Worldwide Trip Reports and Reviews

TRIP REPORT - Emerald to Brisbane to Emerald - Virgin Australia Airlines (Skywest Airlines) - ATR 72-500 - First Day of Operations

2012-01-29T06:26:00.001+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Emerald to Brisbane – Monday 16 January – Virgin Australia Airlines (Skywest Airlines) – DJ1256 – ATR 72-500 – VH-FVH.

Well the day had arrived and Virgin Australia was finally flying scheduled services to and from Emerald in the central highlands region of Queensland. The addition of Virgin Australia provides much needed competition to QantasLink who have had a monopoly on these services for over 10 years.

I arrived at Emerald Airport bright and early, and found that Virgin had taken three of the six check-in counters at Emerald Airport. The check-in area was quite busy as the morning QantasLink flight to Brisbane was also open for passengers. I approached the counter and was greeted by a very friendly and enthusiastic staff member. In fact all the local staff, as well as numerous men in suits, were full of enthusiasm for the start of Virgin flights to and from Emerald.

I gave the check-in lady a good 'work out' too, ensuring my Velocity frequent flyer number was in the system, and then requesting a seat change from an aisle to a window. With a bit of help from some senior staff, who I would suggest were visiting, the seat change was done, and my bag was checked-in to Brisbane, and my boarding pass was received.

I spoke to a couple of the visiting Virgin hierarchy who informed me that I was actually the first ever customer to check in at Emerald Airport! I took a couple of photos around the terminal and then proceeded outside to grab a few photos of the ATR 72-500 arriving from Brisbane. In the meantime, the morning QantasLink Dash 8-Q400 VH-QOK arrived from Brisbane, and surprisingly was made to park on Gate 2.

Soon after, the ATR landed on Runway 24 at Emerald Airport, marking the start of competition into Emerald.

The ATR parked on Gate 1 and the passengers and crew disembarked through the back door of the aircraft. The ATR is a unique aircraft in that aspect, as passengers and crew enter and leave the plane through the back door, while bags and other cargo is loaded in the front of the plane.

With some media and other official welcoming to Emerald done, the first Virgin flight out of Emerald was ready to board. With the QantasLink flight boarded, there weren’t actually too many people left in the terminal to board the ATR. Boarding was done pretty quickly.

Inside the ATR - up a set of narrow rear stairs - older passengers I feel would struggle up and down these - and inside to a fairly small cabin in a 2x2 layout. There are 68 seats in these ATR 72-500 aircraft, and on this flight, we were about one-third full with mostly mine workers who had come off a night shift.

The seat I had - row 15 of 17 - was towards the back of the plane. Legroom and room in general was surprisingly good - certainly comparable to the room inside the Dash 8-Q400 cabin - although I do feel that the cabin in general is smaller. Enough room in the overhead compartments, although my large camera bag was a bit of a tight fit.

The air-conditioning unit was disconnected from the aircraft, and the ground power unit turned up and the long engine start process began. Eventually, the engines started about five minutes early and a little while after, the ground power unit was taken away. Right on eight o'clock “Virgin 256 Alpha” taxied away from the Emerald Terminal, and soon after, we were in the air off Runway 06 bound for Brisbane.

After a couple right turns we were heading towards Brisbane with some lovely views over the central highlands and coalfields and in particular, Blackwater.

The seatbelt sign was turned off about 20 minutes into the flight and soon after a complimentary snack and drink was served. This was a nice surprise, but to be expected as these flights are operated a Skywest Airlines – a full service airline from West Australia – even though for all intents and purposes, it is a Virgin Australia flight.

The Skywest Airlines flight attendants served a nice breakfast snack of a muffin plus a drink service and coffee and tea. A lovely morning snack!

Rubbish was cleaned away shortly after and we settled back for the one and a half hour flight to Brisbane - this is a little slower that the QantasLink Dash 8-Q400 flight time to Brisbane of just over one hour. Not much else happened on the flight until we started our descent into a very wet and windy Brisbane with the captain advising that we were to land on Runway 14.

The descent was horrible! There was consistent moderate and to at times severe turbulence - some patches were particularly bumpy - dropping the aircraft and throwing it from side to side. Eventually, things settled down a little bit and we were able to see the ground again. We were then advised by the captain that due to a heavy rain shower passing the airport, we were to make an ILS approach and landing on Runway 01 at Brisbane.

Long final approach past Brisbane city and over the Brisbane River and eventually a smooth touch down. Soon after we were off the runway and parking on gate 49 right next to another ATR which was preparing for departure. Down the small and awkward rear stairs and onto the tarmac and into the downstairs landside section of the domestic terminal. Thank goodness Virgin had umbrellas to use too!!

We were in the landside section as Emerald Airport is yet to have a security screening point installed. Our wet bags came out about 5 minutes later.

Disappointingly, it was not a busy flight, but still the overall experience was fantastic, and I was certainly looking forward to returning to Emerald later in the day on the ATR 72-500 - although I was hoping that the weather would be a little bit smoother that this flight!

TRIP REPORT – Emerald to Brisbane – Monday 16 January – Virgin Australia Airlines (Skywest Airlines) – DJ1261 – ATR 72-500 – VH-FVL.

After a nice day with family – albeit a very wet and miserable day weatherwise – I arrived back at the airport a couple of hours before our scheduled 4pm departure.

I checked in using one of the downstairs self-serve kiosks in the Virgin terminal at Brisbane Airport, and was even able to change my seat to a window in row 4. My bag was checked-in quickly as well, as there was no-one in the bag-drop queue!

Straight upstairs through the security check-point and through the showers, I was able to do a little bit of plane spotting. Soon enough, I proceeded round to Gate 50 where ATR 72-500 VH-FVL was waiting to take us to Emerald.

This flight was going to be a little busier than the flight in the morning, with around 50 or so people waiting to join the flight. After a small computer problem, boarding started about 15 minutes before departure. Luckily with being a small plane, boarding was quick – and done in two sections of the cabin – and once we were all seated and the back door closed, the extended power up and engine start process commenced.

After about another 10 minutes, we taxied away from the terminal, past the Toll Freight apron, and out on to taxiway Bravo for departure off Runway 19. After waiting for a couple of departures and an arrival, we were airborne about 10 minutes after 4pm.

A couple of right turns – some lovely views of the Northern suburbs and back to Brisbane Airport – and we hit the clouds. Certainly a lot smoother than this morning’s flight, but there were still a couple of light bumps. The seatbelt sign stayed on for a good half hour, but then finally we were above the clouds, and with one final right hand turn past the weather, we were on the way to Emerald.

Cabin service on this flight consisted of a nice snack – a sandwich – as well as a beer/wine and soft drink/water service. Coffee and tea came out shortly after.

Rubbish was cleared away quickly, and we settled back for the flight – fortunately, someone I knew was beside me so a good chat to them passed the time away. Descent started and the seatbelt sign came on pretty much instantaneously.

After 10 or so minutes, and some more lovely views over the central highlands, I could see Emerald Airport off to the right hand side.

A couple of right turns onto downwind, then left turns for base, and then one final left turn onto finals for Runway 24. Smooth touchdown, and with some moderate braking, we were able to exit the runway and taxi straight onto Gate 1.

Quickly off the plane and a stroll across the tarmac and into the terminal to wait for our bags which came out after about 5 or so minutes.

I really enjoyed the Virgin Australia / Skywest Airlines flight experience in the ATR 72-500. The Skywest Airlines flight attendants were very friendly and professional, and offered a fantastic service, complimented by a couple of nice snacks and drinks. As mentioned above, about the only concern I had was the really narrow stairs that passengers have to use to get on and off the plane – they are narrow and steep and were a little challenging even for me – they probably would be quite difficult for older passengers.

