Thanks
@QF WP for re-opening this. Gives the background and tips from before, and will let people see what’s changed (or not). And hopefully easier for others to contribute.
I’m lucky to be in the middle of a few F flights, and happy to share experiences. Apologies if I’m too detailed or repetitive or don’t take the best pics. Also as I’m still travelling my posts might be incomplete or in bursts.
My flights were booked as part of a multi-city journey via Qantas. As a result, these are codeshare flights. The only difference AFAIK from the full EK F experience is no chauffeur drive at any port. Not a big deal for me this trip.
I’ve taken full advantage of the “See what’s on your flight” service via the EK website. Allows you to see what food will be offered, and compare the F menu to the J menu to see which options are shared and which are F only. Available in the month before the flight, I believe.
First flight was Singapore to Dubai. 21:10 departure. A380.
Arrived at airport at 15:30. Not surprised check-in desk not open, but can be done over the road at Jewel which is about 5 minutes away. Largely self-serve check-in but fortunately there was one Emirates gentleman at a desk and I used this. Advised the EK lounge only opened at 17:00. No problem for me as EK F pax can access the QF F lounge. I’ve posted my experience there in the relevant thread.
The EK lounge is nice. Very standard EK out-station lounge, with a bit of regional variety in food (eg satay). No differentiation in service or space for F pax.
Left lounge 20 minutes before scheduled boarding and 5 minutes later I was in my suite. Priority screening enforced at gate so was straight through, and boarding for F only had just been called, so I didn’t even sit down at the gate.
Greeted warmly by FA Joe and asked if I was familiar with the suite. Yes. So then asked if I’d like a drink, but also informed that the only alcohol that could be offered until doors closed was Moët and Chandon champagne. DP 2013 available later. I’m not a big champagne drinker so just had a taster.
Suite came setup with amenity kit, extra lotions and creams, noise cancelling headset, eye mask, snack basket and the mini-bar. Bedding and blanket also in the suite but tucked away. Sorry I generally don’t take pics of these but might in future. All very comfortable.
Joe asked me if I’d like to reserve a shower time, but I declined. Second FA Siobhan then asked me if I’d like slippers and pyjamas. I said yes to the latter which she handed to me, but not in the usual bag. She offered top-ups of the champagne and when I declined she asked what I’d like after take-off. Hennessy Paradis cognac thanks.
About 10 minutes prior to departure Arabic coffee and dates provided. Time for a second round of coffee. Hot towel provided around this time too (can’t recall exact sequencing but i think this and the coffee come once everyone In the cabin is in. This flight was full in F.
Aside from the limited alcoholic drink provision, my minor criticism of the boarding experience is that the menus weren’t provided until after takeoff. There was plenty of time while we were on the ground.
After take-off and well under 5 minutes after the seatbelt sign was extinguished this was provided:
Yikes. Joe joked that as he didn’t know what olives I’d like he gave me both.
Will post my poor quality pics of the excellent quality menu, as well as the meals, when I next get a chance.
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