Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

After a good catch up with friends and visiting Australia’s largest Big W right next to a Costco (sadly closed), I was dropped back at the terminal to head through security and make my way to the lounge. As I was heading to the lounge I managed to walk past the entire New Zealand Warriors football team. What is it with football teams this weekend! With about half an hour to boarding I grabbed a little bit of a light snack/late lunch of some minestrone soup and some salad (in hindsight looking back I could of avoided this) in the lounge before settling in.

Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia (Skywest) ATR 72-500

I liked the Canberra lounge, it was not overly big (but for the size of the airport it wasn’t to bad, and I loved the fact it had unparrelled views. When they refurb this into the new lounge look, Canberra would be my pick over Melbourne I think. But time will tell how this will change with the Terminal renovations, if the lounge will remain in the same place or not (will know in 12 months I guess).

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia Lounge Canberra Airport

I again chilled out for the little while, and once again when the plane landed I gathered my things and headed to the gate area. The gate area was a Tad over capacity as It seemed this night flight was going to be full. I had to wait about 5 or 6 minutes before boarding was eventually started (and seeing a total male crew come off the inbound flight, a very rare site these days).

My Ride to Melbourne

Gate 8 - Canberra Airport

Virgin Australia
DJ278
Canberra to Melbourne
1700-1810
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUM)
Business Class – Seat 1A

Boarding: 1640 (Gate 8)
Push Back: 1658
Take Off Roll: 1707 (Runway 35)
Top of Descent: 1735
Touch Down: 1758 (Runway 27)
Shut Down: 1807 (Gate 7)

Boarding was called and I wanted to be first out onto the ramp to grab a photo and ensure I could spend as much time in Business as I can to get my moneys worth. After not getting yelled at for the photo (but a dirty look from a Virgin staff member way out of voice distance) I walked up the steps into the Aircraft and was greeted by the gorgeous all female crew. Little did I know, this was about to begin one of my best ever flight experiences with Virgin.

VH-VUM at Gate 8 - My Ride to Melbourne, Then onto Brisbane

Virgin Australia Business Cabin

I was pointed in the direction of my seat, got my stuff together and decided to settle in. The CSM Savannah greeted me and welcomed me onboard and let me know that she would be looking after me this evening and let me know that I was the only person in Business class today and that if I wanted to sit in another seat feel free to take whichever one I wanted and offered me a Pre Departure Beverage. I just asked for a water (as usual) and she tried to get me to take one of the signature mocktails but I declined and was happy with water which she suggested some sparkling water. This was a good sign. The water was promptly delivered with a beeming smile and some easter eggs as a little welcome onboard.

Pre Departure Beverage

Row 1 Legroom Shot

Savannah offered me a newspaper, anything really as she doted on me while the rest of the crew boarded and then she let it slip that she would be looking after me all the way to Brisbane, as my continuing flight was also on this same aircraft and with the same crew (first time that’s happened). This was a bit of a shock and then Savannah also let slip, I was the only person in Business again on the next sector as well. 3/3 flights in Virgin Domestic business with the whole J cabin to myself. O yes!

Empty Business Cabin Again

As we pushed back on time, I was offered another drink by Savannah as “theres plenty of time for another one” and as we slowly got ready to taxi and taxied out to the active, my glass was cleared mere moments before we started our take off roll. We were airborne and quickly getting set up for climb out as we had to make a big long loop to the East to head south back to Melbourne.

Another Pre Departure Beverage

RAAF Fairbairn

Following ZPL to Runway 35

Our Turn on 35

Banking over Canberra

As the crew were free from their seats, Savannah was back to offer me the afternoon snack service which I had a feeling was going to be the “infamous” cheese plate. Which it was, but to be honest, I think is quite enough for a quick flight like this one of like 40 minutes air time. I wouldn’t want this served on a several hour flight but for this short hop with a few more glasses of sparkling water (although Savannah looked disappointed I declined any wine to go with my cheese) it was definitely more than enough. I slowly enjoyed my cheese plate and the lovely decadant brownie that came with it.

Virgin Australia Business Class Afternoon Snack (the infamous Cheese Plate)

Canberra

We came into Melbourne with the most magnificent sunset started to light up the area. Savannah and her crew were always around offering me anything, making sure I was ok and with some change in my pocket and a quick visit to the lounge planned to see my friend again before she went off shift, I hatched a plan.

Descending into Melbourne

Descending into Melbourne

Descending into Melbourne

Virgin Australia at Melbourne T3

China Southern A330-200 - Asian Games Livery

When we docked in Melbourne I said a quick “see you in half an hour” to Savannah and the other ladies and made my way quickly up to the lounge. I tried to see my friend but she had gone off shift, I grabbed some nuts (o glorious nut mix I must find out where they get it from) and got my Seat allocation changed from 2F to 1F just so I didn’t feel bad about having 2F allocated since I had determined to try out that seat originally and feeling bad for leaving the seat unused on the manifest).

On the way back to the gate, I picked up some chocolates for Savannah as a little gift to say thank you for being so fantastic so far and I mean she was doing everything she could. As I made it back to the gate, a scrum from a Chinese Tour group was starting and they didn’t even have time to call boarding before they had started to push their way on, so I just jumped into the Priority Queue and was let onboard once they got through some of the pushy group.

Virgin Australia
DJ351
Melbourne to Brisbane
1900-2110
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUM)
Business Class – Seat 1F

Boarding: 1830 (Gate 7)
Push Back: 1855
Take Off Roll: 1905 (Runway 35)
Top of Descent: 2032
Touch Down: 2055 (Runway 01)
Shut Down: 2100 (Gate 48)

I stepped back onboard with a “Welcome back… again Mr Muir” and this time I hopped into my new seat to which Savannah told me I could sit wherever I wanted and she would be with me shortly (once she had done some paperwork it seemed). I was given a bit of pre flight entertainment as one of the guests from the group then realised they had lost a bag in the terminal and wanted to get off which they had already been scanned onto the flight obviously could not be deboarded so as one of the crew went up into the terminal to search for the bag, Savannah was desperately trying to help out greeting the other passengers, her paperwork, look after me and also calm down the guest with the missing bag who could not speak any English (and manage to do all this with a never ending smile).

View Out the window of VUM as we wait to depart Melbourne

Once it had calmed down a little bit I was offered another drink, suggested perhaps a soft drink this time and accepted a pepsi max and settled in with the ongoing enterainment of the bag drama. Once all was quiet I hopped up and presented Savannah with her gift and wished her a happy easter and this caused an even bigger smile as I had happened to get her favourite chocolate…. Score one for me! She was shocked and her service went into over drive and to be honest, I didn’t do it for this, I did it because of how great they were and it is easter after all, don’t we all deserve some chocolate?

Pre Departure Beverage

Another Empty Business Cabin

We pushed back and then as we were heading out after the safety briefing, a digiplayer was dropped off at my seat (no galaxy tabs on this flight) and then Savannah rather than taking my dinner order, had an offer for me. “Are you hungry this evening?” Expecting bad news after this thinking to myself dear god no meals have been loaded. “They ended up fully catering us this evening so did you want to try all of the options? You don’t have to eat it all but you can sample them if you wish. We have a Chick Pea curry with Cous Cous and Shepheards pie” I thought to myself, what the hell, I am writing a trip report for this.. so why not!

As we taxied off I was blissfully enjoying myself, not really paying any attention at all. As we climbed out and the post take off speeches were made the usual thank you to all business class guests was given, to which I smirked and giggled at since it was only me and being in line of site of the crew, Savannah almost broke out laughing herself. We headed up to be released from Seat Belts, and the tray of glory was placed in front of me. So much food, thankfully a 2 hour flight to get it all done!