In closing, I wish Virgin Australia every success on their Emerald services – a quick look at their website and current prices for forthcoming flights would suggest that most flights – currently 2 each weekday and one Sunday flight – have few seats left. Obviously the $69 base fare has been snapped up, and certainly is a lot cheaper than the best that QantasLink has offered recently. It is great to have competition in the central highlands – although it would appear at this early stage that the average traveller does still need to get in early to score an ultra cheap airfare!

HOTEL REVIEW - The Emerald Explorers Inn - Emerald

2012-01-28T21:16:00.000+10:00

The Emerald Explorers Inn is a four-star motel located on the Gregory Highway, on the Southern side of the Emerald township. The Hotel is located less than 5 minutes from both the Emerald Township and the Emerald Airport, and before the Mayfair Village Estate was built – including the Mayfair Hotel – reviewed HERE – the Explorers Inn was the closest motel to the Airport.

There are 45 rooms at the Explorers Inn – all on ground level – that are in a variety of configurations from Standard Rooms (that I stayed in), the way through to Executive and Family Rooms. Each room features two entrances, with undercover parking available for each room as well.

The rooms are well appointed with a sitting area and large screen television, reverse cycle air conditioner, free Austar – with sport/news/movies channels, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities, hairdryer, and iron/ironing board.
The room also featured a roomy bathroom, with exhaust fan and heater, and interestingly, the bathroom basin is in the main part of the room (bedroom).

Other features of the Explorers Inn include a lovely centrally located swimming pool area, barbeque facilities, and well-appointed conference facilities including a ‘boardroom’ where I myself have been to several work-related meetings.

The Explorers Inn also offers a pick-up and drop-off transfer service from and to Emerald Airport.

I have enjoyed every stay I’ve had at the Explorers Inn – and I have stayed several times previously – I have enjoyed the little bit of luxury that in my opinion, the room and motel offered. On this occasion, I also had meals at the Explorers Restaurant – and I was really impressed with the menu offerings and the standard of the food. The restaurant also offers buffet breakfast every morning as well.

The only downside with staying at the Explorers Inn was the cost – with Emerald now being a mining ‘hub’, rooms and meals are at a premium price – perhaps a little more expensive than other hotels in Emerald.

HOTEL REVIEW - Miners Lodge Motor Inn Mackay

2011-12-25T14:29:00.001+10:00

I have stayed at this motel previously and was quite impressed with the appearance of the place and its facilities, but I was especially impressed with the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff.

The Miners Lodge is an independently run motel located towards the Northern end of Nebo Road - the main location for Mackay’s motels. This motel is located on the corner of Lloyd Street and offers two drive way entrances from this street and Nebo Road. The Miners Lodge Motel is situated in close proximity to the Mackay city heart, Canelands Shopping Centre, Mackay Airport, and industrial hubs.

In fact, the motel is located right underneath the Mackay Airport flightpath, and aircraft on late finals on Runway 14 pass over the motel at low altitude making it a great motel for an aircraft enthusiast. Obviously, aircraft noise can be an issue, although most jet traffic at the airport is usually over by 9pm. The Motel also features an attractive pool area and barbeque facilities.

During my previous stay I shared with a colleague in a two bedroom suite. The suite was quite large and featured two rooms with a queen-sized bed in each, as well as a television. The televisions have the full range of commercial channels as well as a selection of free cable television channels. This room also featured a large bathroom and a kitchenette in the room that I slept in. There was also a connecting door to the next room, allowing these two rooms to be used by a family.

During my recent stay I was in a single bedroom suite towards the front of the motel that had one queen-sized bed. Again, the room was well appointed with television (again with free cable TV channels), air conditioning, table and chairs, fridge, and tea and coffee making facilities. The Motel also has free WI-FI throughout the complex, as well as full undercover parking spaces.

The room had the bathroom basin on the outside of the bathroom tucked in the back of the main room. The bathroom was small and was basically a toilet and shower.

The bathroom gave away signs of the motel’s age. While the sleeping area looked reasonably nice and modern, the bathroom featured tired looking decor.

There is a nice restaurant on site – Ripples Bistro and Bar – and during both stays, the quality of the food and of the service was outstanding.

Moreover, the friendliness and helpfulness of all of the staff at The Miners Lodge Motel have made it a place that I can highly recommend to stay whenever you are in Mackay.

TRIP REPORT - Rockhampton to Townsville to Brisbane to Rockhampton - Virgin Australia Airlines - Premium Economy Class

2011-12-10T21:43:00.016+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Rockhampton to Townsville – Friday 14 October – Virgin Australia Airlines – DJ1901 – Embraer E-190 – VH-ZPE.

This was a last minute decision to fly from Rockhampton to Townsville for cricket. I had looked at QantasLink flights from Emerald and Moranbah (with connections through Brisbane) but settled on Rockhampton for departure as Virgin Australia actually offered direct flights, and reasonable connection times.

To my surprise there was plenty of reasonably priced economy class seats available on the direct flights that virgin operate daily on a Sydney-Rockhampton-Townsville and return rotation. The main problem for me was the timing of the Townsville to Rockhampton flight being late in the afternoon.

Eventually, I decided to look at redeeming some Velocity Frequent Flyer points as a flight to Rockhampton via Brisbane was a little more expensive. What a fantastic surprise I had! For around 8000 points I could get all flights - Rockhampton to Townsville return via Brisbane - in the economy cabin. For around 20000 points again I could get all flights Rockhampton to Townsville return via Brisbane all in Virgin Australia’s premium economy class! So having just enough points, I decided to fly premium economy!

I arrived at Rockhampton airport reasonably early and parked the car in the partly undercover user-pays carpark - after some spotting some of the Singapore Armed Forces helicopters that were in town!

I proceeded to the empty check-in desk in the departures area which is at the Northern end of the terminal. I was assigned seat 1A, and had my bag checked in without drama.

The Rockhampton Airport terminal underwent some refurbishments about 5 or so years ago. Unfortunately the superb viewing deck was removed and replaced with office space, but the remaining work made the terminal a lot more spacious and gave it a modern feel for the 21st century. From the check-in area, a short stroll to the food outlets and newsagent in the centre of the terminal building – at one stage there were two newsagents however the old original one was controversially forced to close a couple of years ago. Hire car desks are also nearby.

I grabbed a bite of lunch and took a seat at the Southern end of the terminal where there are two baggage collection carousels and also an area of the terminal building that can be sectioned off and becomes the international terminal for the large jet charters that arrive into Rockhampton throughout the year.

There is also a new viewing area outside of the central section of terminal building, near the aircraft parking apron. The views from this area are somewhat hampered by glass walkways and plants, and for the plane spotter and photographer, there are better locations just outside of the terminal that offer much better views of aircraft both parked and on the taxiways and runways.

After having something to eat and drink, I proceeded throughout the single security checkpoint - two lines can operate during busy times - and took a seat in the sectioned-off sitting area to wait for the flight. There are no shops in this area, and only one toilet – the idea is passengers proceed immediately before their flight is called. The photo below shows one of three available gates being used to board an Alliance Airlines Fokker F-100 that was operating for QantasLink.

Our flight to Townsville would be operated by one of Virgin Australia’s Embraer E-190 aircraft that was flying from Sydney. VH-ZPE arrived about 40 minutes late and parked on Gate 2 where Virgin Australia usually park at Rockhampton. The aircraft was turned about quickly and soon after we were boarding via the tarmac and past the new control tower being constructed.

Seat 1A is in the front row of the plane, behind a bulkhead, although the amount of legroom I had for my large frame was quite good. Moreover I had no one next to me in the Embraer’s 2X2 layout. There was a complimentary bottle of water waiting for me on the seat too!

The flight was barely half full so boarding was done quickly. We ended up taxiing away from the terminal about 35 minutes late via taxiway Juliette to take off from Runway 33. A couple of left turns after take off and we were heading North and a little more West of the usual track due to airspace restrictions over the Shoalwater Bay Military Training Area.

Flying virgin Australia's premium economy class allows passengers to eat and drink anything off the inflight menu. I chose a gourmet sandwich plus chips and a beer as well as the free water. This lunch meal was very nice!

