Jin Air » User reviews

furball flew Jin Air Economy, on a B737-800 (13/10/2008 11:52)

I flew Jin Air on the recommendation of my travel agent who knew I'd be visiting Jeju Island during my recent trip to Korea. Is it safe? I asked, as I don't have much faith in low-cost carriers. He told me not to worry as Jin Air is owned by Korean Air. This sort of put my mind to rest, knowing the pilot was a Korean Air pilot. To learn some more, I went to their website but it was entirely in Korean! I checked Korean Air's website but all it had was news about Jin Air's launch. I really wanted to visit Jeju so I thought why not. It was only going to be less than an hour's flight.

When my hubby and I arrived at Gimpo Airport in plenty of time for our 3.30pm flight we spotted the counter immediately. You couldn't miss its chartreuse and magenta colors. There was hardly any line so we were checked in right away by the very young and good looking staff. I asked if they were selling caps as souvenirs but none was to be had, I was told.

We saw the same check-in staff at the boarding gate a little later, or at least, I think it was the same people. There was no delay in boarding, and we were quickly bused to the aircraft which was parked on the far side of the tarmac. Before going up the ramp, I took several pictures of the plane, as it's not often I get to ride a brand-new airline.

As seating was first come first served, my hubby had to nudge me to keep moving lest we miss out on the good seats. Thank goodness the first row towards the right was not taken – actually, there were very few passengers on this late afternoon flight so we pretty much had the airplane to ourselves. This suited us just fine. Jin Air is a low-cost carrier so it was all economy in a 3-3 seating. Being in the front, there is always that little extra legroom. I sat by the window, and hubby sat by the aisle.

As far as I can recall, there were 3 or 4 flight attendants attired in cool jeans and t-shirt, and they greeted everyone with a wide smile. The aircraft looked and smelled new, so it must have been new. I wish all planes could be kept that way.

We were only served drinks, which is better than some low-cost carriers I've travelled on where you have to PAY for them. Anyway, before you know it, you're already landing in Jeju.

I'm glad I followed my travel agent's advice. I wish the ride had been longer. I hope Jin Air will go international one of these days, and perhaps, it will fly between the Philippines and Korea. For sure, I'll take it again.