I got the digiplayer going, selected a movie and settled in to enjoy a movie, some dinner and the company of some lovely cabin crew as they did everything to make sure I was comfortable. How can you not love flights like this? Dinner went down a treat, the cous cous while a touch bland on its own went really well with the Chick Pea & Pumpkin Curry however the Shepheards Pie was a touch to salty for my liking. Salad was good and the bread roll, fluffy and warm.

Legroom Shot from 1F

Virgin Australia Business Class Dinner Sampling!

Virgin Australia Business Class Dinner - Shepheards Pie

Virgin Australia Business Class Dinner - Chickpea & Pumpkin Curry

Cabin Shot in Night Mode

I did enquire if there was any of the Ice Cream Sandwhiches onboard and disappointment again as they had been onboard the previous 2 nights, but nothing this evening. After a few pepsi maxes and more movie, relaxing fully reclined I was needing a pick me up and declining a refil of pepsi which magically appeared, I asked for a cup of coffee in a little while.

Sherlock Holmes on the Digiplayer

Just after that I was thinking to myself, I could go one of those lovely cookies from up the back. As my coffee was delivered I was going to ask for one. What I did not expect was Savannah already standing there with one when she delivered my coffee, and a block of Toblerone. It was as though she could read my mind. I accepted the cookie with glee and declined the chocolate to which I was told to take it anyway, you may want it later on tonight.

Coffee & A Cookie

Coffee & the Luke Mangan Toffee, Chocolate Macadamia Nuts

Virgin Australia Domestic Business Class Seat

I settled in with my coffee and more of the movie as we cruised north towards home, enjoying the light show out the window as a storm was lighting up the sky orange off in the distance. We started descent into Brisbane and I was totally unaware of this and was shocked as I was having such a good time and enjoying what had been one of the best experiences I’ve had to virgin to date. The crew were amazing, the food good, the flight just flew by. I didn’t want to get off.

A farewell to the crew thanking them for making this the best flight I have had in the last 12 months with Virgin and an even bigger thank you for making one of my last domestic flights in a while so amazing I was off into the terminal, determined to send Virgin some feedback about the crew (I had gotten Savannah to write me down all their names earlier) and contemplating the quick journey home as the airport was deserted. My bag was making its 2nd lap around the carosel by the time I arrived and in true Brisbane fashion, it may have come out in the first group but it was upside down… as usual!

I was in my car less than 10 minutes after landing and home within half an hour. A fantastic weekend had come to an end!

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

After arriving at the Park Hyatt o so comfortably in the S class, I did not want to get out, but sadly, the driver was already at the boot getting out my bag and the Porters were already opening the door before I had even thought about moving.

I was greated and offered to take my bag, however as I did not want to let the camera bag out of my site, I let them just take the suitcase and I kept the camera bag with me (although it felt like it was going to break me in half by this stage). I was escorted through to the check in, where I was greeted and checked in. I was informed of the lovely Diamond amenities and told that I had used “points” to upgrade to a Park Suite and I had been upgraded further from this to a Terrace Suite. I was asked if i had stayed at the hotel previously (I had not) and was then explained the facilities, services of the hotel etc, before being pointed in the direction of the Cathedral wing.

I made my way up to the room and damn… colour me impressed! I will let the pictures do the talking but for what little time I was spending in Melbourne, It was just not fair!! I mean seriously this room was awesome! Even a nespresso Machine, I was in heaven. I had a quick explore before hitting the sack.

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Park Hyatt Melbourne - Terrace Suite

Sunday 08th April 2012

Woke up a bit earlier than I thought I would as my body just did not want to let me rest, and I headed down to the Park Health Club & Spa (their Gym area) for a morning work out. The gym was modern and pretty damn good actually. Heaps of cardio and free weights, all modern machines with full cable tv set up in most of the cardio machines (albeit with crap reception on the treadmills). A Decent looking pool (although closed at that hour of the day). Couldn’t ask for more.

Park Hyatt Melbourne - View from Terrace Suite

St Patricks Cathedral

Park Hyatt Melbourne - View from Terrace Suite

After the work out and a few coffees fresh from the machine, I met up with a friend next door at St Patricks Cathedral for morning mass before we returned to the hotel to indulge in the breakfast in the Park Club (lounge) up on the 19th floor. There was 3 of us and fully expecting to have to pay for the 3rd person, they mustn’t of worried as when we arrived the lounge was pretty empty (but almost full by the time we left). Although breakfast was continental in the lounge, they do offer A La Carte options at additional expense but the range on offer was by far exceeding my expectations and the fruit was just divine (best strawberries i’ve had in a while). All that was lacking was some chocolate options and being easter.. a tiny bit flawed imo.

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne Park Lounge View

Park Hyatt Melbourne Park Lounge

After a good healthy breakfast, a number of coffees and some good conversation. It was time to venture out of the hotel. I checked out and bid farewell to my friends, declined the offer of Transport to the airport and decided to walk to Bourke Street to get a tram. After a 5 minute stroll through the Paris end of town, past lots of tourists and families out on this Easter Sunday. Soon enough I was onboard a tram and making my way to Southern Cross station where luckily a Skybus was about to pull out of the station to the airport within a few moments and i made it onboard just in time without a seat though =(.

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Park Hyatt Melbourne

Melbourne Trams

At the airport effortlessly I was checked in within moments and relaxing in the lounge within 5 minutes of the bus pulling in. That is the one thing I do love about the lounge in Melbourne, there is no need to go through security prior to getting to the lounge so you don’t need to worry. Unfortunately my friend was not yet working today (she would start later on) so I headed up to my favourite area of the Melbourne lounge and one of the super comfy red seats was free. I settled in, camera in hand with a view of the active runway, drink and book out, chilling and relaxing. Is there a better way to spend a sunday?

Melbourne Airport T3

Virgin Australia Lounge Melbourne

Lovely View from the Lounge

Best Seat in the Lounge

My Ride to Canberra

After a catch up in the lounge with my friend, some more spotting, the inbound aircraft landed and pulled up to the gate so figured it was time to head towards the outer pier and through security. On the way stopping to get a couple of photos of XFB and other aircraft sitting around. Expecting a bit of a queue at security, there wasnt one so I was through within moments and sat down at the gate, just relaxing and waiting for the flight to be called. I was excited to be flying an Embraer with Virgin for the first time.

Trekking to the Gate... the long way!

The T4 & Cargo Ramp

XFB heading back to Sydney

VH-ZPL - My Ride to Canberra

Virgin Australia
DJ271
Melbourne to Canberra
1330-1435
Embraer E190 (VH-ZPL)
Economy Class – Seat 3A

Boarding: 1310 (Gate 13)
Push Back: 1329
Take Off Roll: 1336 (Runway 34)
Top of Descent: 1400
Touch Down: 1421 (Runway 35)
Shut Down: 1425 (Gate 5)

Boarding was called and I was first through the doors and headed for the aircraft. Although my usual seat was awaiting me (3A) since the Embraers are not yet refurbished I wasn’t sure what to expect. A Few observations onboard these Embraers though. The legroom is ample, windows are nice and high (pretty much what everyone will already know) but what got me was the windows are offset so you kind of have a bit of a wall where there should be a window right next to you. This was not preffered and in the end distracted me more than anything.

