The BHX run is served by a 757-200 3x3 and we had two rows of 3 booked between the 6 of us. At check in, I managed to get an exit row for myself and my husband (16BC) and the others stayed in their allocated 20AB and 21AB (with row 21 being left with just the 2 in a 3 row which was nice). I was surprised on arrival how small the exit row looked but having looked at row 21 realised there is more legroom (about 36' instead of 31'). Seats were very narrow which is not the best for husband who has exceptionally broad shoulders and doesn't tend to fit into econ seats - this is why we now try to fly PE or business. Just before doors were closed though, the FA mentioned there were a couple of empty rows and asked if anyone would like to move to these to gain a little more space which was a nice touch. We stayed with the exit row as the additional leg room was worth it.
As it was a small plane, boarding was concluded quickly and following take off drinks were served (free soft drinks, $5 for an alcoholic miniature) with a bag of nuts. In ear headphones were distributed free enabling us to scroll through the AVOD offered. The films were not the most up to date but there was enough for people to watch (including some very old black and white films) and a good selection or 1/2 hour TV comedy or drama channels).
A smell of food wafted through the cabin and was served quickly with a 'chicken or beef' and veggie option and all choices were available.
It was difficult to move around the plane due to it being a single aisle and trolleys were generally blocking the way but at least the option of using toilets at the back or front was available.
The FAs worked very hard during the flight, doing countless water runs - more than I have seen on Virgin or Emirates.
It did seem a long flight compared to Virgin east coast flights but that could be because of the smaller plane and it taking about an hour longer to get there. I remember the same position when flying Maxjet to LAS instead of Virgin and that additional hour really dragged.
A smooth landing at EWR and small queues at immigration. Unfortunately, I was hauled off to a back room as my fingerprints didn't work and the family had to wait 40 minutes before I was released - at least all the baggage was off though.
We had a further problem with All State Limo. On arrival, I called and told them we were at door 11 and advised to wait outside for the vehicle. After 10 minutes a man informed us all collections were now downstairs (this had only changed last week) and we would have to go there (not easy with two 80 and two 72 year olds). After a call to ASL, they confirmed the driver was on the lower level and to meet him there.
Thankfully, everyone and their luggage was loaded quickly into the vehicle and we were off to Crowne Plaza Times Square for a quick 1 night stay before boarding the ship home.