Rockhampton to Townsville is a fairly short sector and after about 45 minutes we were well and truly on descent. A couple of right turns had us established on a long final over Townsville for Runway 01 at the airport.

Quick exit off the runway and then taxi past the BAe maintenance hangars and the General Aviation aprons, before we were parking at the terminal.

Off the plane and downstairs through the terminal to the baggage collection area where much to my surprise, my bag was already doing the rounds!

Hire car collected from outside in the humidity and off to the Mercure Hotel (review HERE) before a full weekend of cricket!

TRIP REPORT – Townsville to Brisbane – Monday 17 October – Virgin Australia Airlines – DJ362 – Boeing B737-700 – VH-VBZ.

So cricket was all done and I had an early flight out of Townville to Brisbane with a connection then to Rockhampton.

Easy return of the hire car and then off to the Virgin Australia check in desk on the lower section of the Townsville terminal building. I received my two boarding passes and had my bag checked through to Rockhampton. We would be in a Boeing B737-700 to Brisbane and then another E-190 to Rockhampton.

Having checked in, I had a nice breakfast from the kiosk downstairs, and eventually proceeded through security and into the large waiting area. There are some shops in this section as well as a nice cafe. There is also an upstairs waiting area near the four gates that have aerobridges - there are around six gates altogether at Townsville - and this upstairs area also doubles as a nice viewing deck that overlooks the runway and further to the military aprons at Townsville which is essentially an Air Force operated airport.

Through the wet weather and the mist on the windows, I found VH-VBZ parked on the gate. VH-VBZ is Virgin’s newest B737-700, but it is still coming up on 3 years of age.

With departure for us around 6am, Townsville was quite busy. At this time on weekdays, there are usually a few fly-in fly-out (FIFO) charters operated by either Alliance Airlines or Regional Express (REX) to nearby mine sites, as well as other RPT flights also preparing for departure.

Boarding commenced about 5.45am, and soon after I took my seat in row 2. I had a window seat and was surprised a little to find the legroom was about the same as when seated in the economy section of a Virgin Australia plane. The main difference in the premium economy section however, was the seat in between myself and the passenger next to me was blocked off with a stowable tray – so there was enough room for my large frame. The complimentary bottle of water was handed out shortly after we took our seats.

The flight was reasonably full with the premium economy section full of business people. We pushed back pretty much on time and headed past one of the military aprons to the holding point for Runway 01.

Take off towards the north with a series of right turns back over Townsville soon had us above the clouds and heading south towards Brisbane.

Again a full selection from the menu had me choosing a coffee and M&M chocolates. Again, a very nice snack.

Virgin Australia’s Live-to-Air was available on this plane – and is now seemingly free for all passengers on those flights where it is available! The views outside improved as well!

In all, a pretty uneventfully hour and a half flight that had us touching down at a wet Brisbane on Runway 19, pretty much on schedule. Parking next to one of Virgin’s new ATRs which was preparing for departure.

TRIP REPORT – Brisbane to Rockhampton – Monday 17 October – Virgin Australia Airlines – DJ1235 – Embraer E-190 – VH-ZPQ.

A little bit of plane spotting was able to be done, although soon after, I decided to head for the satellite part of the Virgin Australia terminal and to gate 47 where E-190 VH-ZPQ - which still wore it's AFL promotional stickers – was waiting to take us up to Rockhampton.

The Virgin terminal had undergone a little bit of a makeover since I was last here - looking a little more modern with new waiting seats and a little more use of the still fairy new Virgin Australia colour palate of red, white, and purple.

For this flight I was in seat 2A and the flight was pretty much full with a lot of business and mining workers on board. The gate happened to be a stand-off gate so boarding for everyone was via the Tarmac – and next to VH-YFC which was wearing Virgin’s new colours – nice!

Our pushback was slightly delayed by some connecting passengers who arrived a little late into Brisbane. Once they were on board, we pushed back and headed to Runway 19 at Brisbane. We taxied past the construction zone next to the Qantas terminal - new tarmac and parking aprons going in here apparently – and then past the Acacia Street view area and the General Aviation parking apron.

Take off pretty quickly, and at 7 miles from the Airport, we made the sweeping right-hand turn on the CORAL SID, and were heading North towards the Sunshine Coast.

With the inclement weather, there were plenty of clouds outside, and thus not much of a view of the ground. At one point, there was a nice contrail that came into view, although I did not see what made it!

After the complementary food and drink off the cart – coffee and chips and M&Ms this time – the rubbish was collected and we were descending into Rockhampton.

We flew a right base and landed on Runway 15, and soon after parked at Rockhampton next to a Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Lockheed C-130 Hercules.

Off quickly and into the terminal to wait for bags which appeared about 10 or so minutes later.

On the whole, I actually found travelling in the premium economy section of Virgin Australia a bit of a letdown. Being seated in row 2 meant I didn't have that much ‘additional’ leg room - I guess the extra space comes by having the centre seat of three blocked off. The only little ‘extra’ that is received by not travelling in economy is the free food and drink. I certainly couldn't justify paying around 2-4 times the economy ticket price for a flight where I can buy extra legroom and a meal off the food and drink trolley for a lot less money than what these all inclusive tickets cost.

HOTEL REVIEW - Accor Hotels - The Mercure Townsville

2011-12-10T21:16:00.002+10:00

The Mercure Townsville is a resort style hotel located on Woolcock Street, and is close to Townsville city and 2km from Townsville Airport. It is positioned beside a large lake, amidst 11 acres of lush tropical gardens. The hotel offers 144 rooms, with views across the lake or pool or through the gardens. The Mercure Townsville boasts the largest hotel freeform swimming pool in Townsville, with a spa and an area for children, as well as tennis courts, a newly refurbished restaurant and conference facilities. The Mercure Townsville is an Accor Hotel.

The hotel is not to be confused with the Grand Mercure Apartments which is near the Townsville Harbour. The Mercure features a large, open-air check-in area, with Internet café, and the restaurant and bar nearby.

I was to stay at The Mercure Townsville for cricket - I flew up to Townsville with Virgin Australia - you can read a TRIP REPORT HERE! I was one of three umpires that were part of a group of around 50 people. For two of the nights, I was in a triple-share room which featured a queen bed and two single beds - so essentially this was a family room.

The room was quite nice and well-appointed with a large screen plasma television with a large good selection of complimentary pay-television and commercial television channels, as well as in-house movies.

There is also tea and coffee making facilities, as well as a mini-bar. There is also a microwave in the room and a sink. The bathroom is quite nice and spacious with a large walk-in shower.

Outside the ‘rear’ of the room is an outdoor sitting area that overlooks the lake that backs onto the hotel. This area is quite nice and it is certainly relaxing to sit in this area and enjoy a quite beer after a hard days umpiring! The upstairs rooms in the blocks feature balconies that also overlook the lagoon.

The restaurant looks nice - we only had a buffet breakfast each day - and this was a fantastic spread - and the bar was open most times with plenty of motel guests noted enjoying a drink and watching the televisions at the bar. As would be expected, prices did seem a little expensive.

As mentioned, the hotel features a large pool area - also very attractive - and the rooms at the hotel are structured in 'blocks' of two storeys of rooms with about 30 or so rooms in each block.

Outside the hotel, there is a large carpark and a tennis court, which during my visit was still being repaired following the damage inflicted by cyclone Yasi earlier in the year.

Also outside, fast-food outlets and a restaurant are within walking distance of the hotel, along with convenience shops and other specialty shops.

For the final night at the hotel I was in a standard room with one queen bed. It was a smaller room, however it was still well appointed with facilities comparable with the family room talked about above.

The Mercure is a little more expensive than most other places in Townsville, but in my opinion, this little bit extra is well worth it! A very well appointed room and very friendly and professional service made my stay thoroughly enjoyable. In future I will certainly be looking at staying at the Mercure Townsville again!