Down to my first ever Virgin Australia E190 flight

Onboard the E190

Legroom Shot on the E190

Taxiing Out

We pushed back early after a quick load and I did have a seat mate on this fairly full flight up to Canberra, we were told it would be a quick trip but would be a long taxi as we had to taxi out to the end of the active which wasnt exactly right next to our gates. O well you win some you lose some. We lept into the air in the style that Embraers have and shortly the seat belt sign was off and the service commenced. What I didn’t realise was that Melbourne to Canberra is also Captial Connect service, designed to compete with Qantas and they offer the free snack like they do out of Sydney. Not all that hungry after breakfast and expecting some food on the next few flights (and some snacking in the lounge of course) I declined the food but accepted my usual coffee and water as I started into a new book.

Turning onto the Runway

Climbing out from Melbourne

The Infamous Curtain

Cruising above the Clouds

My Usual (I could of had the full snack but didn't want it)

The flight was great, no hassles and as they started to collect the trash up, we started our descent into Canberra, down through the cloud layer as we came into the surrounding farm lands of Canberra we had a straight in approach from the South and came in with a very distant view of Civic and Black Mountain Tower way off into the distance. We landed with one of the most impressive touch downs I have had with Virgin (it was as though he barely touched at all) and we taxied back to the terminal. Pulled into an Airbridge (which is always a good thing at Canberra with so much renovations underway) and was off into the Terminal to collect my bag and catch up with my friends (after first checking back for my next two flights).

Descending into Canberra

Descending into Canberra

DFO at Fyshwick

Canberra Airport

Empty Baggage Area

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

Saturday 07th April 2012

O dark 30… the time that I hate so much, but today since I was on an extremely early flight, no work out no nothing, Just up, shower and out the door (not even a coffee!). Made it out of the house and to the airport easily, very little traffic and within 15 minutes of leaving, the car was parked in the Parklong (seriously dumb name) facility at the airport thanks to their offer of a $40 full weekend and then it was time to wander my way through the car park and to the terminal.

Bags for this trip... which one do you think is heavier

Looking towards the New Car Park Connection Bridge

Looking Down to the Brisbane Airport Domestic Terminal

Check in was a breeze and literally 20 minutes after leaving home, I was through security (dodged explosives, o yeah!) and up to the lounge where breakfast and coffee awaited me. I was expecting no barista at 5am in the morning, I was wrong! The barista was on staff so it was a quick breakfast of cereal, fruit and coffee and getting all my stuff together for the flight. The lounge was quiet but since I didn’t have all that much time, I wasn’t planning on getting to relaxed. About 5 minutes before the flight was due to board, I strolled my way down to the gate.

Virgin Australia Check In

Breakfast in the Lounge

Virgin Australia Lounge at 5am

My Ride to Sydney - VH-VUZ

Virgin Australia
DJ908
Brisbane to Sydney
0600-0735
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUZ)
Economy Class – Seat 3A

Boarding: 0545 (Gate 39)
Push Back: 0600
Take Off Roll: 0607 (Runway 19)
Top of Descent: 0646
Touch Down: 0727 (Runway 34L)
Shut Down: 0731 (Gate 31)

Boarding was promptly called and there was a number of small children pre boarded. But thankfully they all headed way down the back of the plane. I settled into my usual seat and got myself nicely relaxed and just tuned out really. It was way to early to be doing to much, I just wanted to sleep really but I knew that once I got to Sydney, it wasn’t going to happen. By the time the doors closed we pushed back dead on time, I looked around and had the entire row to myself. Not only did I have the “Gold Shadow” (blocked next seat) but also had the whole row, both sides of the Aisle! w00t!

Onboard Shot

The Sun Rises as the Virgin Australia Terminal Comes to Life

Entirity of Row 3 to myself

We taxiied quickly to Runway 19 and took off with the rising sun shining in my window. I got stuck into my book as once we climbed above the solid cloud deck further south, there was nothing to see out the window. Service was the usual (especially for me) coffee & water and with more pages of the book smashed through as we cruised south. These are the flights I like, effortless and quiet. Flying over easter looked to be a smart decision.

Sun Rising

Sun Rising as we climb towards Sydney

Its not a flight for me without the usual.

As we started descent we were warned that it could be a while in descent as Sydney was playing silly buggers with ATC diversions. It was true, we took our time doing our descent very very slowly. We came in very high over the harbour so I knew something was up as we popped out of the cloud deck pretty much already over the city but way to high for a normal descent into 16, and we weren’t heading out into the ocean over the Eastern Suburbs for a 34R. Very confusing! Turns out we had been diverted way way way south (after overflying the airport) and were heading for 34L.

Decending into Sydney

Sydney Harbour

Sydney Airport

Taking the Long Way to the Airport

As we came into finals for 34L I was checking what was on the ground and saw a number of good sites. United in Star Alliance Livery, JAL in Oneworld Livery lots of other goodies just waiting to be photographed. I knew I had to be quick, because JAL was due to depart about 8am so wouldn’t have much time to get the car and get moving. As we deplaned I headed straight to baggage and my bag was 3rd out and then it was off to get my car. I had booked a car with Avis through work and had hoped I would get something nice and pretty for the day but to be honest, I didn’t care.

Thai, Virgin Australia & United at the Stand Off

JAL One World at Sydney T1

Off to Pick Up My Car

There was a line at the Avis counter unfortunately and it seems they didn’t even have a car ready for me 🙁 When I was offered a Minivan (eww no to big) I declined, was then offered a full on Pajero and not wanting to drive that either I declined. He told me would be 3 or 4 minutes till they could get me a car. I was ok with that. 10 minutes later, still no car, the guy gave up and just gave me someone elses car. Why he didn’t do this in the first place I don’t know.

Sheps Mound looking towards the Airport

The Hire Car for the Day - Holden SV6

The Car & The Control Tower

Threw all my stuff into the car and headed off over to Sheps Mound for my morning of plane spotting. I did manage to get the JAL Oneworld along with so much other stuff. The day just flew by, so rather than describe what will be boring to some, I will just show you a selection of photos 😀 (the full album can be found here )

Virgin Australia 737-800 & Qantaslink Breast Cancer Livery Dash 8 Q400

United Star Alliance 747-400

United Airlines 747-400

JAL Oneworld 777-200ER

After spending most of the day taking photos in various locations and catching up with an old friend for lunch. I headed back over to the Domestic Terminal and checked in. Light was dropping quickly so I just found a nice quiet spot in the lounge to check my emails, charge my phone and tune out really. After my phone was charged (bout 30 minutes or so) I headed out of my hiding corner and saw that the Gold Coast Suns were in the lounge. Crazy! Then after they left, the Brisbane Lions rolled in (pretty sure it was the young lions) and then after they left, In came the Freemantle Dockers!

The Observation Deck

Cargo Ramp from the Observation Deck

All the way to the Gate... a long way!

Seriously how many football teams are flying through Sydney tonight! I tried to stay out of their way and just get myself some dinner (after a few bowls of the awesome nut mix Virgin uses). I was happy and relaxed, a tad sunburnt and tired all at the same time. I headed out of the lounge a little early to stroll around and wake myself up a little before trekking all the way out to the very end of the Virgin pier to where my next flight awaited. What I noticed as I had timed the walk pretty well for boarding to have started around about the time I got there. It hadn’t. Great a delay! The crew were just boarding as I got there. I looked out the window and tonights flight was operated by none other than XF “Broken.” No wonder there was a delay! I contemplated heading back to the lounge but could not be bothered really so found an empty seat and just kept reading till boarding was called.

