Check-In
The free limousine transfer (within 60 miles of Heathrow) was on time, smooth and swift and the driver was very courteous. Separate check-in and Fast Track entry into the departure lounge took less than 10mins.
On The Ground
The lounge at Heathrow was spacious and comfortable allowing you to relax on a sofa and watch TV. A wide choice of drinks and sandwiches were replaced frequently. Restrooms and showers were clean with fresh flowers. There were four laptop points for those who wanted to work.
Boarding and Take-Off
The flight was full but boarding was quick and efficient. Even though it was 40mins late taking off, it was only 15mins late landing. On the return flight we were delayed over an hour but only landed 15mins late – plus the air stewardess kept us happy with plenty of nuts and champagne and the pilot kept us well informed about the delay.
Food and Wine
The meal was above average in both taste and presentation. There was a choice of four good wines, champagne and cocktails; chicken, fish, meat and vegetarian options for the main meal. The choice of five teas, coffees, cheese and bread was also excellent. However, the pre-booked vegetarian meal – macaroni cheese – was disappointing, bland and chewy. Being offered a chocolate from a big box cheered me up, as did the prospect of pizza bread and frozen yoghurt if I got hungry before breakfast. The vegetarian breakfast made up for the dinner – the omelette was possibly the best I have tasted.
Seats
There were 56 seats (28 upper deck, 28 lower deck) with 50in pitch, 20in width. Cabin layout is 2-2 on the upper deck and 2-3-2 on the lower deck. I sat upstairs and was extremely comfortable – the seats were in good condition with moveable side wings and leg rests.
In-Flight Service and Entertainment
Overall the staff were very good, friendly and efficient. They call you by your name and are willing to help. Personal TVs give business travellers one extra film than everybody else. Unfortunately the films were awful but I think you have to blame Hollywood for that.
Overall Impression
I would definitely recommend Cathay to friends and would not hesitate to step on board again myself. A quality product that easily competes with the likes of British Airways but perhaps lacks the novelty of Virgin.