HOTEL REVIEW - Quality Inn Centrepoint Motel Rockhampton

2011-12-10T14:04:00.000+10:00

I thought I'd give a different motel a go on a recent by trip to Rockhampton and with the Quality Inn Centrepoint Motel, I wasn't disappointed.

The motel is promoted as undergoing a major redevelopment and is under new management. There are large conference rooms, and a nice looking pool area on site as well. Also, being a member of the Quality Inn chain of motels meant I received frequent flyer points for my stay.

From the outside the place looks quite nice. Inside, a renovated and modern reception desk greets guests. There are also stairs to Signatures Restaurant, which is on the second floor. Unfortunately, my brief stay meant I didn't get to eat at the restaurant, although it did look busy in the evening, and judging by the menu that I found in my room, Signatures Restaurant does look to have a good choice of food. I ate dinner and breakfast at one of the nearby fast food outlets of which both all the majors plus a nice Coffee Club are all within 1-2 blocks of the motel.

One downside to the motel I found almost immediately was the lack of undercover parking. I arrived in the early evening and found all but one space was taken. Given a large storm was inbound to Rockhampton at that time, I was glad to find the cover! There is additional open-air parking at the rear of the complex.

The room looked quite nice as I walked in. I stayed in a Queen room and as shown there was plenty of space and it was well appointed. There other levels of rooms available including Twin Bed Rooms, King Rooms, and Spa Suites.

There was a large bed, air con, desk and chair, lounge chair, and a large flat screen television that had a full range of digital and complimentary some pay-television channels. There is also a user-pays in-house movie service too. A free WI-FI Internet connection and an Internet Café are also available at the Motel.

The bathroom gives the motel's age away with an older appearance including old-tiled floors and painted brick walls. It is still quite nice and has a decent size – fairly roomy with a shower, hand-basin and toilet.

A nice night’s stay was had at the Quality Inn Centrepoint Motel, and while I didn't sample the restaurant, the motel is an ideal place for the business or holiday traveller to spend the night or longer. Although, if you want your car undercover during storm season, make sure you get the motel before the sun goes down!!

TRIP REPORT - Perth to Sydney - Virgin Australia Airlines - Airbus A330-200

2011-12-01T14:00:00.001+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Perth to Sydney – Wednesday 21 September – Virgin Australia Airlines – DJ572 – Airbus A330-200 – VH-XFB.

This was a much anticipated flight, with Virgin Australia recently starting cross-Australia flights between Melbourne/Sydney and Perth with their newly acquired Airbus A330-200s.

These aircraft are ex-Emirates aircraft, and the one we flew on this sector - VH-XFB - is ex A6-EAC (The other is VH-XFA – ex A6-EAB).

I checked in really early - about 6 hours before departure. As the check-in area was quiet I found out that all seats On Virgin Australia flights are upgradable so long you pay the difference and a Velocity Frequent Flyer points upgrade is available, only if applied for two days prior to departure. Something to note for next time!

Having booked the ‘special requirement’ of blue zone seating with the extra legroom – at a cost of $45 on top of the ticket – I was unable to use the check-in kiosk so had to approach the lovely lady at the desk to check me in. She was able to this - I was assigned the window at 26K – near door 2.

Funnily enough this turned out to be the same seat that I had in the Qantas A330-200 - VH-EBO - that I had flown to Perth in the day before – you can read the trip report HERE!

Virgin obviously allocates their rows a little differently with a larger forward section featuring Virgin’s newly introduced business class seating. The remainder of the cabin features economy seating in a 2x4x2 design. These leather seats are coloured using Virgin’s latest colour palette of purple, mauve, and red.

The seats also feature TVs and personal entertainment systems with music, Foxtel pay-television channels, movies, and games, all through the use of a handset mounted and available in the seat.

Legroom as expected is ample in this exit row seat, with a crew rest seat opposite this row as well.

One small problem we encountered was that the TV mounted on the wall opposite our seats wasn’t working properly. The problem was that Virgin Australia uses a video safety demonstration and all passengers are required to have a direct line of sight to a TV screen. We were unable to deploy our personal television, so we had to move from our seat to a vacant seat to view the video.

These other seats in the A330 cabin are very squishy without too much legroom (for my 6-foot plus frame anyway). They would be comparable to most international wide body long haul aircraft, but I thought that I would struggle if I had to sit in the seat for a journey as long as this one is.

So after the safety demonstration we were ushered back to our seats and settled back for take-off.

This flight was about 80% full – as stated by the cabin crew to another passenger – with about 245 passengers on this flight. Ticket prices are quite reasonable – and were lower than similarly timed flights with Qantas.

Terminal 3 where Virgin Australia operates from was being closing for the night at midnight for continuing development and upgrades (shown below), hence we boarded nice and early. But with the strict curfew at Sydney, our Captain advised that we would have to lose some time both by sitting on the tarmac and along the way once in the air.

We evenutally lifted off Perth’s Runway 21 just after midnight. A fairly smooth take off with some nice views of the Perth city lights out the right side of the plane. A series of left turns soon had us established on our westbound track.

The seatbelt sign was turned off fairly quickly and the cabin service began. Passengers on flexi fares, and those in business class were offered pre-packaged meals first. The flight attendants move through the cabin and identify and offer these passengers their meals. These economy flexi fares are a little more expensive and offer flexible conditions on changing or cancelling flights – but effectively these passengers had the same economy seat as most of the other passengers but with a prepaid and prepared meal.

I’m not sure if the flexi-ticket idea with paid meals is a great idea – some of the meals weren’t taken – or the passenger had fallen asleep - so there were a few of these that were left untouched.

The remainder of the economy cabin was then offered food and drink to purchase off the trolley at the usual prices.

I actually fell asleep so can’t really comment on too much more of the flight!!

I woke up as we started our descent into Sydney. It was 5am and the Captain came on and advised we had been given a landing time into Sydney of just after 6am. We had to lose 25 minutes before we made our approach, so into a holding-pattern we went - along with an Emirates A380 and a Qantas A330 also from Perth.

Holding done we turned off and headed to Sydney just as the sun rose above the horizon to reveal layers of fog over the land below – it was quite a lovely sight!

The forecast for Sydney for the day though was to be perfect and cloud-free - great for plane spotting!

RIVET arrival with an approach from the South-West before turning South-bound and making our final approach after turning finals over Cronulla. All the way down the ILS glide-slope, we touched down on Runway 34Left at about 6.05am. We rolled through to taxiway Golf, and shortly after we had turned onto the A330 gate in Virgin’s Sydney terminal – Gate 40.

Soon off the plane and after a long walk down the Virgin terminal finger, we were outside at the baggage collection and the hire car desks. Bags came out about 20 minutes after we disembarked the aircraft.

Overall impressions of the Virgin Australia A330 were quite positive.

The crew was very friendly and very enthusiastic about the new A330. Their service standards were excellent and they came across very friendly and helpful and understanding to the passenger’s needs. As it was the late evening flight, their roles were somewhat limited, with food service, and then attending to individual passenger calls. They all looked resplendent in the new Virgin corporate uniform – and what is pleasing is that all staff seem to have been issued with their new uniforms in one hit – I remember when the latest Qantas uniform came out there were staff in the old style uniforms for months after the new one was introduced.

The seat was very comfy and the extra money paid for the legroom was certainly worth it. As mentioned, seating in the remainder of the cabin is quite cramped for me – perhaps given some time I could be used to it, but if I was seated in the middle of the centre four seats, I may struggle to find a good level of comfort.

I hope that Virgin Australia enjoy much success with this new venture into the business class market. Pretty much all cross-Australia flights now offer the new Virgin Australia business-class product.

All new aircraft they are receiving, as well as some older aircraft which have been refitted, are flying daily between Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne to Perth. The business class fares are comparable and a little cheaper than Qantas, although at this stage, I have no plans to take one soon!

