First (Class) in Flight
- brittanypanter
- 2014年11月19日
- 讀畢需時 3 分鐘
It’s not the destination, it’s the journey. Well, for those flying first class on a 13-hour trans Pacific flight from Hong Kong to San Francisco, that may be true. On a recent flight to America, we put the theory to the test.
Photo: United First Class lounge at Hong Kong International Airport
Booked in United’s Global First cabin, we arrived at the airport two hours before our flight. Not having to wait in line, the checking-in process was smooth and effortless. The friendly staff directed us to United’s first class lounge which is located on level seven of the west concourse. We enjoyed a quick glass of sparkling wine and canapes before heading to our gate, arriving just in time for the first boarding group. United’s privilege boarding policy seemed to include nearly half the plane, making for a not-so convenient or special experience for those that splurge on first-class tickets.
Photo: United Boing 747-400
The plane was a Boeing 747-400, meaning our seats were right in the nose of the plane, under the cockpit. My travelling companion and I took our seats as we were greeted by a very friendly flight attendant offering the standard orange juice or sparkling wine. Seeing as it was (almost) noon we decided on the latter. Rather than being served in a glass, we were brought a mini bottle of Cava each. Delightful and crisp, it is the perfect refreshment to take the edge off if you get nervous flying.
Amenities were outstanding, as expected. Comparable to first class cabins on other carriers, each seat pod features a flat-bed that does go completely flat and includes the de rigueur personal on-demand entertainment system coupled with very welcome noise-cancelling headphones. There was also plenty of storage space and power outlets with USB ports. One feature I was very impressed with was the turn-down service. Upon request (and even if you don’t ask but look as if you are going to try and sleep) a flight attendant will transform your seat into a bed complete with a 250 thread-count covered cushion and of course the standard duvet and pillow. The amenity kit contains Philosophy-branded items along with the other necessities for the long-haul flights.
About 30 minutes into the flight the meal service began. Not being too impressed by the selection of liquor available, we decided to go with wine. The menu featured a selection of about a dozen wines, but to our dismay we found out only a handful were available on our flight. Richly flavored wines to enhance cuisine are, we are informed, chosen in consultation with Master Sommelier and Master of Wine, Doug Frost. On the recommendation of the flight attendant we decided to taste a little bit of everything. All were fantastic, especially paired with the cheese platter that was served after the meal.
For our meal, we chose the fish and beef dishes out of the four options available which also included a vegetarian and chicken entree. The dinner service included six courses, starting with an appetizer, followed by soup and salad, a main entree, and ending with a cheese platter and dessert. The food was good, but nothing special. Out of the other first-class meals I’ve experienced I would have to say this one was just average.
After dinner it was time to relax. I was very impressed with the selection of programs and movies which offered a little something for everyone. With the lights dimmed and the wine taking effect I started feeling tired, which is when the flight attendant politely offered the turndown service.
Throughout the flight, passengers can of course can request any beverages they would like and there is a selection of snacks laid out if you get hungry before the next meal service which was served when we were about two hours from our destination. The light breakfast was a non-descript omelette served with coffee or tea. Again, nothing special which is a shame when you are traveling in first-class.
It seems that United is working hard to set themselves apart from other American-based airlines, although adding a few extra touches, (perhaps emulating the Middle-Eatern airlines) by offering pajamas, a better secletion of liquor and wine and even an onboard shower, would go a long way to making what is a very expensive ticket that much more bearable.
Be sure to check back for our upcoming review of the first class lounges at Hong Kong International Airport and San Francisco International Airport. And stay posted for our review on Qatar business class to see how it stacks up against United.
