Background:
This was my first time in Chicago during winter and it was like I expected it to be: cold and windy. The air seemed to be pretty fresh compared to New York where a lot of pollution is.
Flight-Report:
As the ride with the CTA "Blue line" to the city worked so well, I used it for the return trip to the airport too. The price for a single ride ticket, like I had, is $3. Except when departing from O'Hare where it is $5.
The subway ride takes about 40 minutes and terminates in the clean and modern station of O'Hare Airport.
For my JetBlue (B6) flight I had to find my way to Terminal 3.
The Christmas baubles prove that this flight took place back in December.
The check-in area is shared between many airlines which do not need much space.
The JetBlue area with its creative decorated check-in kiosks.
I already checked-in online, but did not have a printer available, so I printed my boarding pass at one of the machines.
The next step was the security check with almost no queue, so again no need to purchase "Even More Speed".
The first glimpse of the apron on that very foggy day.
As always ORD has some kind of nice decoration to offer. This time it was a sentimental Christmas theme.
One of the most important things for travellers: Connectivity. At Chicago O'Hare Airport you are offered 30 minutes of complimentary Wi-Fi.
After some time discovering the terminal I realized it already was boarding time. I rushed to my gate "L5".
The aircraft was an Airbus A320-232 with the registration N643JB. In 2006 it entered service and since then it is part of the JetBlue Airways fleet. It is configured with 150 Y-seats.
Upon entering the Airbus this sticker attracted my full attention. The Embraer on my flight to Chicago has not been equipped with it.
Being excited if Fly-Fi would work on that flight, I tried to connect my phone as soon as I got in my seat.
By the way: The seats in JetBlue's A320s have an outstanding 34" pitch, but are a bit narrower than in the Embraers. Again I stored my luggage and coat under the front seat. The flight was fully booked.
Spirit Airlines A320
Being number 8 in line for runway 32L.
Diving through the thick clouds…
…to meet the sun!
Cabin view
Soon Fly-Fi came online. I was amazed! The first time texting and sending snaps via Whatsapp inflight. On the other hand, people enjoying the seclusion above the clouds won't like this new trend.
But first you need to register, JetBlue promises that your data will be handled confidential.
With this innovational technology available, I did not even use the inflight-screen a single time.
After the seatbelt-signs turned off the cabin service began. I ordered the same than on my flight to ORD. Two cans of apple juice…
…and a pack of Skeeters. This time I also tried JetBlue's famous blue "Terra Chips"
I was a bit disappointed that there were no wet wipes handed out. Somewhere in my bag I found some from an earlier flight I took.
For those who are interested: The saftety card
Fly-Fi offered me some enhanced flight information, what I found just awesome.
Flying over Queens during approach. JFK can be seen in the background.
Exiting runway 31R
Terminal 5 is a very modern, bright building with not too long ways to walk.
That's a huge Amazon package!
Even though the airport is very busy, I could grab my suitcase just after a few minutes.
A final overview of the departures level before heading to the AirTrain.
The old TWA Flight Center in front of the later built B6 terminal.
For me this screen is totally confusing. Which sense does it make to display exactly the same information in two different ways at the same time?
British Airways A318 nonstop-service to London City Airport.
Riding the AirTrain inside the airports area is free, but if you want to exit (for example at Jamaica station) $5 have to be paid.
At Jamaica station I got on a Manhattan-bound Long Island Railroad (LIRR) train.
Tourist-Bonus:
Thanks for sharing your return leg on B6^^
Your photography is excellent and well narrated so very pleasurable reports to read.
I did not even use the inflight-screen a single time.
- Is there a moving map that you can access through your personal device? Otherwise, I would definitely be using the IFE to watch that. I agree the quality of the screen is poor on B6, looks like the AZ screens on their Airbus planes.
I was a bit disappointed that there were no wet wipes handed out.
- I have only seen this on transcons, never on any other segment with B6.
Fly-Fi offered me some enhanced flight information, what I found just awesome.
- I think all of the legacies (AA/DL/UA) offer the same for free based on my experiences this year.
B6 is a solid product that offers the best seat pitch in Y and the best catering in Y on domestic flights. It's a shame they finally started charging for bags because that was the extra cherry on top.
Hopefully see more reports soon, thanks!
That's very nice to hear, thank you! Will keep working on it.
Is there a moving map that you can access through your personal device?
- Yes. Theoretically you could also visit Flightradar24 or Planefinder to watch your location online. :)