TRIP REPORT - Brisbane to Perth - Qantas Airways - Airbus A330-200

2011-12-01T13:00:00.000+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Brisbane to Perth – Tuesday 20 September – Qantas Airways – QF597 – Airbus A330-200 – VH-EBO.

I had been looking forward to getting back to the West for some plane spotting. I was even more looking forward to the opportunity to fly again on the Airbus A330 - something I haven't done for some time. This flight was with Qantas, departing Brisbane (on the East Coast) for Perth in the early afternoon. The scheduled arrival time into Perth was due to be jsut after 6.30pm.

I arrived at the Qantas Domestic Terminal at Brisbane Airport fairly early, and the first thing I noticed that the now fully-operational automated check-in facilities.

I used the checkin kiosk as per normal, but now for passengers to check-in bags, they can basically serve themselves - with some assistance from the large number of Qantas staff who were there to help! The bags are weighed automatically, and tag(s) for destinations, connecting flights, heavy bags, etc are printed at these kiosks. The bags then disappear into the departure area!

I was able to carry my bag on board, so went through security screening and upstairs in the Qantas terminal for some plane spotting!

Upstairs, I enquired about about an exit row seat but none were available so with window seat 41K assigned to me I thought that was good enough!

The inbound flight from Perth seemed to be running pretty much on time which was a nice surpirese as today was the day for the Qantas baggage handlers and ground crew industrial action. These qantas workers stopped work for four hours around Australia during the morning peak. By about lunchtime though, I think most flights were running only about 10-30 minutes late despite the number of cancelled and delayed flights during the morning.

I noted that Airbus A330-200 VH-EBO was operating our flight this afternoon as it was operating the inbound flight from Perth. It eventually touched down in Brisbane about 10 minutes late, so we were given a new boarding time of 2.40pm which was actually the original departure time.

As I approached the gate I again enquired about an exit row seat, and to my surprise was given a window in exit row 44.

As the picture from this seat shows, even though there is a crew seat, and a door at this seat, leg room is still more than ample... And we are close to the toilets too!

The A330 is a nice big plane with a 2x4x2 layout in the economy section. The legroom at the exit (door) seating is quite ample, although I'm jot too sure about how much room there is in the other seats.

Back inside the terminal, boarding finally commenced about 2.55pm.

Everyone seemed to find their seats quickly and we ended up pushing back about 30 minutes late.

Quick taxi to the Alpha 7 holding point and take off from Brisbane's Runway 01. With a series of right turns back over the airport and over the Southern suburbs of Brisbane, we were evenutally established towards Broken Hill, outback South Australia, the Nullabor Plain, and eventually to Perth. Flight time was planned to be just over 5 hours.

Lunch was served pretty quickly which was good as the views out the window were blocked by smoke haze.

Lunch was a choice of a hot chicken or pasta dish. I went with the chicken, which I had with a white wine. Overall it was a pretty nice meal!

Rubbish was tidied away pretty quickly afterwards and so I sat back to watch a movie on the personal touch screen television, which is a very nice and modern feature of this still fairly new A330. As shown below all passengers have their own personal touch screen television to view a pretty good selection of movies, tv shows, and other sorts of entertainment, including games and full length music albums.

The views improved out the window and eventually central Australia turned on some magical views. I believe we could even see Lake Eyre.

About half way through the flight - and just as my movie I was watching was getting interesting - the AVOD system froze in our section of the cabin. No amount of coaxing - including a full system resest - could get our TVs going. The Customer Service Manager (CSM) was good about the situation though, and came to our section of the cabin, allowing passengers who wanted to watch TV the opportunity to move forward in the plane to a seat where the TV was working. I believe there were about 20 or so spare seats up ahead of us (there were some spares in our part too, so this was not a full flight). All these seats were taken. I decided to stay in my seat and write a few notes for this trip report! The business man beside me cleaned out some of his 800+ emails in his Outlook inbox!

So finally as the sun was setting we commenced descent in Perth. In all we were now probably running about 5 minutes late.

The Captain advised that Perth approach was busy and so we do some holding before we make our approach. So around we went - one large orbit only - with some more specatular views - this time of the late afternoon sunlight - and then we headed into Perth.

A series of right then left turns had us on finals for Runway 24. We touched down about 15 minutes late.

A slow and careful taxi past the empty Terminal 3 - the Virgin Australia, Skywest, and Tiger terminal - before we parked at out gate at the Qantas Terminal - Terminal 2 as it is known. We were only about 20 minutes behind schedule, which is not bad timing I thought considering all the industrial action earlier on in the day. Qantas had done quite well in my opinion.

Off the plane eventually - there was a medical priority passenger to deplane first - and through the terminal and downstairs to baggage collection and the hire car desks.

Overall this flight was quite enjoyable, although the AVOD system locking up in our secion of the cabin was a problem. As I said though, I decided to stay in my seat but could have moved to a seat where the AVOD was working. This was a nice touch by the CSM who seemed a little embarassed by the break-down.

The meal and the overall service was excellent, and as always, all Qantas staff I encountered were very friendly and helpful.

I spent two days in Perth and had a great time plane spotting. My return trip to the East coast was with Virgin Australia - riding in one of their new Airbus A330-200s on the "capital jet service" back to Sydney - you can read that trip report HERE.

TRIP REPORT - Sydney to Whitsunday Coast / Proserpine via Brisbane - Virgin Australia Airlines - Boeing B737-800

2011-11-01T10:16:00.002+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Sydney to Brisbane – Saturday 24 September – Virgin Australia Airlines – DJ909 – Boeing B737-800 – VH-VOK.

For a change I decided not to take the Virgin Australia suggested connection when using the website, and instead booked two separate flights to Brisbane and then to Proserpine. The suggested itinerary would have me leaving Sydney at either 9am or 10am which left me with around 1-2 hours transit in Brisbane. Going on past experience of delayed flights, I didn't want to take the risk of missing the connecting ONLY flight to Proserpine, something I had done previously on a flight to Mackay - trip report can be read HERE.

Also - and much to my pleasant surprise - booking the two separate flights actually saved me about $40.

With departure at 7am I left my hotel and made it to the Sydney Airport terminal nice and early at about 5am. Upstairs to check-in to find the self-serve kiosks and then the bag drop queue.

But this time I came prepared and knew to ask a Virgin employee about manual check in seeing I had two separate flights and I wasn't planning on checking my bags in. In another pleasant surprise, the lovely Virgin employee I spoke to directed me to the service desk where the person there checked me in on both flights, and accepted that I didn't have bags to check in.

I had also booked and paid for the blue zone seats exit row seats with extra legroom and for both lights and I was assigned seat 15A - set to fly in two B737-800 aircraft.

So that meant that I had checked in, and was through the security check point in about 15 minutes of setting foot in the terminal - wow! Off for some breakfast, and a nice close seat to capture some early morning photos of the international and cross country arrivals into Sydney.

Some spotting done – Runway 07 arrivals were pretty spectacular I found that the flight to Brisbane was leaving from Gate 38 where VH-VOK was sitting. VH-VOK is one of the older B737-800 aircraft, but it does feature Live TV as well as Premium Economy seating at the front of the cabin.

I heard the first Boarding call for our flight at about 6.45am. I gave it another 5 minutes for the crush of passengers to clear, before I walked up to the gate and straight through onto the plane. Found seat 15A, where some other person had plopped themselves and had fallen asleep, but soon after they moved I had my window!

Doors closed and we pushed back right on schedule at 7am. A quick taxi across Runway 07, and down taxiways Charlie and Lima, past the Sydney Airport Firestation, and to the holding point at Runway 16 Left. After holding for one aircraft to arrive we were airborne and making a couple of left turns out through Botany Bay and heading East out over the sea.

Two more left turns and we were heading North for Brisbane. Unfortunately the southerly change that passed though Sydney the day before had blown up some clouds so views back over Sydney city were non-existent.

