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Bombay Flights

Posted:
01 Nov 2006, 14:51
by goanmad
Travelling to Bombay what can we expect in Bombay Int'l on our arrival? Will it be mayhem? [:0]
What is the Virgin Upper Class facilites like on the return leg?
Any assistance would be appreciated?
Thanks[y]
{HighFlyer: Moved topic from Trip Reports forum ... }

Posted:
01 Nov 2006, 15:00
by HighFlyer
Hi, and welcome to the forum!
Take a look at some of the many
Trip Reports for BOM, you'll get to read of other members experiences of Upper Class on that route, and also of the airport facilities. Arrival at BOM should not be that manic.
This one and
this one are well worth a read.
Thanks,
Sarah

Posted:
01 Nov 2006, 16:24
by p17blo
Arrival at BOM recently for me was remarkably easy. I flew Jet who did not have landing cards onboard and as such we all had to complete these upon landing. We were through within 15 minutes of landing, including a 5 minute walk to imigration. Depending on the queue in front of you there may be a wait to have you luggage x-rayed as you leave the building (why?), but I was certainly surprised it wasn't mayhem.
As for return Upper Class facilities these are same as they are for nearly all other business class flyers. After you check in (having your bag x-rayed and sealed before hand and probably 'stolen' by the men in blue who then hold it for ransom at the check-in desk) you can find the 'Clipper Bar' which is the only bar around and everyone is able to access. At the rear of the bar is the 'Clipper Lounge' which you have to show your boarding card to enter and has free drink (both alcoholic and soft) and some snacks. Thats all you get. You will not pass security until you go to your gate at which point it is a free for all, albeit for Jet they did call Business Class first to board.
Btw, Welcome and what on earth takes you to BOM?
Paul

Posted:
01 Nov 2006, 17:36
by slinky09
Btw, Welcome and what on earth takes you to BOM?
Paul
Probably the same reason I'm in Chennai and Bangalore this week ... unless vacation which may explain the Goanmad name!
Enjoy India - if you want any tips ask away!

Posted:
01 Nov 2006, 19:15
by p17blo
Blimey, I may have to go to Chennai soon. Heard is was 'worse' than Mumbai if that is possible.
See any nice chicken coup call centres?
Paul

Posted:
01 Nov 2006, 20:05
by PVGSLF
back in BOM for the second time in two weeks!
Arrived on SQ this time from the opposite direction. But I second what Paul says.... Immigration is easy, first time on VS no landing cards, but filled it in at the desk 'cause no time before hand.... outside is mayhem, but look out for a board with your hotel name on if you are staying locally.... directly outside the airport are the biggest slums in asia apparently. And yes, watch out for the offers of help when you check back in.... especially if like me you carry no indian currency for the duration of your stay!
After my current assignment i worry the oompany will want to send me here for an extended stay!

Posted:
02 Nov 2006, 12:52
by goanmad
Thanks for your reply. Normally we travel direct to Goa and this time wanted to see some "real India"[:0]
Sounds like Mumbai could be better than Goa for entry, we have used Goa for the last 5 years and always have had to wait to be processed.[:(!]
ON the VS350 do all the A343 have suites on board? We have asked for 3&4 K what are these like?
Thanks again.
Ian
Originally posted by p17blo
Arrival at BOM recently for me was remarkably easy. I flew Jet who did not have landing cards onboard and as such we all had to complete these upon landing. We were through within 15 minutes of landing, including a 5 minute walk to imigration. Depending on the queue in front of you there may be a wait to have you luggage x-rayed as you leave the building (why?), but I was certainly surprised it wasn't mayhem.
As for return Upper Class facilities these are same as they are for nearly all other business class flyers. After you check in (having your bag x-rayed and sealed before hand and probably 'stolen' by the men in blue who then hold it for ransom at the check-in desk) you can find the 'Clipper Bar' which is the only bar around and everyone is able to access. At the rear of the bar is the 'Clipper Lounge' which you have to show your boarding card to enter and has free drink (both alcoholic and soft) and some snacks. Thats all you get. You will not pass security until you go to your gate at which point it is a free for all, albeit for Jet they did call Business Class first to board.
Btw, Welcome and what on earth takes you to BOM?
Paul
{mcuth: edited to clear up quoting }

Posted:
02 Nov 2006, 15:18
by goanmad
So the news is A346 on LHR - BOM is this one a/c or every BOM flight?
Are seats in 3&4K still looking out onto the backs of the mid row or is the A346 a different layout to the A343??
Hopefully all the problems we have had in booking flights and sending tickets back will now be forgotten. First time we have flow VA for a few years and really have been disappointed with attitudes from Cus Svc's!
Thanks

Posted:
02 Nov 2006, 16:30
by p17blo
All VS Airbus are now UCS and all Airbus 4&5K stare into the 'Wall'. These are my choice of seats when flying on VS 343 or 346. Hope for the 346 as this will be VPORT
Paul