Hello A.neter's,

1 year lurker, first time posting! Doing a business trip next month on UA from LAX to IAD. Used some mileage to upgrade to "first" class, but didn't find any posts which detailed what I might experience. I'm not expecting flat beds, etc, because of the short trip, but just wanted to see what others thoughts are on this leg/plane. It's a 319 on the way out, 320 on the way back. I have flown both of these several times, but just wondering whether it will be pretty ho-hum or a nice experience. Astonished that the flight was $219 for coach.

A little about myself....
-LAX based with the occasional BUR jaunt.
-I am in software sales and have been traveling frequently over the past 4 years, mostly Star Alliance with many WN. Did LAX to YYZ and back about a dozen times on Air Canada and really like them and their flight staff, but don't get up there much anymore  
-I do the LAX/BUR-OAK WN businessman's flight pretty frequently. Why other airlines aren't as easy to do business with is beyond me. WN's website is phenomenal for making easy changes to my schedule.
-Started to take some flying lessons on a Piper Warrior the past few months. Surprised how easy it is to control these things....landing approach of course is a different matter. I like it, but not sure I want to get certified. Was thinking about taking a helicopter flight.
-LOVE the 777. Only been on one flight, but it won my heart. She's a beauty. No problems with the 737/320 family either....airlines by them in bulk for a reason.
-Can't wait to see the 380, but really can't wait to ride the 787. Yes, I lean toward B, but appreciate A.
-When I do go into the office, it's a mile from LAX. At one point when I am working there fulltime, my cube faced out onto the approach and I got to see many planes.....it's almost crazy how many WN's land; quite a few FedEx as well. Was actually heading home from the office during JetBlue's scare last week and saw no less than 8 fire trucks and ambulances on their way to 25L.
-I still am not good enough to spot plane types just by sight. 737/747/777/320 family I'm good at, but 757/767/330/340's look alike to me. In time I guess.
-Dig the Shuttle...yes I know she's outdated, but she gets the job done. Keep her flying until the new shuttle is ready; screw the 2010 date.

Anyways, glad to be here. Thought this forum would be more welcoming on the newbie vs. the big board where some are aviation snobs.

Well, first of all welcome to airliners.net. Unfortuanetly, you upgraded on one of the worst flights, instead of on a 3-class 767 or 777 that UA flies on the route. That being said, you will get, in my opinion, one of the most comfortable domestic first class seats in the US. 40 inch pitch, nice width on the airbus, and quite personalized service, especially on the A319. I flew one in F on an evening flight ORD-SNA and the service was top notch. 4 flight attendants were on the flight, and at some times, 3 of them served F at a time. The dinner was quite nice, and sundaes for desert! There will be a movie on the drop down LCD screens and lots of space to work, but if you want to be "entertained" I advise you to bring a DVD or book because unlike the three class planes, there are no PTV's. There are power ports and UA offer's jet connect for internet usage. And of course, remember to post a TR! Happy flying.

Avoid the 1st row if you can. There are no cutouts in the bulkhead so leg room can get cramped even in First. There is usually time enough to get 2 movies in if they have them. Channel 9 helps, but without ATV there is no airshow. Attentiveness depends on crews, it has been hit and miss for me on this run. DC based crews tend to be a bit more friendly. LAX based crews can be the worst at times.

You did not say when you are going, but 3-cabin service on 777's is back starting October 31. I have been avoiding LAX to IAD because there has been no 3-cabin service since my last trip in July, but it resumes October 31 and runs through the holidays. I'll be taking this for my Christmas trip. Flights 946 and 947. I love it, especially in First (you would upgrade to Business which is still a nice treat).

If you don't mind changing planes - I would even recommend getting the DEN to IAD, Flights 902 and 903. Its a long trip, but you can get the 6:00 AM out of LAX to DEN to catch 902 to IAD. 902 and 903 are fantastic trips, senior Denver based crews that really make the "Friendly Skies." Fly that trip on Tuesdays and Thursdays and you can see my friends Cathy, Julie and the others who do that trip every Tuesday and Thursday. They are among United's true professionals.

Is this your first time to Dulles? Are you a Red Carpet Club member? If so, of the 3 clubs, the one near gate C7 is the best of them. It is terminal level and has some views. The one near C17 is also good. It is ground level and has views out on the tarmac and you can watch them servicing United Express flights.

Have a good trip, and make sure to post your report.

How are the crews on the other T7, flight 301, that leaves IAD at 8:30, b/c I'm going to be on that flight in First Suite in late December.

Quoting Daron4000 (Reply 3): How are the crews on the other T7, flight 301, that leaves IAD at 8:30, b/c I'm going to be on that flight in First Suite in late December.

Hey Daron,
Was on that flight last week in Business. Our crew was pretty bad, not exactly excelling in friendliness. As for breakfast, the usual fruit plate or scrambled egg baked potato thing.

Quoting Mymorningsong (Thread starter): Anyways, glad to be here. Thought this forum would be more welcoming on the newbie vs. the big board where some are aviation snobs.

Welcome aboard and enjoy your trip on Airliners.net

Regards BM