The flight: NZ1 from London Heathrow to Los Angeles. Seat 26D (one of 50 in total and one of two in the centre aisle). Scheduled departure was at 16.15 with a same-day 19.45 arrival in Los Angeles.
The Check-in: Just one counter was open for economy passengers but with only one person ahead of me – even though I was 15 minutes after the stipulated two-hour cut-off – check-in was speedy, hassle free and friendly.
The Seat: The fact that I walked straight past my seat, thinking I was still in Business Class, is indicative of how different the new Premium Economy Spaceseat product really is. It’s been designed to provide an ‘exclusive use area’ and there’s no armrest sharing. A large blanket, feather pillow and foot bean bag allows a good degree of comfort with recline and tilt functions. Other features include good stowage, centre seat console (which doubles as an armrest and shared table), reading light, inseat power, USB and iPod jacks.
The Service: Exceptionally good – perhaps the most charming, friendly inflight attendants I have ever encountered. Having been shown the basic functions of the new seat, a menu card was handed out with a choice of four main courses; my choice – halibut (pan seared, of course) was delicious. There’s a good choice of New Zealand wines and for the aficionados there's a 52-page Wine Guide. The inflight entertainment system is based around a touch screen with umpteen film, TV, music and games options, plus good headphones.
THE VERDICT: Outstandingly good service from a committed and friendly inflight crew who could moonlight as trainers for rival airlines. Flight crew are unfailingly personable and efficient and give every indication that there’s nothing they’d rather be doing than looking after their passengers.
The details: Air New Zealand flies daily between Heathrow and Los Angeles with a 10.5 hour flight time, and on to Auckland. The airline is due to take out a row of Premium Economy seating in late August in order to add up to six inches more legroom per seat.
During this time a Boeing 777-200 will be used on the route. Return LHR-LAX Premium Economy fares are from £1,081 and include use of premium check-in desks. Tel: 0800 028 4149. www.airnewzealand.co.uk. Alan Orbell
