First Choice review by Christine Ives

22 November 2006

London Gatwick - Puerta Plata Star Class Premier service. Outbound flight not too bad, apart from a rude FA who, when offering cheese and biscuits, told me that I could only have one or the other, otherwise there would not be enough for everybody. On the inbound flight, we were last to board, and last to disembark - so much for priority boarding!! From the noises I could hear behind me, we were also last to get our food! Would I fly First Choice again - doubtful - would I upgrade again - never. They offer the upgraded movie package for £5 each once you are onboard and the food is not worth it. Don't bother, save your money for souvenirs - worst value for money I've known.

First Choice review by Ross Kelly

20 November 2006

FCA to Varadaro in Cuba. Very good service, first choice have really made an effort with there long haul and it shows. 33" legroom in star class (normal class) seat back tvs with a great choice of entertainment, the food was good and the 767 was nice and clean. The flight both ways was on time. If I was going long haul on a charter airline again I would only travel with First Choice after experiencing awful flights with Excel last year their, First Choice are streets ahead.

First Choice review by David Wainwright

17 November 2006

Star Class Premium - Gatwick to Cancun. Very good value for money. First time we've flown a charter in years and were pleased. Good seats, leg room ok (just a bit less than BA World Traveller Plus). Very good on demand entertainment system. Good food, service good both legs. Friends in Star Class at the back also pleased, much better than a normal charter, better leg room than BA and Virgin in Economy.

First Choice review by Stephen Sherrratt

2 November 2006

Gatwick-Mombasa return. Star Premium. Arrived two hours before ETD and check in was deserted, we were nearly last! Two seats behind each other, all windows occupied. First Choice have not told people that that have gone to 2-3-2 seating in economy as per scheduled airline 767s. I think they used to be 2-4-2 like Thomson/Britannia with 33 inch pitch that has to be a good deal. The 36 inch pitch in Star was OK for the money, dinner late but OK; breakfast poor but almost superfluous anyway. I was surprised I could not have my first choice main course- I was in Row 1! IFE good for a charter. Has to pass the value for money test. Security and Check in at Mombasa is painful, flight departed 2 hours late without convincing explanation. Got two seats behind each other again. Priority baggage worked, first out at Gatwick just as we arrived in the baggage hall after the long walk from Gate 48. Fastest ever exit from LGW! On my last couple of flight into LGW I have wasted 50 minutes in the baggage hall.

First Choice review by P Brooks

27 October 2006

First Choice Customer Relations is non existent. They do not even have the courtesy to reply to passengers. I was recently charged £12.00 each for my husband and I to sit together. I wrote to Customer Relations who have not even bothered to acknowledge and phoned two separate agents demanding a refund as we both like aisle seats anyway. Furthermore they also took 80p for their charity. As I had not been told about this either I asked for that to be refunded. Both agents advised that my account would be credited but to date this has not happened.

First Choice review by Barry Newman

27 October 2006

This is not a complaint, but I really think that First Choice should not send a "congratulations, you're flying star class premier" etc with all the added benefits listed - when they are not available on the aircraft. We upgraded 4 adults on a flight to Cyprus at £35 each way each person and was told of certain advantages all paid and happy - when the tickets arrived we had the above message in the flight book. So we expected more than was actual - in fact, the only benefit was easy booking in at Stansted. A bucks fizz, a free drink, free head phones - end of story. The luggage priority labels of course antagonise the baggage handlers at both ends and our cases were well in the last batch off - no easy booking in Cyprus, no in seat entertainment etc etc. So whats the big issue with the Congratulations?

First Choice review by M Young

17 October 2006

Manchester to Mombasa delayed going out by 2hrs flight was good an evening flight so most people were asleep. Food was not up to much service was ok. However travelling back on a day flight, the couple in front of us insisted on fully reclining their seats - this does annoy me. Suddenly your only space has vanished - to watch the movie was hard on the eyes as the screen was so close. I did kindly ask if they would put their seats up during the meal and was met with a barrage of insults - I pressed for the steward to come as I felt perhaps a little word in the ear would perhaps do the trick. They came, asked what the problem was, spoke to the couple in front - nothing changed. Was very disappointed by this, and the abusive couple then proceeded to wriggle and swing back on their seats to the hearts delight - we on the other hand were unable to enjoy the meal or the flight because of this. I complained again to the stewardess who was sympathetic towards our plight, - but that was it. When in a confined space dealing with this kind of childish behaviour, it is no wonder people get air rage - I came very close to it myself. Perhaps First choice could make it company policy to have seats in the upright position during meal times, thus ensuring this kind of selfish behaviour is abolished.

