Flight Evaluations for Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air:
Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to Lewiston, Idaho, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
5th November 2007 - Flight #2026 (Via Moscow Pullman.)
This flight was delayed 45 minutes, apparently due to the aircraft being a late turnaround.
When we finally boarded, the cheerful young flight attendant gave a fun pre-flight check and remained cheerful and efficient throughout the flight.
This flight stopped briefly for 15 minutes at Moscow/Pullman, Idaho.
Free drinks and pretzels were served.
Flight duration: about 80 minutes on a Bombardier Q200.

Lewiston, Idaho - to Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
9th October 2007 - Flight #2027
I managed to check my bag all the way through to Scotland which was convenient. (Alaska Airlines is in the 'One World Alliance' with British Airways)
The young flight attendant seemed either bored or tired - with her voice inaudible over the engine noise.
Free drinks and a party snack mix were served.
Flight duration: about 75 minutes on a Bombardier Q200.

Lewiston, Idaho - to Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
5th November 2006 - Flight #2028
Free drinks and corn chips served by a quiet stewardess, who's voice couldn't be heard above the engine noise, when making safety announcements.
Seat area was fairly clean.
Flight duration: about 75 minutes on a Bombardier Q200.

Lewiston, Idaho - to Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
10th October 2006 - Flight #2027
Departure was 5 minutes late.
A boarding ramp over the small steps gave access to a wheelchair.
Stewardess was efficient and friendly.
Free drinks and corn chips. Seat was fairly clean, although the seat pocket contained a mangled magazine.
Interesting and somewhat bumpy landing in the wind by the female pilot.
Flight duration: about 75 minutes on a Bombardier Q200.

Lewiston, Idaho - to Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
3rd April 2006 - Flight #2027
Departure was 5 minutes early, since all the staff were so efficient.
Free drinks and peanut bars were handed out by the pleasant flight attendant.
There are no window shades on this aircraft, so it was bright without sunglasses.
Flight duration: about 75 minutes on a Bombardier Q200.

Lewiston, Idaho - to Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
7th September 2005 - Flight #2021
Since boarding was so speedy, the flight departed 10 minutes early.
The single flight attendant was friendly and helpful.
Snack offered was a granola bar, with free beverages.
Flight duration: about 50 minutes on Bombardier Q200.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to - Lewiston, via Pullman/Moscow, Idaho, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
19th March 2005 - Flight #2026
This flight route stops off at Pullman, (Moscow) Idaho, with a stopover time of only 10 minutes, (passengers stay on board when traveling through to Lewiston)
On time departure from Seattle.
Free drinks and oatmeal bar served by a mature, friendly and efficient flight attendant.
Toilet very cramped and had no sink - only wet wipes, or a gel for cleaning hands.
Clean leather seats.
The aircraft taxied towards the runway at Pullman airport, only to quickly return and have the hydraulic lines re-checked by the speedy, meticulous maintenance crew and captain for 20 minutes.
A further 12 minutes took the flight on to Lewiston.
Flight duration: Around 1 hour and 10 minutes total, on a small (propeller) Bombardier Q200.

San Francisco, California - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Alaska Airlines)
18th March 2005 - Flight #AS567
This flight was delayed by 5 hours, with no reason given by staff, or on any announcements, although one staff member emphatically told me that: "It's the spring break!"
When I asked the staff at the boarding gate if passengers were allowed a courtesy call due to the delay, one Asian member of staff very kindly lent me his personal mobile phone for 2 minutes.
Leather seats were clean.
Staff got the job done, but were clearly tired from the 5 hour delay.
Flight duration: 1 hour and 55 minutes on a Boeing 737-700.

Lewiston, Idaho - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
(Operated by Horizon Air)
23rd February 2005 - Flight #2026
The Horizon Air desk representative was unable to issue me with onward boarding cards and checked-through luggage all the way to the UK, because she entered my details incorrectly. (Onward boarding cards and checked-through luggage is usually available as part of the 'One World' partnership plan with participating airlines) My boarding passes were re-issued correctly in Seattle by an American Airlines representative.
On time departure.
The mature flight attendant was happy and efficient.
Free drinks and crisps were served.
Leather seats worn, but fairly clean.
Flight duration: 53 minutes on a small (it has only 9 rows of seating) Bombardier (propeller) Q200.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to - Portland, Oregon, USA
October 2004
This route offers a zippy service (nearly every 1/2 hour) between Seattle and Portland.
Departure was slightly delayed because of weather conditions (Mount St. Helens was also erupting)
Due to bad turbulence, the single stewardess was ordered by the captain to stow the drinks trolley and buckle up, which meant she was unable to continue serving drinks and snacks from the fourth row, so the rest of the passengers at the back stayed a little thirsty, myself included.
Flight duration: around 45 minutes, on a (propeller) Q200.

Spokane, Washington -to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
September 2004
On time departure.
Happy, efficient and professional staff.
Flight duration: 55 minutes on a Bombardier (propeller) Q400.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to - Spokane, Washington, USA
March 2004
I asked to be put on standby for an earlier flight, but the earlier flight was cancelled, due to 'technical difficulties' and passengers were asked to come forward and either be refunded, or given a free flight.
Mature, efficient and friendly staff on board.
Passengers enter the aircraft (via small steps) from the tarmac.
Free drinks and two small bags of pretzels served.
Clean aircraft.
Prompt departure.
Flight duration: just under one hour, on a (propeller) Bombardier Q400.