My Ride to Melbourne

Virgin Australia
DJ888
Sydney to Melbourne
2000-2130
Airbus A330-200 (VH-XFB)
Economy Class – Seat 7K

Boarding: 1950 (Gate 40)
Push Back: 2015
Take Off Roll: 2025 (Runway 16R)
Top of Descent: 2105
Touch Down: 2136 (Runway 16)
Shut Down: 2140 (Gate 12)

Boarding was only called a little bit late, and I was in the first group onboard which was great, so I could get plenty of photos. Unfortunately what I didn’t realise was the seats onboard the Ex Emirates A330’s had not really been refurbished. These seats were horrible. Sure they looked pretty but god damn they felt totally crap. Worse than hell! But I sucked it up. As everyone slowly boarded and the crew were doing their checks the gentlemen in the row behind me was asked to move his carry on up into the overhead locker but then he was told that soon he would have a lot more space as they were going to upgrade him. Damn I was hoping for a Battlefield upgrade today, no luck!

Virgin Australia A330-200 Coast 2 Coast Business Cabin

Virgin Australia A330-200 Coast 2 Coast Economy Seat

View Out the Window

A quick taxi to 16R and we were airborne heading for Melbourne. I tuned out really quickly on this flight, a coffee to keep me awake enough till I get to the hotel and the book to distract me enough. I was out of it really. Not much more to say other than up, down and a short cruise in between. I can see why people hate flying this route over and over again each week. I would be so bored some days! We descended into Melbourne and touched down with not to big of a bump and as we taxiied towards the terminal, I was looking forward to some sleep. But the ground staff had other ideas. We sat, and sat, for a long time (probably 10-15 minutes) waiting for the air bridge to attach. What I didn’t realise was that it must of been broken or it doesn’t work for this aircraft as when we finally deplaned. It was down stairs. No photos due to the night, but soon enough I was in the terminal, quite chilled as the temperature had dropped.

Row 7 - Legroom Shot

Virgin Australia A330-200 Coast 2 Coast Economy Cabin

The terminal was buzzing yet still quiet in comarison and the bags were slow to arrive. I had booked a car through work as I never trust late night flights into Melbourne and the Skybus and I always hate taxi queues. The driver was waiting for me and after my bag came out, I grabbed out my jacket (shorts and tshirt in 15 degree weather is not a good idea) and he lead me towards the car. What awaited me was a glorious looking Mercedes S Class and a VERY comfortable interior for the next 25 minutes to the hotel.

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

I am going to do this trip report a little bit differently, I am going to try and post it in stages so It doesn’t eat up so much of my time, along with also making it easier to read.

This upcoming trip had a bit of a wierd starting. After finding out in Early March that I could possibly have the Easter Period off, well I thought back to last Easter where I had a great time flying some flights, purely cause I can (Trip Report here) and thought back, well why don’t I do it again. I had two options in my mind.

1. A local bit of #avgeek times doing some spotting in Sydney and perhaps adding some more Virgin Australia status credits to my requalification before heading overseas.
2. A long weekend journey to the Northern Hemisphere, to Japan for some 787 flights with ANA.

After researching the costs vs time away and looking into it, Japan was scrapped. Not purely cause I couldn’t afford it, but the outlay for time spent in Japan just was not worth it. I begrudingly put the Japan plans out of my mind and set about planning a quick 2 day jaunt to the Southern states. After a bit of playing with online schedules I came up with the following which would give me a full day of Spotting fun in Sydney on the Saturday and then some Status running on the Sunday.

07th April 2012 – DJ908 – Brisbane to Sydney – 0600/0735 – Boeing 737-800 – Economy
07th April 2012 – DJ888 – Sydney to Melbourne – 2000/2135 – Airbus A330-200 – Economy
08th April 2012 – DJ271 – Melbourne to Canberra – 1330/1435 – Embraer E190 – Economy
08th April 2012 – DJ278 – Canberra to Melbourne – 1700/1810 – Boeing 737-800 – Business
08th April 2012 – DJ351 – Melbourne to Brisbane – 1900/2110 – Boeing 737-800 – Business

It will look something like this:

Avgeek Map

So why to Canberra you may be asking? Well the Business fares from Canberra to Brisbane were quite cheap and could give me a good status point bonus, but the funniest thing is, it was CHEAPER to fly in Business from Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane than it was to fly Melbourne to Brisbane… so why the hell not. In using these flights, I would get almost the entire Virgin Australia fleet on my list of flown Aircraft (Just the 332 and E90 to go).

So the flights were set, but where do I spend Saturday night, I looked around, I thought about things, I looked at offers and agent rates, then I saw a link to a Hyatt Diamond Challenge, you could status match to Diamond status with Hyatt Gold Passport from my Hilton Gold for 2 months and even get the Suite Upgrade Benefits. Now I have always wanted to stay at a Park Hyatt and although I definately can not afford the Park Hyatt Sydney so Melbourne would have to do and the rates were good to use the Suite Upgrade and with free breakfast and other benefits, It would be a good nights stay and since the flight did not go till Mid Arvo I could get a good morning with friends in Melbourne for one final time!

The trip was booked and set, but then something even better happened. Virgin Australia announced a Double Status credit special, but it was only valid on bookings made AFTER 27th March. So although some of my fares I couldn’t do much with (as they would cause fees that would eat up the majority of the fare I paid as there was some good bargains in those fares) the Business Class fare could be cancelled without fees and the prices were still the same as I paid. So dodgily cancel and rebook I did! That will take my Business flights from 40 status credits to 80, giving me well more than enough to requalify now.

The camera lens will get packed, the point and shoot will be primed and ready to go (after a recent warranty return). I can’t wait!!! Lots of photos to be taken!

Well the Visa Interview has come and gone. The Stress was just way to much to handle and I think I did some stupid things on Wednesday that I should not have done. Nothing overly stupid like forgetting things, just not using my brain properly when I should of.

But the trip was worth it. I flew down on Tuesday afternoon, after getting moved to an earlier flight, then that flight gets delayed by an hour so I dont end up getting down to Sydney any earlier. After a $30 cab ride from my hotel to the Sofitel and back again to pick up all the official paperwork. It was a long long day being up at 430am and not having dinner till about 1030 at night (although I will say the Ox Tongue bento box I came across was DELICIOUS!!!!).

Wednesday morning was spent after a work out, relaxing my nerves by walking from my hotel near Central Station all the way to the US Consulate (bad move #1). This calmed me down and after a coffee and some interview prep I was ready to go. After heading up to the Security area of the Consulate and being told I was to early and to come back. I did some more waiting and after a while went back to check in. Security was a bit more strict (as expected) and after being chastised for my paperwork and being told that going with an attorney is always a waste of paperwork (whatever lady!) I was into the Consulate properly.

The interview went well and it kind felt like a non event. It was over so quick I wasn’t sure what was going on. But I was over the moon. First thing now. Get some food into me! After heading off and having some amazingly good Sourdough Toast I packed up all my stuff at the hotel, checked out and headed off to have my lunch with my sister and my first nephew Braedon.

All in all, so worth all the stress to have that Visa Approved. Now a little bit more waiting while the powers that be organise my departure date etc. So at the moment I wait a little bit for a date to go, but till then, the big stress is over!

I posted a few weeks ago revealing details of my intended new adventure, moving to the USA. Well it is update time. After the last update my Equivalency for my job had come through. This meant that my life & work experience gave me the equivalent of a Bachelors Degree and this would fulfil the conditions of an E3 Visa to the USA. Well the good news is all the paperwork for the Visa is now complete. There is but one step to go before I will have a visa, hot off the press, in my passport.

As with any actual visa for the USA (Visa Waiver doesn’t count) you need to go to a US Consulate to have the visa physcially issued and go through an Interview process. Well with all my paperwork in hand I was able to pay the Visa Fee ($390!!!!) and organise my appointment for my interview. Thinking that I may have to wait several weeks, I was totally shocked when the first available appointment was THIS WEEK!!! So I snatched it up without having to go through all the painful paperwork and then have to sit and wait, tapping my feet. Hurry up and wait is something, although I am used to, I hate with a passion. This was perfect!!!