First Choice review by Jonathan Grimes

25 September 2006

Gatwick - Palma return - B757. Both flights delayed each way by about an hour - no information given on the reason for the delay. At 6' 7" I knew that I was in for an uncomfortable flight - however the legroom they give is just short of inhuman. Glad we didn't choose the in-flight meal at about GBP 10.00 each - your better off bringing sandwiches or eating before you get on. Agree with the earlier comments - the interior colour scheme and the cabin crews uniforms make for an interesting - if unattractive combination. Amazed by the number of things they try and sell you before (sitting together and more legroom) and during such a short flight (drinks, snacks, headphones, duty free and then scratch cards) - what next - will you have to pay for your lifevest?

First Choice review by Nick Francis

22 September 2006

Gatwick to Tenerife. Flight dirt cheap, and to be honest I wasn't expecting much except a long delay. Pleasantly surprised though, as the flight was bang on time. Aircraft (a 757) was clean, but the seat colour scheme is a real eyesore. Dark green Pleather seats, and not much legroom. As previous comments have suggested the bar used to hold the seat pocket in digs right into your legs. However, perfectly ok for a short-haul flight. Food was dire (really not worth paying for). Crew were ok, and at least were usually visible, but looked rather bored. However, their uniform is the just something else. The girls are forced to wear a rather revolting tie-die number and the I do feel for the guys who have to wear a grotty open-necked pink shirt. The whole thing just looks scruffy (can't bear the new Easyjet trend where male crew don't wear a tie, call me old-fashioned). But, that's not something that affected my enjoyment in any way. Overall, a 7 out of 10. Will probably use again if I have to!

First Choice review by Alan Wan

22 September 2006

LGW - Paphos return on a 757-200 both ways. Both flights left with about 20 minutes delay. The outbound had a pleasant but not good value for money hot breakfast which was prepayed at the time of booking. FA were fine as we where located in row 3 we could only see a small tv screen located in front of row 1 could hardly see it so did not bother with the £2.50 head phones. The return flight was pretty similar the meal was cottage pie which again for the £6 prepayment was poor value. My major gripe on arrival was the captain said due to lack of gates we would be parked on a remote stand and bused to the terminal. However on arrival there were loads of spare gates, I thought it was very cheap of the airline to use buses

First Choice review by Richard Watson

16 September 2006

Manchester - Male. On arriving at check-in we were told that the flight was delayed for approximately 3 hours and presented with a 3 pounds refreshment voucher each. The flight eventually did start to board roughly 3 hours late and as we had booked Star Class Premier (premium economy) we were invited to board the plane first, which was a nice touch. Once on board the Boeing 767 we found our seats and were pleasantly surprised with the amount of space. The seating was 2-3-2 and we had managed to get a 2. The seat pitch advertised is 36inches and it felt like that. There was plenty of width too and the recline was fine. We were served a sparkling cocktail before take off and shortly after that presented with menus, which had starters, choice of 3 mains, a sweet and chocolates. The food was nice and it was served on proper crockery. The entertainment system was great. You can choose from a large selection of films, tv programmes, music etc, and this can be started, paused, fast forwarded, rewound as you please, which is a great feature. The screens in Premier are 9inch as opposed to 7inch in economy and you also get noise cancelling headsets, which were pretty good. The flight attendants were dedicated to this section of the plane, and were very friendly and helpful. All in all, a fantastic product from First Choice - Well Done. We unfortunately had to cut our trip short and were forced to fly back with Monarch, which was awful!

First Choice review by Janet Large

23 August 2006

Recently flew First Choice between Larnaca, Cyprus/London Gatwick. On the flight out the plane was incredibly cold and the staff promptly sold '£4 per person comfort packs' which included a blanket (most passengers felt that the heating was turned down on purpose to ensure packs were sold). Also there was no in flight magazine on board to read. On the way back we were taken onto the plane and were then delayed by approx 1 hour. During this time info as to why was scarce and then the crew member concerned laughed all through the announcement (maybe they should have let us in on the joke!). The entertainment screens did not work through entire plane either and there were some big delays in handing the food out, although the food when received was very nice indeed.

