HA245 OGG-HNL 2 MAR 11 (FIRST)
Posted: 09 Mar 2011, 22:34We had checked in on line and collected our boarding passes at the airport. We were on the other side of the plane on this trip and we checked in three bags for free (we were allowed two each). Security was slightly slow, but we were in no rush. Headed up to do a little bit of last minute present buying with an aim to use the HA Premier Lounge for a soft drink. However, it was shut for one day for maintenance, so can't say whether it was any better than in HNL. We settled for a drink at the airport bar / restaurant with great views over the runway and apron.
As before ther are no flight annoucements made and no departure boards around the terminal, so we went down around boarding time. First, as on the way over, was full - there are 8 seats on a Boeing 717 (2-2), whereas coach is 2-3. Leg room is not bad in first and the seats are comfy and have some recline.
After a short taxi and quick take-off we were offered drinks. This time we opted for an alcoholic beverage - the choices on board were Mai Tai, red wine or beer - slightly odd selection but free in First (and severed with some snacks), so we opted for a Mai Tai. Good service and we were offered a second Mai Tai, which we thought would be rude to decline.
Arrived to a grey and overcast HNL airport - off quickly and baggage quickly appeared.
We would normally have done this flight (and the one over to Maui) in coach, but for a small premium in terms of cost, you can get 1 VS Tier Point (nothing in coach on this duration flight).
