1. Positioning flight: PEK-HKG-TPE
(a) CX391 PEK-HKG
Flight arrived into HKG 30 minutes late due to late boarding at PEK and seemingly taxiing around PEK tarmac forever, typical PEK air traffic control issues again. Was seated in 30D, the front row of the 777-300 economy cabin. Fortunately had an empty middle seat next to me - surprised to see this flight with so many spare seats, given CX were unable to waitlist me for any flights earlier on the Friday, and this being the beginning of the Mid-Autumn Festival National Holiday. The ample leg room was enjoyed, as was the fruit platter that I ordered as the special meal request. The pineapple was particularly juicy.
(b) CX470 HKG-TPE
Departure for CX470 was also delayed in HKG for a substantial amount of time, enabling me to browse the extensive duty free shopping opportunities at HKG given that I did not have lounge access on this occasion. Neuhas chocolates were purchased along with perfumes requested by family members, saving a good 40% compared to the Australian retail price. CX470 was also on a 777-300. Had the fruit platter again which was also refreshing.
Upon arrival the walk from the gate to the Immigration counters seemed quite long. Terminal 1 is undergoing renovation so I suspect that explains the lack of travelators. Immigration queues were not too bad. Cheap duty free liquor was purchased beforehand, having heard on this forum that TPE represented good value. Will add photos of my purchases soon. Baggage collection was quick but the conveyor belt congested, since the airport management for some reason thought it a good idea to have three separate flights all come out on conveyor belt 3A despite the other carousels being empty and unusued.