First Choice review by David Cleaver

12 August 2006

LGW to MALE. Pleasantly surprised by First Choice. Chose them after refusing to ever again fly Monarch! 29" seat pitch for 10 hours? First Choice economy section, leather seats not too comfortable but look nice. Good 33" seat pitch, and ok with seat fully reclined in front. Agree mostly with the advice to take some water on board with you as drinks service took over 2 hours, and staff were too busy to fetch water. Dinner took a further 2 hours so was glad I had some sandwiches with me. Not that bad though as the meal was good when it came, and considering the flight was half the price of a scheduled airline, the service was very good. Overall, staff were polite, flights left on time both ways, and on board service was good. You have to remember that this is a charter airline, and cannot be compared to a scheduled service.

First Choice review by L Thorn

3 August 2006

June 2006. LGW to Mombasa return. Seats very comfortable and food good. Disappointed that entertainment was £5 to view each way, so didn't bother. FA very good and friendly. Only drawback was the checking in at Mombasa airport. Staff charging lots of people for being overweight, even by 1 kilo. Backhands being given to check in staff, no receipts given. Complete mayhem amongst passengers. Very unfair. One check member wanted me to pay extra. Said he would meet me upstairs to collect. I hid so he couldn't find me! Other than that, all very good

First Choice review by Chris Morgan

30 July 2006

Flew with First Choice to Crete in Jun 2006. Upgraded to Premium Class at time of booking, looked forward to priority checkin, baggage first of the aircraft, complimentary pre flight drink, seating together etc. However, the reality was very different. Excellent priority book in at East Midlands airport, return journey queued for two hours at Heraklion airport before check in, baggage last on the carousel at arrival and departure airports, no pre flight drinks, my wife and I seated across isle from one another outbound and inbound and finally constant interruption by noisey FA's who bumped into me every time they passed my seat. Was it worth upgrading? NO.

First Choice review by Andy Reeley

24 July 2006

LGW - Holguin. Just returned from a holiday to Cuba flying in First Choice Premium Star Class. There are a few niggles. Firstly we had to suffer around 30 minutes of PA 'adverts' for duty free and upgrades for economy passengers - irritating. On return flight the FA's tried to give us the wrong meals and got uppity when we pointed this out and asked for our correct choice. (Following this the flight attendant managed to knock my arm every time she walked past, once is an accident). No water available on return flight apart from a small glass, a long time after asking. Couldn't stow our stuff in the overhead bins as they were full of FA stuff (we were in row 4, FA's had filled all the bins down to row 5). Wrong entertainment loaded on system, didn't match information card. I was irritated by being instructed by FA to put my chair back upright for the convenience of the passenger behind. I am 6'2" and pay extra to be able to recline. I have no problem with requests that are reasonable, but instructions for no good reason do irritate. On return, FA's were sullen and generally unfriendly and spent a lot of time laughing behind their curtain, and not attending to the paying customers. Generally good points were the quality of the meals (when we got the right one), the FA's outbound were friendly and helpful, seats not bad but still not quite good enough for longhaul. The entertainment system didn't have the outside view camera, I'd got so used to it with other carriers that I quite missed it, otherwise the upgraded entertainment is quite good (when you get the right mix). I am someone who flies 2 or 3 times per year on pleasure and am a frequent flyer on business. I am not a complainer by nature, and always fly upgraded to some extent. This was the first time my family had flown on First Choices new upgraded service. It did not really live up to the hype.

First Choice review by G Powell

8 July 2006

Flew to Crete. Paid for the extra legroom both ways. The outgoing flight was acceptable. However, on my return flight the seat mechanism would not lock - every time I leant against the back, it slowly gave way into the lap of the passenger behind. He was an understanding character but I spent most of the flight sat upright with no lumbar support. I finished the flight with a back ache. The crew were sympathetic but with a full passenger list there was nothing to be done other than a guarantee to report it to their maintenance crew.

First Choice review by David Mills

1 July 2006

My Wife and I have just returned from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I was assured on booking the Star Class Premier that we would be seated next to each other, but on checking in the day before at Gatwick we were informed we would be seated one behind the other. Now if this had been a short haul flight I would have accepted it, but on a 14 hour transatlantic flight, I and my Wife found it totally unacceptable, yet we had to accept it because we had no other recourse at such late notice. The return journey was the same.

