Red eye flights are those overnight journeys that take off late in the evening and land in the morning.
Now, you might be one of those travelers for whom this means sacrificing a good night’s sleep. this, which can lead to that telltale fatigue. And, of course, you will get red eyes after landing.
Interestingly, these flights tend to be longer and are more common in regions outside the Western world.
This is largely because many airports have strict curfews that limit flight schedules, like in:
Europe
Australia
North America
That said, it’s not like airlines in the Western world shy away from red-eye flights entirely. In fact, when it comes to westbound transatlantic routes, red eyes have become something of a standard among both European and American carriers.
In this article, I’ll dive into the reasons why red eye flights exist and will weigh their pros and cons. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve experienced what it’s like to take a red eye flight for yourself!
What Is A Red Eye Flight?
Whether you enjoy these nighttime hauls or not, red eye flights are quite a regular thing for people flying long distances.
They depart from their home terminal at night and reach their destination in the morning.
They are so named because of the physical toll it takes on the passengers, causing them to get red eyes.
Most of these red eye flights take off when flying to the east side. For instance, when you fly from Los Angeles to New York or from New York to London.
But there are exceptions to such flights, such as when you are flying north or south between long distances.
For example, if you fly between North and South America or Europe and Africa.
The whole idea behind red eye flights is to save daylight and maximize your time spent at home and at your destination.
Flying through the night helps you avoid losing a day in travel. It also helps save money spent on a night stay at a hotel. They are cheaper than day flights, too, making it a cost-effective option for budget travelers.
In some cases, there are actually no other options but to take a red eye flight because your origin and destination do not have day flights to begin with.
My Red Eye Flight Experience From Bahrain To London
kayak.com
Recently, I had the experience of taking three flights for one destination. I flew three different classes of travel on a single ticket.
I bought a Premium Economy round-trip ticket from London to Bahrain ten months before my flight. In this firsthand red eye flight experience, I will share my pretty good experience with Lufthansa during my return journey from Bahrain to London Heathrow, which involved a layover in Riyadh.
The expenses of Lufthansa flights to the Middle East did not follow a linear increase as the departure day approached. I have included two charts below to show how the price of my flight changed leading up to the day of departure and after the flight’s schedule was revised.
Lufthansa operates a daily flight from its ground base in Frankfurt to Bahrain International Airport with a layover in Riyadh.
This is a usual setup as it’s a daily flight to Dammam via Kuwait. So, I couldnt book Both Bahrain-Riyadh and Kuwait-Dammam as fifth freedom flights.
Intriguingly, Lufthansa continuously adjusts its schedule for destinations in the Middle East. According to Routes Online, Lufthansa would originally fly to Bahrain via Doha in 2014, but it stopped in 2015 when services to Doha were renewed and and operations to Muscat instead.
Before Lufthansa stopped all flights to Doha in 2017, they operated Frankfurt-Kuwait-Doha flights. In 2017, flights to Bahrain were via Dammam, and in 2018, they were via Kuwait. When I bought my ticket in August 2018, my planned route was Heathrow-Frankfurt-Kuwait-Bahrain, but it changed to Heathrow-Frankfurt-Riyadh-Bahrain in September 2018.
Lufthansa used to operate Riyadh as a non-stop flight without onward legs in 2015, but after discontinuing Doha in 2017, they started flying Frankfurt-Riyadh-Dammam while also initiating flights to Bahrain via Kuwait. However, things were changed again in 2018.
Flight 1: Premium Economy, Bahrain To Riyadh
thriftytraveler.com
When I was at Bahrain International Airport via Uber, I made it through passport control and security within 15 minutes.
The aircraft assigned for the flight was D-AIKN, which is an A330-343X. Boarding began at 23:20.
This was slightly late, but it didn’t matter since only 20 passengers were boarding the red-eye flight A330.
In fact, the gate push-off time was 11.42 pm, eight minutes early. The Premium Economy section of the plane had four rows with seven seats each.
There were only seven passengers, resulting in a load factor of 25% in this segment.
The legroom was spacious enough, allowing the passenger in front to recline without any pressure on the person seated behind.
The amenity kit for the Premium Economy included a toothbrush and toothpaste, a refreshment towel, a sleeping mask, earplugs, and a thick pair of socks.
