This is a Trip Report from the Upper Class cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
Was booked in PE but was AU went straight to the UC check-in. No problem checking-in so early and was asked if I would like to go on earlier flight. This was excellent news and the check-in agent proceeded to get me on the VS4 thus shortening my wait time at the airport somewhat. On producing a boarding card giving me 77K he then said he hadnt realised that I was in PE and that they didnt have enough seats for me to go PE. I stood there hoping for the magic op-up at this stage but nothing! I suggested a miles upgrade and was directed to the ticket desk. I did ask what my status on the VS4 was at this time and was told that I was back on the VS10 (and a long wait!). As most of you will have notice 77K is actually a PE seat anyhow so I am not sure what was going on.
Ticket desk were helpful, told me I had a PE seat on the VS4 and that miles upgrade was not possible from my K class ticket. They did however offer an upgrade at UKP599. I pondered for a couple of minutes and then gave in to temptation. Everything on check-in went swimmingly from that moment on.
Off to the CH and to get some food before the flight. Sat at the bistro tables at the side and was offered a drink almost immediately. As I was on the phone at the time I couldnt order food right away. Sadly once I had finished my call all the staff seem to have assembled at the bar area watching TV!! Eventually I managed to flag down a different staff member to place an order. She was very helpful and even recognised me from my previous trips (a nice touch). Chick pea soup, Burger and apple turnover completed (along with a couple of glasses of the excellent White Burgundy) the flight was called.
JFK security was being organised very well and the line moved fast. Priority line worked well and I was on board in no time at all. In 11A which is actually quite a nice place to be. The only downside is a little bit of glare from the IFBT lighting.
On time departure from the gate but a long taxy time due to JFK peak hour. Once airborne it was about 10 minutes before the seatbelt sign went off. I was just preparing my suite as a bed when the very helpful CC came along to assist. Went off to sleep quite quickly and awake probably an hour into the flight. Following a quick bathroom visit, I was just about to settle back into bed when one of the 2 IFBTs on this flight asked if I would like my treatment (oh yes please!). Very relaxing massage and I returned to sleep again quickly to be awoken about 45 minutes out of LHR. Quick visit to the bar where breakfast had been spread out (good idea) before getting strapped in for landing.
Remote parking on arrival at LHR but for once the coach transit was completed quickly and the bags arrived in no time at all. Only downside to my arrival was Purple Parking taking 1 hour to deliver my car back to T3 as they forgot to despatch it when I first called on arrival.
All in all a very expensive return for me but in light of a busy day on my arrival I am glad I went for it. Sadly I do fear that the dreaded UCS-it is has well and truly set in. Is there a support group avail!!!! I love the suites.
Graham
