Hi all,

the next ZRH - A.NET summer meet will take place at July 17th, 2010.
Further details will be posted as soon as possible. The meet will start at about 10.30 am. Will be finished approx at 18.00pm.

Greetz,
Patrick

I will be through Zurich airport on the 19th to London Heathrow to attend the Farnborough Air Show and via ZRH again and overnighting in one of the airport hotels the night of 22/23 July. This is a miss-out. How would I know? The LX ticket is no date change/non-refundable as I wanted to spend the least money and reserved it early.  

So here are further details so far:

Meeting at SATURDAY July 17th, from 9:30am onwards at ARRIVAL 2 at the very rigth end, facing to the exits.
We have to check in for the shuttle bus to DOCK E at 11:00 am. Everybody should be here then the latest.
After 1 hour and 45 Minutes spotting from the terrace (we will see from there the SIA A380 taking of at RWY 16), we will proceed on with the bus airport trip and extendet hold at the world famous runway cross 16-34/10-28.   

After this, we will be brought back to the terminal or DOCK E for lunch brake.
Another guided tour will start at 15:30. This time, we will see how ZRH works. We see the how check in works as well as the nice AIRSIDE center from inside. It proceeds on with a trip in the SKYMETRO to DOCK E where we will see cool stuff as well. Maybe we can take a step inside a docked SWISS Airbus. This depends on current time scopes and availability at the LX dispatch office.

The tour will be finished at approx. 18:00.
The price of this tour depends on the amount of people showing up. Expect CHF 28,-- if only 30 show up. If 40 show up we, might pay only CHF 22,-- each person.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS TIME A MAYBE LIST IS IMPOSSIBLE!
All attendants will have to pay the complete trip in advance via PAY PAL. The effective acount will be anounced later on.
The fee has to be paid at least 15 days before the meet. Please don't consider this as a bad new rule. I have to go on this way, as a result of the high amount of no shows and no payers spoiling A.NET meets in the past.
If less then 30 people sign up, we have to cancel the whole meet, since the price would rise up for each person like a rocket.

I hope for a lovely meet with lovely weather and lovely A.NETTERS!   


Greetz,
Patrick

PS: Big thanks to Mr. Loosli from ZURICH AIRPORT. He made an acception for AIRLINERS.NET, since those bus trips are normally not anymore bookable at Saturdays!   

To anybody who has never been to any of Patrick's ZRH meets, let me just tell you that they are incredible, unforgettable events.

As for myself, I'm attending. Put me on the list.

Soren   

Definately attending:

Glidepath 73 + 4
Birdwatching

Quoting Birdwatching (Reply 3): To anybody who has never been to any of Patrick's ZRH meets, let me just tell you that they are incredible, unforgettable events.

  

I would really love to join for the 4th time but won't be able to have a day off at work on the 17th 

Patrick, thank you so much anyway for all your efforts, I wish you guys a fatastic day at ZRH !

Soren, see you at PRG in june !


JF

As every time, I can't miss Patrick's wonderful ZRH A.net meet, especially considering that Zurich Airport is making a special exception to open the tour on Saturday for us.

So here's the "definitely attending" list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
Birdwatching
ManuCH + 1

It's becoming tradition for me already to attend:

Glidepath 73 + 4
Birdwatching
ManuCH + 1
MH017 +1

Always nice to visit the 'insides' of ZRH Airport and to make the tour: herewith would like to thank Mr. Loosli too, and also Patrick for the efforts again !!!

Soren,

What/where/when in PRG ? Can remember you mentioning something about a tour there too, but apparently missed this: please, tell me more...

Quoting MH017 (Reply 7): What/where/when in PRG ?

Here you go:
PRG Meet 6/19-6/20 2010 (by DXing Mar 27 2010 in Non Aviation)
______________

ZRH-Meetings are a no-brainer for me, even though I still have to check flights & hotel ...
-HT

Attendance list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
Birdwatching
ManuCH + 1
MH017 +1
HT

EDIT: I reserved at the Radisson BLU from Friday thru Sunday. Flights likely will be on LX, but I will look for interesting routings more deeply tomorrow.
-HT

[Edited 2010-04-10 11:16:02]

Unfortunately, I just found that July 17 will be the wedding of a friend. So I can't come this year  

Attendance list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
ManuCH + 1
MH017 +1
HT

Mixed feeling here ....