First Choice review by John Davis

1 July 2006

We flew with First Choice from Stansted to Corfu in August 2005 in Premium Economy. The flights were quite simply a comparison to one another. On the outgoing flight, the FAs were simply not interested, their faces blander than the food we were served. On the flight home, however, a week later everything was fantastic. All the FAs were happy, meals were of a much higher quality and well worth the price. I will definitely fly with them again.

First Choice review by Paul Perring

1 July 2006

We have just returned from Sanford flying First Choice from Gatwick. The Economy seat pitch is great, but a few niggling points spoilt the flight. Firstly, for all the reminders about keeping hydrated, try getting a drink. We asked twice on the outward journey to buy water, only to be told, 'we'll be round in a minute', but they weren't, only with the duty free trolley and their Disney ticket sales. On the return leg, we brought our own bottled water. Considering we have two children, pretty poor. Also, my wife's seat back entertainment stopped working during the flight for 3 hours or so. It only occurred to us afterwards, that as we had paid for the entertainment upgrade, they might have offered something - maybe one of those bottles of water we'd asked for! The night before check in is great in terms of not taking your luggage across and queuing in the morning. However, if like us, your travel agent gives you the impression you can leave your hotel and breeze into the airport an hour before take off, this wasnt the case for us. As it was a US flight, we were asked to report at 8am for the 10.30 flight security checks. (Check in closed 7.30). If you need to take your car to long stay parking at South terminal, this still makes for a pretty early start from the hotel. The return leg was a night flight and the lights were dimmed for less than 2 hours. If you've got a bit of a drive after you land, you may want to note you might have trouble sleeping. That said, the seat pitch was the main selling point, and I was very impressed with that, it made for a comfortable flight.

First Choice review by Nigel Smith

26 June 2006

LGW-PMI-LGW on Boeing 757. Disappointed to find very long check in queue at Gatwick in spite of arriving 3 hours before flight time. Flight left almost on time. Better legroom than Thomas Cook. Can't stand the green plastic/leather seats though. I didn't like the practice of serving the meal/tea/coffee routine first, because if you hadn't ordered a meal you had to wait well over an hour after take off for a drink from the bar and then it wasn't worth bothering we were almost at Palma! I'm sure they have their reasons for this but I would have thought it lost them money, it certainly lost them my money. Friendly cabin crew and we arrived early. On return, massive queues again at Palma, but again almost on time and decent crew. Would not particularly want to use them again but must give credit for punctuality.

First Choice review by Andrew Jones

24 June 2006

Gatwick - Mombasa return. Seat pitch is good, but are generally uncomfortable. On the B767 there is a metal bar supporting the seat back magazine pocket that will cut into your knees if you are 6 feet or so and tilt the seat back. In-flight service: Mediocre. There is a poor availability of water. This (and orange juice) was only served at meal times. Granted it could be asked for at other times but this is difficult when the team are either keeping a low profile in the galleys or selling snacks, drinks, duty free goods, upgrades to the IFE system or scratch cards. A bottle of water should be offered at meal times or drinks trays carried around. This has been the subject of on-going complaints to the airline for over a year now. Meals were served three hours into the flight. This event was preceded by the rounds to persuade one to upgrade to a “premium” IFE service, followed by a slow service of drinks, all that had to be paid for; including water, unless one was prepared to wait for the free issue with the meal. The staff were casual in attitude and did not appear to be at all interested in the task at hand. This was despite having had several days’ relaxation on the Mombasa beach prior to the return flight. A smile is so easy. A charter is a charter, even with 33" legroom.

First Choice review by Peter Rake

18 June 2006

Flew to / from Dominican Republic during May this year. Extra legroom big improvement over other competitors. Outbound flight OK - no delays to speak of. One major criticism of return flight. Travelling West to East long haul overnight was spoilt by the lack of time left for sleep; We boarded at approx. 6.30pm local time and promptly took off. Snacks/drinks were served at about 8pm but we had to wait until 10:30 for our dinner. I for one was very hungry by then and also getting tired - bearing in mind I'd now changed my watch to UK time it was 3:30 in the morning. At last we ate and settled down - only to be disturbed at 5 am (UK time) for duty frees. I eventually managed one and a half hours sleep before I was again woken up for breakfast. Why can't the duty frees be sold before dinner - which in turn would have been better served at least one hour earlier.

