N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 23 hours ago) and read 26582 times:
Unforgettable Iran Air 747 Classic Experience
This Trip Report is dedicated to all Iranian spotters and Iranian people for their remarkable hospitality!
To fly B747 SP or B747-100/200?
Iran Air operates several B747-100/200 Classics (B747-100 EP-IAM, and B747-200 EP-IAG, EP-IAH, EP-IAI) and four B747SPs (EP-IAA,EP-IAB,EP-IAC,EP-IAD)
The B747-100/200s were not scheduled on any particular route currently. Apart from Hajj flight, IR operates them on Ad hoc basis when the travel demands are high. On the contrary to get on a Iran Air B747SP was a lot easier task, Iran Air fly them on regular schedule basis to Mumbai, Istanbul, Beijing, Kuala Lumpur etc.
Because of the unpredictable pattern on the B747-100/200 classic operations, it has become a difficult task to fly on them. The B747 classics have been seen flying into Jeddah, Dubai, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur and Beijing from time to time. Sometimes the ship change takes place on last minute basis making one impossible to plan to fly the classics. Since I have flown the Iran Air SP eight years ago, my interests to fly their B747 classic are growing day by day.
A big scheduling task
During the Iranian New Year (Nowruz) this year, Iran Air has scheduled a B747 on Tehran – Dubai – Tehran daily for about 10 days. I found it out towards the end of the period on Friday 30th March and have decided to jump on the opportunity immediately. My friend UKDispatcher and I tried every possible ways to purchase a ticket on a Friday (which is a holiday in Middle East) in UAE and we have failed at all our attempts. It seems no travel agents were able to issue Iran ticket themselves without going through Iran Air office which was closed that day. We were thinking to fly overnight on Etihad from Abu Dhabi to Tehran then connect the B747 classic to Dubai. (A cool way to go from Abu Dhabi to Dubai instead of by car) But our plan couldn’t be executed without a Iran Air confirmed ticket.
So with a disappointed heart, I went to bed still thinking about the possibility of getting on the B747 classic. I woke up next day and decide to drive to Dubai to see which B747 classic (whether the 100 or 200 series) actually operated that day.
I drove 3 hours that day (1.5 hrs each way) to and back from Dubai just to confirm the type and reg. of A/C operating. I can’t stop thinking about ways to get on this plane when I was driving. I saw EP-IAM, B747-186B approach 15 minutes before its schedule arrival time when I was driving over the highway. I later managed a distant photo of her taxiing out for departure. I was excited and convinced that if I can find a way, I will be able to fly another B747-100 which I have only flown twice in the past before.
EP-IAM operated the Saturday service, as seen in Dubai.
Almost Despair and heart sinking
Due to the heavy passenger traffic going back to Iran towards the end of the Iranian new year holidays, the Iran Air B747 flight were totally booked out on all days. The only possible way is to fly Tehran – Dubai in one single direction which means I need to travel with another airline to Tehran and return with Iran Air.
A quick call was made to Emirates but the phone agent told me their flights (all 3 daily flights) were heavily oversold and no seat was available from Dubai to Tehran. A few other airlines were also sold out despite upsized their equipment from the usual A320s to B777-300/ER (Qatar and Etihad). Needless to say, it seems like the whole World wanted to go to Tehran at the same time! I was left despaired and went for a nap. I was planning to abandon the whole plan because it just ain’t happening at all!
After waking up in a few hours, I re-checked Emirates website, this time 1 seat in Economy was available on Sunday 1/4 (the next evening). It was like a small miracle and brought colours to life again. I reserved the seat straight away and plan to go to Iran Air office the next day to get my Iran Air ticket issued and fly out of Dubai that evening to Iran.
Ticketed!
The next morning came and things were busy but very smooth. Everything falls into the right place. I met with the lovely Ms Afsaneh at Iran Air GSA office and she had issued my Iran Air ticket within 10 minutes. I have also purchased several more for my later IKA-KUL-IKA B747SP trip and one for UKdispatcher.
Afsaneh at Iran Air Abu Dhabi GSA office cleaned her table and dressed up just for a photo! She was very kind.
With successful purchases of all ticket, my journey now looks like:
1/April EK977 Dubai Tehran B77L 1845 2125
2/April IR659 Tehran Dubai B747 0800 0945
Electronic Ticket!
One Last Worry
Although I have previously visited Iran twice, once in 2004 and once in 2006. I was under the impression I may no longer able to get a Visa on Arrival (VOA). On IATA visa requirement it mentioned I must have an Electronic Visa Number issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs Iran. When I visited their website, it said it was still under construction!
I have called the Embassy of Iran in UAE to confirm with the official who said I am still able to obtain one on arrivals. That cleared the last hurdle of me going into Iran and I will definitely going back many more times. I was also worried about Emirates agents insist on an Iran Visa at check-in, as if they would know the rules and believe I could obtain a VOA in Tehran. Inshallah!
Dubai – Tehran
I used the excellent Emirates Business Class lounge as a Gold Skywards member before flight though I was in Economy class. But my mind was so sharp and can’t relax much at all!
The lounge was quite empty as there aren’t many flights depart in early evening.
EK977 departs during the non hub hours of Emirates as you can see on the display above.
