Check-in and Boarding Experience
The check-in process was smooth and efficient. Upon arrival at the airport, I was able to use the self-service kiosk, which significantly reduced waiting time. The machine quickly printed my boarding pass and luggage tags, and there was minimal delay at the baggage drop-off counter. Staff were friendly and helpful, ensuring the process was stress-free.
Security checks were well-organized, and I passed through without any issues. The boarding gate was clearly marked, and information on the display screens was accurate and up to date.
Boarding started on time and was conducted in groups, which helped avoid crowding and kept the process orderly. The ground crew managed the boarding procedure professionally, assisting passengers and maintaining a steady flow onto the aircraft. Priority boarding was respected, and passengers with special needs received proper assistance.
Overall, the check-in and boarding experience was pleasant, efficient, and well-managed.
Cabin Comfort and In-Flight Materials – Lufthansa CityLine CRJ900
Once on board the CRJ900 NextGen operated by Lufthansa CityLine, I found the cabin clean and well-organized. The legroom was quite decent for a regional jet. I had enough space to stretch my legs comfortably, which made the short-haul journey more pleasant.
The tray table folded down smoothly and was large enough to comfortably hold a drink, a snack, or even a small laptop. It felt stable and clean, with a molded drink holder.
The safety card was placed in the seat pocket in front of me. It was printed in both German and English, with clear illustrations explaining the emergency procedures. The condition of the card was slightly worn but still legible and easy to understand.
Two in-flight magazines were available: Worldshop, offering a selection of duty-free products and branded merchandise, and Onboard Delights, which showcased snacks, drinks, and combo offers available for purchase during the flight. Both magazines were nicely designed and offered a good overview of what’s available, especially useful on a short trip.
Overall, the onboard experience on this Lufthansa CityLine CRJ900 was efficient, clean, and well thought out for a regional aircraft.
Seat and In-Flight Experience
The seat on this CRJ900 offered a solid level of comfort for a short regional flight. Despite the compact layout typical for this aircraft type, I found the legroom acceptable, and the slimline seat design gave a bit more knee space than expected. The view from the window was clear and unobstructed, allowing for a pleasant look outside during the flight.
Shortly after takeoff, a small bottle of still water (300ml) was handed out to all passengers. In addition, there was a piece of Lindt milk chocolate, which was a nice touch. The chocolate was of excellent quality—smooth, creamy, and very enjoyable. This simple but thoughtful service contributed to a positive onboard experience, even without a full meal or extensive catering.
Landing in Cologne
The approach into Cologne was relatively smooth, though there were some noticeable crosswinds during the descent. The aircraft handled the windy conditions well, and the pilots managed a stable landing despite the turbulence. Touchdown was slightly firm, but nothing out of the ordinary for a breezy day. Taxiing to the stand was quick, and deboarding began shortly after arrival.