First, Patrick I'm SO glad to see you back holding this unique and great meeting for yet another Edition. We missed you last year ...

Second, Holger, thank you SO much for last year organization. You were a great host, and we had a blast with Airtrainer and Anthony thanks to you.

Third, as some of you know, I do live now in Montreal. Family will be in town in July so I can't come. It's a big disappointment, not only as for the meeting itself, but also for all guys. I attended the last 4 meeting if my memory serves well and it was always a fabulous moment.

ZRH Meet is a must, but I just can't attend this year.

I wish you all a fantastic week end in Zurich,

Raphael

I will try to attend! I'll be in Croatia during that time and I planned on going to ZRH sometime in July. Now I just need to figure out if a train or plane is a better idea.

Quoting wcs (Reply 10): Third, as some of you know, I do live now in Montreal. Family will be in town in July so I can't come. It's a big disappointment, not only as for the meeting itself, but also for all guys. I attended the last 4 meeting if my memory serves well and it was always a fabulous moment.

What a shame, that you moved so far away! Maybe it works out next year!  

Quoting Birdwatching (Reply 9): Unfortunately, I just found that July 17 will be the wedding of a friend.

That's great, tell your friend that he can have his wedding on the Dock E observation deck, we will be glad to take pictures for free  

Seriously, it's a pity you can't come... maybe next year then!

Hi everybody! I've never been to Switzerland or Europe before and I'm extremely interested in attending the ZRH meet. Can anyone recommend a good hotel or hostel in Zurich? Also, how soon should I book the hotel? Thanks for the help!

Hey Patrick,

It's not the distance per se. I won't be able to attend this cause because family will be in town but I'm pretty confident regarding ZRH Meet 2011  

Have a GREAT one. Can't wait to see the pictures by the way  

Raphael

I

Quoting LONGisland89 (Reply 14): Can anyone recommend a good hotel or hostel in Zurich? Also, how soon should I book the hotel? Thanks for the help!

Well the IBIS Hotel is not bad. Check this out: http://www.ibishotel.com/de/hotel-29...s-zurich-messe-airport/index.shtml
The hotel is located only 5 km from ZRH.
The prices are ok.
Book as soon your decision is made to attend the meet.  

REGARDING THE PAYMENT DEADLINE:

I have to know the effective amount of attendant 15 days before the meet.

This date would be: SATURDAY, JULY 3rd, 2010.

Bookings after this date are not possible!
The payment has to be done finally at this day.

Just to remind: If less than 30 people sign up, I would have to cancel this meet, since prices would rise dramatically.

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 17): I have to know the effective amount of attendant 15 days before the meet. This date would be: SATURDAY, JULY 3rd, 2010. Bookings after this date are not possible! The payment has to be done finally at this day.

I read this as follows ... ?!
You will be able to define the cost on 03-JUL-2010, but in turn we shall transfer the money on the same day ? Might be a bit short, as not everbody is online here each day ...
Personally I will be attending the MAN-Meeting, on the Saturday in question ...

Holger

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 16): Well the IBIS Hotel is not bad. Check this out: http://www.ibishotel.com/de/hotel-29...s-zurich-messe-airport/index.shtml The hotel is located only 5 km from ZRH.

It also offers a (free, IIRC) bus shuttle.
On the same premises is the Formule One hotel (vary basic) also of Accor-Chain.
A couple of paces down the road is a Novotel from Accor.
More hotels on the road to the airport (a tram is running there) or near the airport.

The Park Inn is located too far off the interesting areas for my taste, but usually has good rates.

Quoting LONGisland89 (Reply 14): Also, how soon should I book the hotel?

Indeed, hotels should be reserved (but not necessarily "paid for") as soon as possible; gambling on falling rates last minute is deadly in Zürich.

More budget accomodation is available downtown, but in general rates are fairly high in Zürich.

Personally I will be staying at the Radisson Blu, which is linked to the airport. Hard to beat the comfort, especially for late arrivals.
-HT ...

Quoting HT (Reply 18): You will be able to define the cost on 03-JUL-2010, but in turn we shall transfer the money on the same day ? Might be a bit short, as not everbody is online here each day ...

