Garuda from PER to DPS and PER Skyteam lounge

[Daver6]

Hi all,

Not sure if this is really the correct section, so mods feel free to move.

Considering a short escape to Conrad Bali in a few months (some really cheap prices going currently).

Question is which airline to fly there. Travel will be in Y. Previously flown J* and Virgin. Much first choice would be Virgin (access to SQ Lounge in PER and decent enough), however they no longer fly that route. J* wasn't that great, but at least has QP access in PER.

Air Asia X, their safety record bothers me so I think I'll avoid that (unless I'm just imagining that?). Tiger...I think not. Only heard bad stories and no lounge access.

That leaves Garuda. Thanks to the Alititia status much I have the equivalent of gold, so presumably lounge access both ends. The other advantage is a A330. Now I know Garuda used to have an atrocious safety record. Is this now in the past?

Also, little unclear which lounge they'd use at PER international? Skyteam website indicates the VA lounge...but surely that's the domestic terminal? VA use the SQ lounge from my previous experience. Anyone in the know?

Thoughts as to airline choices here?

Thanks

 

[bsb]

I'd go Air Asia. Pay for the extra leg room seat and still have a lot left over for drinks at the Conrad. My experiences with them have been good and professional.

 

[Daver6]

Thanks for your thoughts

Its their safety that concerns me more than anything else.

 

[Cynicor]

I only take Garuda now. They have improved in both safety and in flight service/hard product.

Best timings of the lot (early arrival, late departure) and not much more expensive. Wide body means more room too. So much better overall.

 

[bam71]

Agree fully with Cynicor. I really like them.

 

[mannej]

Thanks for your thoughts

Its their safety that concerns me more than anything else.

Air Asia has only had 1 fatal accident if I am not mistaken.

 

[Daver6]

Air Asia has only had 1 fatal accident if I am not mistaken.

Its there near misses which are just as concerning really. Its things like this https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/wa/a/31087139/airasia-jet-flew-300m-too-low-over-perth/ which keep cropping up.

Again, I'm hoping the good folk here can guide me whether its just media beat up or a safe airline. Honestly, same concern about Garuda, hence the question

 

[Cynicor]

Garuda seem to have demonstrated a turn around, especially the international arms. I am doubting air Asia currently, too.

 

[NZflygirl]

I've flown neither but have read good things about Garuda and yes, air alias record bothers me - more so as lack of pilot training was a factor in the fatality so I'm steering clear regardless of cost. All I'll be thinking about us "will I get there" and the nerves surrounding the trip aren't worth it IMO.