Before using EVA Air, I had used Thai Airways on two occasions and loved the experience. For this particular trip, EVA Air had come up as a cheaper option by far, so I had little choice. Internet reviews seemed pretty good so I was happy to put them to the test.
We checked in swiftly for our flight at Terminal 3 at Heathrow. The aircraft was en-route to Taipei in Taiwan and would stop stop first in Bangkok (about 11 hours to Thailand).
We were travelling Economy class unfortunately. EVA offers four classes on its Jumbos and we were in the lowest of the lot.
Our flight was due to leave at 9.30pm, but it wasn't until 9.40pm that we were called for boarding. Upon arriving at the gate, we queued for about half an
hour. It was complete chaos and everybody inm the queue was moaning. Who can blame them when EVA's handling agent had not announced what this delay was for?
We had to get onto buses because the aircraft was divided in two; half for passengers and half for cargo. We took our seats near to the back of the aircraft and were eventually on our way, just over an hour late, but with no explanation! Upon takeoff, a piece of plastic from the air conditioning unit above broke free and fell on me, causing a slight graze. The staff took the piece from me and offered first aid. First aid wasn't necessary. I would live, but the thought was there.
Inflight entertainment was alright, but there were no personal televisions for the economy passengers. As we watched the latest films on the big screen, a hot meal was served. Like all big airlines, you get a choice and the chicken that I had was nice. Presentation wasn't too great, but there plenty of it and it tasted good as well. We washed down our meal with a choice of drinks from the cart.
One thing I hate about sharing a TV is that on a night flight, the lights go off for about 5 or 6 hours and the TV goes off as well, so you're a little stuck if you can't sleep in an upright position. But with a nice recline to the seat and an impressive 33" seat pitch, getting forty winks wasn't too much of a problem.
I woke at one point and had two of the cabin staff stood next to me; one offering a tray of drinks and the other offering one of EVA's own Pot Noodles. Most passengers were sleeping, but some (including myself) took advantage of this amazing service.
I was very comfortable in Economy. The televisions were still off and by now, they had been off for about four hours, so I dozed off again.
When I next woke, light beamed through the windows and the next hot meal was being served. Thai would normally serve breakfast at this point, but EVA served another very tasty lunch, with more than enough. For once, I actually felt full on this flight.
We landed in Bangkok just 10 or so minutes late, so made up lots of time on our way from London.
For the return journey four weeks later, we had been upgraded for free to 'Evergreen Deluxe' (their equivalent of Premium Economy). This would normally cost £99 per person each way extra and would have been well worth it. You get a small washbag, your own television, a footrest and a whopping 38" seat pitch plus fewer seats across the aircraft, so your seat is actually much wider than economy. Again, we departed an hour late and the boarding process was a complete shambles.
Due to my PTV not working, I had to complain. The cabin manager tried her hardest to please up, tempting us with champagne and flight coupons for a substantial discount on our next flight, but all I wanted more than anything was a television to watch!
Immediately after takeoff, the manager returned and invited upstairs to business class! This was EVA Air at its best. The service was an amazing experience and there were just 16 seats. Great amount of legroom, more than enough food and drink and about three members of staff to look after us.
EVA Air was a nice enough airline. Their customer service is great but they have delays and get on with it. A lot of the London to Bangkok flights have departed at least an hour late recently. This isn't too great.
Despite some great flights with EVA, I would always choose Thai over this airline if I were given the choice.
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Sounds great! At least one airlien knows how to treat its customers
silverstreak 19.08.2005 11:22
Love the idea of upgrading to business class! They sound like they want to keep your custom though, at least they tried to make amends for the faults. Good review. Karen
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