Well, it would be good to have the amount of attendants together, even a few days earlier than that. One or two more or less is not a problem. But a whole bunch would be....  

ok, here a new update

Attendance list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
HT
ManuCH + 1
ME AVN FAN
MH017 +1
-
put into alphabetical order
 

I know this airport, but such tours are always interesting
nevertheless. And since early last years I live nearby now

Lets hope the Island Volcano will stop until July 17th then......            

Sofar only 11 takers ?

Quoting MH017 (Reply 22): Sofar only 11 takers ?

Seems like it. In any case, lets hope for nine more.
  

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 23): Seems like it. In any case, lets hope for nine more.

I'm pretty optimistic. July 17th is still almost 3 months away... not everyone likes to plan in advance. We'll make sure to pester everyone again in June  

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 23): Quoting MH017 (Reply 22): Sofar only 11 takers ? Seems like it. In any case, lets hope for nine more.

&

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 2): If less then 30 people sign up, we have to cancel the whole meet, since the price would rise up for each person like a rocket.

Patrick,
To my calculation 11 + 9 makes only 20, but wasn't "30" the minimum ?   

P.S. I tried to call you a number of times in recent days on your fixed line w/o success ...
-HT

Quoting MH017 (Reply 22): Sofar only 11 takers ?

Seems like it. In any case, lets hope for nine more.

Quoting HT (Reply 25):

True. But I think I might be able to kick in about a few more of my workmates and or friends if thinks might get worse. We should reach 30 at least.
Let's see how difficult it is. I rather prefer more A.netters to sign up though.  

Regarding calling: Strange, I can't find your calls in my phone display. Maybe there is something wrong with the number.
I'll pm it to you again. Just check it later on.

It would be a real shame to see this cancelled, so I'd better come too   

Glidepath 73 + 4
HT
ManuCH + 1
ME AVN FAN
MH017 +1
SRforever

Too bad I really can't come that day, I keep my fingers crossed for you guys, have a fantastic day !

JF

I have 2 more friends joining us. Here's the updated list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
HT
ManuCH + 3
ME AVN FAN
MH017 +1
SRforever

Too bad I really can't come that day, I keep my fingers f

Quoting ManuCH (Reply 29): I have 2 more friends joining us. Here's the updated list:

Nice!
As always before, all A.netters are invited to invite even their friends and family to the meet. Just ask around!   

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 30): As always before, all A.netters are invited to invite even their friends and family to the meet. Just ask around!

I am working on it, but at the moment I only have 1 "Maybe" who only will be able to decide last minute, realizing that there is no Maybe-list this time ...
-HT

Hey.. I've been thinking about attending this Meet for some time now.. I really enjoyed my last visit to ZRH plus this falls on my weekend off work.. I just need to look properly at fares and at prices for hotels... If anyone can recommend a hotel I'd be grateful.. I think I stayed in the NH last time...

Will update in a few days time..

Bye for now...

Ok... I'm a definite attendee..

Glidepath 73 + 4
HT
ManuCH + 3
ME AVN FAN
MH017 +1
SRforever
Ndebelebev

Here are my flight details...

Friday 16th July 2010

MAN-MUC LH4869
MUC-ZRH LH3742 arrives at 12.40

Sunday 18th July

ZRH-DUS LH3761 departs 09.25
DUS-MAN LH4884

I shall be staying at Holiday Inn Express Zurich Airport for the 2 nights.. As I shall be arriving early on the friday I was thinking I may go into Zurich city centre if anyone wants to join me...

I am looking in extending my stay by one night, making it a return to home on Monday as the hotel rate for the night Sunday to Monday went down. Flights still not decided ...
-HT

I´m joining  

This makes how many?




Julian

Quoting Julian773 (Reply 35): I´m joining   This makes how many?

That's great! Here's an updated list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
HT
Julian773
ManuCH + 3
ME AVN FAN
MH017 +1
Ndebelebev
SRforever

Total: 16

I booked my flights.
I am going for the nonstops this time.

Arrive Friday LX 0829 @ 2105h from HAJ
Depart Monday LX 0816 @ 1240h to HAJ

-HT

Only 16 participants sofar ...
Let's hope for some more people to join.
-HT

Just an idea in order to get more people 'on the list'

Since the PayPal doesn't have to be payed until July (more than 1 month) maybe it makes sence to open up a 'maybe' list until then?
I guess then we could see a more accurate number of people that might show up in the end.
Of course as of e.g. July 1st (more than 14 days before the event) the maybe list is 'deleted' and everyone has to either say yes or no... and then pay, no matter if show or no show...

