Greetings Flight Reporters and welcome to another whirlwind Asian adventure. This was an especially exciting trip for me because I was bringing along a friend who was a complete newbie to most of the experiences I had planned for this trip. New to first class on top airlines, premium lounges, and new to a couple of the cities we visited. It's always a special treat for me to share experiences that I I value with someone else that I think will value them as well. To see things again through the newness of someone else's eyes. The reports of our travel will be broken down as follows:
Mark and I arrived at HND and proceeded to the transit security checkpoint where we were among the first passengers of the day. Mark was smarter than I was and slept much more on the ANA flight where I simply created a Krug deficiency. He was on one ticket connecting on ANA metal (plastic really…787) to SIN so he had his boarding pass in hand while I was on a separate ticket with SQ. I had a printed itinerary so security was no problem and we were in the main ANA Suites lounge quickly.
Mark was admitted as my guest and I was admitted as either an ANA F passenger inbound or SQ F passenger outbound. I asked the ANA agent at the counter about checking in for my SQ flight and whether someone representing SQ would be in the lounge. She indicated that I should go to the gate a little bit more towards boarding time. This was odd to me as my experience had been there is usually an airline contact, contract staff or otherwise, available to assist F and J passengers in this manner. No bother really but just and outlier in my small portfolio of experiences.
The lounge at this hour is very empty so it was great for my picture taking obsession. I am very fond of the space and this it is crisp, elegant, and functional.
Mark and I staked out large thrones overseeing the action on the ramp of the International Terminal.
There are an abundance of cubicles complete with TV and headphones.
The space is accentuated with back lit patterns.
Mark slept through the pre-arrival meal and I took mine over the middle of the Pacific so we ventured off to the other side of the lounge to survey the food offerings.
The morning offerings were just coming out. There is a good variety of nourishment.
Also a good variety of seating to enjoy a dish or two.
Mark constructed a couple of Bloody Marys for us and to eat I opted for a fish cake and some kakiage soba. It hit the spot perfectly but saved me for a decadent brunch awaiting on me on SQ631.
We retreated to our ramp view seating to relax and enjoy the views.
About this time I was approached by and ANA representative confirming my identity and that I was traveling on SQ631 today. She then apologized for not being here earlier (none needed) and presented me with my boarding passes and and lounge invite. Just as I suspected would be the case, there was no need to schlep down to the gate and back to compete the check in formalities.
We decided to take a walk to visit the other ANA Suites lounge here at HND. I think it was because we can, and no other reason really. Although it was closer to my departure gate. It has all the same amenities although more compact and I have reviewed it before so I'll skip it on this go.
The departure time for my SQ flight was approaching so I bid adieu to Mark and ventured forth into the terminal. He would be about 2 hours behind on the ANA flight.
This looks like the correct gate.
Boarding commenced shortly so on I go.
This 777-300ER was equipped with the refreshed SQ F product (perhaps they all are?) and still in the 8 F config.
The new look is very striking. I was seated in 2F. Much like member ADRIANFONG I also enjoy the sight of the GE90 and the massive wing right down to the raked wingtip.
The center seats.
Great storage all around the seat.
A female flight attendant introduced herself and welcomed me aboard by name. She was a young, energetic, witty, and a simply gorgeous Singaporean woman that I suppose I take for granted on SQ. Of course I should not as this combination of grace, precision, and beauty are not the norm in the greater worldwide service industry (or public at large) and such company should be savored like a rare vintage wine. She and the steward that also worked on my side were both exceptional and an absolute delight to spend the day with. The male FA would also be on our SIN-CGK flight a couple of days later and, being the consummate professional he is, approached me and asked after our stay in Singapore and plans for Jakarta.
The elation of being in the F seat with SQ about to depart for SIN hits full stride when the pre departure wine makes an appearance. Splits of Krug are new to me. In case the whole bottle isn't consumed? Under what circumstances does THAT happen?
Sipping the Krug while the boarding takes place in some far off area to the aft I explore more of the seat.
Controls are re-positioned in this version with the additional of a touchscreen controller for the IFE.
The foot well is ample but still better in the bulkhead.
A profusion of amenities are delivered.
I am also presented with the combination menu and wine list for today's flight to Singapore.
High quality headset is provisioned.