Cabin service commenced soon after we established North-bound with the meals distributed first to the premium economy and flexi ticket holders. I’m not sure if this is the best idea as some of the passengers couldn't be found in their assigned seats so these meals went uneaten. Moreover most of the passengers that had these meals - looked like a roll and chocolate and a drink - didn't even eat what was given to them.

About 15 minutes after cabin service commenced, the rest of the passengers were offered food and drink from the cart - the selection is pretty limited now that Virgin Australia has signed Luke Mangan as their meal creator

I decided against having anything and instead had a read of the Voyeur Magazine – the Virgin Australia in-flight magazine.

The view out the window improved around half way through the flight, but when we started our descent into Brisbane, the cloud started to return, and as the flight map on the PTV showed, we were soon overhead the Gold Coast. Unfortunately, we couldn’t really see anything out the window except cloud.

We made a left turn towards Brisbane Airport, and soon after we broke through the clouds and saw the southern suburbs of Brisbane. Right turn to finals on landing on Brisbane’s Runway 01. On finals there were nice views out the left side over the Eastern and Southern suburbs of Brisbane as well as the Brisbane City buildings.

Late finals over Eagle Farm and the developing Airport Precinct – which is becoming its own suburb – as well as the old International terminal and the new International terminal – complete with several of the early morning arrivals!

Quick taxi off the runway and onto Gate 39 at the Virgin terminal.

Overall, a nice flight with Virgin Australia – fantastic service - as usual! I’m not too sure however, about the service of the meals to the ‘flexi’ ticket passengers, with most of these not eaten. More menu items could be good too for the rest of us passengers too!

TRIP REPORT – Brisbane to Whitsunday Coast / Proserpine – Saturday 24 September – Virgin Australia Airlines – DJ1117 – Boeing B737-800 – VH-VUJ.

After some plane spotting (including a new Virgin Australia ATR departing on a training flight) and morning tea in the Brisbane Domestic terminal, I made my way back to Gate 39 for the next part of the journey to Proserpine. Sitting on the gate I found VH-VUJ.

This plane had obviously arrived some time ago and had been serviced and was ready to go. Boarding started right on 11.15am and soon after I had found my seat – 15A again – and soon after, the doors were closed and we were pushing back - some 5 minutes ahead of schedule! There was a nice view of VH-YIA in new colours parked on Gate 40.

Taxi to Alpha 7 holding point – in front of this Thai B777 which had just landed.

We waited briefly before we lined up on Runway 01. In fact we were lined up before the cabin was ready!

Smooth take off and as the General Aviation Apron and the Airport disappeared behind the plane, we were again treated to some nice views out the left side if the planes overlooking Moreton Bay and on to Redcliffe.

A couple of left turns had us crossing the coast and establishing North-bound just near Maroochydore Airport.

Fairly smoky outside but views were still good.

Cabin service commenced, and again the pre-packaged meals were distributed to the premium economy and flexi-fare paying passengers first. Again these passengers were served a roll and chocolate and a drink.

The food and drink cart eventually made it to row 15 and I decided just to have some M&M chocolates and some water.

Before I had finished, the captain came over the loud speaker and advised we would we arriving into Proserpine some 20 minutes early. Soon after, we started our descent, and the rubbish was hastily collected in the cabin.

Some nice views over Central Queensland including Rockhampton and the lovely wilderness areas out the back of Mackay.

Proserpine Airport soon came into view and from just about overhead, we made turned a visual left base on to Runway 11.

Turn around and back taxi on the runway and parking on the apron.

Now the fun began! Off the plane and into the construction zone that is currently Proserpine airport.

The ‘Arrivals Hall’ is certainly not very appealing for tourists at the moment!

Passengers were then made to mull around outside the terminal construction zone for about 20 minutes before their bags appeared - still available for collection off the back or baggage trolley.

Some passengers then took the waiting buses and other transport available, while I made my way off to find my car parked in a grassy area near the terminal. As seen in my outbound trip report (HERE), the Proserpine Airport is undergoing a major refurbishment.

I noted with much interest that the new terminal will finally feature a baggage collection belt!

Overall, yet another fantastic and worry-free flight with Virgin Australia. Friendly and accommodating staff who act professional and look good in their new uniforms.

TRIP REPORT - Whitsunday Coast / Proserpine to Brisbane - Jetstar Airways - Airbus A320

2011-10-31T06:15:00.002+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Whitsunday Coast / Proserpine to Brisbane – Sunday 18 September – Jetstar Airways – JQ833 – Airbus A320-200 – VH-VGO.

The Proserpine Airport is undergoing major renovations and only recently had the first stage opened to the public. The carpark is still closed, and passengers are forced to park on the grass leading to the terminal or in bushy areas out in front of the terminal. The carpark works are about half done with asphalt down in most parts and new taxi and bus parking facilities able to be used outside the terminal. There is also a drop off facility available.

Once inside the terminal I was greeted with the new check-in area. This used be the Virgin check-in area with Jetstar at the other end of the building. Now both airlines’ check-in areas are together as shown below.

Bag dropped off and then back outside the terminal - past the construction zone - to the centre area of the terminal where the seemingly new security check-point is located.

Through this to the newly opened sitting area of the revamped terminal. This area is substantially bigger than the last time I travelled through Proserpine. There is plenty of seating, air conditioning and giant ceiling fans (complete with winglets!).

Probably best of all, is that there are large windows which allows the lovely views over the terminal apron to return!

This area is still obviously in need of further work which will hopefully be completed before the year is out.

Another feature is a much larger kiosk as well as a small sitting area with tables and chairs. There presently two gates - one for each carrier - with facilities noted for a third.

Departing passengers pass through the gate out to the tarmac and onto their aircraft.

Jetstar A320 VH-VGO arrived to take us to Brisbane. Disembarking passengers seemingly still exit through the Eastern part of the terminal, with bags following them out about 20 minutes after they touched down. You can read more from my return trip HERE.

My ticket with Jetstar today was a “Saver Plus” ticket which entitled me to earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points, as well as experience priority boarding. The call went out for passengers who “paid for priority boarding” to come to the gate, but by the time I had stood up to walk to the gate, the ‘general’ boarding call was made, and I found myself near the back of the queue! Absolutely no ‘priority’!

Anyway, soon on board and I took my seat 12F which was a window in the exit row. Plenty of legroom here!

Just about a full flight and as our departure time came and went, the front door was finally closed, the engines spooled up, and we taxied away from the terminal about 10 minutes late.

Smooth take off from Runway 11, and with a series of right turns then a left turn, we were heading South towards Brisbane.

Seatbelt sign off, and the crew busily set about sending the food and drink cart down the aisle. I chose the Pringles and a lemonade. Nice!

I noted outside that the smoke haze was pretty bad, and this got worse as we headed South. By the time we started our descent we could hardly see the ground!

Rubbish was cleaned and this gave the cabin crew about 15 of standing at the front the plane not doing much!

Descent was long and smoky outside but eventually we made a series of left turns to line up the Runway 01 ILS approach into Brisbane.

Nice views down the ILS over the Southside of Brisbane, then crossing the Brisbane River, and lastly, the Qantas maintenance hangars on the East side of the Airport.

We touched down a little late, and shortly after we pulled into one of the new gates on the new centre finger - interestingly two QantasLink Dash-8’s were preparing for departure from these gates too – a real “Common-user terminal”!!

The centre finger redevelopment at Brisbane Airport is now complete, with the bar at the middle of the terminal area open for business.

Downstairs through the terminal where after a small wait my bag eventually made it out.

In all another nice flight with Jetstar, although I certainly won't be paying the extra $20 or so for priority boarding when passengers receive about 10 seconds of priority!!

POSTSCRIPT... I made a formal complaint about the 'priority boarding' through their website and much to my surprise received a $25 flight credit voucher for a future flight with Jetstar. My faith in Jetstar has now somewhat been restored!

