A short stint in Saudi (and QR Doha Stopover)

[RooFlyer]

DOH-JED was originally a B787-9 but ended up another non QSuite, Starling enabled bird. I had booked 3A again, but at CGK check-in, they said it was 'taken' but on board it wasn't. I choose 3A in case a QS bird is subbed in, then I'd get the rearwards-facing seat.

On Gulf sectors, they call Business 'First' - identical to Business, but with FC earn on QFF or PC. Lightly loaded, with quite a few pilgrims, or Hajis, in white robes.





Hauling out of DOH



Starlink is a bit slow ...





I was wondering if there might be bar service, at least for a while, but no. When I flew into and out of Tehran in 2017, the booze was on until top of descent going in, and seat belts off going out .

Encouraged to try the So Jennie non alcoholic pink sparkling. Champagne's not really my thing, so this certainly wasn't!



I asked for a half serve of the lamb machboos, but of course got the whole, large serving! Delicious, but I couldn't nearly do it justice.



Some lovely FAs on this sector. I forgot to mention the (lady) CSM on CGK-DOH; one of the best QR CSMs I can remember. Very engaging. I did my usual thing and produced some choccies (enough for each crew member) after they cleared the main meal service away and she was genuinely touched. I know the Gulf carriers can get some very chauvinistic pax locals.

 

[SydneySwan]

The Orchard at least is nice to see after arrival security.

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But 800m to the train from the gate!

I don't mind the long walks at airports as it helps offset the overeating and meets my steps target. But if that is time that would otherwise be spent in AL Safwa then it is a different matter!

 

[Pvcmenace]

You are lucky it has stayed as an F ticket, my upcoming flight DOH to RUH has been subbed with an ex CX 777 with F cabin. My 1a has been changed to 11a and downgraded to J