Decided to pop up to Darwin for the day, as one does, as Tiger had a $10 one way incl taxes sale on Tues/Weds.
Tiger operate out of their own terminal at Tullamarine and we arrived slightly ahead of the two hour before when check in was scheduled to be open. On arrival found check in was already open and joined the smallish queue - albeit rather confusingly to many in front a desk with checking in the Perth flight.
An airline rep was walking through the queues reminding all of the 15kg baggage allowance and that for the DRW and Perth flights excess would be $33/kg. However nothing for us to worry about as we only had hand luggage - which was weighed as was everyone elses. Tiger would appear only to convey what has been paid for. We were soon checked in and allocated 22A&B. We chose not to reserve out seats in advance as for normal seats it costs $8 per seat per leg and $32 for emergency exit rows, including row 1.
Proceeded through to their departure lounge - I know they are a low cost airline - but the lounge was more a kin to a bus or train station waiting room than an airport with only steel seating, there was a newsagent and coffee shop. Security insisted on opening and scanning umbrellas separately - not seen that before.
Boarding was called at about 2240 and we set off on the hike, bring own refreshments, to the aircraft. I suppose not that far really but used to doing the walking inside the terminals rather than across the tarmac.
Flight was busy but not full so we ended up with 3 seats for the two of us. Fabric seat coverings not the DJ or JQ leather but comfortable enough. I'm 5'8' and there was only just over an inch between my knees and the seat in front. We took off on time and the inflight service started - same prices as DJ & JQ - not many takers as it was an 2300 departure with four hours flying time. I managed to sleep quite well - did have earplugs and eyeshades with me - although as soon as service complete the cabin lights were turned off until just before descent to do a final cabin check.
Landed in Darwin at 0200 (1.5 hour time difference) and as had no luggage jumped in on of the 3 taxis waiting and headed to hotel to get some sleep.
Overall I cannot complain $10 well spent. I suppose the only drawback is the departure lounge not being too comfortable. But I would probably have avoided low cost for a 4 hour flight if it were not for the price (probably not to be repeated) however I was pleasantly surprised.
Just as well really as we have another three trips with them in the coming months.
Rob