So now with plans to fly down Tuesday afternoon, pick up all my documents from another hotel in Sydney (rooms at the Sofitel were just WAY to much) and then make my way to where I am staying (Mercure Sydney). Then first thing Wednesday morning, I will be toting my big folder full of documents to the US Consulate in Martin Place, no doubt going through a mass amount of security and then hopefully not to late after, I will be approved to head to the USA. Then I can spend the afternoon relaxing, possibly catch up with my sister and nephew and fly home!

Then the real journey will begin. As yet I know that an actual date for leaving has not been set as it was dependant on how long I would have to wait for the interview, but I know it will be sooner rather than later!

Let us hope and pray it all goes well. And just to show you just how much paperwork I am required to take with me, heres a shot of the back up paperwork. All the originals are currently flying their way over from Seattle via a personal courier (someone from the company I am going to work for was already heading over so two birds, one stone).

C360_2012-03-18-11-53-53

I was going to make a post about my Easter Travel plans this morning, but that will be put to the way side for a few more days. I got home from the Gym this morning to some truly epic news that just made my day (although I am sure once I get to work that excitement will die. But either way I am over the moon right now. This process I have hidden from most people for a while now, keeping it kind of quiet. But now that the first lot of hurdles are over, and the process is moving forward, its time to reveal all.

Back in September on my way home from my round the world trip, I ran into the owner of the company I work for. We got to chatting about my travelling and my time off and I had said how much I loved the USA and was a touch dissapointed I never got my Green Card through the lottery. At that point I had just gotten the thoughts of working in the USA out of my head and also the temptations of working in Canada and had decided I would be staying in Aus, settling down, getting some surgery done (thats a whole other story). To which he countered with “If you want a job in the US, all you have to do is ask and I can set it up”.

Now he has done an epic amount of things for me in the past, you all know how much he has helped me, how much I admire this man. But that was like a dream come true/tease all in one. I had to put some serious thought into that. We decided to discuss it a few weeks later when I would see him again on a work trip, and to be honest, It was all I could think about for weeks. But I made up my mind… It was full steam ahead… lets go!

Little did I know, that decision would change things and that little meeting would make things different. I was given an offer to help out with the office I would be working for in Seattle for a week late last october (a lot of people would of seen me blogging/tweeting from over there but wondering what was going on) and I got to meet my new employers, the staff and it felt right. I love Seattle. The weather although not like Qld is still awesome, the food is amazing and to be honest, It is Aviation Porn Central with 2 Boeing Factories (Renton & Everett). What more could I want.

Will since then they have been helping me out, we have been back and forth trying to work on my options for my Work Visa. It has been a very convuluted process. I have been through dozens of rewrites of resumes, references, employment histories and just general mind numbing stuff. I had held most of this back as it all weighed on one bit of data. I had to have the equivalent of a US Degree. As I never went to Uni, this would make things so much easier for me.

Well this morning that Equivalency was approved. Third times a charm! I couldn’t believe it! So now, it’s all real. I will be leaving Aus. Who knows how long for, who knows when (next few months I would say) and ticking some more stuff off my bucket list I am sure. But to say I am excited… well.. Thats an understatement.

So on the right I have added a new category… I’ve called it “Expat” cause thats essentially what I will be. An Aussie Expat… living in the USA!

I can never make up my mind. This year it seems that I should be able to get easter off. I am rostered to work the full weekend before easter which would put me off for easter weekend.

But what to do! I don’t want to spend a 4 day break sitting at home. Part of me wants to have a quick hop up to Tokyo to get in some more #avgeek times (787, 747D flight) and also see the Cherry Blossoms in bloom in Tokyo.

Or I can stay local, finish off my Gold Qualification with DJ in 2 days, spend a solid day spotting in Sydney giving my lenses a good work out and maybe even a luxurios night at the Park Hyatt Melbourne.

The 2nd option will most definately be cheaper, less time flying, but probably not as adventurous and doesn’t require me to take any leave. Option #1 means at least 1 day annual leave required. 10 hours each way in Economy to Tokyo (from Sydney mind you so means positioning to Sydney in each direction). Along with that it would be the most expensive. But probably the most adventurous and fun as I would get to go back to a country I love and have a few days of craziness.

I don’t know how I get myself in these issues! But I always seemingly do. Now to try and decide before the Sales all end…

Wish someone could make up my mind for me!

Saturday 11th February 2012

A typical morning for me when I am travelling. An early rise, out of the house to pound the pavement to get the blood pumping before a day of sitting down. The best way to start a day really. By the time I was heading to the airport the sun was fully up and shining. I parked the car at the office car park, after repeating my registration almost 6 times to the staff (sorry what did you say?) I jumped in the shuttle heading towards the terminal. I was lightly loaded today with just my small backpack full of essentials. Dropped off at the Virgin Terminal I was inside and through security in minutes, no need for priority security for me today, as there was no one there. Took my time redressing to ensure no explosive swab and timed my walk away from security perfectly.

The lounge beckoned for me at this hour, and I made my way past my gate to the lounge. Today was going to be almost a tour of lounges. I was greeted upon entering and asked if I wished to check in and the lovely staff were shocked when I told them where I was flying. All three boarding passes were spat out of the printer and after a few minutes I was free to enter.

First priority in the lounge at this hour is always one thing, order my coffee. The Virgin Australia lounges in the main cities all have baristaa on staff to give you your morning caffeine hit. With coffee order placed I grabbed myself some breakfast (shocked by the fact no fresh fruit this morning) and found a quiet spot to begin the day.

After a couple of coffees, some toast and a good relax I wandered out of the lounge heading towards the gate for my first flight of the day.

Virgin Australia
DJ924
Brisbane to Sydney
0800-1035
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUU)
Economy Class – Seat 3A

Boarding: 0740 (Gate 39)
Push Back: 0757
Take Off Roll: 0808 (Runway 19)
Top of Descent: 0949
Touch Down: 1011 (Runway 16L)
Shut Down: 1028 (Gate 32)

As I approached the gate, snapped a few photos of my ride, boarding was called for special assistance and seconds later for priority boarding. A quick scan of the boarding pass and info the aerobridge I went.

The aircraft had the new fit out (I believe a the 800s do by now) so row 3 is the ultimate perk for the elites with DJ. The seats are in the row behind the new Business class “bulkhead” which means oodles of leg room and as the flight filled it seemed that I was going to have the seat next to me free. Win! My seat mate kept to himself so this was looking like a nice little morning flight south. We pushed back a few minutes early and the flight looked fairly full, I wasn’t going to complain really. We taxiied out to Runway 19, past an empty Loop Road (guess there was nothing good coming in that morning) before holding just short of the runway. As the morning Qantas flight from Singapore landed in front of us, we held till it was clear and then the Captain wasted no time in giving it the beans this morning. We were quickly heading towards Sydney as we turned left after rotation and climbed out over the clearish morning, through the cloud bank and South towards Sydney.

Service was the typical Virgin Domestic service now, Tea, Coffee, Water (although no announcement again) and coffee #3 helped me wake up (I swear next time I am going to tweet a coffee count for those who follow me) and my book kept my brain far enough alive to avoid passing out. I wish all domestic flights were like this, nice and easy and by the time we hit descent I was feeling marginally human. Tracking south for arrival into Sydney past the city, a few snaps of the harbour and seeing 3 cruise ships in town (wondering which one my friend was about to jump onboard for the next week or so for work) and noticed that we were tracking quite a bit more to the left than usual.

