DEPARTURE

Check in was smooth as the flight was not full on the London Heathrow to Los Angeles sector of the flight. The only downside was the queues for security screening at LHR Terminal 3, but I had checked in fairly early to avoid any problems.


CABIN

Cabin was very clean, light and airy on the B747-400 aircraft.


SEATING

34 inch seat pitch for this long flight is excellent. I had a centre seat and had enough room to stretch my legs below the seat in front of me. I was sat in the row before the exit and was able to recline my seat without any issues.


CATERING

Food was very tasty although the portions were rather small. On the Los Angeles to Auckland sector ( very full flight ) my choice was not available but they made up for this on the breakfast service. Plentiful supply of drinks / water runs through the night.


CABIN STAFF SERVICE

Very professional and friendly - nothing too much trouble, although the staff had more time for the passengers LHR-LAX. Maybe this is because it was a half full day flight.


FLIGHT ARRIVAL

Auckland airport is relatively small so no problems with immigration or luggage collection. The transit stop in LAX is also not a major issue as long as you are prepared to queue for a little while.


CUSTOMER VERDICT

Would not hesitate to use Air New Zealand again as it is one of the quickest ways of getting to New Zealand. I may try their route via San Francisco next time as I prefer the B777 aircraft to the B747 for long haul flights.


CUSTOMER RANKING