Although the earplugs were weak and the face mask didn’t isolate light fully, the socks were comfortable. The IFE system was not as good as Emirates’, but it had decent options.
One of the few features was live GPS tracking of the aircraft. During the Bahrain-Riyadh journey, they played the movie “100 Things,” a 2018 German film.
Despite leaving Bahrain eight minutes early, the plane arrived in Riyadh five minutes late, as we had to wait for other people to vacate our gate.
Flight 2: Business Class, Riyadh To Frankfurt
onceinalifetimejourney.com
During the second flight from Riyadh to Frankfurt, since it wasn’t a fifth freedom flight, passengers traveling to Frankfurt from Bahrain were not required to leave the aircraft in Riyadh.
After being told to stay seated for ten minutes while they were refueling the plane, a representative from Lufthansa’s Riyadh airport asked me to follow him into Business.
They gave me seat 10H since the Premium Economy and Economy classes were ready to fill up with passengers for the Riyadh-Frankfurt flight.
The flight from Riyadh to Frankfurt was entirely full in Economy, Premium Economy, and Business.
The headphones provided by Lufthansa in Business were exceptional, as they blocked out all noise.
The sound quality from the IFE was also excellent, allowing me to sleep soundly. They attached the headphones to the seat, so I couldn’t remove them.
My red-eye flight departed from Riyadh King Khalid at 2:10 am, 15 minutes late, and arrived in Frankfurt at 7:14 am, one minute early. The average delay for the flight LH637 is ten minutes.
Flight 3: Economy, Frankfurt To London Heathrow
aircraftinteriorsinternational.com
Regrettably, the last flight of my three-flight sequence was delayed despite arriving early from its previous flight.
The reason for the delay was that the aircraft, which was Lufthansa’s first A320neo with the registration D-AINC, took over an hour to clean.
Although I managed to secure an emergency exit row window seat, which I chose for free during check-in, the legroom on short-haul flights with Lufthansa was a bit disappointing for me.
Moreover, the sandwich served on the flight contained cream and cheese, which was not suitable for me as I do not eat dairy. Unfortunately, there were no alternative options available for me.
Another slight disappointment was that I didn’t get any water from the crew before takeoff. So, I had to wait for a long time before we took off due to the delay.
The flight was full in Economy and Business class, and despite the plane being on time on average, we arrived 40 minutes late at our destination in London after pushing off from Frankfurt 29 minutes late.
Additionally, we spent a considerable amount of time circling around London. It was not a big inconvenience, but the service was not as good as my previous flights with Lufthansa.
However, I must acknowledge that Lufthansa quickly and smoothly compensated me with 600 Euros for the missed connecting flight during my outbound journey.
What Are Some Common Health Issues Associated With Red Eye Flight?
When it comes to red-eye flights, there are definitely some health concerns to keep in mind.
The term “red-eye” highlights the common experience of passengers landing with bloodshot eyes, often from feeling exhausted, dealing with jet lag, and battling dehydration.
1. Fatigue
strikes when you can’t get a decent night’s sleep. Unfortunately, finding that restful sleep on a plane can be quite challenging without taking some extra steps to make it comfortable.
2. Jet lag
It is something we typically think of with quick shifts in time zones, but it hits even harder on overnight flights. However, if you’re savvy about your body’s internal clock, you may be able to ease some of the negative effects of jet lag during these journeys.
3. Dehydration
It’s not as rare as you might think on flights. While cabin crew are usually attentive to serving food and drinks, red-eye flights might have fewer staff on duty, making it tougher to stay hydrated when you need it most.
If you often find yourself on these overnight flights, it’s important to be aware of the potential long-term health implications.
Regularly missing out on good sleep can weaken your immune system and lead to serious issues like sleep disorders, depression, and even an increased risk of heart attacks and cancer.
So, while those red-eye flights can be convenient, it’s wise to take care of your well-being.
Which Class Should You Choose While Opting For Red Eye Flight?
When it comes to red-eye flights, the health risks might sound pretty daunting, but thankfully, there are some effective ways to cope with them.
One of the most crucial steps you can take for your well-being during a night flight is to select the right class.
Sure, economy tickets can save you some cash, especially on these overnight flights, but there’s a reason they’re cheaper.