Spokane, Washington - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
February 2004
My flight was cancelled, due to 'technical difficulties' - so I was automatically placed on the next flight, 40 minutes later, due to having an onward connection to the UK.
Staff at the gate were efficient and calm - asking for volunteers to be refunded, or given a free flight as compensation.
The flight attendant gave the funniest in-flight safety preparation I have ever heard (which had the whole plane giggling)
Friendly and efficient staff.
Departure was 15 minutes late.
Free drinks and small bag of pretzels.
Clean (leather) seat area.
There were no window shutters, so I squinted from the sunlight for most of the flight.
Flight duration: just under one hour, on a Bombardier Q400.

American Airlines
My impression of American Airlines from recent experiences at New York (JFK) airport's eighth and ninth terminals was not encouraging. (See report on New York, (JFK) under Airports section) American Airlines does not give the impression of being a particularly organised, or passenger-friendly airline company - however; in fairness to American Airlines, it should be noted that my experiences were only those of the general boarding public.
Ticket prices on internal American flights do not include food, alcoholic beverages, or headphones for in-flight TV onboard, in normal economy class - but food, soft drinks and headphones are free on transatlantic flights. Food options are normally indicated on a passenger's printed flight itinerary when booking.
In-flight satellite phones are available on all 777 and 767 aircraft, although the cost is: $10.00 (£5.20) per minute, plus $5.00 (£2.60) to connect.
American Airlines allows Mobile phones to be used onboard while boarding, or right after landing on most of their aircraft, until announcements are made to turn them off by the flight crew.
American Airlines pulled many of their MD80 aircraft out of service for safety inspections on their hydraulic and electrical systems; which affected 10% of scheduled operations. This was after the US FAA issued an audit to assess airline compliance with their safety directives, most of which required aircraft inspections affecting all airlines.

Flight Evaluations for American Airlines:
Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to - Chicago, (O'Hare) Illinois, USA
7th September 2005 - Flight #AA868
Departure and arrival were 5 minutes early.
Staff were efficient and serious.
Seats were uncomfortable and the general air system was cold, so I asked for 2 blankets.
A snack box with crackers, cheese and cookies could be purchased on board for $3.00.
Flight duration: 3 hours and 56 minutes on a McDonnell Douglas S80.

New York, (JFK) New York - to - San Francisco, California, USA
18th March 2005 - Flight #AA85
This flight was delayed by one hour, due to the aircraft being previously delayed on a turnaround flight and then needing to be cleaned.
Organised boarding - with sections of seat rows being called out to board.
All passengers in the bulkhead rows who couldn't fit their hand luggage into the small overhead lockers were asked to put them into the hold.
Food had to be purchased at $3.00 (£1.55) for a snack box and alcohol was $5.00 (£2.60) although all soft drinks were free. Headsets to watch the in-flight programmes on communal TV screens (hanging down from the ceiling) cost: $5.00 (£2.60)
Mature, capable, though slightly relaxed staff.
Fairly clean seat area and toilet.
There were no individual air vents in economy class.
Flight duration: 5 hours and 47 minutes on a 767.

London, (Heathrow) UK - to - New York, (JFK) New York, USA
16th March 2005 - Flight #AA131
Departure was delayed slightly while we were boarded on the tarmac, due to all air traffic awaiting an incoming air ambulance, attending to a nearby motorway accident.
Friendly, though somewhat casual service from mostly mature staff.
Vegetarian food consisted of: flavourful pasta, a cold rubbery pancake, salad and apple dessert.
Soft drinks were free and alcoholic drinks were $5.00 (£2.60)
Free headphones had good range of sound.
Fairly clean seat areas.
Touch-TV screens, (on seatbacks in front) were slightly slow to respond.
Flight duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes on a 777.

Chicago, (O'Hare) Illinois, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) UK
23rd February 2005 - Flight#AA98
Passengers boarded early due to a headwind, but the captain then decided to have the airplane de-iced, which caused a slight delay.
Staff mature and helpful.
TV touch screens, (on seatbacks in front) were slow to respond and had trouble in the first hour of flight, until the whole system was re-booted.
Tray table was unclean.
Vegetarian meal consisted of a very light, though flavourful rice dish, salad, melon and small roll, which was not substantial, and I was glad to have brought my own snack.
Clean toilet had a pleasant scent.
Flight duration: 7 hours and 30 minutes on an A300-777.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to - Chicago, (O'Hare) Illinois, USA
23rd February 2005 - Flight #AA2400
Seat boarding was quite organised, with group numbers, (i.e. sections of seat rows) printed on boarding passes being called out to board.
Fairly clean seat areas, although there were no hygienic seat coverings around the head area, where other airlines have either wipeable leather, or a simple cloth that can be removed and washed.
Mature, slightly relaxed, but pleasant staff got the job done.
First and business class passengers were not totally separated from economy passengers by aisle curtains, only by the bulkheads.
Food had to be purchased on board for $3.00 (£1.55) and consisted of a small snack box containing: processed cheese and crackers, 2 Oreo cookies, slices of salami and dried fruit.
Soft drinks were free and all alcohol was $5.00 (£2.60) Announcements were made in the gate area before boarding that food could be bought either in the terminal, or on board.
Toilets were quite clean. A baby changing (folding down) table was only available in one toilet.
Flight duration: 3 hours and 35 minutes, on a McDonnell Douglas S80.

