.
Rather cheap. It was really expensive when I was in LAX in Sept
ba319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8278 posts, RR: 56 Reply 27, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 6 days 8 hours ago) and read 8883 times:
Hi All, thanks for the reads and comments, a few selected replies:-
Quoting OA260 (Reply 14): Hey Mark great report and I cant wait to read the rest
- Thanks for reading Philip, glad you enjoyed, hopefully you'll enjoy the rest too when posted.
Quoting OA260 (Reply 14): Im looking forward to RJ !
- Thanks, you'll have to wait a little longer......
Quoting OA260 (Reply 14): I love the Salmon Parcel and the English scones and Clotted cream thats a big winner with me
- You know the salmon/trout parcel was very nice, and that's a big thing coming from a not so keen fish eater, English scones and clotted cream, can't go wrong with that!
Quoting OA260 (Reply 14): Shame the coffee was so bad LX A3 OA SQ TK seem to serve great coffee
- Indeed I can agree LX and SQ coffee is good, can't comment on the rest but I trust your judgement.
Quoting sultanils (Reply 18): Can’t tell if the F/A’s were attractive (one particular a.netter from Germany always mentions these things   but friendly and efficient they were for sure
- Indeed he does, perhaps I should start.....in any case, the girls were nice just not attractive, at least IMO.
Quoting sultanils (Reply 18): I hope you had a good spotting session in LAX, I think there are quite some interesting things to see out there.
- Had a great time, ,made lot's more than I expected, though it is about 4 years since I was there last.
Quoting sultanils (Reply 18): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
The President had been in town, these birds brought the cars
You don’t want to know what these operations cost to the US tax payer
- No, I bet they don't either!
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): A very nice appetizer for what is promising to be a very good and varied meal - start with mama BA, KE A380 as the main course and some Jordanian dessert - yummy!
- Great way of looking at it P!
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Good to see that you are still traveling and more importantly writing about it!
- I've decided I need to find the time for these things, let's see how we get on......
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
Once the schedules were loaded, it became clear you could fly from LAX to HKG via ICN with KE for about £450, given the distance this was a no brainier,
That's a bargain. Nice to see some carriers offering great one way fares as well.
- This market is amazing, some extremely cheap fares on offer to Asia from here.
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
A few pictures from the T5B station area, I love the first one
Hmm, those three colors (and your route) remind me of AF's short lived attempt to operate LHR-LAX when the Transatlantic open skies agreement came into force some years ago. Wasn't very successful, apparently then...
- Good observation, never thought of that. AF had intended to upgrade the route to a 77W, I guess they never expected the competition to be so tough or so much loyalty in the JCL market.
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
View across to Brewox in 62A
He seems to be hiding?
- Keeping a low profile I think.
Quoting FlyingFinn76 (Reply 19): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
Push back took place 10 minutes late @ 10:00, though not far to taxi today, departures were from 27R.
Are you sure? Judging from your photos you took off from 09R as you were on the right hand side and you show photos of T4 with Delta and Air Malta parked there...
- Just testing - well observed!
Quoting The777Man (Reply 20): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 13):
made loads of new registrations
How many ?
- 224
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 21): Really nice first episode of the RTW trip you made, kudos to BA, fantastic service
- Thanks Eric, glad you enjoyed.
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 21): I like your home carrier these days, really good experiences all around usually.
- Good to hear, BA for some reason seems so popular to bash, QF seem to suffer from the same thing at home, is it the same for KL @ home?
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 21): I'm not a fan of the J-class seating on the 744's. I flew the backward seat once (13J I believe it was), but felt not so roomy and not so much 'business class feeling' about it.
- It's all a personal preference thing, I like them and perhaps more importantly, the wife likes them too!
Quoting airbuseric (Reply 21): The Greenland and Mt Rainier pictures are breathtaking! Good job!
- Thanks, these were the best ever views of Greenland I have ever experienced.
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 22): Great start to your report series. I enjoy your report style and this was a very detailed account so thanks.
- Cheers, glad you enjoyed
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 22): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1):
you get stuck behind a slow walker with a large bag who can't walk in a straight line which stops you getting past them
I am a magnet to these people. Its the swaying I can't stand - on pavements too.