It was operated by a 3 class B772, A6-EMK, fully packed. Nothing out of ordinary on the flight except it was ship changed last minute from a B777-200/LR to a B777-200/ER.
Fully packed in all cabins.
With only 12 minutes to Tehran! I got very excited that I am coming back to Iran for the third time glory!
I arrived Tehran on time at 9:25pm and received my VOA only 20 minutes after the landing.
IRAN THREE PEAT
The arrival scenes at IKA. Things are much improved and civilized than my previous visit when it first opened in 2006.
Arrival screen of IKA. Full of traffic in the evening otherwise a very quiet airport. “IKA was London Heathrow only after dark” said Taha
Within 30 minutes, I was out and greeted by my Iranian friend, Sharham, Taha and Mohammed.
A group photo at IKA.
IKA at night.
Midnight at Mehrabad
I have informed my Iranian friends about my coming last minute and was very happy to see all of them waited for me at Imam Khomeini Airport, which is at least 40 minutes from the city itself. There were no hotels near IKA for overnight. (one was under construction and linking the terminal). Sharham have a perfect program line up for me; first we will drive to Mehrabad (the domestic airport of Tehran) and then we will stay under the approach light path and watch some arrivals. Once I get tired, we will go to the airport hotel which is inside the airport itself.
With 3 Iranian spotters under the approach at Mehrabad, the place has not changed since my last visit 6 years ago!
Terminal 1 of Mehrabad Airport. It is not used anymore.
A Paykan. I love the shape of this car. It is also getting rarer these days in Iran. I remember it was full of Paykan and its heavy gasoline exhaust smell on the streets of Tehran when I first visited in 2004.
The hotel is situated right next to the control tower. There were about 10 rooms and offer a limited view of the domestic ramp. It is a new hotel with decent accommodation.
The view from the room! Not bad at all!
Good Morning IKA
I woke up at 4:40am the next day. A pre-arranged taxi driver came and took me back to IKA. It was a 40 minutes smooth ride on the Persian Gulf Highway. Arrived at the terminal at around 5:45am and it was full of people inside the terminal. Many flights were departing in early morning.
Morning departure flights on display.
Economy check in area was by flight (not common check-in) for Iran Air.
Check in was smooth at the dedicated Iran Air Homa Class common check-in counter 47-48.
The lady handed me a boarding pass with Seat 1A on it but she told me seat 1B was reserved so I request to change to seat 5A, the last row in the nose area of the B747. Another lady wrote me a lounge invitation card (looks like a lottery ticket or a meal voucher actually)
After the check-in, I proceed with immigration. It was chaotic with people trying to push in front of each other. Only one line was opened for Foreign passport holder. There was a German guy who refuse having people push in front and argument were broke out. I waited over 30 mins and glad the wait was over.
I proceed to the Business Class lounge underneath the café. It was a comfy, open air lounge with some breakfast on offer.
All airlines use this lounge. I think this is the only lounge in IKA (not sure)
A decent amount of food and drinks were on offer, include ice cream!
The comfortable lounge.
Some pasta salad and blood orange juice as a starter.
Many models were on display.
The sun rise at about 6:30am. I can see 2 B747 classics (EP-IAG, EP-IAM) were parked next to each other on the remote ramp. At this point, I was confident that EP-IAM, B747-100B will be operating the flight to Dubai due to cargo loading activity.
EP-IAM getting prepared. I believe it was loading the flight to Dubai.
After the lounge, I proceed to the gate; I really like the Iranian airport system
You can see red/green light for each boarding gate which means whether it is open or not.
Boarding IR659
At Gate 22 (changed from gate 21 last minute), boarding started at 7:30am with about 100 plus passengers board through Iran Air bus for remote bay one by one….
We were bused out to the plane. Passing the B747SP EP-IAD which operates to Istanbul that morning and drive across the taxiway.
Busy morning activity at IKA.
Iran Air dominated IKA traffic.
Snapping photos of everything…..
Unexpectedly, our bus stopped in front of EP-IAG (B747-286BM) “Azarabadgan” Oh….!
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Reply 1, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 23 hours ago) and read 26885 times:
Unexpected
So it turned out we are flying the B747-200 instead today. That was unexpected at all. I was in denial for about a minute. But quickly my enthusiasm came back! A B747-200 classic is also very rare these days. I knew that as a fact this plane is actually older than her B747-100 brother! I was the last passenger got off the bus and join the rest of passenger onto the stairs to board the plane.
A very pleasant crew welcomed me at the door and guided me to my seat in 5A. My mood lifts up immediately when I boarded the B747-200 classic! It was immaculate, it was nostalgic, it was grand and I was the ONLY passenger today in Homa Class. I will have the whole cabin to myself!
A slight delay but photos were OK!
We have a slight delay. Push back and engine start did not start until 8:40am. (STD was 8am) so I took the opportunity to befriend with the Iran Air crew knowing Iranian hospitality are among the best in the World. They were amazed at my travel stories and enthusiasm on Iran Air B747 classics. They invited me for photos, asking me to stand on the staircase getting picture and explore around the whole cabin.
I have convinced the chief security in-flight to take a photo of me at the door!
The beautiful EP-IAM B747-186B is getting prepared as well.
I was the only passenger and can have the whole cabin to myself! Very well maintained and neat!