Boarding formalities are completed and we push back for a rainy taxi across the whole of Haneda Airport and we're off.
Once the seat belt sign is off I opt to visit the lav and don the SQ pajamas. I am relieved of my street clothes upon exit.
Upon return to my seat I am approached with an offer of beverage. Like a deer in headlights I freeze as the choices are so abundant and tempting I'm not sure which path to pursue.
The conundrum has a happy ending.
I do enjoy the latest IFE systems where it's possible to monitor the map while simultaneously enjoying the programming on the main screen.
For the meal I decide to accept the advice of Yoshihiro Murata and choose the Kyo Kaiseki option. After all, he's a respected authority who has helped shape Japan's culinary culture.
The meal begins with the Kuchitori of baby octopus in a handsome presentation. There's also mackerel and chick liver to round out the protein in this course. No real stand outs here. I suppose I found the livers to be most enjoyable and maybe something I am not used to seeing on the Japanese table.
The Yakimono was next. Another serving of 'meh". I suppose the standouts were the flounder and the fava bean dishes. The miso soup was tasty as well. Breakfast flights…what to do…
I finished up with the passion fruit mousse cake and ice cream. Quite tasty, these. Of course the Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee is a must when flying SQ.
Table cleared and stowed is was time to enjoy the IFE and general ambiance of flying with Singapore Airlines. The Macallan "Whiskey Maker's Edition" added to this sensation of supreme satisfaction and contentedness.
In the interest of comparative whiskey evaluation, Mr. Blue, JW dropped by to pay a visit.
After brunch the offer of a bed in the adjacent seat 2D was gratefully accepted. I almost made the Philippines before I was taken by slumber. I had a much needed nap until top of decent.
Funny little loop over Indonesia and on into Chagi.
I was into Changi about 2 hours ahead of Mark so I popped into The Private Room and enjoyed a very satisfying bowl of pork rib prawn noodle soup.
With that I took the sky train over to T2 to greet Mark at his gate and we were off into town for his first ever visit to Singapore!
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Verdict
Singapore Airlines
9.0/10
Cabin9.0
Cabin crew9.0
Entertainment/wifi9.0
Meal/catering9.0
ANA Lounge Haneda - International
8.4/10
Comfort9.0
Meal/catering8.5
Entertainment/wifi8.0
Services8.0
Tokyo - HND
9.3/10
Efficiency9.0
Access9.5
Services9.0
Cleanliness9.5
Singapore - SIN
9.1/10
Efficiency9.0
Access9.0
Services9.5
Cleanliness9.0
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me for this luxurious jaunt down to the equator with Singapore Airlines.
The Ground Service: Haneda has a new and modern International Terminal. Our time of arrive made for a very quick transit security process. ANA doesn't offer any escorts or hand holding to the gate.
The Lounge: I'm a fan of the ANA Suite Lounges at HND. Both have great ramp and runway views. I find the food and beverage to be ample. The showers are generally good with an abundance of amenities but the rooms tend to be warm. ANA is definitely not in the top tier of amenities offered in First Class lounges.
The Cabin: The refresh SQ has done to the F suite on the 777 was very thorough. The seat sof a modern look and high end finishes. The load up front was 3/8 so this made the already excellent cabin even more spacious and private. The separate bed and seat is, for me, the ultimate luxury in F travel.
The Crew: Only the highest marks. A perfect, for my sensibilities, blend of formal and casual that really makes a trip memorable for me. I truly was made to feel like a welcome guest.
The Food and Beverage: The time of departure forces SQ to make a decision on whether to offer a meal leaning towards breakfast or towards lunch. They have decidedly chosen breakfast as it's far lest costly. I think it's a poor decision for F class. Most have likely visited the lounge and not waited until 10am for their first taste of food for the day. I can't lament too much as the meal is easily known before the flight.
Overall: When I fly with SQ F outside of the A380/Suites I have the feeling that I'm missing out on something. This flight educated me that an F trip on this beautifully refurbished 777 can be an absolutely fantastic premium experience with SQ.
2 LIKESLIKE TO THANK THE AUTHORTHANKS ! FLIGHT-REPORT LIKED
Wow, Macallan and Blue, very impressive. As is the report. NH, SQ, JL and CX all FC in one trip. How fantastic. Anxious to hear your final tally of favorites. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the comment Rewardflying. Picking a favorite form those 4 airlines is a challenge. All are very high quality F services. This is my kind of "research." Thanks again and happy flying.
