VS009 LHR-JFK 31 MAR 13 (Upper Class)

This is a Trip Report from the Upper Class cabin

Ground Staff

Food & Drink

Entertainment

Seat

Cabin Crew

Another flight me on the plane I hate so much, and this time it wasn't by choice. As I've said previously, I'm really not down with scathing VS, I love everything they do - but that damn UCDS just fails to grow on me, and as more and more of the beloved 346s leave the fleet - I'm gonna be left with accepting the flawed 'Dream Suite' or looking for another airline.. GULP!

I took the UC drive thru this time, super easy, super efficient and breezed through to the lounge. I've never flown on a Sunday before, but if you're after the full Clubhouse treatment, then Sunday is clearly the best day to fly. It was more than half empty, got a facial within 5 minutes and knocked back a few Red Heads. Boarding was a breeze, gate 13 for the VS9 to JKF. I had been hoping and praying to be flying a 333 with WIFI, so that at least I could use the time travelling to work - alas - it was G-VUFO (Lady Stardust)... Having taken to my seat it was time for the off.

Aeromobile worked for 10mins then failed to connect with the FSM informing me it was simply offline. She apologised and made a note to inform the technicians.

As soon as we were airborne, one of two FSM's came over, introduced herself, noted I'd flown a lot already this year and thanked me for my custom.. (this hasn't happened the last 4 flights I've taken this year so was reassuring to know that at least some of the FSMs are practicing this action - it really does make a difference. Crew were amazing on this flight, super friendly, took time out to talk, etc... really really superb!

Food - I've already moaned about the UC menu having not changed in what seems like forever, so took the Dolcelatte pasta and a cheese selection at the same time. Crumbled up the three cheeses and mixed it up with the pasts - TA DAH! A new dish! I was happy!

There were only 16 in UC out of what I think is 33 or 34, so grabbed a second pillow and tried to get some sleep..... but to no avail. Again, I can't scathe that seat anymore so I'll not repeat myself here other than to say it is way too small, the ottoman doesn't work effectively as the end of the bed and my feet as per in this set - swerved off into the aisle. Having dozed for a while, though not getting any proper sleep was awake and bagged some sandwiches from PE - the burger and other graze items are also now boring..

Arrived into JFK early but the VS4 was delayed due to an unwell passenger, so hadn't left the gate... 30mins later and all was well.

Immigration at JFK on a Sunday was also heaven! Walked straight to a counter, zero queues and picked up bags!

Sorry VS for marking down on food and the seat - I fly so much, boredom is gonna come very quickly. Perhaps you'll allow me to bring my own food for you to heat up?

Thanks for posting your TR. Good to hear the crew were great, a good crew and make or break the experience.

Menu changes seemed to have stopped happening, the current menu, especially the veggie option is practically the same as it was on my flight to JFK last May. Can't be that difficult to have something different can it?

Haven't tried the UCDS so can't comment on it, but to be honest, from all the reports I've read, I'm in no rush to change from the VS45 744 that I normally take to JFK. Not the best timings into JFK, but it works for me.

Hope you have a good trip and look forward to your return TR.

Thanks for the TR Jonathan, what happened to requesting the ECO meals?

They do change once in a blue moon, but tbh it is the same with any other airlines for the FF community. You do get a lot of repetition plain and simple. When was the last time they changed the menu in the CH for example?

Good to hear the flight and cabin crew were on form, the least said about the UCDS the better I know it well

Personally I am not a fan of Aeromobile, or wifi on board for that matter. Flight time gives people a break that is well needed, not like the world will not be waiting for you upon landing.

Cheers for posting.