British Airways
I currently recommend British Airways when traveling to Northwest America; for consistent service, cleanliness, reliability and safety.
Staff are usually courteous, mature, retain a certain amount of dignity at all times and are not shy when sorting out passengers' problems.
British Airways is sometimes prone to Union strikes and therefore, customers should keep an eye on the news and confirm their flights before traveling.
From the 25th April 2006, all passengers taking UK domestic flights are now required to either print their boarding passes online, or at self-service kiosks in the airport, with luggage being checked in at the 'fast bag drop' desks (i.e. at the check-in desks) still manned by staff. I printed my boarding passes online and found it fast and convenient.
When using their call centre to book, I have found an average waiting time of 35 minutes with the same guitar music on an annoying loop.
Request any dietary requirements when booking your ticket. A few extra vegetarian meals are carried on board - ask on boarding.
Advice on light diet and exercise during flights are shown on the TVs and in-flight magazines.
Information on connecting between Terminals, transport times and costs into the centre of London, London Gatwick airport and London City airport can also be found in the High Life in-flight magazine.
Headphones on board the long-haul flights are overly large and uncomfortable.
Headrests on the Boeing 747-400 fold down at the edges, but could be better designed to move down the side of the seat - to adjust for different heights.
British Airways always serves a good cup of tea.
British Airways offers a Travel Clinic for vaccinations and malaria advice:
www.ba.com/travelclinics
www.ba.com

Flight Evaluations for British Airways:
Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
9th October 2007 - Flight #BA0048
The flight was delayed by 45 minutes, although the captain made up a little time with a tail wind.
The aircraft seemed to shudder on take off and the interior was a little 'tired' looking, with marks on the seat and tray table. Headphones were also dirty, even though they came in a sealed packet.
Staff were pleasant and efficient.
Pre-ordered special food was the usual good standard for British Airways.
Flight duration: 8 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
10th October 2006 - Flight #BA0048
Boarding was made by seat section.,
On-time departure, but flight was slightly delayed in a holding pattern above Heathrow, due to a security alert next to the main runway.
Efficient and quietly friendly staff allowed passengers to spread out into other free seats.
Seatback was unclean in front, with torn seat pocket and grubby magazines.
Main meal (Vegetarian) consisted of a roll, salad, tasty pasta dish, cake and chocolate bar.
Flight duration: 9 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - New York (JFK), USA
31st October 2006 - Flight #BA0115
No boarding announcements were made; with the usual disorganised mass of people boarding and holding up fellow passengers.
There was a 10 minute take-off delay, due to a long queue for the runway.
Staff were efficient, helpful and friendly.
Reasonably clean seat area.
Main meal consisted of a tasty pasta dish, salad, roll and apple pie.
Plenty of free drinks were served throughout the flight.
Flight duration: 7 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK
11th October 2006 - Flight #BA1446
On-time departure.
Fairly clean leather seat, with efficient staff serving a sandwich box.
My luggage was held up by too little time between connecting flights (allow around 3 hours for time to walk between connecting terminals, security checkpoints and shop browsing...) with it having to be hand-delivered by courier the next day to my point of destination.
Try to make sure your hold luggage bar code (usually stuck to your boarding pass when first checking in) is scanned by staff as you board, incase it becomes misplaced.
Flight duration: 80 minutes, on an Airbus A320.

Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
31st October 2006 - Flight #1443
Departure was 10 minutes late; with a further 10 minutes delay in a holding pattern over Heathrow.
Quiet staff served a cereal bar as a mid-morning snack.
Tray table was dirty and the leather seat had a lot of crumbs all over it, (which seems to be a common drawback for turnaround flights on many airlines.)
Flight duration: 80 minutes, on an Airbus A320.

Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
25th April 2006 - Flight #BD057 (British Midland)
My original flight with British Airways was delayed by 50 minutes, so the check-in staff decided to re-route my flight with British Midland, (BMI) - which meant going to several different desks to have a new boarding pass re-issued and sorting out how to check through my luggage, since I had onward connecting flights with British Airways.
On time departure.
There was a delay of 10 minutes in a holding pattern on arrival over Heathrow, then a further delay on the ground of 15 minutes while waiting for (British Airways) aircraft to move out of the way, before finally taxiing to a gate stand.
All drinks and snacks had to b purchased on-board, with a simple cup of water costing £1.50 UK Sterling (US $2.50) and staff were slightly terse.
Leather seats reasonably clean on this fairly new Airbus A320.