A welcome drink of Orange Juice and an Amenity Kit (Mashad Leather) was also offered! It was truly incredible. Not even Emirates or Singapore Airlines give you an amenity kit in Business Class for a 1hr 45mins flight!
The kind purser took more picture of me. I was like a kid in the playground! I keep changing seats and they were stunned but don’t seem to mind at all!
With the TV resetting the program on display, we are ready to depart!
EP-IAG
First Delivered 5.10.1976
Age 35.7 years old
IR659 Tehran Dubai 0800 0945
Capacity 22J/413Y
Pax No: 1J/112Y
Getting Ecstatic!
At 8:40am, the staircase was pulled and we were ready for push back. After push back, the wonderful sound of JT9D-7F came to live. I was ecstatic and knowing that I am already in heaven. Who cares if it isn’t a B747-100B, at least I flew with it before. Shortly before taxiing, I moved seats to a window seat in Economy to try to get photos of the engines/wings on climb out. Surprisingly, the crew actually encourages me to take photos during take-off!
“Please feel it like home, this is your home!” Sure, I was running around the cabin from front to middle when it was taxiing. Which other airline allows you to do this?
EP-IAM, the B747-100B push back at the same time, I believe it is operating a re-positioning flight to Mehrabad. How cool to have 2 B747 classic push back together!
Lining up on Rwy29R.
A Turkish Air A330-200 taxi to follow us.
Wonderful Take-off and Climb
At 8:51am , all four JT9D-7F roars and we were airborne within 20 seconds from Rwy29R of IKA follow by an immediate left bank towards the South heading to Shiraz, then Persian Gulf before landing into Dubai. The flying time was 1hr35minutes and cruising altitude at 35,000 feet.
Enjoy the best Iranian hospitality on offer
After photographing the takeoff, I moved back to Homa Class and it’s time now to enjoy the best Iranian hospitality on offer. I moved seat from 5A to 1K and recline the chair completely to relax. The seat have only 2 button, one to recline and one lever to pull for the leg rest to come up! It was simple mechanism at its best. The seat was perfectly comfortable and unlike many other recliners, the leg rest does come up fully and supporting the leg well. I have absolutely no problem m sitting on this chair for a long haul 10+ hours flight.
Having the whole cabin to myself.
Demonstrating the seat in full recline position.
A photo from Seat 1K.
Such an elegant spiral staircase. Why can’t we have this on the new B747 and A380?
So Retro! Lovely all the buttons and dials!
Fine Food on offer with gift to take home with…
Meal Service started straight away after I made myself comfortable. The single tray contains 3 different types of bread, yogurt and fruit, all neatly presented. While nothing special, I ate the bread and thinking this is all the meal because of the short flight.
The purser came around and asked, “What would you like for your main course?” I was stunned, I thought that one tray of bread and yogurt was it! “We have vegetable, steak and Persian food”. I chose steak and it was the best breakfast steak I ever have in my life! (Mind you I am not an easy person to satisfy on topic of food)
Here is the main course!
Lovely cooked steak. Love both the presentation and the flavor. It was tender, well cooked but weren’t overcooked.
I finished the meal with a cup of tea, of course! (With the famous Iranian sugar square block). Now what’s missing? Looking around, I found it very hard to resist the fine bone China with Iran Air logo on every single item. I want to take them home so I politely asked the purser, and his response was “they’re now yours!!!!” He came back and gave me few more items. It was very heartwarming, I can feel the generosity come from the bottom of his heart and I was left in awe.
My Souvenirs from the flight! Priceless!
Scenic views!
At the meantime, while enjoying the fine food on offer; I also enjoyed the views our B747 flew past, we took a Southerly track after departed from Tehran, passing Shiraz and one can see the snow capped mountain range (Zargos Mountain?) along the route. It was a pure pleasure eating the fine piece of steak while watching the views from the window to go past.
After the meal service, I took the opportunity to walk around the cabin and get some more photo of the B747 wing. Here are more pictures of the B747 classic beauty.
Every B747 flight should be completed with the wing photo!
The wing was so clean; Iran Air put many world class airlines to shame on the appearance of their planes!
Cabin Tour
I further explored the plane by walking from front to back several times.
Taken from the last centre row, I believe it was row 54.
Very light load means a lot of room and free to explore.
Forward Economy section where the curve of nose starts to appear.
The onboard Pray area immediately behind Door 1L.
Back to my own cabin!
You can see from the picture she is well maintained. (I believe she went through a major overhaul a year or two ago)
A cabin map of EP-IAG mounted on the wall.
Before we started our descend, the captain handed back my log book. It was my utmost pleasure to be onboard Iran Air!
From the wall mounted Sony Bravia LCD, we are over the Persian Gulf. The In-flight map of Iran Air is equally amazing and fully functional. I prefer this large LCD screen over the individual 10” screen
At about 9:45am UAE time, we started our descend.
End of a unforgettable flight
By this time, we were over water just before the coast of UAE. The weather was unusually overcast. Deira and the Burj Khalifa was clearly insight.
We flew past the airport on downwind, then a big 180 turn over the dessert before line up to approach on Runway 30L of Dubai Int’l airport.
Over the UAE desert.
Over Emirates Road at Mirdif before touch down!
At 10:10am, the B747 classic made a gentle and smooth touchdown.
Back to where everything is Emirates……
With a short taxi to the gate, my journey has come to an end. I was the first to get off the plane, and within 8 minutes I was out on the street of Dubai and head back to work straight away!
