VS022 IAD-LHR 10 FEB 13 (Upper Class)
Posted: 23 Feb 2013, 16:29This is a Trip Report from the Upper Class cabin
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I was through security quickly. I arrived at the Clubhouse just before 3pm and I was welcomed warmly. I had some work to do so positioned myself on the desks and worked away. Throughout my visit the staff were great - friendly, remembered me from previous visits and ensured I was very well looked after with drinks. I did have a bite to eat in the lounge of Parsnip soup which was delicious followed by the Clubhouse burger.
Boarding was called at 1745 and I walked across the concourse to the gate where "Golden Girl" was waiting. I was welcomed on board warmly and turned left and found 4K. The CC was from East Yorkshire and was lovely throughout. She brought along champagne, then sleep suits and finally newspapers and magazines.
The UC cabin was only 50% full and in fact only 101 passengers on board in total. The FSM was visible throughout in UC but was rather quiet and didnt do a lot to impress but she was polite and friendly when approached.
This was my 4th flight with the UCDS and each time I have warmed to it. This time was no different, I found the whole seat more spacious than the A346 UCS I had enjoyed a couple of days before to LA. It was comfortable. The downsides remain - it just doesnt seem to work as a bed for me, could be a personal thing but I seem to be on a slope with my head facing downwards and it feels very narrow indeed. That said, as a reclined seat it works fine - it really has grown on me.
The aisles are narrow and I did see a couple of the CC trip as they made their way up and down the aisles. The crew were more positive about it too and it is clearly growing on them too.
Sadly, a couple of passengers were very vocal about how they just didnt like it which must make it difficult for the crew.
We were away a little early with a flight time of 6hrs46mins promised with a potential wintry blast awaiting us in London. After take off, hot towels were offered followed by a bottle of water and I just never know what to do with it as no special holder exists, it ended up behind my seat in the end.
Drink orders were taken and a large G&T was offered with crisps and refills offered. Tables laid for supper at 1930 and the options were: Carrot and Parsnip Soup, which was tasty and nice with Salmon Rillette as the other option; Main courses were: Seared beef sirloin, Pan-roasted chicken breast or Rolled lasagne. I had the beef which was a huge piece and worked well with the crushed red skin potatoes and glazed vegetables.
I skipped dessert and the cheese plate - both were offered but did have a top up of the red wine. The CSS was really good, from introducing the crew personally in UC to proactively been in the cabin with wine, water and helping out well.
I relaxed and slept a little before I awoke to the cabin coming to life. I had decided I would eat in revivals so skipped breakfast but a few were enjoying the bacon rolls. I was asked as the CC could see I was awake if I would like anything, but just asked for a coffee which came in a mug and was very good - just what was needed at 0530 in the morning!!
All strapped in with more hot towels and we landed to a snowy Heathrow at 0645 after the usual holding which lasted around 20mins.
Immigration was easy and stress free and the case was waiting for me on the belt and it was then time to head up to Revivals choosing to book a shave, have a shower and then some breakfast. It was busy this particular morning and the champagne was flowing for some - whilst I tucked into the cooked breakfast with juice and coffee.....as always fantastic service.
A great flight, an attentive crew and I continue to warm to the UCDS.
Jon