First Choice review by Jane Shannon

12 June 2006

Cancun from Manchester. Checked in baggage day before. Excellent flight, loads of leg room, seats 2x3x2 - we went with two freinds and requested seats behind each other. Meal good and filling. Snack before landing very nice. Problem with the tv's on the way out for a few rows - we all got upgraded free. No problems at Cancun airport, sailed through and none of the four of us got our suitcases searched. Same returning to the UK two weeks later, couldn't check baggage in the day before and had to queue for about half an hour, not the problems that we had been warned about. Flight back very good, although we didn't get our window seats, main meal and snack good.

First Choice review by Mark Leyland

10 June 2006

I’ve just returned from holiday in Brazil, the flights (MAN-SSA-MAN) were with First Choice in their Star Class Premier section, I could not find fault. Dedicated check in at Manchester was less than 5 minutes and coming home at Salvador Airport again less than 10 minutes. On boarding the aircraft we were welcomed onboard and a glass of champagne, the seats were leather and comfortable, the seat pitch was massive. The meals and hot drinks were good quality and served on china and drinks in glass tumblers. Amenity packs given out on both flights, a plus was the Inflight Entertainment, there was something for everyone.

First Choice review by Sarah Noakes

28 April 2006

We flew to Mombasa in January 2006 and had an excellent flight. Seats were comfortable, plenty of legroom, food very good, service very good and the seat back tv screens with individual remote controls a bonus for the kids! Will look to flying with First Choice on long haul again.

First Choice review by Chris Penfold

24 April 2006

London/Goa return in Premier Star Class. From the time we checked in to the time of arrival on both legs we were treated with kindness and given inflight treatment which was second to none. The new aircraft seating (long haul) is a revelation in the charter market. The food was the best I have ever eaten inflight and cabin crew were attentive and considerate.

First Choice review by Steven Frodsham

20 April 2006

A fantastic flight from Manchester to Orlando. We were sat in the rear of the aircraft and legroom, seat back TVs and cabin Crew were all fantastic. I'm over 6 ft tall and had no problem with the seating.

First Choice review by Andrew Blades

25 March 2006

East Midlands - Cyprus - East Midlands. I am 6' 5", but was refused pre- booked extra legroom, as this was late booking. Spent an uncomfortable flight out, but bearable as sympathetic check-in staff kept seat next to me empty so that I could sit side-on. First choice in UK informed me that at 6' 5", I would not have to pay for extra legroom, but all had already been allocated for outbound flight. I was advised to ask resort rep to secure extra legroom for me for return flight. She was unable to do this, as resort check-in staff would not reserve the seating, even though there was supposedly 2 left. On arrival at check-in desk, all extra legroom had again been allocated. This time, flight was full, so no room to spread out. My thighs are actually longer than the seat pitch, so will not fit in the space without pushing into the seat in front. On landing an agonizing 5 hours later, I could not feel my legs, I could not walk due to spasms in my back and thighs, and I had deep grooves across both knees from the seat in front. As I write this, 12 hours after landing, the grooves are still there and I have no feeling in my knees. I explained my situation to several First Choice staff before, during and after the flight, but none were helpful or sympathetic. The unanimous response was "book in advance", even though I had tried to do this all along. This has turned an already mediocre holiday into a torturous experience, with no assistance from the airline at all. First Choice. If you are over 6' tall, then make them your Last Choice!

First Choice review by James Golding

25 March 2006

Bristol-Menorca-Bristol, Economy Class. Check in for the early morning flight at Bristol was quick and efficient even though only one counter was open. Hardly a queue at all. The airport inside and out was spotless, and is one of the easiest airports to find your way around in my opinion. The main departure lounge was quiet and comfortable. We had time for a coffee in the mezzanine cafe before boarding. Boarding was also quick, we were one of the first people to be called to the gate. The aircraft was an Airbus A321-200 - clean, modern and quite spacious inside for a relatively small aircraft. We were seated in the second row of Economy towards the front of the plane. Service, like everything else experienced was efficient, but not as professional as I would have liked. We were lucky enough to receive extra free soft drinks as part of booking a holiday with Sovereign. However, the drinks redefined the meaning of miniscule, and the breakfast was inedible. The meals however were served quickly (I presume as we were just behind Premium Economy). Seat pitch (29" in a 3-3 layout) was appalling (even though First Choice is a charter airline), but seat width seemed adequate for Economy. IFE was in the form of multiple drop down overhead LCD screens, fine for a short haul trip like this. We used our headphones from the last time travelling with them, otherwise you had to pay for them. The faux leather of the Economy seats is hideous - I suggest First Choice uses the muted dark blue colour scheme of Premium Economy for Economy - then we could relax! In summary, levels of professionalism are just not up to scratch and the cabin interior (although clean and modern) is poorly designed (colour scheme and seat layout/pitch). In flight catering is also unacceptable. Next time we will consider flying a scheduled airline in Business or First Choice in Premium Economy (their only short haul premium option).