Rgds, Patrick

BTW, I would also like to thank all past and current organisers for all the wonderful events! I still have my 'badge' with the user name from one of the first meetings and the sticker from the meet 2007 is in my Agenda  

Quoting swissa330 (Reply 39): Since the PayPal doesn't have to be payed until July (more than 1 month) maybe it makes sence to open up a 'maybe' list until then? I guess then we could see a more accurate number of people that might show up in the end. Of course as of e.g. July 1st (more than 14 days before the event) the maybe list is 'deleted' and everyone has to either say yes or no... and then pay, no matter if show or no show...

IIRC, Patrick (Glidepath73) needs to report the exact numbers of participants to the tour providers 1 month in advance. However, it still might be that he reports the maximum number of people that would go with a single tour guide and then it will be our (= the whole group showing up, not Patrick's) problem to distribute the cost associated.

With only 16 participants, the costs per head likely will go up signficantly.
Options to be discussed once needed, as at least I already have invested in non-refundable flight tickets ...

To be kept in mind: It is a financially risky thing to organize these meetings at ZRH, as the charge for the professional tours is staggered by number of participants (relating to number of tour guides needed to shepherd the crowd). For the tour I organized last year, the cut was (IIRC) 20 people, meaning it was a fixed total fee regardless whether 2 or 20 people participated.
Things are different for those meetings in the U.K. where the main focus seems to be "having a good time hanging out at either The Green Man (LHR) or the Airport Pub (MAN) and no real program behind.

Just my input as last year's organizer (which was far from reaching "break even" on the financial side, but the overall experience was more than worth it), but it is up to Patrick (Glidepath73) to allow a Maybe-List or not ...
-HT

Well the maybe List could be closed one month ahead...
It's more to get an more approximate idea of how many people will show up.

In a pretty extreme example:
I'd hate the meeting to be canceled because 'only' 25 Persons are definitive, and around 20 would have been 'maybes' of which most would come, but nobody knew...  

anyway, it's just a suggestion, Patrick(Glidepath) shall decide...

BR, Patrick

[Edited 2010-05-20 03:08:16]

Quoting swissa330 (Reply 41): Well the maybe List could be closed one month ahead...

Well, why do I announce the date of the meets always so early? Because attendees have then the possibility to make a clear decision and mark the day in the calendar and that's it! Nothing else will be planned on that day then.

If I plan to fly somewhere a certain day, I have to set up the date of flight, book even early to get a fair price and then nothing else happens that day by side this flight! I can't book a flight and tell the airline: Maybe I fly with you. The money will be gone, if you fly or not. Your YES should be a YES, your NO a NO.
Nothing different here with the meets.

Thus: NO MAYBE LIST!

People can make decisions for this day even early and stay behind their own decision to join.

I'm sure you understand that.

BR
Patrick

Ok I see where Patrick is coming from in that he wants people to make up their minds.. I shall be in ZRH nevertheless over that weekend.. If there will be no chance of the airport tour then so be it.. I will still spend the time on the Friday visiting the city and then maybe on the Saturday do a bit of spotting myself.. So on my half all will not be lost..

Bev x

Quoting ndebelebev (Reply 43): If there will be no chance of the airport tour then so be it.

Don't worry, the tour will be done. We will be at least 20 people.
  

I am joining the tour. Add me to your list.

Quoting topas69 (Reply 45): I am joining the tour. Add me to your list.

Welcome to A.net (i.e. your first post) and to the Meeting !

Updated list:

Glidepath 73 + 4
HT
Julian773
ManuCH + 3
ME AVN FAN
MH017 +1
Ndebelebev
SRforever
topas69

Total: 17

Still making up my mind on what to do on Sunday.
Options range from "heading to downtown Zürich", over spotting at ZRH, renting a bike and cycle around the airport, to taking the train to Lake Constance - even making a return trip ZRH - LUG - ZRH might be an option, albeit a costly one.
If only one could be sure about the weather ...
Likely I will decide last minute.
-HT

Quoting HT (Reply 47): taking the train to Lake Constance

Or take a train to Lucerne! A lovely town with nice buildings. You can take a boat trip on the lovely lake of Lucerne called "Vierwaldstätter See".

Quoting glidepath73 (Reply 48): Or take a train to Lucerne!

Great Idea. Might even visit the Verkehrshaus ...
-HT