The lack of comfortable seating can make it really tough to catch some quality sleep. Plus, the passengers usually cram the economy sections, which only adds to the noise and can disturb your rest.
On the other hand, if you opt for business or a higher class, you’ll find much better seating and more appropriate lighting, and flight attendants who will cater to your needs by:—
Serving meals
Providing pillows
Helping you stay hydrated
You can manage some of these comforts on your own. Stil, I would say that investing in a better class ticket can definitely make a difference in how well you handle that long, overnight journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are Red Eye Flights More Dangerous?
No, red-eye flights are not inherently more dangerous than daytime flights in terms of safety; if anything, they are generally safer due to less air traffic and pilots flying more on instruments.
2. Are Red Eye Flights Cheaper?
Yes, red-eye flights are often cheaper because airlines price them lower to fill planes during off-peak overnight hours. This makes them attractive to budget-conscious travelers.
3. Is Red Eye Flight Booking Difficult?
Not at all. You can just visit an airline’s website or a flight comparison site. Then, you have to enter your origin and destination. Finally, you can filter for flights departing after 9 PM and arriving early the next morning.
Get Ready For Your Upcoming Red Eye Flight!
Honestly, their customer service impressed me so much that I would choose Lufthansa for all my future connecting red-eye flights.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below! We would love to hear from you!
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
When the temperatures drop and the first snowflakes begin to blanket the mountains, every winter enthusiast knows it's time to prep for a thrilling snowboarding season. And if you're aiming for the cream of the crop in snowboarding destinations, Salt Lake City (SLC) should be at the top of your list. But, as with every great adventure, preparation is key. So, whether you're a seasoned boarder or a newbie looking to catch your first drift, here's a detailed guide to make your winter trip to SLC unforgettable.
1. Gear Up
Before you hit the slopes, ensure you've got the right gear. Depending on your skill level, you may want to buy or rent your equipment:
Snowboard and Boots: A snug fit is crucial for boots. For boards, if you're starting, opt for a softer board for flexibility. Seasoned snowboarders can pick as per their preference.
Clothing: Layering is essential. Invest in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof and windproof outer layers. Make sure to skimp on a good pair of gloves, snow socks, and a beanie.
Protective Gear: Helmets are a must. Additionally, consider wrist guards, padded shorts, and even knee pads.
2. Get Fit
Snowboarding isn't just about the right gear; it's physically demanding. Consider adding some fitness prep to your routine. Incorporate strength training, balance exercises, and cardiovascular workouts to ensure you're slope-ready.
3. Research The Resorts
SLC boasts multiple world-class resorts. Do your homework:
Brighton: Known for its welcoming vibe to beginners.
Snowbird: Challenging terrains that promise adrenaline-pumping sessions.
Park City: Offers a blend of slopes for all, plus a lively town atmosphere.
4. Book In Advance.
Winter in SLC is peak season. To get the best deals and ensure you're included in the cold, book your accommodation, snowboarding lessons (if needed), and any other experiences well in advance.
5. Limousine: Ride In Style
Now, let's address the most luxurious part of your trip – arriving in style in a limousine. Why opt for a regular car when you can elevate your travel experience with a limo ride? Here's why a limousine is perfect for your ski resort experience.
Space Galore: With all your gear, luggage, and maybe even a group of fellow snowboarding enthusiasts, a limo ensures ample space without cramping anyone's style.
Comfort and Luxury: After a tiring day on the slopes, there's nothing like sinking into the plush seats of a limousine, sipping on a warm drink, or maybe even watching a movie on the built-in entertainment system.
Safety: Limousine services prioritize safety. In the icy conditions of SLC's winter, trust a professional driver to navigate the roads while you relax.
Making a Statement: Arrive at your resort with panache. Only some days, do you get to make an entrance that people remember!
6. Explore Beyond Snowboarding
While snowboarding will be your primary activity, SLC offers more. Try ice skating or snowshoeing, or indulge in hot cocoa in one of the city's cozy cafes. Explore the historic Temple Square or catch a renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance.
7. Respect The Environment
Remember, the pristine white landscapes aren't just for our enjoyment. Respect the environment. Stick to marked trails, dispose of waste responsibly, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
8. Stay Updated On Weather Conditions.
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Always keep an eye on the forecast. Being caught off-guard in a snowstorm is not just inconvenient but can be dangerous.