First Choice review by Richard Tinkler

9 March 2006

I came back from Holguin, Cuba two weeks ago. Being able to check-in at Gatwick the day before meant I was able to get there just late enough for the 9.15 am departure to be able to use public transport instead of a £35 minicab. he flight in both directions left on time, cabin staff were great, food OK and the personal 7" TV programme package was more than adequate. The 2x3x2 seat layout together with 33" legroom made for an extremely comfortable journey.

First Choice review by Tony Ellis

5 March 2006

We have recently completed a round trip from Gatwick to Cancun. The extra leg room was wonderful. However the level of cabin service was abysmal - we even had to pay for water! Toilets were filthy, loo rolls and tissues ran out, same films both ways and to cap it all, on the overnight return flight it took over 4 hours to serve drinks and dinner and after 1 hour of dimmed lighting we were woken up so that the crew could sell duty free goods. What a tiring end to a holiday! I doubt that we will fly First Choice again.

First Choice review by Janet Nutt

26 February 2006

Round trip premium class Stansted - Arrecife. Going out we had to change aircraft so there was no premium seats but we were treated as if we were. The return journey was a different story. We had no priority check in, priority labels were put the luggage but we waited for our luggage on arrival as long as every body else. The queue for the 1 toilet at the front of the plane was never ending. No inflight entertainment and when asked we had a brusque reply 'its broken'. We will never fly First Choice Premium again as I am not sure what we got for the extra money.

First Choice review by Jane Bradley

15 February 2006

Flew back to East Midlands from Faro with First Choice on a standby ticket. The service was great and staff helpful. We didn't get a meal onboard because of being on stand-by but that didn't really bother me.

First Choice review by Ron Horsfield

9 February 2006

Gatwick Salzburg return. None too happy with outward flight (scheduled to arrive Salzburg 17.30) with 4hour delay due to having to replace hydraulic part which had to be brought from Heathrow. Further delay on arrival as ski gear failed to materialise resulted us arriving at resort at 1.30 a.m.in the morning. Unbelievably we had almost 6 hour delay on return flight due to not just the Gatwick flight but also the Manchester flight being out of service due to "technical problems" - one aircraft out of service may be excusable, two a little worrying, and three plain unreliable and raises possible questions of safety. Furthermore we were shunted through into the departure lounge of Terminal 2 with our meal vouchers which has only one burger bar and were obliged to eat off the terrazzo floor as all seats were occupied (Tip: if you find yourself in similar position insist on checking back through security and walk the short distance to Terminal 2 which has infinitely better facilities). We waited 5 hours without seeing a single First Choice Rep before discovering all of them in Terminal 1 Ironically we did not book a First Choice holiday but were obliged to use the airline because they are the carriers for Club Cantabrica Air Holidays. Whatever the circumstances, in future they have got to be last choice.

First Choice review by Tom Maule

1 February 2006

LGW-FNC return. Outbound fairly uneventful early morning flight on the usual cramped B757, but a different story on the return. Firstly a crew member made a comment about a passenger with a 'dead chicken' scarf over the pa, totally unaware that passengers had started boarding through the unattended rear door. Then a delay because they could not find a missing passenger, who was greeted with a pa announcement that we would be late because of him - we arrived 25 minutes early! Next they ran out of main courses and offered several of us a £6 voucher to spend on board e.g. from the snack selection - fair enough but they didn't think to actually bring the snack trolley round!

First Choice review by Christine King

30 December 2005

New 33" seat pitch is good. Staff could would have made flight better by offering more glasses of water or orange juice. Suggest take own water or juice on board as can be long delays between drinks, especially as the buying of drinks takes time. Will use again but try to book earlier and get the Premium seats.

First Choice review by Marion Cumberland

24 November 2005

Cardiff to Lanzarote return. Our criticism is the very cramped seating. We paid a lot of money for the flights (£300 each), and were unable to book premium seating. My husband is 6'3" tall and he was very uncomfortable indeed. In all other respects, there are no complaints - polite and helpful staff, and acceptable meals.

