This is my first trip report, so here goes.

Airline: Aer Arann
Flight No: RE 684
Scheduled Departure: 12:15
Equipment: ATR 72-201 EI-REI

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I arrived at the terminal at about 10:00 for the 12:15 departure. The new terminal building at Cork is very light, airy and modern, it is a little strange as no matter how busy the terminal gets the sound levels are very low. Its pretty relaxing to be honest. There are also plenty of monitors and information screens, so no excusues for being late!

The check in for RE 684 to Leeds/Bradford was listed for Check-In at desk 7. So off I truged, with my luggage in tow. The set-up was a little confusing, as only two desks were open for Aer Arann, and they listed specific flights. However I was able to check-in at Desk 7 without a problem, and shortly afterwords I was in possession of my boarding card. I decided to go to the "Engligh Market" foodcourt for breakfast. The food here is of good quality and large portions are served. Its not cheap, but hey this is an Airport...in Ireland!

At about 11:35 EI-REI arrived into ORK from EDI, so at that point I decided to clear security. There was no significant que, so I was through in a matter of minutes. I then spent some time in the spacious and pretty well stocked Duty Free shop. Passengers are pretty much obliged to pass through this area, there is an alternitive, but it is obscure and awkward.

I didnt record times, but the flight boarded on time, and departed on time. The crew consisted of a Dublin Based flight Crew and two young Cork based cabin crew. All crew members were friendly and attentive. The aircraft itself is like many of REs ATRs. They are worked hard, and the interiors are often scuffed and marked. The cabin itself was clean, however. As ususal with an ATR, the stowage is not great, and its pretty noisy.

After a short taxi past an EI A320, an FR 738, two FUA 737s (1 738, 1 734) and a company ATR 72 and 42 we took off on the south westerly runway (17, I think) and were soon engulfed in dense cloud. The cabin service began shortly afterwards, with complementary news papers and the "express it" magaziene. Refreshemnts were offered for purchase, unusually the crew did not use a trolley, but instead came to each individual to take their order and then delivered it to their seat. I, however am still waiting for my tea!

We began our descent and soon we were approacing Leeds/Bradford. Condtions at LBA were better than at Cork, as there were no gusting winds or rain. Vibility was 8000m apparently. The touch down was more of a slam-down, it was a real gear cruncher. After a quick taxi, and the usual announcements we parked, shut-down and disemarked.

Overall it was a pleasant flight, and if the flight times suited me better for weekend breaks home I would definatley look to use the RE service more often.