So You Want to Fly?

So, you've decided where you're going and you've decided that you're going to fly. Flying is one of the several aspects of my life with which I have a love/hate relationship. I love the buzz of airports, the excitement of going somewhere new, reading the departure boards: 'Where’s that city? I’ve never heard of it. I'll add it to my bucket list'. But there’s also, 'Oh dear, that flight’s been cancelled'. 'This one is five days late. I hope it doesn’t happen to me'. Leg aching, hour long  (or even longer ) queues, at security or immigration. Security officers who bark conflicting orders at you, at each airport. Shoes off or not? Liquids in or out? Laptop packed or not? And don’t even dare to ask, if you’re in the USA. Unless you want to get shouted at. Through you probably will anyway, as you’re bound to get it wrong. The airport is crowded. There’s nowhere to sit except on the floor, by the window (check it's clean first) and then I can’t get up again.    

Then, there's the ordeal of the flight itself. The envy when the affluent turn left as they enter the aircraft. The cramped seating that leaves you contorted for hours with its limited legroom. Not to mention the food - if you can call it that. Bland, uninspiring meals (chicken breast, if I’m going to bet on it) which barely satisfy your hunger, served at odd hours which don’t seem to match the time zone you're flying over, or the one your body clock is set to. They’re timed to allow the crew some uninterrupted rest, away from the passengers. And,  of course, the last meal will be served 90 minutes before you land, so that the cabin crew can tidy all the debris away in plenty of time.  

And I haven’t yet mentioned  the turbulence which jolts you out of a rare moment of rest. Or, most commonly, arrives at the same time as the food. I’m terrified of turbulence. Even after all this time. The constant hum of the engines, no such thing as silence. And there are bound to be a squalling few babies on board. They usually set each other off. If I’m lucky, there will be a toddler sitting right next to me. The mother won’t have brought any toys, books, or amusements and she will occupy her time on her iPad, whilst the child molests me. Hair pulling is a favourite.

And let's not forget the battle for the armrest, the elbow wars with your neighbour (or worse, if you’re very unlucky),  the unpredictable temperature (I’m going to be a princess and ask for at least two blankets please), and the in-flight entertainment system, which may or may not work.

The Wonders of Flight

Flying is either alluring or, a necessity, a gateway to new adventures, the promise of new experiences, and the thrill and education of seeing the world from above.

Flying has, for me, apart from being terrifying,  always been  at the top of my list of marvellous inventions. I know the birds can do it - they make it looks so effortless. But the fact that these tubes of metal can get into the air at all is incredible. The A380s especially  are miraculous - enormous pelicans. And then there's the 'beam me up Scotty' factor. You get off in a completely different world.

Which Airline To Choose?

You may have little or no choice when it comes to choosing an airline, depending on your route. Use Skyscanner to check out what airlines  are available when, but remember its information is not always accurate and up to date - not all airlines are featured. And some of the offers don’t actually exist, when you click on the links. Check out deals like Round the World tickets (sadly becoming increasingly rare).

It might be a case of budget versus mainline carrier. Though when you add up the extras: checked baggage, meals, seating, there may not be much difference. Which one goes at the best time for you? Factor in the need for airport hotels to facilitate early departures or late arrivals. Connection times with other flights or transport. Budget airlines do what it says on the tin, charge for anything they can find to put a price on, have little padding on the seats  and often provide no entertainment. Though long haul cheap offerings,  like Norse Atlantic, have even introduced this. Read the small print.

If you have a choice then you might want to check safety records. Though flying is still statistically the safest form of transport overall. Airlines  with stellar safety records include Singapore Airlines, ANA (All Nippon Airways), and Korean Air. Fortuitously, these Asian airlines easily top travellers’ reviews, with quality of service amongst their top cited attributes.

