Flights PER HKG LHR
We have survived the long flying stage from Perth to Hong Kong and after a brief period in transit on to London Heathrow airport.
The 8 hours stage from Perth to Hong Kong (departure 15min past midnight from PER - arrival 08:00 in HKG) must go down as one of the most uncomfortable flights we have been on for many years. The aircraft should have been taken out of service a long time ago. The Business Class area seating reminded me of “cattle class” on a Qantas flight I was on in 1994. OK - Anybody who knows me will agree that it is not easy finding seating for me that is comfortable - I am 2m tall and built like a “BSH”. That is one reason we do spend the considerable extra money on Business Class. I also make sure I have a seat in the front row so that I have that little extra leg room.
NONE of this was of any use in this aircraft.
But we were told by another frequent flying traveller that this airline (Cathay Pacific) is not the only one (he mentioned our own National carrier doing the same thing) who will put clients travelling this route (Perth to Hong Kong) into this out of date accommodation during a night flight where one expects to have some possible sleep time …… definately not possible on this flight !!
On a positive note: The cabin staff was most helpfull and attentive and even apologetic ….
The next stage to London was much more up to date with the modern business style seats etc. We got some good sleep at last and landed on time (4pm) at LHR. - The taxi driver gladly took my Google Map print out to get us for a fee of 65 pounds to our hotel in Windsor - where the familiar friendly staff made us feel at home. A couple of drinks and some food at the local corner pub before hiiting the pillows for a good nights sleep.
…… end of day 1 - 03.May 2008