9. Bond And Make Memories
The best part of any trip is the memories you make. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or with friends, cherish the moments. Capture photos, make snow angels, indulge in snowball fights, and above all, let loose and have fun!
In Conclusion
A winter trip to Salt Lake City offers adventure, relaxation, and sheer beauty. As you glide down its powdery slopes, with the backdrop of the majestic mountains and the city lights in the distance, you'll realize why this preparation was all worth it. And, as you round off your day, stepping into a luxurious limousine, you'll truly appreciate the blend of thrill and luxury that only SLC can offer. Safe travels and happy snowboarding!
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Imagine waking up in the heart of Rome, with the vibrant rays of the sun streaming through your window. Rome is beckoning you to step outside and discover the enchanting wonders that await.
As you leisurely wander along the historic cobblestone streets, the aroma of freshly baked bread and invigorating espresso permeates the air. It may instantly transport you to a world where ancient history seamlessly merges with modern life.
Rome possesses a magical allure that captivates all your senses and ignites your imagination at every twist and turn.
However, to fully immerse yourself in this timeless tapestry, it is essential to select the ideal hotels near Rome Italy.
You have to search for the best hotels near Rome not only to provide comfort but also serves as a gateway to the city’s treasures.
Successful Rome Adventure
Recent research indicates that a successful Rome adventure has an observation. According to a study, 75% of travellers consider the location of their lodging as the most vital factor.
You don’t need to worry anymore Where to stay in Rome. We are dedicated to making your stay as comfortable and memorable as possible, guiding you to the best places that cater to your preferences and budget.
Let us take the hassle out of your travel planning so you can focus on soaking in the beauty and history of Rome without any concerns.
The Historic Heart Of Rome
Discover the Centro Storico, the historical nucleus of Rome. There the echoes of the past resonate in every narrow alleyway and cobblestone square.
You may leisurely meander through these intimate streets. There the scent of freshly baked bread and the tolling of church bells will transport you to a timeless realm. Envision wakes up just a few steps away from the awe-inspiring Pantheon. It has ancient columns bearing witness to the enduring charm of the city.
Sarah, a passionate globetrotter, fondly recalls,
“Staying in the heart of Rome felt like stepping into a living museum. Each morning, as I opened my shutters, I was greeted by the breathtaking sight of the Trevi Fountain, its water glistening in the sunlight. It was pure enchantment.”
For those in search of a spiritually uplifting experience, the vicinity of Vatican City is an exceptional choice. The unparalleled proximity to St. Peter’s Basilica and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel is truly remarkable.
By rising early and avoiding the crowds, you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty. View the sacred sites before the bustling commotion of the day begins.
Embark on a voyage through the historic heart of Rome or discover tranquility in the sacred enclave of Vatican City. Whichever route you opt for, brace yourself to be enchanted by the ageless charm and abundant cultural legacy. They lie in store for you in this splendid metropolis.
What Are The Top 5 Contenders For The Best Hotels Near Rome Italy?
These are some of the best recommendations for hotels near Rome Italy. Check them out, guys!
1. Hotel Indigo Rome- St. George
4.6 stars
(2,216 reviews)
Ranked #16 out of 1,138 hotels in Rome
Located at Via Giulia 62, 00186 Rome, Italy
This hotel is perfectly situated for those who want to uncover the magic of Rome. It’s a stunning 5-star boutique hotel nestled in the beautiful Via Giulia, right in the heart of the historic center.
You’ll find yourself just a few steps away from iconic spots like Piazza Navona, Campo de' Fiori, Castel Sant'Angelo, and the Vatican Museums.
Hotel Indigo Rome - St. George has a captivating vibe that blends charm and history seamlessly.
You’ll walk through ancient Renaissance walls that embrace modern design, creating a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere.
The rich history resonates through the space, especially with the large travertine stones on the facade, which were taken from the Colosseum and cleverly reflect the shapes of contemporary sofas inside.
It’s a wonderful mix of the old and the new, making your stay truly unforgettable.
2. Hotel Columbia
4.5
(1,156 reviews)
#117 of 1,138 hotels in Rome
Via del Viminale 15, 00184 Rome, Italy
The Hotel Columbia is run with charm and dedication by the Diletti Family, whose goal has been to create a tranquil ambience where guests can feel at home in comfortable, elegant surroundings.
