What is the world's longest flight really like?
This is the world’s longest direct flight and even in economy class the journey is painless. While economy is not at full capacity, staff tell me that the premium economy and business class sectors are full, reflecting this routes popularity for corporate travel.
Schedule- 7/10:
When you’re boarding the world’s longest non-stop flight, you don’t really want to have to spend any extra time on the plane than necessary. Nigh on 15 hours is long enough. So after sitting on the tarmac for an hour after expected departure time, the passenger next to me is emitting frequent sighs of frustration.
The delay is due to 140 bags that have not yet been delivered to the plane. After flying from Melbourne with Qantas myself the day before and having my suitcase lost for two hours, I’m beginning to think that Qantas’ Sydney baggage handlers are having more than just one bad day. The captain gives passenger regular updates and apologises each time, promising to make up the time while flying.
The arrival time affects around 10 connecting flights but the ground staff are well organised and re-book passengers on later flights.
Seat- 8/10:
The seats are modern and backed with a hard shell. The wide-screen entertainment system is touch as well as remote-controlled. The seats are wide, the distance between the seat and the window ample and the headrest can be leveraged to the right height and angle. Points are lost however because the armrest will not stay upright, a small but important detail if you have a spare seat next to you and want to stretch out a little.
Service- 9/10:
Personable, mature and professional, the staff on QF7 to Dallas are an example of why Qantas’ brand and loyalty is strong. The air stewards are responsive and polite. The crew are frequently coming down the aisles during the night session with drinks and snacks. The service wanes a little at breakfast service towards the end of the flight, but that is forgivable after such a long shift.
Extras- 9/10:
The back of the plane is the place to be, with a mini-bar fridge of soft drink and shelves of sweet and savoury biscuits. it’s good to see a help-yourself service more akin to a business class offering, and it’s a hub for passengers. It’s just a shame it’s right next to the toilets.
I am sat on the wing and it is very quiet and smooth. We barely feel or hear the take-off and landing other than some cheering from passengers on arrival.
Food- 9/10:
Qantas has a most-welcome healthy eating option, which on this flight is a honey chicken, roast vegetable and faro salad with sunflower and pumpkin seeds and a dessert of virtuous citrus fruit. Now, this is what I would have ordered had the cabin not been so cold in the first few hours from departure. Only the chilli beef with polenta corn cake and tomato relish can warm me up. It’s a great introduction to American food, it is finished off with a crowd-pleasing salted caramel mousse.
Entertainment- 9/10:
Qantas is hard to beat in the entertainment stakes. Choosing your own music playlist selection is a great accompaniment when there’s work to be done like writing this review. Unlike other aircraft, the touch screen is highly responsive without being overly sensitive. The TV and movie choices are a great combination of local and international talent. The oscar classics section has been refreshed as well.
Overall 85%:
The world’s longest flight is executed with aplomb. Despite the small hiccup of bags at the start, I cannot fault the crew or the plane. Professional and a pleasure to fly with.
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