- Thanks goodness I am not alone!
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 22): BA looked really good on this run. Thought the preparation of the beef dish could have been a little improved
- I thought it was pretty good, it comes from the best of menu, so perhaps a little rustic for some?
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 23): great report with nice pictures, I had been looking forward to this series!
- Thanks for reading PH, glad you enjoyed.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 23): BA's C Class product seems to be fine in general, but I don't like the cabin layout.
- The JCL product is good, IMO, I actually like the seating layout, plenty of privacy if you like it.
Quoting PlaneHunter (Reply 23): Good to hear you managed to switch to the other day.
Quoting palmjet (Reply 24): Great first part of your RTW travels. I am looking forward to the reading about the other sectors as well.
- Cheers PJ, good to see you reading my stuff
Quoting palmjet (Reply 24): I know some people don't like th cabin layout in BA JCL but l find it refreshingly different. It's quite unique and not like all the other Euro carriers out there who quite frankly, apart from Swiss, have moderately uninspiring JCL interiors and layouts. I am, of course, a fan of AY though and their nice blue seats (and that's just the old JCL cabins!)
- Agreed, I like it, along with LX and AY. Not keen on the bland and seemingly crampt AF & KL offerings, the LH design is just so old, quite embaressing on a spanking new stare of the art A380! - IB's is good, great legroom, shoddy food and service - all in all I think it's once of the best products in Europe today.
Quoting palmjet (Reply 24): LAX looked very chilly when you arrived - shame the weather was not better.
- Indeed it was, thankfully the next day picked up and I needed suntan lotion!
Quoting 4xRuv (Reply 25): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 13):
I use Kayak daily to keep track of things, at one point the cheapest one-way was just £250! - this with Air China. The competition across the pacific really keeps the airfares amazingly low x LAX.
On C? Why don't I ever see those fares? how long before the flight did you book it?
- No Y. The flight was booked 3-4 months before travel, however days before departure there were still one-way flighs for
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6115 posts, RR: 56 Reply 28, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 6 days 7 hours ago) and read 8815 times:
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 27): - LAX is cool, many don't like it but I just love the place.
infodesk From Switzerland, joined May 2006, 1256 posts, RR: 33 Reply 29, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 5 days 19 hours ago) and read 8590 times:
Hi Mark,
A really enjoyable read, thank you!
The lounge at T5 looks lovely, particularly like all the smart chairs. As for BA, you were well looked after with an attentive crew. The C-Cabin looks smart, those seats are almost mini suites with so much privacy.
Food looks great too, especially the fresh salad and of course the scones & clotted cream - bet you wouldn't get these on any other carrier!
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): the guy in front of me was grumbling about this, a bit of a cheek since he had not made any preparation, still had his coat on - at this point my iPad and liquids are in my hand, some people............
These are usually the ones that stare at you oddly for taking your belt off whilst you're queuing.
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): A spot of brekky, feeling a bit peckish now, been up since 3 (had trouble sleeping again).
Pre-flight excitement?
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): suggested I try the main door windows on the lower deck, good suggestion as these were quite clear - apologies if you have seen too many of these, I found the views just stunning today, one of the clearest crossings I have had of Greenland.
No apologies - quite stunning photos.
Looking forward to part 2
Happy flying
Infodesk
"Do nothing in haste, look well to each step and from the beginning think what may be the end" - Edward Whymper
akhmad From Netherlands, joined Sep 2005, 2337 posts, RR: 53 Reply 30, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 2 days 10 hours ago) and read 8038 times:
Hi Mark,
How nice to know your spotting round-the-world trip has got started. What a great report! Look at the beautiful pictures! You make me eager to fly out myself. Still three weeks to go now.
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Just shows it pays dividends to keep track of your booked itinerary when you have 'interesting' aircraft booked.
For my next trip, I cannot help checking our itinerary on weekly basis.
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): I had checked in the previous day on my iPhone but I still went to the machine to re-print a paper copy
Oh yes, a real paper boarding pass is compulsory no matter what.
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1): I must confess I don't recall the CSD's name, sorry.