Korean Air

Korean Air has worked its way up through the rankings for several years and was awarded Airline of the Year 2025. (I’m not sure who actually awards these things.) I personally have a lot of good things to say about Korean.  They found my bag once at Heathrow when British Airways had lost it and were making no effort to retrieve it and they sent it after me, all the way to Saipan. Most creditably,  this airline offers industry-leading seat pitches of 33–34 inches in economy class, on its wide-body aircraft.

Qatar Airways

Most of the Gulf States offer better than acceptable airlines, but Qatar Airways has invested in its national airline until it’s one of the most preferred, especially for business travellers, as well as offering worldwide flexible routings (via Doha).

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines has long had a loyal following for comfort, service and food. Nostalgically, I remember the days when they served fizz in economy, before take off.   I don’t suppose I can hold it against them that someone once stole my purse, on board.

Emirates Airways

Emirates, with its global hub in Dubai, is another airline which offers plenty of global connections. It’s been an airline of choice for many years, though overtaken more recently by neighbour Qatar and possibly also by adjacent  Emirati airline, Etihad. A friend informs me, emphatically, that Emirates still has the best flat beds in business class. Sadly, I'm not really in a position to know any longer. But if you're going to shell out business class prices then research your flat beds. Some aren't quite flat. Some have coffin shaped toes, not much wiggle room. and some American airlines don't have flatbeds at all on the Hawaii overnight run. That's a mistake I won't make again.

ANA (All Nippon Airways)

ANA,  has taken over from JAL, the national carrier, as  the largest airline in Japan, and offers high quality service, as well as a unique dual hub model, for seamless travel through Tokyo. Although navigating the airport can be daunting. Preparation is called for.

Air Miles

When you’re choosing airlines you might also want to take into account Air Miles programmes. It can be headache-inducing trying to make sense of all that is on offer. But,  if you’re making repeat flights with an airline, it might be worth signing up to their loyalty programme. It might even be worth choosing an airline because it offers some more of the miles that you are collecting. That's what they're banking on. The rewards on offer (mainly free flights) are definitely worth acquiring and can be substantial. I’ve got four frequent flyer programmes on the go, Oneworld (BA Avios), Star Alliance (was Ethiopian and now I've transferred to Singapore), Sky Team (KLM and Air France)  and Virgin. Though the latter has mucked things up a little, by also joining Sky Team. I’ve earned multiple free flights on three of them.

I get the most mileage (literally) out of Avios. British Airways is, frankly, not what it used to be. Gone are the days when they allocated me a window seat automatically and upgraded me regularly.  You even have to pay ridiculous sums to reserve a business class seat. But, I’ve got an American Express Premium Credit Card which entitles me to a half-price ticket once a year, when I use my Avios. I have to spend £15,000 per annum which isn’t too difficult, if you use your card to pay for everything. So far, I’ve always managed to get the routes I wanted. This year I’m claiming  a ‘free’ premium economy flight from San Francisco. List price is 2,000 USD.  And you cna bump up your Avios by shopping for many major brands via the dedicated Avios website.

Check how long it is before miles are no longer valid, when you choose a programme. Avios don't expire, as long as you book a flight within three years. Other schemes only give you 14 months.

The online forums are packed with folk obsessing about tier points. Those are what you have to collect if you want to progress through the various levels (bronze, silver, gold, other precious stones abound.) The levels entitle you to speedier boarding (in theory), free choice of seats, priority for upgrades and coveted lounge access. Or even more, if you are awarded permanent gold, for example. But it'll cost you an awful lot of money in flights to achieve that status. I haven't a hope. I made silver once for two years which was nice. And I got free lounge access on Ethiopian too for a while, but you could possibly view that as more of a punishment.

Tier points are reset at the end of each year and that's when the airwaves bulge with messages all about folk fitting in last minute tier point flights to make sure they retain their silver or gold status. I'm just hopping over to Berlin - that should do it...

