Check in for VX First is clearly identified at LAS, complete with bit of red carpet (which seems to have disappeared these days from the UC check in at LHR).We were quickly greeted by one of the VX ground staff working who were patrolling the floor and directed to the First desk.No queue here (although as we were taking up most of the First cabin this was hardly surprising[:w]).The same ground staff member then proceeded to lift our bags on to the scales despite Mr DL's proteststions (adamant that it was 'her job' and given the size of the biceps she proudly showed us she was probably a lot stronger than Mr DL[:0]- great lady and if I remember her name I'll add it later as she was more than happy to be mentioned).
Somehow the luggage we had acquired was greater than when we had arrived in LAX(nothing to do with me[}:)]) so the extra allowance in First came in useful.
Boarding cards in hand (Mr DL and DB in 1 A+C, brother and I in 1 D+F and the Dragon Elders in 2D+ F) we were advised to use the fast track security channel upstairs.Bearing in mind it was Labor Day weekend, LAS was even worse than it usually is and for some reason the world and his dog had decided to use the fast track line. Needless to say this incurred the wrath of the TSA staff (who sent the 'infiltrators' back to the end of the normal security lines) and also passengers who were legitimately using fast track.
A quick trip on the airtain and we were up at the gate where priority boarding for those in First was just being announced.
We were welcomed on bord by Eric (permission given to use name) who would be looking after us on our short trip.Pre-takeoff drinks offered and accepted (no fizzy stuff so a glass of vino) and we waited for the rest of the passengers to board.The First seats do look as if they've been nicked from a 'Pimp My Ride' show but are very comfortable,red blanket and cushions, in seat power etc (only down point was that DB's massage funtion wasn't working).There's plenty of purple perspex in the cabin too and the overall effect is rather nice.The male crew (including flight deck)wear black trousers and black shirts with discrete silver VX on breast pocket which I thought looked pretty chic.The Captain warned that the early part of the journey would be a bit bumpy, much to the horror of my flying phobic brother (who was sitting next to me).He wasn't wrong, and the initial stage of the journey was a bit rough,causing some of Eric's announcements to be a little high pitched (he did apologise for the squeaky delivery later[:D])and brother's blood pressure to soar.Once the seat belt signs were off cabin service began - more drinks (Bombay Sapphire and tonic this time) and a small snack box containing some olives, a feta cheese and tomato salad and a mousse type pud. I meddled with the IFE system (free in First as were the drinks and food) eventually settling on a bit of Bruce Springstein.Despite a very clear announcement being made by Eric that the forward toilet was for the use of First passengers only and the coach toilets were down the back ,it didn't stop a couple of passengers wandering up and using them [V].Further drinks were offered (and again accepted) and we were soon beginning our descent into SFO.Brother had told Eric of my 'strange obsession' with aeroplanes (particularly Virgin) and as we were descending Eric said he'd spoken with the chaps up front who had offered me a visit to the cockpit after landing if I was interested?
Interested!!!![:D]Mr DL and DB rolled their eyes and said they'd see me in the arrivals hall...
Descent and landing were straightforward with priority disembarkation for First.Once the rest of the passengers were off I was invited into the cockpit and was like a kid in a sweet shop. Torg (permission to use name )was more than happy to chat and answer my questions[y][y].
As I said my goodbyes I gave them V-flyer's details so I hope they check out the site (they said they would).
Bags were out and already gathered by the clan when I re-joined them[:)].Great flight, great crew.
DL
PS aircraft was 319 Airbus (Contents May Be Under Pressure)