First Choice review by M Nathan Fotheringill

2 November 2005

Glasgow-Paphos-Glasgow. Booked well in advance on the First Choice website at what I considered to be a good price, especially for a daytime flight, this was, in theory, a scheduled flight though the vast majority of seats were taken up by the tour companies. Five hours each way in a 757 with no premium seating. On the outbound flight I was sat in row 2 which is up against the forward bulkhead behind which is a toilet. In fact we probably had an extra couple of inches knee room, though there was nowhere to store our bags nearby - the overhead bins at the front are filled with the flight entertainment equipment and assorted other paraphernalia. Cabin crew were pleasant, the breakfast served was fine and there were a couple of movies to watch to help pass the time,, though. On the way back we were allocated seats 20E and F and 21E and F. Quite why this was the case I don't know, it would have been more logical to seat us in the same row across the aisle. It meant every one of us had to climb over some poor stranger when we needed the toilet. The seats were cramped but just about bearable for five hours. However, the cabin crew were excellent - it is amazing the difference cheerful flight attendants make and full marks to the crew on this flight. Also, the announcements from the flight deck were informative. The meal of bangers and mash was surprisingly good and once again, two movies were shown to help pass the time. The flight was perfectly on time (the outbound flight was about half an hour late). Overall, I was reasonably impressed. I had been expecting cramped conditions and got them. The option of premium seating would have been nice as it is a long flight. However, everything else was better than expected. I would use this airline again.

First Choice review by M Weerasirie

26 October 2005

Just returned from Cyprus, using First Choice. After 5 hour delay at Larnaca we were given a food voucher which allowed you a sandwich and drink! When we finally boarded the flight we found our seats were opposite the toilet - seats did not recline either. The smell was very unpleasant, passengers further down complained and all we got told was there was nothing they could do. When asked if we could change seats the crew were very unhelpful. When I challenged them about empty seats they finally allowed us to move!! We were the 8th in line to check in so why we were allocated these seats is a mystery? Nobody should be allocated these seats, and if they are, it should be the last to check in, and at a reduced rate. I have never encountered such rude and arrogant air stewards and stewardesses. Never again.

First Choice review by Patrick Cunneen

24 October 2005

Premium to Sanford, Florida in October 2005. The check in was quick and easy on outward and return. Plane took off on time, the service was excellent - friendly crew, good food, very good ife though there were a few glitches and a need to boot up system on return. I would recommend First Choice as a charter airline.

First Choice review by Rosalind McMinn

17 October 2005

First Choice to Menorca from Gatwick two weeks ago. The service was very good, no delays and a gluten free meal was provided on both flights as requested. I had e mailed the company a couple of weeks before departure about this. The food provided was very good.

First Choice review by Jackie Harris

12 October 2005

Gatwick - Male return, premium. Service on the flights was fantastic, 10hours and you just have to pay the upgrade for premium service. Good seat back televisions with the choice of movies free drinks, and plenty of legroom.

First Choice review by Neil Bilsborough

9 October 2005

We have just returned from Sanford and flew with First Choice on their newly refitted aircraft. We were a little worried about flying charter on longhaul routes having had bad experiences with both Monarch and Britannia. The new seat pitch of 33 inches in economy is great- my partner is tall but felt there was more than enough room - we even managed to get some sleep on the overnight return. The seats are well padded. The crew were friendly, the choice of food good and new inflight entertainment system is great- brilliant choice of movies, TV, radio and interactive games. We paid the £5 entertainment upgrade on the return and then you can choose, pause, play rewind your movies, have a greater choice and even select the tracks you want to hear from the radio!

First Choice review by Malcolm Smith

2 October 2005

I have just flown with FCA to & from Lanzarote - found them excellent value for money. I could have used a couple more inches seat spacing, but being fairly short, this was no problem. The flights were on time(within 30 mins). I chose not to purchase any refreshments on board, as I had taken my own. The only problem that I encountered was the terrible music played during take-off & landing. Basically you get what you pay for. For £120, I did not expect "Club Class".

First Choice review by Duncan Whiting

2 October 2005

Flew First Choice to Dalaman, Turkey on 5th Sept 05. No queue at check- in which was a good start. Friendly staff, on time departure for both legs whilst the Excel Airways flight was delayed 8 hours on the way back ! In fact the only complaint was the legrrom, which is a disgrace at 29 inches. I know it's the same across all the charter airlines but it is still a disgrace.

