This is a Trip Report from the Premium Economy cabin
Ground Staff
Food & Drink
Entertainment
Seat
Cabin Crew
I was allocated the economy seat which the booking was made for and went straight up to security. The line for security was manic, and filled with people blissfully unaware that they couldn't take bottles of water through...[V]
So, around 20 minutes later I was airside and decided to go straight to the VS transfer desk and try and upgrade. This was a painless procedure, and with this being a cash upgrade would boost my TP count as I close on Au. I secured 18k, and was advised that the seat next to me was vacant [y]
I grabbed a sandwich next and killed some time before heading to the gate (think it was 35).
Arriving at the gate I immediately boarded being welcomed by name and a smile! Things were looking good so far!
The pre take off drink was with me shortly after taking my seat - I chose juice as I was quite thirsty. I also nearly finished the 500ml bottle of water on the seat prior to our pushback which was 2 minutes behind schedule. I nested into the comfy PE seat and was really surprised by the luxury feel - the seat being remarkably similar to the UC seat. Whilst taxiing the menu was handed out (will scan and upload), and the FSM made the usual announcements (very poorly, and jumbled..?)
At 30 minutes after pushback we started our 47 second takeoff roll on 27L, and climbed out south of London.
Once the seat belt signs were off (and the lights on the outside of the aircraft?), hot towels were brought rounds and shortly after a drinks round.
I grabbed the footrest from the overhead with 18k being a bulkhead, and positioned my carry on on the seat next to me. This was a really convenient set up, and one which you wouldn't be able to achieve in UC.
I chose the Curry - very spicy but tasty and had the usual Gu pot [y]
Again, the benefit of an empty seat next to me came into its own. I wanted to get to sleep as soon as possible, so placed my empty tray on the table of 18H, and then headed to the bathroom to freshen up and brush my teeth.
Returning to my seat I wrapped up in (2 of) the new style PE blanket (great shape/design btw), and settled with the QC2's and some chilled tunes. The cabin temperature was just right for me so I soon drifted off.
I'd estimate I got 3 hours of sleep before waking, having missed breakfast. I got to the bathroom just before the cabin announcement for everyone to return to their seats so luckily didn't have to queue.
Landing was uneventful, though I did count 47 Emirates aircraft being on the ground (this must be the bulk of their fleet?) - a lone SAS 340-300 was at DXB but I didn't notice any other European aircraft.
The doors were opened to a mild (18 degrees) morning - and a forecast of 28 degree high.... [:D]
So. The end of my first experience of new PE. And what a great flight!
I'd definately choose PE for short day flights in future - helping my holiday budgets go further, but for anything over 7 hours, or night flights I'd like to keep to UC. Good work VS. [oo]