No problem.
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1): on the plus side the crew, Clare and Ingrid, did not appear concerned with my actions, that bodes well for some approach shots into LAX,
I wish Ruby on our AGP bound flight would have acted the same.
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1): not ideal for the salmon and salad but great for the beef I chose as the main which would follow.
Why did you not choose the Chablis first for the starter before changing to the Chilean red?
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1): I love chillies, they seem to find their way into most of my cooking.
jwhite9185 From United Kingdom, joined May 2007, 748 posts, RR: 0 Reply 31, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 7993 times:
Nice TR and I'm looking forward to reading the rest of it.
Looks like a proper boarding card you got out of the kiosk? I was under the impression its just a receipt style thing you got out of them? Might have to go to one of those for my flight in a few weeks if you get a proper one!
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2256 posts, RR: 14 Reply 32, posted (1 year 4 months 1 week 1 day 14 hours ago) and read 7776 times:
Hi Mark
Another great trip report you have there. Seems like BA J looks very nice.
However, I've never quite understood the seat desgin. How does someone at the window seat gets out of his seat without interfearing with the person next to him?
stipica From Croatia, joined Feb 2011, 408 posts, RR: 8 Reply 34, posted (1 year 4 months 3 days 12 hours ago) and read 7199 times:
Hi Mark !
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Mrs BA319-131 had agreed to drop me off at Heathrow's a terminal 5
nice that you have a wife who understands your hobby
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): The lounge was nice and quiet, a much more relaxing environment than the busy North Terminal lounges.
BA has a very elegant,dynamic and aesthetic lounge ... very comfortable
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): Brewox appeared and not long later a couple of glasses of champagne appeared, what a great way to start an adventure!
now we know who to blame hehheheheh
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): no worries about bag space and I'd totally forgotten about the side bins too, stacks of space!
good old B747 ...
Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter): lucky me had an open seat next to me, no need to worry about putting the blind up to avoid having to speak to somebody
super handy when you are traveling with Mrs.BA319-131
Mark I am really excited regarding your new opus ...
and as fan of of BA I enjoyed the first part ....thanks and good luck ... stipica
ba319-131 From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8278 posts, RR: 56 Reply 35, posted (1 year 4 months 1 day 15 hours ago) and read 6751 times:
Quoting The777Man (Reply 28): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 27):
How many ? - 224
Impressive!
- Thanks Lars, I was quite chuffed with that number myself!
Quoting infodesk (Reply 29): A really enjoyable read, thank you!
- Glad you enjoyed Hannah.
Quoting infodesk (Reply 29): The C-Cabin looks smart, those seats are almost mini suites with so much privacy.
- Indeed, once the divide is up it really is private.
Quoting infodesk (Reply 29): scones & clotted cream - bet you wouldn't get these on any other carrier!
- Certainly not something LH or LX are likely to serve up for sure
Quoting infodesk (Reply 29): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
A spot of brekky, feeling a bit peckish now, been up since 3 (had trouble sleeping again).
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
Just shows it pays dividends to keep track of your booked itinerary when you have 'interesting' aircraft booked.
For my next trip, I cannot help checking our itinerary on weekly basis
- I've been doing the same on my next trip.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
been up since 3 (had trouble sleeping again).
Due to the excitement? I know that feeling.
- No, don't sleep well.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1):
on the plus side the crew, Clare and Ingrid, did not appear concerned with my actions, that bodes well for some approach shots into LAX,
I wish Ruby on our AGP bound flight would have acted the same.
- I think it's all down to the crew on the day, I got lucky!
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1):
not ideal for the salmon and salad but great for the beef I chose as the main which would follow.
Why did you not choose the Chablis first for the starter before changing to the Chilean red?
- I'm not really a fan of white wine, perhaps I'll try a glass again and see how I get on.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1):
the mug had a big crack down it, not enough too allow coffee to seep though too much but had to miss
Ouch, did you mention the damage to Clare?
- Totally forgot plus there was hardly any seepage.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 1):
or am I the only only passenger banding a camera around?.........
What about Brewox?
- No, he is pure registrations.
