NZ or EK to AKL?

[harvyk]

Given QF are removing the 744 from the MEL to AKL QF25 \ QF 26 flights in a few months I'm considering changing to a different carrier for my fairly frequent CBR to AKL trips (yes I'm a plane snob. I will always pick the 747 flights if there is a choice, but I also like the idea of trying the A380). Given CBR to BNE \ SYD \ MEL all take roughly the same amount of time and cost roughly the same on QF I have two options.

The first is to fly EK ex SYD on the A380. I've heard good things about EK and I do like the thought of flying on the A380, even if it's just to give it a try. The second is to fly NZ ex BNE returning to MEL on their 744's.

Considering that I am looking at it virtually costing the same and taking almost exactly the same amount of time no matter what way I go what are peoples thoughts?

 

[Arthur Hodgson]

I might also suggest LAN Chile ex SYD on an A340.

Done this myself a few times. Good airline, modern planes (unlike the 747), nice service, well priced and you will also get 100% Qantas FF miles, even on the cheapest fare.

But if you are wedded to the 747, obviously none of this matters...

 

[trooper]

Can't comment on EK - except to say I've heard good things about EK too... folks mainly talking F/C I must say however...

... but as an NZ *G I reckon their Y product on the 747 is pretty decent...

I'd do the same as you in that situation (or get a 777 operated flight) because with NZ status I'd get the Y+ seating on those aircraft on those routes as an "elite perk"... they don't sell Y+...

Not sure how else you could get that little further forward...:mrgreen:

As you are doing it regularly... why not try both? EDIT: or all three!! (And report back here of course!!!)

 

[harvyk]

I might also suggest LAN Chile ex SYD on an A340.

That is an option, but the LAN A340 from my understanding has very limited entertainment option. (limited to 5 streaming movies, no AVOD)

I suppose I could do a comparison (and report it back here). I don't know when that will be as my next AKL flight is on QF in two weeks (my sad to see the 744 go from the route flight ).

I've flown Air NZ domestically within New Zealand, but that's pretty different to their international product. (Domestically Air NZ has more in common with LCC's than full service airlines, which is probably why QF is pulling out of New Zealand and placing in JQ). I probably should add that this comparision would only be worthwhile to ex CBR, as there would be little point for such routing ex BNE \ SYD \ MEL, unless your trying to get those SC's \ Points

 

[futaris]

Don't forget that there is also a 777-200ER that operates Trans Tasman. Not a bad use of Airpoints to upgrade to Business Premier.

Not sure how AVOD compares between EK & NZ. And I'd avoid taking the OMG o'clock (~6AM) flights from AKL to SYD on QF or LA.