The last picture of “Azarabadgan”.
Thank you Iran Air
Thank you Iran Air. It was a sheer pleasure and reminded me why I love Aviation so much!
Although a short journey, but since I have made a real effort to fly the B747 classic, the dividend paid off tasted extra sweet. The memory of Iran and Iran Air will have a long lasting impression in me. It was a perfect flight and I enjoyed so much that I can’t describe or explain. I feel extremely privileged and thankful to the great Iranian Hospitality Iran Air offers. I do not have one sour note because of I flew the B747-200 instead of the B747-100. Instead of being negative, I have overcame it and definitely made the most out of the situation. I enjoyed every moment of it and I was still very excited when I type this trip report.
Iran, despite all the negative publicity and propaganda around her, is an absolutely fascinating destination. It was so unforgettable even spending a few hours there. I have travelled throughout Asia and the Middle East and few countries can be compared with Iran, created such long lasting impression in myself. I am not at all afraid. You have to go to Iran, to see the reality of the country and what has it got to offer.
I am looking forward to my next Iran Air ride later on this month, onboard the B747SP from IKA-KUL-IKA.
UK_Dispatcher From United Arab Emirates, joined Dec 2001, 2553 posts, RR: 32 Reply 2, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 22 hours ago) and read 26461 times:
Hi Sam,
EP-IAG/IAH are actually about 3 years older than the -100B, EP-IAM, so if you like, IAG is more 'classic'.
As you know, I got the same aircraft the next day - the same seat too! Great airline, great aircraft and great experience.
TupolevTu154 From UK - England, joined Aug 2004, 2127 posts, RR: 31 Reply 7, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 22 hours ago) and read 26069 times:
I'm looking at PEK-IKA with IR in September if everything stays hospitable between Iran and the west, and this is a fantastic taster of what I could be enjoying in a few months time!
Every time I read an Iran Air report all I ever hear is how great the crew are. Did you not visit the flight deck during the flight? It seems that's pretty easy on IR!
My fingers are crossed that I can get a transit visa without trouble and catch a flight aboard their 747SP and experience their hospitality for myself. Many thanks for posting, can't wait to meet those crews!
lukeyboy95 From Papua New Guinea, joined Apr 2008, 953 posts, RR: 34 Reply 8, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 21 hours ago) and read 25913 times:
Sam,
A wonderful report .Your enthusiasm was infectious...
IIRC you also visited Sudan at some point in the past. Perhaps not. But, the hospitality in these two countries I believe is some of the warmest to be had. What a shame each is vilified by the media (occasionally justified by actions of government!)
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): I have convinced the chief security in-flight to take a photo of me at the door!
How wonderful. It seems like the Iran Air crew treat the 747 like their home, in which you are their most sacred guest. This is amazing.
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): I was like a kid in the playground!
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Reply 9, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 21 hours ago) and read 25833 times:
Quoting UK_Dispatcher (Reply 2): EP-IAG/IAH are actually about 3 years older than the -100B, EP-IAM, so if you like, IAG is more 'classic'.
Loved it! Will keep trying for IAM and the rest of the fleet just like you will
Thank you all ! My pleasure to share the trip report with you all!
Quoting TupolevTu154 (Reply 7): Did you not visit the flight deck during the flight? It seems that's pretty easy on IR!
No, it is not easy. they did not let me visit upper deck and cockpit. I will try again on my next series of flights with them. May be after landing is easier.
You DO NOT need a Transit visa to transit IKA within 24 hours.
Quoting TupolevTu154 (Reply 7): My fingers are crossed that I can get a transit visa without trouble and catch a flight aboard their 747SP and experience their hospitality for myself. Many thanks for posting, can't wait to meet those crews!
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 8): A wonderful report .Your enthusiasm was infectious...
Quoting lukeyboy95 (Reply 8): How wonderful. It seems like the Iran Air crew treat the 747 like their home, in which you are their most sacred guest. This is amazing.
Thank you for the kind word. I am still very excited even 3 days after the trip......
mxp From Italy, joined Aug 2003, 389 posts, RR: 0 Reply 11, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 20 hours ago) and read 25617 times:
Sam
Superb TR. And about one of my preferred airlines
I had the pleasure to travel Iran already twice and u are right people there are phantastic and very very kind. I dont mind to return there in the future.
I flew last year in Homa Class from KUL to IKA and was unforgettable. Service was impeccable and people very very nice. I was only a bit fear of taking photos on board but i arrange anyway something.
Thanx for sharing
Alberto
luv2fly From United States of America, joined May 2003, 11957 posts, RR: 51 Reply 12, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 20 hours ago) and read 25574 times:
I have to say I am impressed with the looks of that plane, very nice condition for sure.
mjabbasi From Pakistan, joined Nov 2007, 31 posts, RR: 0 Reply 14, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 16 hours ago) and read 24648 times:
One day I will definitely visit Iran (its right next door) and only fly IR getting there. Sadly they only fly to Karachi once a week (usually an A300/A310 or 727) which means I would have to spend a whole week there. I have sizeable Iran Air model collection and would love a chance to go and photograph the real things. IR maintain their a/c meticulously and have plenty of cash, a huge stock of spare parts and their planes also have low flying hours and cycles and their onboard service seems almost at par with those 5 star airlines. Their only drawback is their ageing fleet and if they had 777's and A330's etc, I'm sure they would be up there with those 5 star airlines.
