A recent flight from Auckland to Brisbane on Air New Zealand’s leased aircraft provided a mix of positives and drawbacks. While the aircraft itself offered a better hard product than the standard NZ J class, the service experience was inconsistent.
Leased Aircraft
The aircraft showed signs of aging but had a superior hard product, making for a more comfortable flight experience compared to the usual NZ J class setup.
Room for Improvement in Service
The flight attendant forgot a drink order and skipped the bakery service. However, the In-Flight Manager later acknowledged the mistake and encouraged the passenger to take more, which was appreciated.
Timing Issues with Catering
The main meal, pancakes, was average but edible. The service was slow, with mains arriving nearly two-thirds into the flight, impacting the overall dining experience.
Key Highlights from the Review:
- Service was inconsistent; IFM rectified missed orders.
- Meals served late, pancakes were average.
- A better experience with standard NZ J class service.
Final Thoughts
Despite service missteps, the passenger recognized Air NZ’s usual service is typically better. A future flight with the standard crew and improved meal timing could enhance the experience.
