I left sunny Margate and headed toward Durban for the short hop into JNB.I thought this short trip deserved it’s own TR as it was a most pleasant experience.
OLCI for the SAA flight got me Seq 3 (must try harder) and an aisle seat (11D) just behind the curtain that segregates Business class from Economy.
Arrived at the airport about 2 hours before departure time so that I could enjoy the BidAir Lounge.
Bag drop at the dedicated desk was a bit slow due to an Australian guy checking in 3 …yes, 3 surf boards!
It might have been quicker to go to a standard check in desk.My turn came around and the agent was friendly, quick and efficient, even checking me onto the VS 602 and checking my bag through to LHR.
Shame she couldn’t check it all the way to MAN, but hey, at least I didn’t have to queue at the VS check in at JNB which can be chaotic at the best of times, even at the UC and PE desks!.Used a free access into the BidAir Lounge courtesy of the Lounge Pass offer when getting my Amex Card. Even though it was a “freebie” it is worth noting that for the equivalent of £16, it is worth the cash to escape what can be a loud airside section of King Shaka Airport.
A nice, airy lounge with views over the runway and comfy seating. Usual snacks, hot and cold, and hot/cold/soft/alcoholic drinks were available, as well as a manned bar service.
Large TV screen with a variation sports, Sky News or local news on different ones. A very strong WiFi signal was available at no cost and I took the time to catch up with a few e mails and enjoy the realxed ambience.
Flight was called just as I had finished my 2nd B n C, so down in the lift to gate 8 which is only a short walk .
Onto the very well manicured Airbus 320, the usual witty safety video and a quick taxi out…up and away.
Flight Crew and CC were really cheery and could teach some VS crew some lessons with their great customer focussed attitude and banter.
Served a selection of sandwiches and drinks on this short flight (55 minutes) and descended very nicely thank you, to land almost imperceptibly onto the runway at JNB.
Toddled through to international departures and missed the chaos of check in and straight through to passport control, a bit of browsing around the shops and …….. then…..up to the CH…yay!.
I know its not the greatest of TR’s but it gives V Flyers who don’t travel to South Africa a good insight into the experience of how lesser known flights. Those of that haven't experienced the joys of sunny South Africa must make the trip someday.
VS 602 TR to follow soon.
Paul