My brain started processing… O crap! 16L is the arrival runway today. That means a solid 10-15 minutes of taxiing. O well, at least I should get some good photos, and that I did. SQ 388, 2 x BA Heavies (772 & 744) and a TG 744 all sitting in the Stand off bays and o, what is that I spy! One of the holy grail of photo ops and I don’t have my SLR with me. Damn it! The Thai Airways retro jet taxiing out of sydney. Unfortunately I just could not get a half decent close enough shot but I hope the ones I do have are not to bad. By the time we finally got to the terminal I had missed the departure of the Retro jet, so headed off to the Terminal for a bit of a stroll.

Visited a few shops and had a good laugh when I heard some store staff complain about “How can another set of headphones get stolen?” I laughed to myself over this one for a while, before getting told $10 minimum for card purchases and giving up my shopping to hit the Sydney lounge. With only about 45 mins to an hour in the Sydney Lounge there wasn’t much time other than Coffee #4 (I think they use a different bean to Brisbane as this was not as good as my first two) and some fresh fruit (thank god Sydney had some as Brisbane didn’t). A little bit of a read and some people watching in the lounge and I was headed for the terminal again (not before some of their addictive nut mix that only the Sydney lounge seems to have) for a wander to stretch my legs.

After a stroll through the terminal, some more photos of the comings and goings of flights at T2 and soon enough boarding should of began… but it didn’t. I wasn’t to phased as I was waiting for a shot of Air Austral taking off (saw it go past thinking it was taxiing for departure, it wasn’t) so was more focused on what was going on outside.

Virgin Australia
DJ1473
Sydney to Mackay
1150-1320
Boeing 737-800 (VH-YFF)
Business Class – Seat 1A

Boarding: 1145 (Gate 33)
Push Back: 1200
Take Off Roll: 1215 (Runway 16R)
Top of Descent: 1305
Touch Down: 1328 (Runway 14)
Shut Down: 1332 (Gate 3)

Boarding was eventually called (about 15 minutes late) but again, wasn’t to phased. I was 2nd through and into the Airbridge, hoping and praying I was not going to get one of the “Rogues” today. My brain obviously was not thinking all that straight as it took a few minutes for me to notice what was going on when I stepped onboard. Greated at the door by the lovely “Tara” who pointed me towards my seat and left me to settle in while I got my stuff together. I got all my stuff together, and even after putting stuff away in the Overhead bin, I was thinking more of the seat than the aircraft. Then I noticed it. The Overhead bin was different. Wait a second, took a 2nd look. BSI!!!

What a score! I managed to get myself on a Boeing Sky Interior fitted aircraft. It looked good, stunning actually. Much better than the old interiors and if this is what is going to be fitted fleet wide from now on, this was going to be a good change. Then it was back to focusing on the lovely black seat I was enjoying. As I was greeted again by Tara, offered my choice of PDB (Water or Orange Juice) and even offered a copy of “The Weekend Australian” (politely declined in favour of my new book). The door was closed, and I looked around. I had the holy grail of Premium Cabins. 1/8! If only this was a long haul trip for like the next 6 hours in something like Cathay First. But I wasn’t going to complain.

The announcements were made all giving special mention to “Our Guests in Business” (ie Me) and each time I kinda felt embarrased for some reason (not sure why). We had a nice short quick taxi after push back as it seemed the active take off runway was the nice long 16R and we lined up behind a few Heavies. Got a few good shots of the Delta 77L heading towards LAX and after watching a QF 767 take off ahead of us, it was our turn. As we climbed out we turned right and took the long way around the southern Suburbs, blue mountains and then finally started our journey north.

Shortly after the seat belt sign finally came off, I was offered a “Morning Snack” Say what now? Its like 1230 Sydney time by now, we are going to Arrive into Mackay around 1pm and it is just a snack. Poor Form! I was a little bit dissapointed being that I was in Prime Lunch service time and especially with all the advertising of the Luke Mangan food service. I was a tad dissapointed. O well. In saying that though, the food wasn’t bad. The snack was a Warm Egg & Bacon pie (not much bacon present) served with some Fruit salad (I won’t say no to some fruit) and a pat of butter (not sure why? no bread was evident or even offered). A couple of diet cokes on the side and I was fairly content. I was even happier when offered some coffee. Tara sure knew the way to my heart! Cup #5 was soon on the arm rest as we cruised north and my book pages were turning.

Cup #6 was delivered right as you would expect, just as we hit turbulence, with the coffee rolling around as much on the seat as in my hand I was trying to get it to a level I could just let it sit safely between bounces. But we cleared through and a treat came just as we got through (thankfully I still had a good half a cup left). Tara had offered me something else to keep me going and she offered “Cheese, Crackers, Cookie?” I took the offer of the cookie and then the best thing she ever said “how about I get it warmed up, you won’t regret it” She was right…. I didn’t. Dear god, if anyone else flies Virgin and buys the Cranberry, White Chocolate cookie, try and get it warmed up. In my opinion it is GLORIOUSLY addictive. Warm and delicious, Soft yet Crunchy. I am drooling just thinking about it again. This put me in the happiness spot and although it couldn’t make up for a full lunch, I was content.

The rest of the flight went past with more reading, some water which was constantly kept topped up without even needing a prompt and some photos out the window. As we started to descend I started to wish the flight wasn’t over. To be honest it was probably one of the best crewed flights I have had with DJ. Being in the A seat I missed most of the coast on our approach but I did get a good view of the city as we circled around to approach from the North and soon enough we were landing in Mackay with a little red E190 sitting at the gate and a Smash 8 spinning up near by.

As we pulled into the Apron the Smash 8 moved out past us and the crowd for the Brisbane flight emerged from the Terminal to board the E190. The door finally opened and the crew held everyone else back so that I could hop off first with a “Your welcome to disembark now Mr Muir”. I thanked Tara for the wonderful service on the flight and quickly got down the steps before someone from Economy started a riot for me taking to long.

I was chastised for taking a photo (what would be a common occurrence to come) and soon walked into a very, very empty terminal. I looked around, everyone who was there, was waiting to go to Sydney on the flight I had just come in on, and they were inviting them to board meer seconds after we had cleared the doors. The Terminal in Mackay was not big, a Bar, A Café, A newspaper stand and some security. I didn’t feel like exploring the rest of the terminal if I could afford to and started to look around for the new Virgin lounge.

Not knowing where to look and starting to think it was before security, I finally saw a purple wall and a glass door. This is it! I walked into a totally empty lounge. No Staff in sight. O dear! But within seconds a staff member was greeting me, asking me where I was off to. When I said “Brisbane” her first thought was OMG! She seemed to think I was heading to Brisbane on the E190 that was just starting to taxi towards the runway behind us. I calmed her after telling her I would be sticking around for the next 3 or 4 hours.

This got great smiles, a quick welcome, an offer to show around or explain the lounge if needed and lots of smiles. With only 1 other guest in the lounge I had an endless supply of places to sit, and helped myself to a couch, the start of a flow of diet cokes and a giant bowl of nuts (my treat for the week). The lounge attendant (I can’t call her a dragon she was just to awesome) asked if I minded if she did a bit of vacumming and considering she knew the other person by first name fairly well and I was always addressed as “Mr Muir” I was pretty sure no one else was gonna be in the lounge for quite some time so let her do what she needed (who am I to think a few minutes of vacuuming is going to destroy my afternoon of peace and relaxation).

I settled in with my book for a while and this was one of the reasons I had chosen to do this status run. Flying relaxes me, sitting in an airport somewhere, people around, planes taking off just relaxes me. Add in a lounge somewhere and I could sit there all day really. Drinking my way through their supply of diet coke, watching the movements outside (at Mackay… their wasn’t much trust me) and just thinking to myself “I love travelling for this pure reason”.