London, (Heathrow) UK - to - New York (JFK) New York, USA
25th April 2006 - Flight #BA115
No organised boarding announcements were made over a speaker, only by voice; with a resulting disorganised mass of people boarding.
There was a 10 minute take-off delay, with no reason given.
Staff were calm and efficient.
Reasonably clean seat area, though seat pocket was torn and tray table was dirty.
Vegetarian meal consisted of a tasty pasta dish, salad, roll and a strange, very runny coconut/pistachio dessert. Plenty of free drinks were served throughout the flight.
Flight duration: over 6 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
3rd/4th April 2006 - Flight #BA48
This flight was delayed by 45 minutes, due to the aircraft arriving late and flight crew being stuck in traffic - but during the flight there was a tailwind of 60 mph, so the flight arrived 20 minutes early - then waited 8 minutes in a holding pattern above Heathrow, with a slight delay of several minutes on the tarmac, waiting for a gate slot.
Boarding was called out by organized ticket sections.
Vegetarian meal consisted of a tasty pasta dish, salad, roll, chocolate bar and cake, with a yogurt, roll, muesli bar and orange juice served for breakfast.
Staff were pleasant and efficient.
Flight duration: around 9 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

London, (Heathrow) UK - to - Edinburgh, (Turnhouse), UK
4th April 2006 - Flight #1448
There was a five minute delay for a passenger's bag being taken off.
Free drinks and snacks handed out by quiet staff.
Crumbs on seats and dirty tray table.
Flight duration: 75 minutes on a Boeing 757

Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
4th October 2005 - Flight #BA1445
On time departure.
Normal catering service was disrupted, due to the recent Union strikes - although a huge chocolate muffin was offered to passengers on boarding, and tea and coffee were still being served by staff during the flight.
In compensation for the inconvenience of the catering dispute, British Airways were offering free prize draws for all passengers to win flights and hotel accommodation.
Staff were pleasant and mature.
Flight duration: 1 hour 15 minutes, on an Airbus A320.

London, (Heathrow) UK - to - New York (JFK) New York, USA
4th October 2005 - Flight #BA115
Boarding at London Heathrow airport was unorganized, with no seating announcements made for passengers - apart from First and Business class.
Deparature was delayed by 5 minutes on the runway, while the aircraft waited for a slot to take off.
Staff were efficient and mature.
The vegetarian meal was excellent.
Seats had crumbs around the sides.
Flight duration: 6 hours and 20 minutes.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK
8th September 2005 - Flight #BA1442
On-time departure and arrival.
Staff were efficient.
Seat areas were clean.
Flight: just over 1 hour.
British Airways managed to lose my luggage between London Heathrow airport and Edinburgh Turnhouse Airport, not managing to return it to me on time for a meeting the next day - which meant I had to buy fresh clothes. The luggage was again lost between cities in Scotland; even sitting in a depot overnight and not being delivered, (as requested several times) to my hotel. It then took an extra day to be delivered to my next address.

Chicago, (O'Hare) Illinois, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) UK
7th September 2005 - Flight #BA298
On time departure and arrival.
Serious and efficient staff got the job done.
Seat areas were clean.
Food was fairly tasty.
Flight duration: around 9 hours and 55 minutes, on a Boeing 777.

Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
16th March 2005 - Flight #1445
There was a half hour departure delay, due to strong wind conditions in London Heathrow.
Quite clean leather seats.
Friendly staff.
Vegetarian lunch box included a Kit Kat bar and mushroom sandwich. Free drinks.
Flight duration: 1 hour 20 minutes on an Airbus A319.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK
24th February 2005 - Flight #1446
Because of a delayed landing from a previous connecting flight, I was the last person to board the aircraft, (the aircraft door was already closed when I ran up to the gate) but was kindly let on.
This however, meant that my luggage had already been removed from the hold and had to be sent by BA courier van to my final destination, at British Airway's expense. This was arranged at the British Airways baggage service centre in Edinburgh airport, where I identified my bag from a chart and the bar code sticker attached to my boarding card at original check in. My luggage arrived within the allotted 24 hours.
Super speedy, friendly and efficient staff had our lunch trays and drinks served in record time.
Leather seats not very clean and the tray table was appallingly dirty.
Toilet was dirty. Nice almond scented soap.
Flight duration: 1 hour and 20 minutes, on an Airbus A320.

Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
October 2004
On time departure.
Staff were quick and efficient; although when I asked one particular stewardess if my packaged lunch was vegetarian she laughed and said: "I don't have a clue..."
'Tired' looking leather seats had crumbs all over them.
Flight duration: just under an hour on an A320.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
October 2004
I was surprised to find no announcements of boarding by row numbers, causing a backlog of passengers in all rows trying to squeeze past each other and stow their bags on board.
Departure was slightly delayed as the captain waited for a take-off slot on the tarmac.
Food was interesting, light and tasteful.
Bad turbulence, (over Greenland) during the flight caused even the staff to stow the trolleys, sit down and buckle up.
Friendly, helpful, mature and efficient staff.
Toilets were clean.
Flight duration: 9 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK
September 2004
After passengers had just boarded, a technical fault meant an hours delay on the tarmac, with (cheerfully) informative updates from the captain.
Leather seats were slightly dirty and there was chocolate around the coat hook.
Staff were friendly and efficient.
Flight duration: just under an hour on an Airbus A319.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
September 2004
On time departure.
Although I am registered with British Airways in their 'Executive Club' programme for a window seat preference, I was given a middle row seat. I am also registered on this programme as requesting vegetarian food, but was handed a meat dish on board - although when I told the stewardess, she was fortunately still able to offer me a pasta alternative.
(I went to customer services in Heathrow straight off this flight and asked them to make sure my return flight would offer food preferences as ordered, which they happily did)
Staff were helpful, cheerful and efficient.
Reading lights and TV screens in the middle of the first three rows kept going on and off at strange times and although staff tried to fix this, it remained a strange occurrence throughout the flight. Staff were apologetic, but still maintained their dignity.
One toilet was unclean for a good proportion of the flight.
Flight duration: around 9 hours on a Boeing 747-400.

Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
March 2004
Captain was very informative; telling passengers before taking off that Heathrow was updating its Air Traffic Control systems (and training staff) so delays in the holding pattern above Heathrow might, (and did) occur, but only by five minutes.
Excellent take-off and landing in typical blustery UK weather.
I asked the flight attendants on boarding for vegetarian food and they were happy to keep an egg sandwich aside.
Flight staff efficient and helpful.
Seat areas fairly clean.
Flight duration: slightly over one hour, on a Boeing 757.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - New York, (JFK) New York, USA
March 2004
I was disappointed by the way British Airways staff at the Heathrow departure gate handled passengers while boarding the aircraft, with no seat announcements made whatsoever, so that boarding was extremely slow and disorganised.
The flight was delayed 15 minutes by a 'no-show' passenger, whose bags then had to be removed.
Helpful, mature staff - with a lot of patience for such a full, noisy flight.
Seat area was grubby and had crumbs all over it.
Clean, well equipped toilets, with nice almond soap, cups, tissues, free sanitary towels and folding baby changing table. Taps stop running water when you let go, which is slightly annoying (after just seeing spiffy taps on the Jet Blue Airbus A320)
Main vegetarian dish was over spiced and full of onions, which was slightly disappointing, although other food was fine and the dessert was wonderful.
Good selection of the latest films, news etc., on personal TV screens on the seat backs in front.
Flight duration: Over six hours on a Boeing 747-400.

London, (Heathrow) England, UK - to - Edinburgh, (Turnhouse) Scotland, UK
February 2004
Leather seat had chocolate on it and the aircraft had a very 'used' feel to it.
Free newspapers, drinks and sandwich.
I had pre-ordered vegetarian food (which BA members can do online for all flights) but on these shuttle services they no longer assign any special dietary requests (unless you catch the staff before take-off and ask them to put something specific aside)
No vegetarian sandwiches were left by the time I was served and I was not offered an alternative until near the end of the flight, though I was not impressed with the small tub consisting of: four baby carrots, one radish, one baby tomato, a sprig of parsley and small bag of pretzels.
Departure was 15 minutes late.
Flight duration: 55 minutes on an Airbus A319.

Seattle, (Tacoma), Washington, USA - to - London, (Heathrow) England, UK
February 2004
Staff were extremely helpful and accommodating, especially the purser.
Food was excellent.
Free drinks and plenty of water and orange juice were handed out throughout the flight.
Complimentary bag of mini toothbrush and toothpaste, eye shades and socks.
Clean toilets and seat areas.
Early arrival with tailwind, but the aircraft ended up in a ten minute queue on the tarmac - due to a shortage of ground services (because the airport was busy) which actually put it back on schedule.
Bus took passengers from the tarmac to the terminal building.
Flight duration: over eight hours, on a Boeing 747-400.

Icelandair
Icelandair pilots are highly skilled and if they can routinely fly into Keflavik and Icelandair are satisfied with them, then you should be satisfied. (One female pilot landed in cross winds so smoothly I didn't even feel the plane touch down)
I find Icelandair staff to be highly professional to the point of being curt - but this is exactly the kind of service I look for to protect my interests (remember - this is the original Viking stock!) And this should in no way mean we are dealing with louts or barbarians - these people have offered the world more Nobel laureates, would class chess players and winners of beauty contests per capita, than any other region or nationality.
Staff routinely speak Icelandic, English and Danish, amongst other languages.
Icelandair is also one of the oldest airline companies in the world.
Get to the check-in desk and gate early, as Icelandair start boarding at least 40 minutes before departure and leave promptly.
In Keflavik Airport, gate and boarding announcements are only made on the TV monitors and not out loud, so watch the TV monitors closely.
www.icelandair.com

Flight Evaluations for Icelandair:
Glasgow, Scotland, UK - to - Keflavik, Iceland
July/August 2003
Staff very efficient, helpful and mature.
However, I was surprised to see two elderly persons with limited mobility, sitting in the emergency aisle. This area should only be designated for those who can open the door and activate the escape chute quickly.
Seat areas fairly clean.
TV monitors in the centre aisles looked grubby.
Clips about Iceland shown throughout most of the flight are informative for first time visitors.
Food service was a little slow.
Vegetarian meal was dismal, with only slight flavour.
Free soft drinks and Icelandic mineral water.
Departure precisely on time.
Flight duration: two hours 10 minutes, on a Boeing 757-200.