First Choice review by William Lok

2 October 2005

Was tempted to use Excel Airways to fly to Portugal especially the deals being touted. But due to the number of negative reports decided to fly First Choice and glad we did. Both the outward and return flights were excellent as was the service and the inflight meals were good, legroom was wasn't a problem either. Though was disappointed to have to pay £30 for group seating. Overall really impressed and would use them again for short haul flights.

First Choice review by Paul Richardson

16 September 2005

Manchester/Malaga. Booked late deal return flights 5 days before trip. Slight problem at check-in, but sorted quickly by friendly staff. Out leg on time, return leg only 10 mins. late - not bad for Saturday pm flights. Noted all the complaints about cramped seating. I'm 6'1 but worries were unfounded in our case - having travelled on Monarch a few times, First Choice leg room was much better! (although this was only short haul). I would, however, agree with a previous comment about hard seats. Planes were clean, staff friendly & helpful. Food not wonderful, but no worse than other charter airlines - on Monarch you have to pay if you want a meal, & its still poor. I was generally happy with both flights, & have no complaints, but when you order cheap(ish) last minute flights you can't expect luxury travel, (although for anyone who has flown with Scandic Airlines, First Choice is the height of luxury - at least you get a seat!). Experience shows you will always get good flights and bad ones, no matter which company you use, but this was my first time with First Choice & I will use them again.

First Choice review by Glynis Woodhead

1 September 2005

Flew from Salzburg to LGW with FC. We went to the trouble of booking extra legroom seats and were allocated these at check-in. We chose row 1 of the aircraft for extra legroom rather than emergency exit seats. Big mistake. When we arrived on the plane, the flight attendant had put two disabled passengers in our seats and we ended up having to move to two seats which didn't have the extra legroom we'd paid for. I am now having to go through the rigmarole of reclaiming the money paid, etc. Not amused!

First Choice review by Alex Roberts

24 August 2005

Flew with First Choice Manchester-Faro return. Crew very friendly, service good. Would fly with them again. Do yourself a favour and book extra legroom seats, the space you get really does make a difference, even on short flights.

First Choice review by Myra Edwards

16 August 2005

Flew to Croatia with First Choice in June 1995. We were very impressed with everything from the beginning of the holiday to the end. We checked in the day before so had the advantage of checking in later the next day. We both thought the plane was very comfortable and the food was exceptionally good. The flight attendants were extremely helpful. What more could you ask for. We have now booked to fly to Cuba with First Choice in April 1996.

First Choice review by Mark Aitken

8 August 2005

Just flown Gatwick to Innsbruck and back, and while I agree with comments made regarding lack of leg room (I am 5'10" and I struggled to get comfortable for the whole 2 hours) the service and inflight meals as good as any I've had.

First Choice review by Wendy Morton

19 July 2005

Manchester to Sharm El Sheik. First they wanted more money as we were apparently 3 Kilos over weight - pointed out that our allowance was in fact 30 Kilos and not 20 Kilos - their mistake. Second - was it an aeroplane or was it a sardine can - I am only 5'3" and the leg room was unbearable for me. Third - nothing but hard sell for 5½ hours Needless to say First Choice will be avoided at all costs in the future

First Choice review by Stuart Day

10 July 2005

Birmingham - Sharm El Sheikh return. As expected really. No legroom, good service and average entertainment. I avoid package airlines like the plague as i am 6ft 2" and for a 5hr flight the lack of space was at times unberabale (but I did know this when I booked I suppose!). Refused to pay for extra legroom as the flight was expensive enough! Just glad the people in front of me didn't recline their seats!

First Choice review by Michael White

10 July 2005

Gatwick-Salzburg and return. Fast check in and left and arrived on time. Breakfast OK, seating cramped but less than two hours so really no problem. Return flight again left on time, same breakfast same plane but clean and cabin crew efficient and polite. Would have arrived ten minutes early but for missed approach into Gatwick due to aircraft on runway-otherwise no serious complaints. Didnt think I would be writing this after previous experience with FCA but this was good service all round.

First Choice review by Paul O'Connor

7 July 2005

Faro - Stansted Delayed for 27 hours, First Choice very poor service throughout and their complaints department are awful. First Choice reps were very unresponsive at the airport. That evening there were 18 flights leaving, everyone left on time except First Choice who were all delayed - Manchester Delayed 2 hours - Bristol Delayed 4 hours - Stansted Delayed 27 hours. I would never use First Choice ever again.