Photo Credit: Stuart DeSpain
If you’re flying from Seattle to Beijing, this is the way to go. It’s a direct flight, so no airport layover time. Even better, it departs in the very leisurely early afternoon. I haven’t flown an Asian carrier since Cathay Pacific some twenty years ago. Even so, CP made a lasting impression; they set a high bar I haven’t forgotten.Â
Hainan Airways lives up to the Asiatic reputation for stunning service and flight quality. Now, in fairness, I did spring for Business Class – which is, in effect, First. But even First Class is no guarantee of quality (United, that message is for you).
First off, there’s power. Sweet, sweet power. This means I didn’t need any of my usual backup support – including a second battery and second laptop (hey, we are talking about twelve hours, here). Power means I have an endless supply of music to entertain me across the Pacific. It means I can write this review in-flight without worrying about thirty minutes of frivolous noodling. While power is certainly to be expected I still marvel at the convenience. Really, it should be available to all passengers.
The cabin is beautiful. I’m riding in an Airbus A330-200 that has been decorated in rich reds with gold accents. The cabin rows accommodate six people, with seats in comfortable two-person banquettes. As a large man pushing six-feet-four-inches, leg room is usually a challenge. Not so, here. The leg rest is an added, luxurious bonus. The seat is controlled electronically and (so it promises) folds flat for sleep. The tray is ample, although the elbow room is a little tight. As I have no neighbor, it’s hard to say if this is a real or imagined problem. But I suspect I might if I did have someone next to me, we might be in each other’s business (just a little).
In-flight entertainment is reminiscent of Virgin America’s Red system. It offers a nice selection of movies, music, and games. I’m picky on music, so I’ll keep packing the iPod. But the choices Hainan provides would certainly work for me. Chances are I’ll be watching a movie on the return flight, so am grateful for the choice.
Food is also very good. I just finished a lovely dinner of sesame chicken. It came in four courses, including a nice salad and cheescake. I was able to choose from four items on the in-flight menu, which was elegantly produced. I’m looking forward to breakfast, and that’s not a statement often made aboard an aircraft!
Finally, the service is great. The Business Class cabin is exceptionally well staffed with anywhere from three to four attendants at any given time. Everyone is very friendly, helpful, and they speak reasonably good English.Â
I would definitely recommend Hainan to the business traveler. While certainly more expensive than economy, the value is quite good – certainly when compared to other airlines that charge much more for noticeably less.