Keflavik, Iceland - to - Copenhagen, Denmark
August 2003
Efficient and mature staff.
Seat and toilet areas clean.
Breakfast meal was average.
Free soft drinks.
Flight duration: three hours, on a Boeing 757-300.

Keflavik, Iceland - to - New York, (JFK) New York, USA
August 2003
Very efficient and mature staff.
Vegetarian food consisted of stringy broccoli, brown rice and boiled potatoes, with no sauce or flavouring whatsoever.
Immigration and customs forms to America are handed out on board.
Fairly clean seat areas.
Unfortunately, the tea and coffee machines were not working on this particular flight.
Free soft drinks and Icelandic mineral water.
Departure on time.
Flight duration: six hours, on a Boeing 757-200.

Jet Blue
This airline started in 2000 and seems to have done its customer research, declining the usual stifling actions of Trade Unions, as has been the case with other airlines.
Good value prices with excellent service.
Jet Blue facilities in New York (JFK) airport were sparse, especially seating in a snack area - just before going through security screening.
Jet Blue has an easy reward point system and members can watch their own chart grow online as points collect.
Web site is refreshingly easy to use:
www.jetblue.com

Flight Evaluations for Jet Blue:
New York, (JFK) New York - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
March 2004
Excellent service by friendly and efficient staff - with a higher than average ratio of staff to passengers, thereby giving speedier service.
Leather seats were uncomfortable for this length of journey, due to inadequate and proper anatomical padding (even with a cushion.)
Clean seat areas.
Nice clean toilets, with taps that let water run for a decent length of time after you let go.
Decent leg room.
Personal TV screens on the seat back in front, with 24 Direct TV Satellite channels.
Headsets slightly flimsy and uncomfortable.
The health suggestion and safety guide leaflets offered 'unusual' illustrations.
Free drinks and quality snacks (try the biscotti and blue corn chips)
Flight duration: just over six hours, on a (brand new) Airbus A320.

Lufthansa
Lufthansa and the City of Portland, to their mutual benefit, only recently successfully lobbied for a direct route to Frankfurt.
Please allow a small digression as to why this partnership is so effective.
Portland's elected officials are groomed from a voter base that is not likely to be tolerant of special interests but rather their community's needs. Environmental concerns, efficiencies and open government are paramount and apparent.
Lufthansa's corporate ethos makes this a match made in heaven. Both understand the other well and gain mutually. The true beneficiary is the traveler, you and I.
For Lufthansa's participation in this partnership the rewards are smiling passengers and lots of them. An examination of Lufthansa's worldwide routing reveals a clever, if not entrepreneurial approach to serving their customer base.
While Lufthansa is not a discount airline, its pricing is competitive despite the fact that little, if any, competition exists within its Portland station. By not taking advantage of this situation Lufthansa is earning respect and loyalty within this region. Standard service on Lufthansa is conducted with a Business Class atmosphere in Economy. Simply put, Lufthansa caters to the customer.
Both outgoing and return flights were experienced. Business Class was enjoyed en route to Frankfurt (for the needed sleep) and Economy class for the return.
Supervision at the ticket counter, as well as the flight crew, was excellent. All staff were very well presented, with good manners and a high degree of communication. Each has a minimum of two languages.
An examination of cargo and luggage crews revealed motion efficiency and yet a higher degree of care in moving items.

Flight Evaluations for Lufthansa:
Portland, Oregon, USA - to - Frankfurt, Germany
Staff were generally mature and consequently experienced.
Food was excellent and service flawless.
On time departure.
Flight duration: 9 hours and 40 minutes, on an Airbus 380.

Frankfurt, Germany - to - Portland, Oregon, USA
Staff, service and meals were as reported above.
Food was excellent and service flawless.
Departure was delayed 15 minutes.
Flight duration: 9 hours and 40 minutes, on an Airbus 380.

Frankfurt, Germany - to - Hamburg, Germany
Staff were efficient and confident.
Despite being a domestic flight, all announcements were in English and German.
Departure on time. Flight duration: 45 minutes, on an Airbus A300.

Hamburg, Germany - to - Frankfurt, Germany
Staff were efficient, despite a full load, due to a previous canceled flight.
Departure 35 minutes delayed due to a tire change.
Flight time: 42 minutes on an Airbus A300.

Northwest Airlines
Northwest Airlines use Minneapolis/St. Paul as a hub.
Northwest Airlines is partnered with KLM. This advantageous partnership offers the flier fairly unencumbered access from the heartland of America (and to destinations in Europe via Amsterdam)
Note that other airlines, (e.g. Icelandair) may use Northwest Airline's check-in desk facilities.
www.nwa.com

Flight Evaluations for Northwest Airlines:
Hartford/Bradley International, Connecticut (via Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota) - to - Spokane, Washington, USA
August 2003
I observed a stewardess with half her body engaging the flight crew in 'open door' conversation for at least 4-1/2 minutes. During this time, the toilet immediately behind her was used twice. Meaning that this was a clear compromise of flight deck security.
Boarding took place 35 minutes before departure and take-off was five minutes after departure time.
Staff brusque and slightly bored looking on both flights, but got the job done.
Free soft drinks, but beer or wine are offered at US $5.00 (£2.70 UK Sterling) each.
Breakfast was offered at US $7.00 (£3.78 UK Sterling) which was outrageous for the high season ticket price. (I didn't see anyone buying breakfast)
Free small packet of salted almonds.
Clean toilet and fairly clean seat areas, but slightly tired looking aircraft.
Flight duration: three hours and 25 minutes, on an Airbus A320 SR.
Good leg room.

