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UNITED AIRLINES

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CHICAGO – LOS ANGELES, FIRST CLASS

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing United Airlines’ domestic first-class service on a flight from Chicago to Los Angeles. Upon arrival at Chicago O’Hare airport, I was impressed by the efficiency of the premier access® service which made the check-in and boarding process smooth and hassle-free.

The airplane itself was modern and well-maintained, providing a comfortable and pleasant travel environment. As a welcome gesture, the cabin crew served a refreshing drink of sparkling wine or water, setting the tone for my journey ahead.

After take-off, the service continued with a selection of cocktails accompanied by warm nuts. The highlight of the flight was the delicious hot dinner that I had pre-ordered, which was served promptly and was tailored to my liking.

I was pleased to find that the plane offered free Wi-Fi and wireless chargers, allowing me to stay connected and charged throughout the flight. The clean design of the aircraft cabin left a lasting impression on me, adding to the overall enjoyment of the experience.

The flight attendants were attentive, friendly, and professional, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere onboard. Their dedication to customer service was evident, and I appreciated all their efforts to ensure I had an enjoyable flight.

Overall, my first-class experience on United Airlines was exceptional, and I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the journey. I would highly recommend this service to anyone looking for a premium travel experience. (Note: inbound Business Class passengers on flights to the U.S. usually qualify you to fly the domestic first class on connecting flights)

https://www.united.com/en/gb

AIR VISTARA, INDIA

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Air Vistara Business Class 

Bangkok – Mumbai. A320N

Delhi – Bangkok, A 321N

Vistara (Tata SIA Airlines) is an Indian based, full-service airline which commenced operations in 2015. The airline is a joint venture between Tata Group and Singapore Airlines who own 51% and 49% respectively. The name “Vistara” was taken from the Sanskrit word “Vistãra” meaning “limitless expanse”.

After the acquisition of Air India by the Tata Group in 2022, the Competition Commission of India approved a merger of Vistara and Air India in September 2023.

I checked-in online and after uploading my Indian visa confirmation I was issued an electronic boarding pass. Bag drop at the airport was a matter of a few seconds and I was off to the Lounge (Miracle at Suvarnabhumi Airport)

This was a single aisle A320 with a separate business class cabin of 8 seats. I was greeted by a friendly cabin crew member who introduced herself and offered a welcome drink and a cold refreshing towel. Later the purser introduced himself too and menu cards were distributed.

Soon after take-off the first round of drinks were served, followed by a full course meal including dessert and separate coffee/tea service featuring Starbucks brew.More drinks were served later in the flight.

The meal was nicely presented and tasted fine. Customs forms were handed out well ahead of landing so passengers could take a little rest. There is wifi availble for using the Vistara Channels, Inflight maps and their entertainment program.

I found this flight and airline a very pleasant experience. Everything worked well and the crew was friendly and courteous. Bags were delivered swiftly at Mumbai airport and as there was no queue at the E-visa zone for foreigners, I was out of the airport within approx 30 minutes.

Vistara also operates some flights to Europe but the outcome of the merger with Air India leaves many questions open for the near future of this emerging airline.

I can highly recommend Vistara and would fly again with them with much pleasure.

Flight Check:

UK121 DEL-BKK, A321Neo, Configuration:  12 – 24 – 152 (Business, Premium Economy and Economy)

Check-in: 4/5 ****
Boarding: 5/5 *****
Inflight Service: 4/5 ****
Food and Beverage: 4/5 ****
Cabin Crew: 4/5 ****
Comfort: 5/5 *****

Impressions:
I checked-in online via the Vistara app and it worked well. Baggage drop off was fast at DEL Airport as there was no line for the Business Class section. However, staff did not mention lounge access or Fast Track Security/Immigration. The lounge was Air India which I wrote about in a separate review. The Fast Track Security Immigration on the left of Delhi Airport T3, far away from Vistara Check-in but worth the walk as this airport can get crowed. Smooth and fast processing at fast track counters.

Boarding took place according to passenger priority printed on the boarding pass, and was smooth.

The Airbus 321 Neo aircraft was equipped with 12 lie-flat seats which were very comfortable (2 -2). The flight time was around 3:30 hours and it left time to relax after the meal service. Vistara offers inflight Wifi for a fee, or passengers can watch their entertainment on their own device for free.
Food quality and taste was excellent and the cabin crew was pleasant and attentive in a friendly way.
I find this airline really great and it offers good value for money.

https://www.airvistara.com/th/en