SEA From United States of America, joined Jul 2011, 217 posts, RR: 0 Reply 15, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 23688 times:
I'm not joking when I say that I've been in 2 month old airliners that are in worse condition than that classic. Amazing!
767747 From United States of America, joined Jan 2005, 1761 posts, RR: 25 Reply 16, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 23582 times:
Great report!
Quoting N178UA (Reply 9): I finished the meal with a cup of tea, of course! (With the famous Iranian sugar square block). Now what’s missing? Looking around, I found it very hard to resist the fine bone China with Iran Air logo on every single item. I want to take them home so I politely asked the purser, and his response was “they’re now yours!!!!” He came back and gave me few more items. It was very heartwarming, I can feel the generosity come from the bottom of his heart and I was left in awe.
Quokkas From , joined Dec 1969, posts, RR: Reply 18, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 23392 times:
Hi Sam,
What a wonderful trip report!
The experience you had with Iran Air was clearly a treat and it comes across in your writing and the photos. The hospitality that you were shown by the crew, the kindnesses displayed in humouring you in taking photos, the gifts and the personal service all show how much they were pleased to make your journey a pleasure. But I suspect that the way that you treat the crew also helps.
debonair From Germany, joined Jan 2004, 2114 posts, RR: 4 Reply 19, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 2 hours ago) and read 23202 times:
Hi Sam, what an OUTSTANDING TR, but
Quoting N178UA (Thread starter): After waking up in a few hours, I re-checked Emirates website, this time 1 seat in Economy was available on Sunday 1/4 (the next evening).
I think the marriage made you lazy! What happened to the "old" Sam we did to know? I was expecting something more exotic like MAHAN AIR or even Iran Asseman flight IRC6700 from IST to IKA on A340 EP-APA (c/n002!!!)
vhtje From United Kingdom, joined Jan 2009, 307 posts, RR: 0 Reply 20, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 1 day 2 hours ago) and read 23116 times:
Thank you for a wonderfully warm and enthusiastic trip report - an absolute pleasure to read, and a marked difference from the look-at-me/show-off reports that litter this forum. You are a true aviation enthusiast and your passion shows.
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Reply 21, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 20 hours ago) and read 22527 times:
Quoting debonair (Reply 19): I think the marriage made you lazy! What happened to the "old" Sam we did to know? I was expecting something more exotic like MAHAN AIR or even Iran Asseman flight IRC6700 from IST to IKA on A340 EP-APA (c/n002!!!)
Does Iran Aseman fly A340 between IST-IKA? I would love to do it, let me know the schedule. Sometimes I wish I know more information so I can plan better. But you're not wrong, married life ain't the same anymore
Quoting vhtje (Reply 20): Thank you for a wonderfully warm and enthusiastic trip report - an absolute pleasure to read, and a marked difference from the look-at-me/show-off reports that litter this forum. You are a true aviation enthusiast and your passion shows.
Thank you. I would say everyone's trip report does show off their stories to some extent and I am no exception. But I hope to keep mine as objective and as accruate as possible. I don't like marketing any particular airline. That's beyond trip report for me.
Quoting Quokkas (Reply 18): The experience you had with Iran Air was clearly a treat and it comes across in your writing and the photos. The hospitality that you were shown by the crew, the kindnesses displayed in humouring you in taking photos, the gifts and the personal service all show how much they were pleased to make your journey a pleasure. But I suspect that the way that you treat the crew also helps.
Thanks. They did buy my enthusaism. I love Iranian people and they return the favour to me.
Quoting SEA (Reply 15): I'm not joking when I say that I've been in 2 month old airliners that are in worse condition than that classic. Amazing!
Quoting turk223 (Reply 13): Your reports are always so wonderful... I read every word! I've read many positive things about IR; your report just adds to them.
Quoting luv2fly (Reply 12): I have to say I am impressed with the looks of that plane, very nice condition for sure.
Quoting EmpressOfCanada (Reply 17): What amazing hospitality! Great souvenirs from the flight too!
Quoting HUYfan (Reply 10): I flew to Iran many times when I worked for BMED, and the Iranian people are undoubtedly the most hospitable people I have ever met!
Thank you all. Comments well received.
Quoting mxp (Reply 11): I flew last year in Homa Class from KUL to IKA and was unforgettable. Service was impeccable and people very very nice. I was only a bit fear of taking photos on board but i arrange anyway something.
Alberto, did they still serve Caviar in Homa Class? That's the big question
The777Man From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 6115 posts, RR: 56 Reply 22, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 17 hours ago) and read 22221 times:
Hi Sam!
Very nice report with amazing pictures ! IR seems to offer very good service on this very well maintained aircraft. Extra bonus to get the china to take home !
I'm still thinking of flying Saha Air's 707 if it's still flying....
Looking forward to your next report!