After some time on Flyertalk, writing up my book review from my last finished book (ready for publishing a day or two in advance thanks to delayed posting) and an impromptu visit from a Brisbane Football God (Darren Lockyer got lost and thought the Virgin Lounge was the Qantas Club, but to be honest, his flight was leaving minutes after a little chat with the lounge attendant while I was to shy to get up and get a photo) the time flew by.

The Mackay lounge is good, it may be small but it’s only a small airport and the staff were great. The only downside is that the bathrooms are outside of the lounge (although after chatting to the rep this morning, that issue should be fixed in coming months once a plumbing issue is sorted) but that’s not all that big of a deal. The lounge filled up (and by that 4 other people came in) just before our flight to Brisbane and I went for a stroll to stretch my legs and get a photo of our aircraft coming into the Apron.

Virgin Australia
DJ616
Mackay to Brisbane
1720-1840
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUT)
Economy Class – Seat 3A

Boarding: 1700 (Gate 3)
Power Out: 1718
Take Off Roll: 1723 (Runway 14)
Top of Descent: 1803
Touch Down: 1831 (Runway 01)
Shut Down: 1835 (Gate 41)

Boarding was called and since I was close by I was first up to the barrier, with a snide comment from one of the CUB’s (cashed up bogans) close by of “Well someone’s special”. Headed out, got told off for another photo (didn’t care) and walked up the steps onto my 3rd 737 for the day. New fit out (yay!) and quickly settled into what is becoming to feel like my usual seat (well hopefully If I can manage to requalify). My seat mate would soon join me and after a little chat about the flight and speculation if we would have a middle seat buddy tonight (my theory was no, as if my luck held out, the staff from Brisbane had blocked the seat if I was lucky). He was heading to Singapore and then onto Beijing and we had a quick chat about the seats and stuff in their business after he was surprised that Virgin even had a Business Class (hell half the people I work with don’t even know it yet!). Our hopes and prayers were answered when the doors shut and the middle seat was empty!

We quickly headed to the runway and I was jealous of the two people up in Business. Wishing I could be up there in those seats, but I sucked it up and took my leg room and settled in while we taxiied away from the bay.

We soon were in the sky, flying south after an effortless take off and the sun slowly setting off to the right. Service was what you would expect on this short hop south (about the same length as my flight to Sydney). Coffee #7 was needed to try and keep me awake as I was slowly starting to crash and still needed to be awake a little while longer.

The book pages went by without effort and soon enough we were descending over the Northern Suburbs of Brisbane. I didn’t even realise we were over the suburbs till I looked down and spotted Bribie Island off in the distance and then saw the most glorious red sky as we passed Depression Deception Bay. As we cruised down towards what would be an arrival into the opposite direction from this morning’s take off, I was spotting all the landmarks and being blown away by how they looked from the air.

The sun was dropping fast as we came into Land on 01 and I noticed something weird sitting in the Alliance hangar. I thought I saw a 737, but thought it was nothing and put it out of my mind (this would later be confirmed thanks to a post from some spotters later on the next day). We pulled into the gate mere moments from turning off the runway and after quickly deplaning as the gate staff seemed to be ready and waiting for us, I was into the terminal, and as I stepped onto the Kerb a parking shuttle was right there. 30 minutes later, I was walking in my door at home. Tired yet looking forward to more fun the next day.

Sunday 12th February 2012

My alarm sounded at the same time as yesterday yet I was thinking to myself “its way to early, go away”, yet yesterday it was “time for a run before starting the day”. No time for that this morning though as I was needing to be at the airport earlier, so morning preparations were done quickly and calmly.

De Ja Vu set in as I dropped the car off and headed to the shuttle for the ride into the Airport. Only 3 of us onboard this morning so no needing to feel like a Sardine against the guy next to me like yesterday and we were dropped off Kerbsite at the Virgin Terminal. Headed to security which was a little busier this morning so out came the gold card for Priority Security and was through in seconds, yet delayed myself again to ensure no explosives (yay dodged again!).

Up to the lounge with a quick detour to the gate to get some photos of the ATR’s sitting there warming in the morning sun. 2 of them were sitting there and I was starting to think to myself which one was taking us north today.

As I headed into the lounge my mind was on one thing… Cup #8. The sooner I was checked in the better! I was greeted by the same person who saw me yesterday and after a double take after “Good morning” she said “More flying today?” Check in was a little bit slow as my pre set seat had been overridden by the Gold member default of the very last row, then having to explain why I wanted a seat further forward in front of the wing instead of behind the wing (I didn’t really want to say, that photos of propellors from the front look prettier and gave her some BS about it being less noisy).

After they got permission to open up Row 1 for me since my original seats had since been taken, I was happy enough to be boarding pass in hand for my 1 sector with Virgin this morning. Cup #8 beckoned and I dropped my gear in the same area as the day before and made a beeline for the Barista. “Long Black” was uttered and I perused the mornings offerings while it was made. Fresh fruit was evident and the Museli looked unappealing so Toast, Vegemite, Fruit & cup #9 it was this morning.

Cup #8 went down a treat and I looked at my watch, still time for a 2nd cup in the lounge before my flight as the gate was literally just outside. I headed back to the Barista but they were no where to be found. So I waited, and waited and waited. No one ? One of the service agents who fix all the lovely problems you may have, came over and asked my order and even apoligised that I had to wait and said she would get my coffee for me. Awesome++!

Cup #9 eventuated, Toast finished, no reading managed and hell, even managed to find a new part of the lounge I didn’t know existed. Good quick prep for the morning and I walked out to the gate mere moments before boarding was called for Special Assistance guests. The Boarding calls came thick and fast after that with Priority Boarding barely invited before the rest of the Aircraft was called so I managed to get ahead of the scrum.

Virgin Australia (Operated by Skywest)
DJ1233
Brisbane to Rockhampton
0700-0835
GIE Avions de Transport Regional – ATR-72-500 (VH-FVM)
Economy Class – Seat 1A (Exit Row)

Boarding: 0635 (Gate 50)
Power Out: 0655
Take Off Roll: 0703 (Runway 19)
Top of Descent: 0803
Touch Down: 0818 (Runway 33)
Shut Down: 0822 (Gate 1)

Outside and down the steps, a pre emptive advise by the ground staff to “Not take any photos” after she saw me take one at the top of the steps and I went towards the aircraft thinking that all the ground staff are just being mean! Stepped onboard and ducked to make sure that I didn’t hit my head as I hopped onto this lovely new ATR. Compared to the last ATR I was on this one felt like it was fresh from the Factory (turns out it was Manufactured in November 2011).

I settled into my seat knowing that no one else was able to sit next to me as I know they block 1B & 1C as it is the Exit Row and for some reason 2 people is better than 4? First impressions on the inside is that it is very Spartan but being a regional aircraft, I wouldn’t complain. Legroom looked good, seats were comfy (although no headrest was a bit weird to get used to at first) but no recline (not usually a big issue on short regional sectors I guess).

My window was covered in the mornings condensation so photos this early were going to be a bit of a problem, but to be honest the shots I really wanted I probably wouldn’t be able to get on my little camera anyway. We powered up fairly early and left the bay earlier than expected and boy can that little ATR taxi quickly.

We took the long run up to 19 but didn’t need to go the whole way and turned off earlier than the jets would of. Today’s pilot didn’t hold back and gave It a good amount of gas as we lept down the runway. We turned north and slowly climbed our way to cruise altitude. I say slowly cause it felt that way in comparison to all the climb outs I had been on so far to that point. To be honest, it was slower but I didn’t care.