The Best Airports

You may have even less choice about which airports to travel to, via and from. But it helps to know which ones are highly rated. There is, unsurprisingly, a strong correlation between best airlines and best airports. Efficient check-in procedures, comfortable waiting areas, and a variety of dining and shopping options anyone? Well, we’re clearly not talking about Heathrow here.  When it comes to British airports you either need a lounge (though none of those are exceptional) or the quietest corner you can find in a bar or restaurant. Then, hunker down until it’s time to walk to the departure gate. Leave it as late as you can. You’ll be lucky to find somewhere to sit. Unless everyone has already joined the queue. I’m constantly astonished to see that people will stand for an hour, waiting to board a plane, especially in an EasyJet queue, where it is positively encouraged. That’s what you get when you pay for Speedy Boarding. You have to stand, to make sure you’re in the first line to go on.

The only possible advantage I can think of, to getting onto a plane first, unless it’s for the very unusual nowadays free seating, is that you have more chance of getting your wheelie bag into an overhead locker. Before they scoop up all the surplus trolleys and stuff them in the hold. (Take a backpack instead and they will try and insist that it goes under the seat in front of you, even when it patently won’t fit.)

Singapore Changi Airport tops most lists of  best airports in the world. Transit tours of Singapore, movie theatres, a rooftop pool and even a butterfly garden. It’s spacious and tranquil and there’s plenty of room to sit down. All of this on an island city state with a dense population. Similarly, Incheon International Airport in South Korea boasts an indoor ice-skating and a museum of Korean culture. Tokyo Haneda Airport and Hong Kong International Airport are also frequently cited for their efficiency and luxurious facilities. I love Haneda. Rows of small, attractive and  reasonably priced food outlets and little travel shops. Chemists. Things I actually want to buy when I’m travelling and outlets which don’t intrude into space for relaxation. (Take note Heathrow.)  

Planning and Booking Your Flight

• When you’ve finally decided on your route and airline, then there are advantages to booking early. You can secure the seats you want (probably at a price)  and ensure you get the best rates that way. Use Aerolopa or Seatguru to check your plane's seating plan and help you choose. Aisle or window? Everyone hates the middle seat, where you get squashed and have to fight for the arm rest. The aisle is good for easy access to the toilets or just for a wander. But you get knocked by everyone going by, not to mention the trolleys. The window seat is more secluded, you can rest your head on the aircraft wall and you get the view (research which side is best for iconic views like Mount Everest). But you have to risk the wrath of your fellow passengers whenever you do want to get out. And they can retaliate by not allowing you out until the last possible moment, when the plane lands. Speed into security can sometimes prevent long waits in queues. And is especially useful if you're carry on luggage only.
• BUT - bear in mind that in most cases (check) your air ticket is only valid for one year from the date you booked it. So, don't be in too much of a hurry, as your options will be really limited if you need to change the date.
• Business class is only worth it if you're very rich, or like to show off. Nicer food, champagne and a flat bed. (Not even a bed on short haul or some American routes.) But at an exorbitant price. It's not really much easier to sleep. Think what else you could do with the money. Premium economy is worth researching for the extra - less claustrophobic space. Price differentials here vary a lot, depending on the route.
• Resign yourself to the fact that free upgrades very rarely happen nowadays. Airlines will do everything they can to sell any premium space - there's an increasing trend to get passengers to bid for upgrades.
• You’ll have to pay up front when you book, if you're only booking a flight. If you turn it into a package by adding car hire and/or hotel then you can escape with a deposit only, for the moment.
• Shop around for the best prices - they vary hugely. Don’t book with anyone who isn’t giving reasonable cancellation terms. You'll often get a much cheaper flight if you forgo flexibility. But how sure are you that nothing at all is going to prevent you flying? Ideally, book in your home country, and book direct with the provider, wherever possible. Gone are the days of bucket shop bargains. Booking platforms may offer a few pounds off, but I know from experience they can be a nightmare to deal with, if you have to cancel. I've had to wait, literally years, for refunds. Emails are ignored and you're lucky if you can find a phone number. If you do, no-one will answer your call. Some airline websites, like South American LATAM and small airlines can be tricky if you're booking in another country. If it's not happening use a trusted local travel agent, or a reputable booking company like Travel Counsellors or Trailfinders. Flights and accommodation combined (a so called package) may give you more protection if you're travelling from the UK.
• Check what happens in the case of delay. Most, but not all, airlines will look after you when this occurs, and there are regulations in Europe as to what they must do. But delays can have huge knock on effects if your itinerary is too tight. A cancelled flight out of the Falklands, because it was too windy (apparently it happens a lot there), cost me an extra £1500 in extra fees, to get up to Bogota, as scheduled. Only business class seats were left, on one of the legs I had to rebook. And airlines have no obligation to refund you if you miss a flight, unless all the flights are on the same ticket - for example Star Alliance or Oneworld routings. You might want to make sure delay AND cancellation are included in your insurance. Build in flexibility. Stay in the vicinity of the airport the night before any long haul or hard to obtain flights.
• Make sure you have enough time at stop overs, especially in countries like the USA, where you have to collect your bags and transit immigration, before embarking on any connecting flight. How about building in an extra day or two and exploring the city you’re using to transit.
• And check  Baggage Policies; pay extra for a checked bag before you get to the airport if you need to. Paying for anything at the airport itself will bankrupt you.
• If you have  connecting flights, ensure that transit occurs in the same airport or terminal. There can be very unwelcome surprises otherwise.  Different terminals may not be too difficult, though domestic and international terminals can be some distance apart. Familiarize yourself with the layout and facilities of your transit airport.
• Similarly,  research your destination airport. What are  immigration and customs procedures? Do you need to pick up forms to complete? Can you get them in advance? Additionally, pre-arrange transport, or find out the public transit options.

