VS063 LGW-HAV 2 JAN 14 (Premium Economy)

This is a Trip Report from the Premium Economy cabin

Ground Staff

Food & Drink

Entertainment

Seat

Cabin Crew

It's been a couple of years since we have flown with VS & therefore our first time in the re-vamped aircraft.
We checked in on line & were delighted to obtain a move to the bubble. The on-line check in was followed by a twilight bag drop before settling in at Holiday Inn (which was great value).

After a couple of hours in the No 1 Lounge (which was a waste of money) we wandered off to the gate. We were second on board and were warmly greeted and quickly found our seats. Wow! what a difference from the tired old red seats. Much more comfortable and the ife was another wow factor.

We were slightly delayed but were soon underway. We had a already had our bubbly and I was impressed when my wife was offered a second glass. Dinner was served following pre dinner drinks. The meal was of reasonable quality although they struggled to provide my wife's choice - the head steward said he "hadn't bothered to bring up a risotto as no-one ever wants it" - he did however get one. Later in the flight when they handed out some sort of pizza slice they ran out of one of the options - no big deal.

About half way though the flight I took my empty can of beer to the galley and requested a full can. I was told that the bar had closed - the reason being that "downstairs had hammered the bar!" Interestingly the same steward gave another reason to another passenger. Even more interestingly whist at my hotel I was told by an economy passenger that they served drinks all through the flight downstairs!!!

I would add nobody was abusing the bar. I fully understand they carry finite stocks but surely some sould be ring fenced for PE passengers

I do not think it unreasonable for a premium service to provide drinks throughout the flight. I will be contacting VS asking for some sort of refund as I simply did not get what I paid for - can anyone suggest who I should email?
I will keep you all updated with the response!

The rest of the flight was smooth and if it hadn't have been for the drinks debacle I would have rated the flight very highly.

What a difference in comfort the revamped aircraft made.

I think I've heard a dozen inconsistent reasons about drinks service stopping on board at odd times, so yes do write in. There's a contact us form here on the VS website.

VA response - we will get back to you within 14 days....16 days later ...nothing. It is such a tricky thing to investigate!!!