The777Man
Need a Boeing 777 Firing Order....Further to fly....GA, T5, CI and LX 777s
reifel From Germany, joined Feb 2005, 1155 posts, RR: 1 Reply 25, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 14 hours ago) and read 21978 times:
Hi Sam,
absolutely stunning report! A classic bird in such a good shape. And a thrilling experience onboard! I'm sure this came from the bottom of the heart of the crew and was really sincere!
lychemsa From United States of America, joined Oct 2009, 906 posts, RR: 3 Reply 26, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 13 hours ago) and read 21941 times:
I remember in the 1970s when IRAN AIR flew to New York via London. I regret not having flown with them at the time. I also remember their ticket office on Madison Avenue which replaced British Caledonian.
flightsimboy From Canada, joined Sep 2005, 862 posts, RR: 4 Reply 27, posted (1 year 2 months 2 weeks 12 hours ago) and read 21920 times:
Sam another one of your awesome reports!! Glad you could finally find a way to ride this gorgeous aircraft.
Quoting N178UA (Thread starter): I met with the lovely Ms Afsaneh at Iran Air GSA office and she had issued my Iran Air ticket within 10 minutes. I have also purchased several more for my later IKA-KUL-IKA B747SP trip and one for UKdispatcher.
Unexpectedly, our bus stopped in front of EP-IAG (B747-286BM) “Azarabadgan” Oh….!
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): I was the last passenger got off the bus and join the rest of passenger onto the stairs to board the plane.
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): A very pleasant crew welcomed me at the door and guided me to my seat in 5A
Disappointing it was not the 747-100! I'm surprised you could use your camera so openly.
Quoting N178UA (Thread starter): The lady handed me a boarding pass with Seat 1A on it but she told me seat 1B was reserved so I request to change to seat 5A, the last row in the nose area of the B747
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): I was the only passenger and can have the whole cabin to myself! Very well maintained and neat!
Why did the agent tell you 1A was reserved when you were actually the only one in J class?
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): The kind purser took more picture of me. I was like a kid in the playground! I keep changing seats and they were stunned but don’t seem to mind at all!
Cute lol
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): Shortly before taxiing, I moved seats to a window seat in Economy to try to get photos of the engines/wings on climb out. Surprisingly, the crew actually encourages me to take photos during take-off!
“Please feel it like home, this is your home!” Sure, I was running around the cabin from front to middle when it was taxiing. Which other airline allows you to do this?
I think Sam only you get away with these things lol
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): The seat have only 2 button, one to recline and one lever to pull for the leg rest to come up! It was simple mechanism at its best. The seat was perfectly comfortable and unlike many other recliners, the leg rest does come up fully and supporting the leg well. I have absolutely no problem m sitting on this chair for a long haul 10+ hours flight.
Old is gold in this case, I guess!
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): The purser came around and asked, “What would you like for your main course?” I was stunned, I thought that one tray of bread and yogurt was it! “We have vegetable, steak and Persian food”. I chose steak and it was the best breakfast steak I ever have in my life! (Mind you I am not an easy person to satisfy on topic of food)
Would have been nice if you had to go for the Persian option, as that would have then truly completed the IRAN AIR experience. But I'm not what a Persian option would have consisted of?
Quoting N178UA (Reply 1): I found it very hard to resist the fine bone China with Iran Air logo on every single item. I want to take them home so I politely asked the purser, and his response was “they’re now yours!!!!” He came back and gave me few more items. It was very heartwarming, I can feel the generosity come from the bottom of his heart and I was left in awe.
Those must be nicely displayed in your china cabinet at home now.....If Mrs. Chui would allow it lol
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Reply 28, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 6 days 8 hours ago) and read 21012 times:
Quoting The777Man (Reply 22):
I'm still thinking of flying Saha Air's 707 if it's still flying....
Maybe you find a sole, lonely safety card onboard this a/c... Looking fwd to a TR soon!
Thanks for this, worth to consider.....
Quoting MadameConcorde (Reply 24): how much did the one way Tehran to Dubai Business Class ticket cost you?
About 250 USD.
Quoting MadameConcorde (Reply 24): i want to go fly with these iran air birds too - no airbii only the 747s
Bravo!
Quoting reifel (Reply 25): absolutely stunning report! A classic bird in such a good shape. And a thrilling experience onboard! I'm sure this came from the bottom of the heart of the crew and was really sincere!
Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 27): Sam another one of your awesome reports!! Glad you could finally find a way to ride this gorgeous aircraft.
Thank you for the kind words.
Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 27): Why did the agent tell you 1A was reserved when you were actually the only one in J class?
I believe 1B was blocked, but no passenger. The agent told me 1B was reserved. I was allocated 1A. But at the end, it was the best scenario for photos, no other passenger.
Quoting flightsimboy (Reply 27): Would have been nice if you had to go for the Persian option, as that would have then truly completed the IRAN AIR experience. But I'm not what a Persian option would have consisted of?
Good Point. But because I know all the food are cooked Iranian way, Iran Air's steak (from my previous flights) never disappoint!
I would also like to bring my first Iran Trip Report (Written in 2004, never published on A.net) here
Quoting N178UA (Thread starter): I want to take them home so I politely asked the purser, and his response was “they’re now yours!!!!” He came back and gave me few more items.
Wow !! Which crew would ever do that?
Always waiting for your fantastic TRs - it's like being there on the flight!
julio777 From Indonesia, joined Jan 2012, 19 posts, RR: 0 Reply 31, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 5 days 21 hours ago) and read 20525 times:
Hi Sam,
What a great report, thanks for putting it together. I always love to visit
Iran and my friend told me Tehran is so beautiful and stunning, but i have no friends to show me around there. Is it easy to get local tour arranged from the hotel? Secondly i am honestly quite afraid if i go to Iran it will be difficult for me to extend my visa to us and europe? Am i just overworried? .