I have few questions if you don't mind. How come you got a TPR invitation if the flight to CGK was scheduled two days later?
How lucky you are to fly SQ First! I like the new First Class seat because it's wide and of course comfortable. No need to say that the bed is the best I've ever had, even better than the Suites single bed.
What was the color of the male FA's tie? If it's red, no wonder you saw him on your First class flight to Jakarta.
The Krug bottle is already half empty (or hall full) before departure. Was it only you? ;-))
The japanese meals are nicely presented.
No light meal before arrival? I understand you didn't need any because you planned to go to the TPR. But what about the other F passengers?
Greetings indianocean and thanks for the comments.
"How come you got a TPR invitation if the flight to CGK was scheduled two days later?" -My ticket continued to CGK that day but I didn't fly the CGK segment.
"What was the color of the male FA's tie? " - I'm sorry I don't recall if it was a red tie. Will you enlighten me as to the significance of the tie color? I presume it is a "rank" of sorts?
"The Krug bottle is already half empty (or hall full) before departure. Was it only you? ;-))" -It was a 375ml bottle! I had never seen one of Krug before this flight. In the US we call this a "split". Not sure if the term "split" is universal. BUt yes, I made short work of it.
"No light meal before arrival? I understand you didn't need any because you planned to go to the TPR. But what about the other F passengers?" -Judging from the menu there was no such offer, which I find odd. I cannot say for certain as I was sleeping until the top of decent.
No problem Christian: Inflight Supervisor: Purple tie for male or purple kebaya for female Chief Steward or Stewardess: Red tie or red kebaya Leading Steward or Stewardess: Green tie or green kebaya Steward or Stewardess: Blue tie or blue kabaya Usually, on a B777-300ER: one IFS, two Chief Steward(ess), from three to four Leading Steward(ess) Sometimes, male FA with yellow tie or female FA with yellow scarf: Auditor.
The ANA lounge seems well-appointed, but a bit too serious for my liking. The food sure looks nice though, and the presentation looks nicer on ground than in the air for ANA.
Ha - I too prefer a window seat that overlooks the window so that I may enjoy the beautiful sight (and sound) of GE90 engines. Unless it's a long-haul flight and the seating layout won't give me direct aisle access (namely Emirates/Qatar).
The next generation interior looks very exquisite , do we know whether or not this interior will be installed on all of their 77Ws soon?
Breakfast on flights don't usually reflect the true potential of an airline's meal services. Though SQ has done what it could, it seems like a bit of a let-down from an airline which prides itself of numerous accolades. I'm a bit confused though - so how many servings were you supposed to get? Double multi-course brunch? Or breakfast, and later brunch?
No caviar offered, or even cheese board to accompany fine champagne options? I understand it's a breakfast-lunch or double brunch flight, but for F I would've have expected it to be on the menu regardless. At least the Jamaican Blue Mountain sort of made up for it.
How did you gain access to The Private Room? I thought it was only for SQ Suites passengers? The food sure looks really nice though.
Greetings Razza_Pr and thanks for stopping by and leaving feedback.
"The next generation interior looks very exquisite , do we know whether or not this interior will be installed on all of their 77Ws soon?" -Good question. The trip reports I am seeing now have the refresh so there are a bunch of them out there.
"Breakfast on flights don't usually reflect the true potential of an airline's meal services." -My experience as well. Same with "Supper" flights. SQ is particularly weak in this area.
"I'm a bit confused though - so how many servings were you supposed to get? Double multi-course brunch? Or breakfast, and later brunch?" -The menu was a on meal affair but I cannot say for certain as I was sleeping until the end of the flight. Having flown to SIN many times on various airlines and SQ seems to only offer one service. Trips in J have had a second service.
"No caviar offered, or even cheese board to accompany fine champagne options?" -I agree these would be fairly easy options to stock as they have a longer shelf life than a cooked meal. It's unfortunate. JAL has both on their "Supper" menu in F form CGK-NRT.
"No caviar offered, or even cheese board to accompany fine champagne options?" -SQ F passengers also have TPR acces.
