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We just got back from Europe after a 9+ hour return flight in economy. It wasn’t too terrible except the plane was absolutely freezing. People were putting up their jacket hoods and retrieving warmer clothes out of their luggage. Very little adjustment even after flight attendants were made aware.
That said, we will continue longer flights for several years (mid 70s now) but those lie flat seats are calling us. We usually fly with free miles and first/business class requirements are quite high.
Flying is such a hassle now but we would like to return to Europe at least one or two more times as we usually go every other year. The other place of interest is Australia/New Zealand and we would need to have lie flat seats for sure or possibly cruise one way. We have already been to Hawaii several times and will not fly there again. But maybe Tahiti . . .
Just out of curiosity, could you tell us what airline that was that had you freezing?
I have flown many airlines across the pond, and the best by far, in every respect was Air France. In addition to the clean plane, good food and good service, the temperature of the plane was perfect. On the warm side but not too hot.
Forget Economy on long flights. I saved money all my life and will only take business class for long haul flights. Had a 12 hour from Toronto to Japan and business class had seats that converted to beds. Enjoyed the flight over and slept the whole way back. Even certain airlines have a much improved Premium Economy that we used going over to Europe and Southeast Asia.
However, over the decades travel by air has declined in quality with scheduling and on the ground conditions in airports. We are enjoying our memories and exploring the western hemisphere with perhaps only short flights. In our 70s now.
Everyone is different as to their ability to withstand the torture of long flights. My DH is 75 but a fit 75. I'm in my 60s. A couple of years ago he told me he won't do those insane 17+ hour flights anymore. I agreed, as they are just too much on the body. They're mentally hard too. And it took longer and longer to recover after those flights.
To go to Australia now, we fly to Italy and spend a few days there. Then we fly to Singapore for an overnight stopover and chance to explore that lovely city. That flight's about 12 hours. The maximum he will endure. Then onto Australia from there. Same on the way back.
We buy Premium Economy on the those flights. We can't afford Business but PE makes it more bearable for not much more money.
Last year I was offered a chance to upgrade to premium economy for 150 coming back from Europe. They offered it by email a few days before the flight. What a difference the extra room made.
On my last trip I looked at the cost when booking and it was too expensive but if I get offered that deal again I would take it. Luckily in April the plane wasn’t full and I got a entire row to myself both ways so I could lay down to sleep.
I exchanged traveling on 8 hr. flights for staying home on 8 hr. Tylenol Arthritis
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