Air India -- Aiming to Please
Written: Aug 05 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Superb food, friendly service, affordable fares
Cons: Condition of cabin and entertainment options
The Bottom Line: Consider flying on AI. They are eager to please and have great fares and schedules not only to India, but also Paris and London.
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| bigk12's Full Review: Air India |
Background:
I flew with my wife and a friend from Newark to Paris and back on Air India for about $400 rt in July. On the flight from Newark to Paris we sat in economy. On the return flight we flew in business. In both cases the plane was a 747-400.
Overall Experience:
Positive. I've read that AI is working hard to improve its image and operations. It shows. The crew was professional and courteous. The food was also top-notch. (The best I've ever had on an airline, in fact.) But the overhaul takes time. Current drawbacks include condition of the cabin and entertainment options.
Crew:
Very professional. They were most helpful and worked with purpose. (I saw them around and about throughout the flight.) This is true in both economy and business. Although AI gets many passengers who are neophyte fliers (lots of children) they handle them gently and with great patience. After the return flight to Newark, I had an opportunity to talk to the Captain. He was friendly and engaging and gave me a debrief on AI and aviation.
Food:
Terrific. In all cases, I elected for the Indian menu and was not disappointed. I'll eat what's offered on an airplane because it is my only option. On AI, much to my surprise, I enjoyed the meals. The menus were varied and of high quality. (The shrimp in business was delicious.) Also, the food was not too heavy; thereby decreasing the affects of jet lag. Nicely done.
Cabin:
This is the most negative aspect of flying AI. The cabins looked old and in relatively poor condition. I don't attribute this to negligent upkeeping. AI should consider, however, modernizing the interiors of its cabins. A 747-400 is a young plane, but on AI the inside looks worn. Also, they should look into improving their entertainment options. In coach, there was the huge screen against the wall. In business, a small TV in the aisle. Seat back entertainment centers -- in all classes -- are rapidly becoming standard, especially on long-haul international flights.
Don't let this, however, deter you from choosing AI. Near the end of each flight, the cabin crew came around to inquire about any difficulties. (In our case -- when we were in economy -- we had two broken tray tables and one tray table with crayon marks all over it.) So they are working to correct these problems.
Price:
Unbeatable. I had been searching for reasonable fares for a long time. The closest I could find was about $575 per. AI was only $400.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
bigk12
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Reviews written: 1
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