We were given the lovely in service spiel by the Skywest crew as they explained that service today would be different to all other flights and that this mornings “light breakfast” would be complimentary and served with “Tea, Coffee, Juice or Water.” Being that Skywest operates the ATR’s for Virgin I am not sure why they don’t offer Buy on Board but I have a feeling it’s space restrictions or something but either way it’s nice of them.

I wasn’t hungry anyway so by the time they came to my seat, I took what was offered (Banana bread) and grabbed my usual. Cup #10 was on my tray while as soon as the rest was snapped in a photo went promptly into my bag for later if I felt hungry in the terminal (I didn’t). As we cruised north I was to engrossed in my book by this point to even look out the window and the noise wasn’t all that bad with my headphones on.

We descended into Rockhampton fairly quickly and it was the sort of descent you only get in a little turboprop. It feels like your gliding to the ground rather than the clunky descent you get with a 737 or similar.

We came into Rockhampton over some dams and the photo opportunities were great and we touched down with what I was expecting to be a thump but was a gentle kiss on the deck by the crew. Then the noise started. Props to reverse, engines up. God DAMN! The noise was there all right, that unmistakeable racket of a Turboprop trying to slow down. Guess it was good while it lasted.

We slowly this time made our way to the Apron which was totally devoid of life apart from us, and we had to wait onboard with seatbelt sign on till it was “Safe” for us to disembark. This felt like an eternity, was probably about 4-5 minutes. Being right at the front and only a rear door gave me plenty of time to get my stuff together and since I was not in a rush, didn’t mind.

Disembarked through the rear door, thanked the crew for a great experience and got told off again for a photo (not giving a rats by this stage) but this time told not to use “electrical equipment on the tarmac” so waited till I was off the tarmac till I tried to take another. Walked into the terminal and found the place slightly full but looked like most people were going to clear security at the last minute before the flight headed back to Brisbane.

I walked towards the check in area as I was heading home with Qantas but the place was devoid of life. So I wandered aimlessly taking photos, watching the ATR depart before I could snap a picture and started to write this Trip Report (which in the end would not save so lost it all!). After a little while Check In opened so strolled over, got my boarding pass and after working out I got a window seat, took 2 steps and thought, its Qantas… ask…. “Are their any open Exit Rows?”

I always forget with Qantas as I have no status I won’t get the good seats unless I ask. So I asked. And I scored! 12G was promptly handed to me (little did I know I scored big time). Still had plenty of time to go, so went back to the Trip Report. Time seemed to go by of its own accord because next thing I hear is a Dash 8 turboprop winding down and a call for people heading to Brisbane via Gladstone to clear security.

At this I knew the F100 would not be far behind so I walked to the outside viewing area (love these little airports that have them since most of the big city terminals don’t) and managed to get a shot of the lovely Fokker landing. Cleared security after this and settled into the first spot of reading I had done since I landed in Rockhampton.

Qantaslink (Operated by Alliance Airlines)
QF2352
Rockhampton to Brisbane
1045-1150
Fokker – F100 (VH-XWQ)
Economy Class – Seat 12G (Exit Row)

Boarding: 1027 (Gate 2)
Power Out: 1044
Take Off Roll: 1049 (Runway 15)
Top of Descent: 1120
Touch Down: 1138 (Runway 01)
Shut Down: 1141 (Gate 27)

After watching the staff go backwards and forwards to the plane a few times (Qantas seems to have slower turnarounds compared to Virgin & Jetstar) they finally made the boarding call. A queue formed quickly and I was scanned through.

Took a photo while not even on the Tarmac and was promptly told that “taking photos is NOT allowed for safety reasons” (where do they come up with this crap!) and I walked out onto the tarmac snapping away now just in spite! As I stepped onboard I was a bit shocked with the difference of how this aircraft was going to be operated in comparison to the Skywest ATR. Considering this is a similar agreement, No Qantas uniforms, no real Qantas branding at all. It was all Alliance, all the way! (not everything was all Alliance it would later show).

I was greeted onboard and as I headed down the aircraft I was greeted by the old school interior. No shiny new slimline seats on this board. Just decent leg room and old leather seats that looked akin to what Southwest has. As I approached my Exit Row I saw how much I had scored on this flight. There is exit row seating then there is Exit Row #12 onboard this Fokker. There was more legroom than my business class flight yesterday!!! I could stretch my legs out and they still didn’t come near the seat infront!

I was joined at the row by a stunning blonde (giant leg room & eye candy, dear god be stil my beating heart) and I tried not to look like to big of a geek. I snapped away as this was probably one of the only chances I will get to fly this lovely bird and I was in heaven really. I had a good chuckle at the boys (by this I mean two mine workers in their early 20s) in the exit row on the other side as they kept getting in trouble for just about everything (moving seats, eye shades on before take off, headphones on before take off). They obviously just wanted some sleep after a big night on the town the night before it seemed.

Soon enough the Rolls Royces were spinning up and the noise wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be (heh soon to be proved wrong). We powered out away from the terminal towards the runway and after a full length taxi, a slow turn to the left and as we barely straightened up, those Roll’s were at full power throwing us down the runway. We climbed out quickly and abruptly and I was glued to the window for what was my first flight with no engines on the wings (I have never been on a rear engine mounted aircraft before). Service introductions were given as “Light Breakfast” followed by a Tea or Coffee run and then a Cold Drink Service. Wow, lots of service on this flight today! It seems that Qantaslink give their guests more than what mainline Qantas does.

We climbed out and I had my snack served to me well before the Seatbelt sign was off. Today’s “snack” was a lovely little box full of goodies. 2 Cookies (Chocolate Chip & Roasted Almond), Some Cheese & Crackers and a slice of some kind which sounded better than it tasted, Bolognese Slice. This was a pretty damn good offering along with a full drink service, if Qantas was as cheap as DJ on this sector I would pick it any day.

I had half demolished the snack (the slice would have been better warm rather than cold) before I was offered a drink and this is when the FA asked if I was a boeing employee (was totally going Avgeek today) as she saw me taking photos and suspected I was working for them (I wish). By the time I had finished Cup #11 and some water and 2 yummy cookies, we were starting our descent into Brisbane.

As I looked out we had descended much later than yesterday as we were practically over my house by the time I really noticed and the seat belt sign was on. Snapping away with great views of the city as we turned for 01 again and landed with a gloriously big thump. This is where the noise seemed to just be worse than ever. Those Rolls Royce engines on the F100 lull you into a false sense of security. In reverse thrust they take your ears and just violate them… repeatedly.

As we turned off the runway we started to taxi past the Qantas terminal (confusing) and headed to the Common user terminal (good for photos as this was the first time I had been there). We pulled up to the gate and after a while I was able to hope off after most of the plane went first, my blonde seat mate ahead of me 😉

Decided against copping another chastising for photos and waited till in the stairs and then popped out into the recently refurbished Common user terminal. I ran into a fellow spotter and best mates dad and in no hurry, chatted a way for a while and ended up walking out of the terminal since Alliance’s new 737 had eluded him all morning.

For the first time I had to wait for the parking shuttle for a good 15 minutes and within an hour I was home and on my bike to wipe off the calories consumed from this mornings flights (it was that slice I swear).

Status Run Weekend

Well the day is here… I am off on my first ever Virgin Status Run. I will be flying up and down the East Coast this weekend with 5 segments (only 4 with Virgin, 1 with Qantas). It should be a good weekend.

I have time in the Brisbane, Sydney and the new Mackay Virgin Lounges so this will be a good way to experience it all and some new services as well with the Skywest ATR, an Alliance F100 (soon to fly for Virgin) as well as a seat at the pointy end!

Keep an eye on Twitter today and if your in the air, feel free to hit me up, I can guest you into the lounge!