Quoting akhmad (Reply 30): Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 2):
A few views from my room
Look how the pillars changing colors. Beautiful!
- I love them too, they are LAX.
Quoting jwhite9185 (Reply 31): Looks like a proper boarding card you got out of the kiosk? I was under the impression its just a receipt style thing you got out of them?
- No, still the paper receipt type things I'm afraid from the kiosk.
Quoting MSS658 (Reply 32): Another great trip report you have there
- Cheers Marc
Quoting MSS658 (Reply 32): I've never quite understood the seat desgin. How does someone at the window seat gets out of his seat without interfearing with the person next to him?
- It's quite easy really, just step over their feet, it's not a problem, at least not that I have found.
Quoting N503JB (Reply 33): Nice report, I looking forward your report on RJ.
- Thanks Brian
Quoting stipica (Reply 34): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
Mrs BA319-131 had agreed to drop me off at Heathrow's a terminal 5
nice that you have a wife who understands your hobby
- Indeed, helps when you marry them the hobby already exists.
Quoting stipica (Reply 34): Quoting ba319-131 (Thread starter):
no worries about bag space and I'd totally forgotten about the side bins too, stacks of space!
good old B747 ...
- Indeed, thankfully the A380 upper deck also has this wonderful feature.
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6115 posts, RR: 56 Reply 36, posted (1 year 4 months 1 day 10 hours ago) and read 6449 times:
Quoting ba319-131 (Reply 35): Thanks Lars, I was quite chuffed with that number myself!
You should try to come back in a year or so; WN will be flying their 738s here by then...
The777Man
Need a Boeing 777 Firing Order....Further to fly....GA, T5, CI and LX 777s
parton87 From Sweden, joined Sep 2008, 525 posts, RR: 2 Reply 38, posted (1 year 3 months 1 week 3 days 18 hours ago) and read 4892 times:
Hello Mark!
Great story and pictures! It seems that you had a really nice flight in BA´s business cabin. The meals looks good and the F/A seemed nice, but that´s standard on BA
initious From Singapore, joined Dec 2008, 1011 posts, RR: 16 Reply 39, posted (1 year 2 months 3 weeks 2 days 17 hours ago) and read 3372 times:
Good day Mark!
What a wonderful TR you've got! I've always wanted to do a RTW trip and I am of course very envious of you.
BA's Club World looks pretty good as usual. I love the concept that you get your own personal space without having to share, but not very keen on those back facing seats.
Amenity kits look pretty cool as usual. I am always fascinated by these, I don't know why. :P The menu literally made me salivate even though I am pretty full now. Looks pretty complete with starter, salad, mains and such.
Quoting initious (Reply 39): I've always wanted to do a RTW trip and I am of course very envious of you.
- Don't be your time will come.
Quoting initious (Reply 39): BA's Club World looks pretty good as usual. I love the concept that you get your own personal space without having to share, but not very keen on those back facing seats.
- I prefer the rear facing seats, not sure why, always have done.
Sponsor Message: 
From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2001, 8278 posts, 
From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6115 posts, 
From Sweden, joined Dec 2010, 1059 posts, 
From Andorra, joined Sep 2006, 1140 posts, 
From Germany, joined May 2010, 449 posts, 
From Bulgaria, joined Sep 2003, 4424 posts, 
From New Zealand, joined Nov 2010, 490 posts, 
From Israel, joined Dec 2003, 387 posts, 
From Ireland, joined Nov 2006, 25129 posts, 
From Venezuela, joined May 2005, 4919 posts, 
From Thailand, joined Apr 2001, 987 posts, 
From Belgium, joined Mar 2010, 1215 posts, 
and very annoying people they are.
Sultanils
From Finland, joined Jun 2009, 1705 posts, 
From Netherlands, joined Jan 2005, 4068 posts, 
From Papua New Guinea, joined Apr 2008, 953 posts, 
From Switzerland, joined May 2006, 1256 posts, 
From Hong Kong, joined May 2000, 300 posts, 
From Croatia, joined Feb 2011, 408 posts, 
From Singapore, joined Dec 2008, 1011 posts, 
Sponsor Message: 
Printer friendly format
