The Journal Chinglish: How Airlines Keep Their Best Customers (and Flying on the Dreamliner!)

On my most recent journey back to California I flew first class for the first time. I received a free upgrade to first class and I can now see how airlines can retain their elite fliers. After my small regional flight I had two flights on first class: PHL->IAH->LAX.

PHL->IAH
This was on one of those narrow-body 737s, so there were only a couple rows of first class seats. The seats were much wider (2-2 instead of 3-3) and much more legroom (though those are pretty obvious). Before the flight began there was a beverage service and the drinks were given in glasses.

Once in the air we were given nuts (in a tea cup) and more beverages (including free alcohol). Most of remember a time when airlines used to give out small snacks on flights as part of the flight, though now we're in the era of cost-cutting and paid in-flight food. We also got a hot meal, which was actually pretty decent, and much more presentable than any meal I've ever had in economy.

Nuts and Drinks (Click to Enlarge)

Chicken Calzone Lunch (Click to Enlarge)

The biggest difference between first and economy is the service. While the stewards are nice in economy, they go the extra mile in first, always asking if you want more drinks and giving out hot towels before meals (which was definitely very nice).

IAH->LAX
The Dreamliner (787-8) is one of the few planes that does live up to the hype. I would have to say that the most noticeable feature of the plane is the cabin environment, since I felt much better (and my nose was a lot less dry) when I got off the plane than on mot other flights. Also, the window shades (not a physical thing, but something that darkens the windows) were also pretty neat.

The laydown beds were really really nice and the legroom was ridiculous-my feet never touched my backpack the entire flight.