All of the 45 bedrooms are quite bright. You will find the modern amenities are combined with traditional decor; some rooms have beautiful Murano crystal chandeliers.
Hotel Columbia is conveniently situated in the heart of the historic centre of Rome. It is within walking distance of Roma Termini, the main railway station.
From Hotel Columbia, every major monument and tourist attraction is easily reached by a short walk.
3. NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento
4.6
(2,081 reviews)
#48 of 1,138 hotels in Rome
Piazza Dei Cinquecento, 90, 00185 Rome Italy
You’ll find the NH Collection Roma Palazzo Cinquecento conveniently located right next to Termini Station, which is one of the best transport hubs in Rome.
The hotel is set in a beautifully renovated historical building from 2015, giving you a taste of the past with modern comforts.
When you’re hungry, you can enjoy classic Italian specialties at the hotel’s restaurant. If you need a space for meetings, there are well-equipped rooms available too.
Plus, the hotel garden features remnants of the ancient Mura Serviane, or Roman Walls, adding a unique touch to your stay.
4. Starhotels Metropole
4.2
(2,767 reviews)
#242 of 1,138 hotels in Rome
Via Principe Amedeo 3, 00185 Rome, Italy
When you step into Starhotels Metropole, you'll immediately notice the airy and elegant lobby that sets a welcoming tone for your stay.
Your room will likely feel spacious and well-furnished, creating a relaxing atmosphere where you can unwind after a day of exploring.
You'll probably appreciate the spotless cleanliness, with fresh linens that make you feel right at home.
As for the service, you'll find the staff friendly and professional, though you might experience some occasional delays in responsiveness.
The hotel's location near Termini Station is incredibly convenient for getting around the city.
However, do keep in mind that some guests have mentioned concerns about the value for money, as high prices and unexpected charges can be a bit of a drawback during your visit.
5. Augusta Lucilla Palace
4.1
(2,202 reviews)
#273 of 1,138 hotels in Rome
Via Massimo d'Azeglio, 24, 00184 Rome Italy
When you stay at the Augusta Lucilla Palace Hotel, you're conveniently located near some fantastic landmarks like Piazza Navona, just 1.3 miles away, and Campo de' Fiori, only 1.4 miles from your door.
While you're exploring the area, make sure to check out some local cafes. You'll find delightful spots all just a short distance from the hotel.
like
Romeow Cat Bistrot
Two Sizes -Tiramisù in Rome
La Casa del Caffe Tazza d Oro
If you're in the mood for some sightseeing, you're in luck! The Colosseum is about 0.7 miles away, while Villa Borghese and Galleria Borghese are both just 1 mile from where you’re staying.
All these popular attractions are within walking distance, so you can easily soak in the beauty and history of Rome.
Maximize Your Stay In Rome
Wheretostayin.com not only helps you find the perfect accommodation but also provides insider tips to enhance your experience in Rome:
Optimal Exploration: Uncover the most efficient routes and public transportation options to navigate Rome's charming cobblestone streets effortlessly. This way, you can dedicate more time to exploring and minimize any unnecessary delays. Bid farewell to wasted hours and embrace the freedom of stress-free travel.
Dine like a Local: Escape the tourist traps and immerse yourself in Rome's authentic culinary scene. From bustling markets like Campo de Fiori, where you can savour fresh produce and artisanal delicacies, to hidden trattorias serving traditional recipes, we will guide you to the finest establishments where you can truly indulge in the essence of La Dolce Vita.
Off the Beaten Path: Unearth Rome's hidden treasures, from ancient underground catacombs to serene gardens and cutting-edge art galleries. Our expert team will provide recommendations allowing you to delve into the city's lesser-known depths and uncover its secrets, one discovery at a time.
What To Consider When Visiting Rome And Finding Hotels Near Rome Italy?
Rome is one of the greatest and most ancient cities in the world, and it attracts millions of visitors from different parts of the world. Are you, too, looking to have a pleasant stay in Rome?
To get it, you must focus on some of the most important considerations and find the most suitable hotel near Rome.
So, let’s get started with the discussion so that you have a great experience. So, without further ado, let’s start off with the discussion.