Spokane, Washington - to - Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
July 2003
Boarding took place 40 minutes before departure and take-off was precisely on time.
Staff mature and pleasant.
Free small bag of salted pretzels.
Soft drinks free, but alcohol was expensive.
TV monitors old and grubby looking.
Seat and toilet areas clean.
Flight duration: two hours and ten minutes.

Ryanair
This Irish based company has made use of smaller and re-vamped old military airports to great advantage, thereby keeping their overheads down.
One of the benefits of using these comparatively remote regional airports, is the interesting view of landscapes further outside the larger commercial areas.
One of the downsides may be that by using smaller airports, transport to major cities is comparatively longer. For example - the bus from Skavsta Airport, in Sweden, takes 1-1/2 hours to the city of Stockholm and the bus from Torp Airport, in Norway, is 2 hours to the city of Oslo.
Note - when Ryanair advertises an airport such as Glasgow/Prestwick, it should correctly be shown, as either: Prestwick Airport or Glasgow International Airport.
(Glasgow Airport is at least 30 minutes away from Prestwick Airport)
This can create some confusion for new travelers.
Ryanair also has contracts with local bus companies in each country, at a decent price (compared to the local airport taxis)
The buses were clean and comfortable and afforded excellent views in all directions. If a bus is full, the bus driver calls for a taxi to take extra passengers direct to their destination (at the same price as the bus)
Please note that large luggage is stored underneath the bus and the doors are not visible after you board. Therefore, try and sit on the side you place your luggage and watch for strangers who hang around without boarding the bus. The potential for theft is obvious.
Discounts for train transport out of Prestwick Airport in Scotland, are almost half the normal price with Ryanair (or on any destination out of the airport) - show the ticket collector your original Ryanair internet booking form and airline boarding pass when buying tickets.
When booking online, be sure to print out all the literature Ryanair sends, as these contain specific discounted pricing.
Ryanair offer good hotel deals and provide easy and interesting information on their web site.
Food and drinks on-board all Ryanair flights are expensive and staff will most likely not give out change for any currency other than UK Sterling or Euros.
www.ryanair.com

Flight Evaluations for Ryanair:
Aarhus, (Tirstrup) Denmark - to - Stockholm, (S. Skavsta) Sweden
August 2003
Boarding the aircraft was via outdoor steps, with a fairly long walk onto the tarmac - not convenient for physically challenged people.
Staff quick and fairly efficient, but cheeky.
Menu cards were in UK Sterling or Euros, although staff also accepted Danish and Swedish currency on this flight, but did not hand out change willingly or correctly.
Clean seat and toilet areas.
Food and drink was expensive.
Flight duration: 50 minutes on a brand new 737-500.
15 minutes early on arrival.

Oslo, (Torp) Norway - to - Prestwick, Scotland
August 2003
Staff were quick, but complacent.
The small Boeing 737-200 aircraft was dirty inside, especially around the emergency exits. The life jackets used by the crew to show emergency drills were also dirty. Chewing gum and crisp packets were left in seat pockets and crumbs were everywhere.
A mad dash took place when boarding the aircraft and boarding was via outdoor steps.
Boarding took place 30 minutes before a prompt take-off.
Ground staff dropped and threw luggage without care into the hold repeatedly while loading - in full view of waiting passengers!

---

Flight Evaluations for Song:
New York, (JFK) New York - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
October 6, 2005 - Flight #DL2053
This aircraft was boarded in zones (by happy announcements from the enthusiastic staff) with seats near the main exit door being boarded last.
Passengers wanting earphones to watch the in-flight entertainment needed to pick them up from a basket when boarding.
Safety announcements were done with a recorded 'new age' theme, which went on a little too long, although it was fairly de-stressing.
Staff were informal, chatty, enthusiastic and positive - with one lady even braking out into song.
The Boeing 757 was clean, offering leather seats and individual TV screens on seatbacks.
Pay per view movies cost $6.00 - which you can purchase by using a credit card in the TV monitor slot at your seat. At several times throughout the flight, the satellite TV had problems receiving a decent signal on all channels.
As well as movies, the touch screen TV's allow passengers to play an interactive quiz game during the flight, which was rather fun.
Colourful menus are handed out in-flight for some very interesting and healthy meals, sandwiches, snacks and drinks - including a tasty 'Newman's Own' chocolate bar, (a portion of which is donated to charity) and all major credit cards are accepted. Soft drinks are free.
I purchased a 28g bag of popcorn for $2.00, which tasted like cardboard, but the snack box of cheese, crackers and fruit was fresh.
Flight duration was around 6 hours.