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9 Comments
Thanks again for this very nice report.
I have few questions if you don't mind. How come you got a TPR invitation if the flight to CGK was scheduled two days later?
How lucky you are to fly SQ First! I like the new First Class seat because it's wide and of course comfortable. No need to say that the bed is the best I've ever had, even better than the Suites single bed.
What was the color of the male FA's tie? If it's red, no wonder you saw him on your First class flight to Jakarta.
The Krug bottle is already half empty (or hall full) before departure. Was it only you? ;-))
The japanese meals are nicely presented.
No light meal before arrival? I understand you didn't need any because you planned to go to the TPR. But what about the other F passengers?
"How come you got a TPR invitation if the flight to CGK was scheduled two days later?"
-My ticket continued to CGK that day but I didn't fly the CGK segment.
"What was the color of the male FA's tie? "
- I'm sorry I don't recall if it was a red tie. Will you enlighten me as to the significance of the tie color? I presume it is a "rank" of sorts?
"The Krug bottle is already half empty (or hall full) before departure. Was it only you? ;-))"
-It was a 375ml bottle! I had never seen one of Krug before this flight. In the US we call this a "split". Not sure if the term "split" is universal. BUt yes, I made short work of it.
"No light meal before arrival? I understand you didn't need any because you planned to go to the TPR. But what about the other F passengers?"
-Judging from the menu there was no such offer, which I find odd. I cannot say for certain as I was sleeping until the top of decent.
Thanks again for the feedback and happy flying.
Inflight Supervisor: Purple tie for male or purple kebaya for female
Chief Steward or Stewardess: Red tie or red kebaya
Leading Steward or Stewardess: Green tie or green kebaya
Steward or Stewardess: Blue tie or blue kabaya
Usually, on a B777-300ER: one IFS, two Chief Steward(ess), from three to four Leading Steward(ess)
Sometimes, male FA with yellow tie or female FA with yellow scarf: Auditor.
The ANA lounge seems well-appointed, but a bit too serious for my liking. The food sure looks nice though, and the presentation looks nicer on ground than in the air for ANA.
Ha - I too prefer a window seat that overlooks the window so that I may enjoy the beautiful sight (and sound) of GE90 engines. Unless it's a long-haul flight and the seating layout won't give me direct aisle access (namely Emirates/Qatar).
The next generation interior looks very exquisite , do we know whether or not this interior will be installed on all of their 77Ws soon?
Breakfast on flights don't usually reflect the true potential of an airline's meal services. Though SQ has done what it could, it seems like a bit of a let-down from an airline which prides itself of numerous accolades. I'm a bit confused though - so how many servings were you supposed to get? Double multi-course brunch? Or breakfast, and later brunch?
No caviar offered, or even cheese board to accompany fine champagne options? I understand it's a breakfast-lunch or double brunch flight, but for F I would've have expected it to be on the menu regardless. At least the Jamaican Blue Mountain sort of made up for it.
How did you gain access to The Private Room? I thought it was only for SQ Suites passengers? The food sure looks really nice though.
Again, thanks for the great report!
"The next generation interior looks very exquisite , do we know whether or not this interior will be installed on all of their 77Ws soon?"
-Good question. The trip reports I am seeing now have the refresh so there are a bunch of them out there.
"Breakfast on flights don't usually reflect the true potential of an airline's meal services."
-My experience as well. Same with "Supper" flights. SQ is particularly weak in this area.
"I'm a bit confused though - so how many servings were you supposed to get? Double multi-course brunch? Or breakfast, and later brunch?"
-The menu was a on meal affair but I cannot say for certain as I was sleeping until the end of the flight. Having flown to SIN many times on various airlines and SQ seems to only offer one service. Trips in J have had a second service.
"No caviar offered, or even cheese board to accompany fine champagne options?"
-I agree these would be fairly easy options to stock as they have a longer shelf life than a cooked meal. It's unfortunate. JAL has both on their "Supper" menu in F form CGK-NRT.
"No caviar offered, or even cheese board to accompany fine champagne options?"
-SQ F passengers also have TPR acces.
Thank you again and happy flying.
"How did you gain access to The Private Room? I thought it was only for SQ Suites passengers?"
-SQ F passengers also have TPR acces.
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