1. Pick Your Moment For The Best Attraction
Your search for suitable hotels in Rome must be linked to the very point. Every man-made marvel has its own entry and exit points.
For instance, you visited the great Vatican Museum and were completely perplexed by its ethereal beauty.
You may be completely awestruck by the artificial marvel and spend your important hours in it.
Consequently, you may miss out on the other monuments near this one. Finally, you reach the Sistine Chappels to look out for the magnificent artwork of Michelangelo’s great paintings on the ceiling.
But not your time at hand remained quite limited. Hence, you have to be calculative enough to and then plan your visit. Yes, you also have to book the hotels near Rome based on your planning,
2. Make An Aim To Stay The Last Three Days In Rome
Initiate your trip to the Colosseum, one of Rome’s greatest wonders! After that, you have some other breathing monument you will find around the corner.
However, as per recommendations, you do not need to start acquiring the first position in the long queues. These events usually take place every day before this monument.
You could start right around the middle of the morning.
While you stroll around the different nooks and corners of the city, you can sip a well-earned expresso.
Ultimately, we mean to convey to you the fact that there are quite several man-made marvels in Rome that you must not miss out on.
This is the place where you get all the attention of the best of Rome. You have to keep this point in consideration when you go to hotels near Rome.
3. Do Not Accept Gifts From Strangers On The Streets.
While you are roaming the country, you should not take things if a person you do not know offers you anything. However friendly they may look, you must be firm and not take anything that they offer. They may claim that they will provide data regarding the best hotels in Rome, but you must not be tempted by it. Search the internet platform, and you will get information about the best hotels near Rome; you do not need to ask a stranger.
4. Mind The Dress Code When Visiting The Churches
You take into consideration that you will be visiting many sacred institutions. The Roman churches that you visit must have a dress code that you need to follow before entering the building.
However, it denotes that you must not consider shorts and tank tops as options. However, if you book from among the best hotels near Rome, you may get this information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What Is The Nicest Area Of Rome To Stay In? The best area to stay in Rome depends on your interests, but the Centro Storico is ideal for first-time visitors who want to be in the heart of the action and walk to major sights like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona. 2. Is It Better To Stay In Rome City Centre? If you are looking to stay in the heart of Rome, then consider staying in the Historic Centre. 3. Are The Best Hotels In Rome Italy Expensive? Yes, the best hotels in Rome are expensive, particularly the 5-star luxury options that can cost several hundred dollars or more per night.
Find The Best Hotels Near Rome Italy
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in Rome? Visit Wheretostayin.com now and embark on your journey to Find hotels near top attractions in Rome and discover the best areas to stay in the city. It’s the first step towards unlocking an extraordinary Roman experience.
Read Also:
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The Ultimate Guide To Hassle-Free Sightseeing In Rome
For the longest time, Air Canada and WestJet have been dominating the Canadian airline industry, which has led to the prevalence of high airfare. However, with the emergence of new contenders, things are finally changing. Flair Airlines is one such competitor of the legacy airlines that have a strong hold on the Canadian Airline industry. It is a low-cost carrier that has been expanding its operations during the pandemic to include U.S. travel hotspots like Arizona, Florida, California, and Nevada, continuing to operate on an extensive Canadian route network that covers most major cities in the country.
Here is my brief take on the Flair Airlines experience I had. Keep reading because this is going to be very useful.
My Experience Of Flair Airlines
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Here is a first-hand experience or a Flair Airlines review of the recent travel I had flying from Toronto to Montreal. Read on to know if it was worth it.
Booking
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I booked my flight on Google Flights, searching for the cheapest flight from Toronto to Montreal. On my date of flight, both Flair and Air Canada had early morning flights, and yet Flair was priced at half of the Air Canada ticket. There was, of course, the added benefit of a full-size carry-on bag but even on a standard fee, Air Canada would be charging for seat selection. Flair is a solid selection if you are traveling light, even if it includes seat selection. The Flair Airlines baggage policy is a little icky if you are traveling heavy instead.
A one-way flight on December 15 via Flair costs 40. Whereas WestJet’s and Air Canada’s cheapest flights are $135. I had to pay a minimum of $7.90 for seat selection.