IR800 From Iran, joined May 2009, 33 posts, RR: 0 Reply 32, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 23 hours ago) and read 20103 times:
Quoting julio777 (Reply 31): I always love to visit Iran and my friend told me Tehran is so beautiful and stunning, but i have no friends to show me around there. Is it easy to get local tour arranged from the hotel?
It shouldn't be any hard.
Just contact any of Iranian spotters, and then you will have lots of friends in Iran! (just like Sam)
christao17 From Thailand, joined Apr 2005, 894 posts, RR: 9 Reply 33, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 21 hours ago) and read 20002 times:
I have to say, not only was this a fun trip down memory lane - a living antique! - but I really enjoyed the tremendous enthusiasm you displayed. It was a pleasure to read.
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Reply 34, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 20 hours ago) and read 20000 times:
Quoting SIN7 (Reply 29): Wow !! Which crew would ever do that?
I found it a few "not so strict" managed airline, the purser often do it without anyone questioning it. I have collected some gift from Sri Lankan Air, Egypt Air etc. A lot of crew are truely touched and appreciate the passion we have demonstrated in our enthusaism towards the airline, they will do anything to make you happy
Quoting SIN7 (Reply 29): Always waiting for your fantastic TRs - it's like being there on the flight!
Thanks for the encouragement, I will post 1 or 2 more soon. Despite I think I should put more effort in writing more as I travelled over 80 flights last year. Married life is just different
Quoting MadameConcorde (Reply 30): For those who want to fly out of Tehran on the 747s/707s I think we should do it soon before it is too late.
Some are beating the drums of war. I am very well afraid our beautiful flying friends might just be reduced to ashes.
Quoting julio777 (Reply 31): Secondly i am honestly quite afraid if i go to Iran it will be difficult for me to extend my visa to us and europe? Am i just overworried?
There's nothing to be afraid of. I have US entrance stamp next to Iran Visa on my passport
Quoting christao17 (Reply 33): I have to say, not only was this a fun trip down memory lane - a living antique! - but I really enjoyed the tremendous enthusiasm you displayed. It was a pleasure to read.
Thank you Christao. We should definitely meet up in BKK next time. I missed your good old TRs!
Sam
Quoting IR800 (Reply 32): I always love to visit Iran and my friend told me Tehran is so beautiful and stunning, but i have no friends to show me around there. Is it easy to get local tour arranged from the hotel?
It shouldn't be any hard.
Just contact any of Iranian spotters, and then you will have lots of friends in Iran! (just like Sam)
Tehran is very nice, next to the mountains and have four distinct seasons (unlike Gulf Countries). It is the largest city in the Middle East along with Cairo.
Continental From United States of America, joined Jun 2000, 5477 posts, RR: 20 Reply 35, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 20 hours ago) and read 19978 times:
Super cool trip report. The crew on Iran Air seems amazing!
MadameConcorde From San Marino, joined Feb 2007, 10356 posts, RR: 40 Reply 36, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 20 hours ago) and read 19988 times:
Quoting N178UA (Reply 34): There's nothing to be afraid of. I have US entrance stamp next to Iran Visa on my passport
I don't need a visa to go to Iran. It's the war I am concerned about.
I don't want the Iran Air 747s and all other Iranian passenger transport aircrafts to be blown to pieces.
There was a better way to fly it was called Concorde
IR800 From Iran, joined May 2009, 33 posts, RR: 0 Reply 37, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 20 hours ago) and read 19943 times:
Quoting MadameConcorde (Reply 36): I don't need a visa to go to Iran. It's the war I am concerned about.
I don't want the Iran Air 747s and all other Iranian passenger transport aircrafts to be blown to pieces.
The war against Iran is like a childish joke! I bet it will never happen. So forget about what politicians say, and plan for your trip safely.
Anyway, is this fiction war going to be against nuclear facilities, or Iran Air?
irelayer From United States of America, joined Jul 2005, 1071 posts, RR: 2 Reply 38, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 4 days 6 hours ago) and read 19475 times:
Great TR! As an Iranian-American I've only been back to Iran 3 times in my life. Once I was 4 and don't remember, but back in the early 1990s we went back for two straight summers. I flew on a F100 and a 727 when these planes were still commonplace in the US. Needless to say I am quite jealous of you Sam!
globalflyer From United States of America, joined Dec 2005, 812 posts, RR: 2 Reply 39, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 3 days 17 hours ago) and read 19065 times:
Hi Sam. All I can say is WOW! What an amazing adventure. Your Persian friends really took care of you as well as the flight crew. I have heard of the wonderful hospitality there and I really wish I could visit one day. Everyone seems so young and friendly and the people are just beautiful inside and out. I am glad that we few here have aviation at our hearts and not involved in all of the political messes. I am shocked at how they allowed you to photograph there and would think that it would be restrictive but it shows how much we on the outside do not know of this country. Maybe one day I too can experience this incredible hospitality. Your china set is going to be worth a fortune! Thanks for sharing! Cheers, Will
Landing on every Continent almost on an annual basis!
jetblast From United States of America, joined Nov 2004, 1201 posts, RR: 11 Reply 40, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 3 days 17 hours ago) and read 19029 times:
Sam,
It's always an absolute pleasure to read your reports - some of the best on these forums. It's a shame our US government is not very hospitable to Iranian passport stamps! Such kind people and what a beautiful experience.
