The FlIGHT: This 45-minute flight on CityJet from London City Airport to Amsterdam was operated by a BAe 146. I had a seat in economy, by the window.
The Check-in: I truly tested out the 15-minute check-in boasted by London City and didn’t miss my flight. I arrived at 18.25 for an 18.45 departure, checked in effortlessly and smartish as it was five minutes prior to closure. I was riding the escalator and arrived into the security hall in two minutes and despite the long queues there they moved swiftly and I even had time to purchase something in duty free. I have to admit that
I was the last to board but I was sitting in my seat at 18.35.
THE SEAT: The cabin is configured 3-3 and is, naturally, quite snug. The seat has a decent tray table and armrests that hem you in somewhat and there is an approximate three-inch seat recline. Anyone corpulent would have an issue!
THE SERVICE: Soon after we were airborne, which was around 18.50, the cabin crew wasted no time whatsoever in announcing the commencement of the inflight service, which amounted to a moderate packet of cheesy sticks, a packet of two lemon-flavoured biscuits and a choice of drinks. Staff were friendly and smiley and no sooner had they been through the cabin than the descent commenced.
THE ENTERTAINMENT: Entertainment doesn’t exist on short haul flight these days; the in-flight magazines fulfilled this particular element of the flight.
THE ARRIVAL: The pilot had warned of a potentially long delay getting to the gate and it did feel like a tour of the tarmac. Having landed at 20.40 we only came to a halt at 20.55. Not an auspicious ending.
THE VERDICT: A typical no frills European flight that was certainly efficient at the London end, and comfortable enough for
the short time in the air.
THE DETAILS: CityJet has daily services to Amsterdam, specifically eight times a day Monday to Friday, once on Saturday and three times on Sunday. Economy class return fares start from £140. Premium Economy fares are from £450 depending on the date. Tel: 0871 666 5050; see: www.cityjet.com. Gillian Upton