TRIP REPORT - Gladstone to Brisbane to Gladstone - QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) - Dash-8-Q400

2011-09-30T06:47:00.001+10:00

TRIP REPORT – Gladstone to Brisbane – Thursday 4 August – QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) – QF2335 – Dash-8-Q400 – VH-QOV.

Shane T in Gladstone recently flew from Gladstone to Brisbane and back on QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines). We thank him for providing the following Trip Report.

Having flown Strategic Airlines to Gladstone some weeks ago (Trip Report HERE), I decided to take a quick ‘joyflight’ on QantasLink as they are the longer more established airline on the Gladstone to Brisbane sector. I call it a ‘joyflight’ as I flew to Brisbane and back in the day.

Check-in was pretty easy – it was pretty quiet at the terminal – and then sat down and waited for the inbound flight to arrive. Soon enough VH-QOV arrived from Brisbane to take us South.

Boarding was pretty quick and painless – I even managed a quick photo of the cabin as I found my seat – QantasLink have the Dash-8-Q400s in a 2X2 style – and VH-QOV is one of the Q400s with the old style interior.

The cabin of the Q400 ‘appears’ narrow however space and seating comfort is actually respectable despite being a regional plane, albeit on the larger side. Door closed, the engines started up, and we taxied away from the terminal and headed out to the runway.

Early rotation and we were off to Brisbane – some nice views as we got airborne of Gladstone city and the harbour.

Also a nice view of the Red-Mud Dam which is a waste deposit reserve for QAL (Queensland Alumina Ltd) of which is an eye sore from the air but completely non-viewable from the ground. In fact, unless you fly over it - nobody would even know it is there.

There is also a picture is of Boyne Island / Tannum Sands (along the coast separated by the Boyne River) as well as Benaraby (foreground) and to the left, Red-Mud Dam remains viewable

As always, the flight between Brisbane and Gladstone is quick because of the Q400's high cruise speed and unless getting caught in a holding pattern for a period of time, the flight time is generally about 50 minutes – this is similar to the A320 block time when I flew Strategic Airlines flew between the two ports.

The QantasLink cabin service was pleasant and efficient, however being a short sector, efficiency must be a given. On this mid-morning flight we were served some delicious scones, as well as a water and tea and coffee.

Cabin service done, we were soon descending into Brisbane. Some nice views over Moreton Bay and Redcliffe (with Redcliffe Aerodrome clearly visible). Flying over the Houghton Highway and the ‘Hornibrook Viaduct’ soon had us landing on Runway 14 at Brisbane.

This is the secondary runway at Brisbane mostly used by lighter/regional aircraft, and means a much longer taxi distance to the terminal. Fortunately for us the pilot taxied us to the terminal at a fair old clip and we had pulled up to our remote gate at the Qantas terminal pretty much on schedule.

One last quick photo of our Q400 as we jumped aboard a bus to take us to the terminal. Once inside the terminal, I also took a quick photo of the busy Qantas and QantasLink apron, and then took the opportunity for some plane spotting before my flight back to Gladstone in the afternoon!

A Strategic Airlines A320 was receiving attention – it was such a pity that they withdrew from Gladstone...

A new Virgin Australia B737-800 arrived – I think the new livery looks awesome – I can’t wait to see it on their new ATR aircraft – especially when then start flying to Gladstone from Brisbane.

Spotting done, back down to the QantasLink waiting area to check-in and then wait for my return flight to Gladstone. Passengers with no bags – like me – can check in at this downstairs location – which is still past security screening. There are nice views over the QantasLink apron – although several layers of glass makes photography not so good!

TRIP REPORT – Brisbane to Gladstone – Thursday 4 August – QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) – QF2340 – Dash-8-Q400 – VH-QOX.

Soon our flight was called through Gate One (of three in the downstairs QantasLink area of the Qantas terminal), and we were made to mull around for a couple of minutes before we were walked out about 30 metres to VH-QOX which was waiting for us near the terminal.

Busses are used if the aircraft is a long way away from the terminal.
Started up and taxied away pretty much on time and we headed for departure off Runway 01 at Brisbane. The departure to the North gave us nice views of the General Aviation Apron, Runway 14, Moreton Bay, and again Redcliffe.

For the most part, the return flight to Gladstone was absolutely beautiful from the air because of the predominately clear skies and the afternoon sun.

I even got the chance to enjoy a complementary beer with the light snack that was served – although chocolate mud cake slice doesn't mix to well with beer – ha ha!!

As we flew North, the clear skies were taking on a smokier look and as we approached Gladstone we could see a few burn-offs adjacent to Awoonga Dam - the main catchment for the Gladstone Region.

A smooth landing at Gladstone and a one last photo of VH-QOX parked on the apron.

On a final note, it was interesting to note that on each and every flight that I have flown with QantasLink between Gladstone and Brisbane, their aircraft has always been booked to capacity or close to, whereas it appeared Strategic Airlines barely enticed 30 passengers per flight on an aircraft configured for 152 passengers.

Anyway two great flights with QantasLink – both very enjoyable – no problems – fantastic snacks – fantastic crews – and a fantastic ‘joyflight’ with some good spotting in Brisbane.

TRIP REPORT - Brisbane to Gladstone - Strategic Airlines - Airbus A320-200

2011-08-01T07:12:00.000+10:00

With the recent news that Strategic Airlines is withdrawing from the Gladstone to Brisbane route, a friend of mine, Shane T, who lives in Gladstone, has kindly provided the following trip report from a flight he took a couple of months ago.

Strategic Airlines seem to offer a good product, for what seemed to be a good price. It is unfortunate that they have decided to pull out of the Central Queensland market. Time will tell if they are to return to Central Queensland in the future, either operating in the RPT market again, or operating fly-in fly-out charters. It will also be interesting to see how Virgin Australia goes on the Gladstone to Brisbane route now too!

TRIP REPORT – Brisbane to Gladstone – Friday 24 June – Strategic Airlines – VC524 – Airbus A320-200 – VH-YQB.

After the recent breakdown of their Airbus A330-200, Strategic Airlines had cancelled as many as four recent services between Brisbane and Gladstone without much notice to intended passengers. In some circles, Strategic Airlines had handled this whole episode very poorly which is disappointing as there is an increasing wave of support of their operations into Gladstone.

So up came Friday's afternoon service from Brisbane to Gladstone - fortunately it wasn't cancelled.

Check in was easy in the central part of the Brisbane Domestic Terminal - the "Common User Area" - before through security and out to the end of the newly redeveloped centre finger area.

Boarding and departure on time, and before too long, VH-YQB was airborne for the quick 44 minute hop up to Gladstone - this compares to a six hour drive made earlier in the day!!

This Strategic Airlines A320 - VH-YQB - has 152 seats in two classes, and has standard cloth seating in economy, with 144 seats in a 3x3 seating arrangement. Although the Strategic livery is uncreative, the cabin was impressive and well presented.

This compares to sistership VH-YQA, which flew to Gladstone earlier in the year on a promotional visit, and features a very nice and well presented two-tone leather seat design.

Outside was a perfect day for flying as shown in the following pictures of us climbing out of Brisbane over Moreton Bay.

Cabin service was average, although with a flight time of only 44 minutes, the crew are hard pressed to spend too much time comforting people. They served a snack which included a chicken roll - very nice - a Kit-Kat chocolate, and drinks, which included a choice of water, orange juice, soft drink or beer.

Soon Gladstone Airport came into view, and with a series of turns from North of Gladstone, we were on approach to Gladstone over the nearby mud flats and Gladstone Harbour shortly before touching-down on Runway 10.

Disembarked and into the refurbsihed terminal. No bags - straight out to see VH-YQB at its parking position against the fence.

HOTEL REVIEW – Novotel Brisbane Airport Hotel – Brisbane

2011-07-10T20:40:00.000+10:00

Obviously being an aviation enthusiast, accommodation near an airport is always a preferred option!