Looking forward to reading about your next adventure!
MSS658 From Belgium, joined Oct 2010, 2256 posts, RR: 14 Reply 41, posted (1 year 2 months 1 week 2 days 22 hours ago) and read 18649 times:
Hi Sam
Great work you posted here. So nice to see you got the Classic logged, and IR made it a special expercience as well.
Quite amazing that you where allowed to move during taxi
ronerone From Jordan, joined Aug 2004, 1550 posts, RR: 54 Reply 44, posted (1 year 2 months 4 days 21 hours ago) and read 17402 times:
Stunning Trip Report Sam. Definitely one of my favorites!
I spent some time reading it over more than once, and i could read it again and again! To be honest, Iran Air's SP has become a little on the 'mainstream' side (though it certainly doesn't mean i won't want to fly on it ) but you captured Iran Air off its radar, and perhaps in the best way i have seen to date!
The seats are somewhat similar to SV's seats on the 743, and the meal looked delicious! And that IR china has got to be the best gift ever! Well done my friend!
Perhaps next Nawruz (or Eid maybe) i should hunt those classics down!
Many thanks for sharing!
Cheers,
Roni
A Stop Away From One-Stop, Is Non-Stop : Airbus A340-500
Avianca From Venezuela, joined Jan 2005, 5858 posts, RR: 40 Reply 45, posted (1 year 2 months 12 hours ago) and read 16614 times:
what a great report! I am still kicking my ass that I didnt use Iran Air when they flew into CCS with the SP!!!
Quoting N178UA (Thread starter): Meal Service started straight away after I made myself comfortable. The single tray contains 3 different types of bread, yogurt and fruit, all neatly presented. While nothing special, I ate the bread and thinking this is all the meal because of the short flight.
Quoting N178UA (Thread starter): The purser came around and asked, “What would you like for your main course?” I was stunned, I thought that one tray of bread and yogurt was it! “We have vegetable, steak and Persian food”. I chose steak and it was the best breakfast steak I ever have in my life! (Mind you I am not an easy person to satisfy on topic of food)
looks very good, and looks like that on all trip reports regarding Iran Air Business the same happened to you guys... that you thought you get only the bread basket as breakfast! jajaja
N178UA From United Arab Emirates, joined Jan 2001, 1626 posts, RR: 68 Reply 46, posted (1 year 1 month 4 weeks 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 16095 times:
Quoting ronerone (Reply 44): The seats are somewhat similar to SV's seats on the 743, and the meal looked delicious! And that IR china has got to be the best gift ever! Well done my friend!
Hi Roni
Thank you.
The SV B743 seat reclines better, with only 18 (4 rows of seats) in nose area. Iran B74L/B741/2 have 22 seats, 5 rows with less leg room. But both airlines recliners are very comfortable.
Quoting ronerone (Reply 44): Perhaps next Nawruz (or Eid maybe) i should hunt those classics down!
TWA1985 From United States of America, joined Nov 2006, 641 posts, RR: 0 Reply 48, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 6 days 20 hours ago) and read 15463 times:
Great report! I'm curious, are there seats on the upper deck? From the seat map, it looks like it's empty.
HermansCVR580 From United States of America, joined Jul 1999, 494 posts, RR: 1 Reply 49, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 6 days 19 hours ago) and read 15402 times:
Very well done. I would love to be able to try out some of these classics one day. To bad our governments can't play nicely and share their toys. I want to try out Saha Air's 707's and any 747 classics.
The right decision at the wrong time, is still a wrong decision. "Hal Carr"
Quoting amax1977 (Reply 50): Sam. When are we going to see the TRs on your IR IKA-PEK & KUL-IKA trips? I personally cannot wait! :P
You will have to wait a little longer on KUL-IKA trip. My travel companion Ronerone decided to take charge and write that one I am sure he will write up something much more amazing that I do!
fanofjets From United States of America, joined Apr 2000, 1898 posts, RR: 3 Reply 53, posted (11 months 3 weeks 8 hours ago) and read 9639 times:
Sam,
Add me to the long queue of A.nutters who loved your report. I have been fascinated by Iran Air and their aircraft. Your pictures inside and out were spectacular. An "oldtimer" myself, I grew up with 707s and 747 classics (the newest 747 I have ever flown was AI VT-EFU, built 1978). Most of the planes I have flown on are oldtimers, too. I like it that way. Great to see these old birds still flying, and thank you for sharing your enthusiasm (I saw your YouTube video, too).
The aeroplane has unveiled for us the true face of the earth. -Antoine de Saint-Exupery
celestar From Singapore, joined Jul 2001, 258 posts, RR: 0 Reply 54, posted (11 months 3 weeks 7 hours ago) and read 9605 times:
What a wonderful TR this is! Sometimes, I wish I can know what a wonderful job Sam is doing as he always have such wonderful experience and opportuity!
What daunts on me, on this TR is that no matter how politically we can be different, or our government can be, at the end of day, if you show your politeness and respect, humanities prevails! We are all human being and inherently, we have kindness in our heart!
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