Check-in
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It was a simple experience checking in at the Toronto Pearson International Airport. All of Flair’s Toronto flights depart from Terminal 3, so that is where I did my check-in.
Flair has a few baggage drops and check-in counters located in the center of the terminal.
Ground Experience
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My flight was supposed to depart from Gate B38. I cleared my security in under 10 minutes. The airport was mostly empty, given the wee hours we were departing (7:30 a.m.)
There were some shops open despite the timings, so I got a coffee and yogurt from Starbucks and sat away from the crowd for some uninterrupted breakfast.
Flair does not have its own lounges.
Cabins And Seats
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The flight was one of Flair’s three 737-800 (read tiny) aircraft. The airline operates with economy-only cabins suited for its ultra-low-cost carrier.
The interiors were nondescript and spotless. It is simply designed without any frills like over or seatback displays. The flight was made with the intention of taking a passenger from point A to point B. The seats were comfy enough at the cost I paid.
They did not recline, but they were not as slim as other similar carriers in the U.S. The extra padding on the seats helped ease the other small space. The leg room was commendably larger than its other similarly ranged carriers. It also had a full-size tray that could easily fit a 16-inch Macbook Pro. Spirit Airlines offers only a small drink tray.
Flair Airlines Amenities
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There are no inflight amenities or entertainment. There is no wifi, streaming services, or outlets on the 737-800. Keeping that in mind, have your devices on a full charge and make sure to get a window seat to keep yourself entertained for these otherwise short flights.
The food and beverage services could get you to pay $2.75 for a soda and $5.50 for a Molson beer. A coffee would cost $2.35. All that after currency conversion.
My Verdict
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I did not have much qualms about flying with Flair. It was a regular journey from one place to another. The airline’s internet service is also set to launch soon so that too can be an attraction for travelers. Flair’s rapid expansion is on its way to breaking through the expensive air carrier industry with its budget-friendly approach.
Flair Airlines Tripadvisor Reviews
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I told you what I felt from my experience. But if you want to know what others are saying about Flair Airlines, here are some of the Flair Airlines reviews left by real flyers on Tripadvisor.
In case you are asking yourself, “Is Flair Airlines good” or “Is Flair Airlines safe,” here are all your answers:
"My mom and I traveled to edmonton in the beginning of July to a convention, it was my first time on plane and was understandably nervous. The folks when I arrived at the gate was friendly and welcomed us! Everything was on time and found our seats okay, we will definitely upgrade next time but being it was only an hour 1/2 flight it was fine. If you are flying and bringing more than 1 bag and carry on, one thing I recommend to save $ is to purchase a package online and pre book. It's the one thing I wish I knew before hand. Otherwise baggage is pricey. Coming back from Edmonton it was a great experience too! Given the option I will choose Flair again to travel within Canada. Prices are good and the staff are very friendly. Even better, our flights to and from were 10 minutes early. So bonus!"
Ashley P
"After reading some questionable reviews about Flair i was convinced i was not going to have a good experience. I am blown away by the level of kindness and overall attentiveness of the flight attendants, along with the customer service i had received over the phone. Had bought our seats prior to both flights and we had no problems with keeping those seats unlike some other airlines that tend to mess that up every time.
I highly recommend this airline to everyone and will gladly be returning!"
Stefanie b
"I am tired of people complaining in this industry. Covid changed many things, but I am grateful to travel again.
We took a family trip out to Vancouver Island with Flair.
Captain Tyler McDermot was wonderful and after the flight, I was invited for a picture with him.
The crew were wonderful, check in was quick and our flight on time.
Great job Flair!!!"
Gail G
"Booked online and purchased carryon only. Checked in online to avoid paying checkin fee at airport. Downloaded movies and brought my own snacks. People need to realize that Flair base prices only include your seat. Their website clearly states all extra costs. It would be great if Flair continues their Windsor to BC route throughout the whole year. I booked taking a chance, after reading all of the negative reviews about cancelling, I guess I was one of the lucky ones. It's nice to have a direct flight to BC from Windsor and avoid paying three times more, with other airlines and having connections, at either Pearson or Metro.”
monicahumenny
Wrapping Up
Have you taken a Flair flight recently? How was your experience? Do you like how budget-friendly it is? Or do you feel like they could add something more to their services?
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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