At the Airport and On Board

• Check in a soon as you can. Online if it's allowed. More chance of a good seat and bag drop only may, sometimes, but not always have a shorter queue.
• Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to check-in, go through security, and reach your gate without rushing. Unless you enjoy stress, of course. Bring a print out of your tucket and your boarding pass if you can. In some countries you need to show it at the airport door and they don't always like electronic versions (or have the systems to deal with them), environment notwithstanding, especially if you have to check in at the airline desk. Keep all your documents easily accessible. I use plastic wallets.  
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your flight, especially on long-haul journeys. Take a bottle to fill up after you've gone through security.
• Bring food, if you don’t want to partake of the pot noodle, pizza or toasties you’re likely to get offered on board, if meals aren’t  included (and possibly if they are).
• You might also want to take pillows and blankets on budget airlines, which won’t provide them, but may sell them. Most long haul seats have those wings you can flip up, to rest your neck, so you may not require a pillow. But planes can be very draughty. And Norse Atlantic, for example, only provide blankets via their onboard shop.
• And consider:  noise cancelling headphones, (or earplugs), catarrh sweets, (to clear sinuses), Rescue Remedy (if you’re a nervous flyer like me), eye mask, lip balm, moisturiser (air on board is dry) and socks ( I’m not always keen to make direct contact with the floor).
• Don't recline your seat - it doesn't make a lot of difference to you, but it's murder for the person behind. Especially don't do it when the person behind you is eating. And if you really want to, give warning. I've had water sent flying and my knees and my laptop crushed, by thoughtless persons in front.
• Be prepared for your bags to get lost when flying. It’s happened to me roughly ten times now. Twice with BA. So far, the case has always been found. Airlines will usually, but not always (Ethiopian won't in Africa, just Addis was their remit), get your bag to you wherever you are, though tight itineraries again make this difficult. So, the moral of the story - it’s really important to pack anything you won’t be able to replace easily in your hand luggage: medication and camera equipment for example. You might want toiletries and a change of clothing too, if you can fit them in, but those can always be bought. And liquids are still only allowed in small sizes. Airlines are supposed to give you an allowance for these things, if they lose your bag for more than a few hours, though they won’t mention this unless asked.

Happy Travels!