---

Southwest Airlines
Southwest began as a small airline in Texas, 1971, to become one of the biggest in America - now flying to 60 airports across the country and using some of the newest Boeing jets, (with an average age of 9 years) fitted with the more engine/fuel efficient and noise reducing 'Blended Winglets'.
One of the first airlines to pioneer senior discounts, ticketless travel and same day air-freight delivery, Southwest claims on its website to be: the only short haul, low fare, high frequency point-to-point carrier in America and has won many awards for its services.
Southwest also offers online and self-service check-in kiosks.
Southwest Airlines (in 2008) recently pulled about 38 aircraft from their fleet, due to safety inspections not being made within regulatoy standards and at least four were found to have structural defects.
Southwest recycles its waste.
The website is easy to use and ticket prices are decently lower than other regional airlines: www.southwest.com

Flight Evaluations for Southwest Airlines:
Islip, (MacArthur) Airport, New York, USA - to - Chicago, (Midway) Illinois, USA
4th November 2007 - Flight #300
Staff were efficient and cheerful, although a little tired from this being a turnaround flight.
Pretzels and softdrinks were served, while alcohol is purchased on board.
Seat area was fairly clean, although the tray table was unclean.
Flight duration: 85 minutes.

Chicago, (Midway) Illinois, USA - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
4th November 2007 - Flight #658
Staff were singing and seemed to be enjoying themselves, while efficiently serving passengers.
We arrived slightly late, due to a strong headwind.
Free snack boxes and soft drinks were served, although alcohol is purchased on board.
Seat area was fairly clean.
Toilet area was kept fairly clean.
Flight duration: Just over 5 hours.

Islip, (MacArthur) Airport, New York - to - Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
11th June 2007 - Flight #463
Boarding was called out by 'zone' and departure was prompt.
Staff announcements on board were very fun, getting the whole plane laughing, (and even singing) with 2 of the staff seeming to genuinely enjoy serving people.
Snack boxes (with very processed brand-name food) and free soft drinks were served, with extra peanuts and drinks handed out near the end of the flight.
Toilets kept fairly clean.
Flight duration: 5 hours and 25 minutes on a Boeing 737.

Las Vegas, Nevada - to - Spokane, Washington, USA
11th June 2007 - Flight #347
This flight was delayed over an hour, apparently from the previous turnaround flight setting off late.
Departure was prompt as soon as everyone was settled.
The attendant was quietly efficient, serving free soft drinks and peanuts.
Flight duration: 2 hours and 25 minutes on a Boeing 737.

Islip, (MacArthur) New York - to - Chicago, (Midway) Illinois, USA
5th November 2006 - Flight #2645
On-time departure.
Boarding was announced in three sections: A, B and C, (with no seat numbers designated, passengers stood in lines long before boarding.)
This was a turnaround flight, though the leather seats were fairly clean.
Flight crew were casually efficient.
Soft drinks and small bags of peanuts and plane shaped crackers were free.
Flight duration: about 1 hour, 55 minutes on a fairly new Boeing 747-400.

Chicago, (Midway) Illinois - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
5th November 2006 - Flight #2291
On-time departure.
Staff were relaxed and efficient.
On flights over 2 hours, a free snack-box is handed out; with honey cookies, cheese dips, crackers, peanuts and dried fruit. The snack box also unfolds to a number puzzle.
Plenty of free soft drinks were handed out.
Passengers are required by law not to queue by the front cockpit door for the toilet.
Flight duration: about 3 hours, 40 minutes on a Boeing 737.

Islip, (Macarthur) New York - to - Chicago, (Midway) Illinois, USA
3rd May 2006 - Flight #2645
On-time departure.
Boarding was in two sections: A and B, but since there are no seat numbers designated on boarding passes, passengers stand in line long before boarding.
This was a turnaround flight, with little time for the plane to be cleaned properly, resulting in crumbs on the leather seats, seat pockets and slightly dirty tray table.
On-time departure.
Flight crew were friendly and efficient, despite previously working on the turnaround flight.
Soft drinks and small bags of peanuts were free, but alcohol and snack-boxes were not.
Landing was slightly rough, due to gusty winds.
Flight duration: about 2 hours, 15 minutes on a fairly new Boeing 737.
This flight also stopped at Oakland, California.

Chicago, (Midway) Illinois - to - Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington, USA
3rd May 2006 - Flight #2291
On-time departure.
Staff were relaxed, but cheerily efficient.
On flights over 2 hours, a free snack-box is handed out; with Oreo cookies, cheese crackers and dried fruit. The snack box also unfolds with a number puzzle inside for passengers to work out. Plenty of free soft drinks were handed out.
Passengers were asked not to queue by the front cockpit door for the toilet.
Toilets were clean, although there was little room to move about.
Flight duration: about 3 hours, 40 minutes on a Boeing 737.

Seattle, (Tacoma) Washington - to Spokane, Washington, USA
3rd May 2006 - Flight #2379
Although no boarding pass was issued to me at point of departue (in Islip Airport, New York) I was easily able to obtain a boarding pass at gate B6 in Seattle airport, with hardly any walking needed between Southwest's connecting flights.
This was also a turnaround flight, with debris around the seat areas and was obviously one of Southwest's older aircraft, with torn seat pockets etc.
On-time departure.
Staff were tired, but still put on a bright face to everyone.
Flight duration: around 50 minutes, on an older Boeing 737.