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Superflyer flew Air China Economy class, on a B747-400 Combi (12/04/2010 20:45)

allanworm flew Air China Economy class, on a A321 (20/11/2009 10:45)

The flight was from BJ to HK. Due to bad weather in BJ, the flight was delayed one and a half hour. We needed to take the bus to the plane and when we saw it, we found that it was Air Macau plane!

Although it was a small aeroplane, the seat was better than expected, not that small.

The service was the same standard of all China airlines: a little bit rude when passengers blocking the corridor.

There were 2 choices of meal, no surprise. Overall, everything is expected.

moomin79 flew Air China Economy class, on a B747-400 (08/10/2009 12:04)

Leaving from the spanking new Beijing Capital International Airport I was expecting at least an air bridge to board the ageing 747. No such luck as they bussed out the 370 passengers on an antique bus. 370 passengers trying to get up one staircase and shuffle through the premium cabins was no easy task for the beleaguered cabin crew and it didn't help that 95% of the self-loading cargo were carrying their entire life posessions.

First impressions - it was like stepping into the 80's - I was particularly taken aback by the offensive colour scheme of the economy cabin. HOWEVER, once we had settled into our seats on the bulkhead row, we were actually quite impressed with the comfort and the recline which seemed far superior to many modern seats.

We had heard rumours of the terrible inflight entertainment and these proved to be correct - the projector TV showing propaganda and subtitled chinese movies was a firm favourite with our fellow passengers whom were most displeased with us making finger puppets during the commercial break. Having said that, we were well prepared with books, cards and laptops to keep us entertained which is something I would definitely recommend if you take the 747 operated services. Something I was surprised about was how many social gatherings went on around the cabin - it seemed at one point that the entire cabin+crew had joined in for a social reception next to the toilets! Food was not great although we were lucky enough to get a choice - chicken or beef.

We were eyed suspiciously when asking for a second round of drinks but were given the choice of beer or wine - no spirits in economy.

Again, I would recommend taking a supply of snacks just in case you are not convinced by the onboard offering. Toilets were inspected and refreshed on a regular basis so thumbs up for that.

Not a bad flight but certainly memorable.