The Novotel Brisbane Airport Hotel is located close to Brisbane Airport – about a 5 minute drive to the International Terminal and a 10 minute drive to the Domestic Terminal – and is situated in the Airport-One Estate Development, which has a Woolworths shopping centre and the Direct Factory Outlet (DFO) in the same block.

The hotel is a four-star luxury hotel, with a very luxurious looking foyer and reception area – where very friendly staff welcomed us for our recent two-night stay.

We had booked online through their website – quite easy to navigate – booking a standard room with a King Bed, as well as a daily hot and cold buffet breakfast. All details were confirmed, and the two staff checking us in were even able to arrange for me a room that overlooked the airport!!

Up to the third level (of five) and the view over the airport isn’t great – we could only see the old international terminal (logistics apron), as well as most of the aircraft departing Runway 19, which was the active runway during our stay.

Obviously, if Runway 01 was in use, then nice views of arriving aircraft could also be seen.

The room itself was quite roomy with many luxury features. There was a big and very comfortable queen bed, plenty of lights and switches and dials, and a wide screen plasma television with free cable television channels and free in-house movies. There is also a desk and chair, sitting chairs, a large mini-bar and full tea and coffee making facilities. The bathroom was quite large, with a big shower, and a basin complete with overhead make-up lights.

The buffet breakfast was served daily in the aptly named Catalina Bar and Restaurant. The hot and cold buffet was massive with cereal, toast, rolls, and a full hot selection, including freshly made pancakes!

The last thing to mention was the paid parking at around $16 a day, but there is a big free carpark right outside the Hotel, and most guests (like us) end up parking here. It isn’t secured or monitored, but Hotel staff reported to us that there have never been any problems.

In all, the Novotel Brisbane Airport Hotel was a great place to stay. A great location on the North side of Brisbane, close to major shops (including the DFO), and the Gateway Arterial Roads that take people both to the North and the Sunshine Coast, as well as the South side of Brisbane quite easily, and then further to the Gold Coast. The Airport location is also quite handy for plane spotting too! We enjoyed a great room, with a good view, and a great breakfast which made our stay very enjoyable, and we will definitely be staying there again in the future!

HOTEL REVIEW – Mayfair Motel – Emerald

2011-06-30T20:25:00.000+10:00

I had stayed at this motel previously, and was quite impressed, so recently decided to book both my wife and I into a ‘standard room’ for the night.

The Mayfair Motel is independently operated and is one of the newest places in Emerald. It is fantastically located to the South of Emerald in the Mayfair Village Estate, a stone’s throw away from the Emerald Airport. In fact aircraft can be seen arriving and departing from the Airport!

The room where we stayed was luxurious and was quite big, with a queen sized bed, small LCD television with free cable-TV channels, sitting chair, plenty of storage and floor space, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities.

The bathroom is well appointed, and quite large.

There are many other facilities on site, including an attractive pool area (shown below), BBQ facilities, and conference rooms (I have also attended work meetings here too!). The staff are always friendly and welcoming.

One of the major drawcards of the motel is the nearby Mayfair Village Tavern, where we enjoyed a fantastic meal – and at a much cheaper price than the motel’s onsite restaurant. The onsite restaurant, which offers both Australian and Thai meals, offers sit down breakfast, lunch and dinner, in a quiet relaxed environment, however in my opinion, the prices are a little expensive. Room service is also available.

One of the other nice touches for meals that is available, particularly for shift workers, are pre-packed breakfasts (with cereals, fruit, and drinks) and lunches (generally sandwiches and rolls).

I have stayed at most of the motels in Emerald now, and rate the Mayfair Motel quite highly. The only downside for me with the motel is the room rates, which are probably the most expensive in Emerald. The motel also suffers from the mining boom in Central Queensland, and like most accommodation places in the area, rooms are generally not available during the week.

HOTEL REVIEW – Comfort Inn Rockhampton Motel – Rockhampton

2011-06-17T09:31:00.000+10:00

The Comfort Inn Rockhampton is not a luxurious motel, but it does provide the weary traveller or visitor to Rockhampton with a clean and very comfortable, and convenient place to stay.

The motel is located close to the centre of the city, on the corner of Albert and Alma Streets (on the Bruce Highway), and is a stone’s throw away from the Fitzroy River. It is located about 8km from the airport and is probably located in the middle of the main shopping and dining areas in North and South Rockhampton.

There are various levels of accommodation from the smaller (but still quite sizable) Standard Rooms, which feature two beds, TV with free cable TV channels, air-conditioning, and tea and coffee making facilities, to Deluxe and Spa Rooms which are slightly more roomy and also feature a CD-player, lounge, and a mini-bar.

Albert's restaurant is also on site, although most times that I have stayed at the motel, it has been closed. Breakfast is available most mornings – including a full buffet breakfast on weekends. Limited room service is also available. A coin operated laundry, as well as a pleasant pool area with a BBQ, are also available at the motel for guests to use (as shown below).

The motel has gone through some recent changes in ownership and management, and as a frequent visitor, it has been a little concerning that some minor cosmetic and maintenance issues have been appearing – for example, TVs or air-conditioning units that aren’t working properly, and shower and bathroom facilities that leak when they are used.

That said though, the rates for the levels of rooms are quite reasonable, and a little cheaper when compared to other nearby similarly rated motels. Overall, in my opinion, for a short or long stay, you won’t be disappointed by giving the Comfort Inn Rockhampton a try.

HOTEL REVIEW – Sheraton on the Park Hotel – Sydney

2011-05-27T20:36:00.000+10:00

We have stayed previously at this luxury 4-start hotel in the centre of Sydney city, and like those other times, we were so impressed with our stay.

On this occasion, we stayed for two nights – one of their many online packages and specials – and also paid for a buffet breakfast for both of us for the two mornings we were there.

After flying in, we caught the airport train into St James Station, from where it is about a 5 minute walk to the Hotel. The Hotel is located on Elizabeth Street, right opposite the beautiful Hyde Park, and right in the Centre of Sydney City.

Inside the Hotel, the lobby is very welcoming and opulent. There are plenty of Hotel staff members to assist with carrying bags and with checking guests in. We were checked in after about 5 minutes. A friendly staff member (as they all are) confirmed our reservation and breakfast, and even offered to upgrade us – but for an extra charge!

Up to our room on the 20th floor, facing the city – our view was overlooking Castlereagh Street and further to Sydney Tower, of which we could see all of it, and it looks spectacular!

The room features a huge King-Size bed, as well as a desk and office chair, and a sitting chair. There were a pair of big wardrobes in this room, which were opposite a massive bathroom (biggest I’ve ever seen!) with bath, shower, toilet, and heaps of floor space.

The room also features air conditioning, wide-screen Plasma television, with free cable television channels and pay-per-view movies. There is also a full mini-bar and tea and coffee making facilities. There are also lots of little extras like robes, slippers, writing paper, sewing kits, show polish, to name a few, that just make your stay a little nicer! Incidentally, most of these items are also available for purchase too!

The only downside with this room was its location next to the elevators – we had the constant growl and noise with the workings of these – nothing major though.

Breakfast in the mornings was in the main restaurant on Level One of the Hotel. We had pre-paid for the full Australian breakfast, consisting of hot and cold buffet. The breakfast is thoroughly worth the money – there is a massive selection of tasty hot and cold foods – and this is a great way to start a day of tourist activities in the harbour city!

We love the Sheraton on the Park Hotel – I have no doubt that in our future travels to Sydney, we will again use this Hotel as out base. Its location in the centre of Sydney is perfect for tourists like us to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of this great city.

HOTEL REVIEW – Sofitel Melbourne on Collins Hotel – Melbourne

2011-05-23T20:09:00.000+10:00

The Sofitel Melbourne on Collins Hotel is a luxury 4-start hotel in the centre of Melbourne city on Collins Street, a stone’s throw away from just about all of the main tourist attractions and points of interest in the ‘Garden City’.

We stayed here due to its proximity to the Princess Theatre, Melbourne Museum, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Eureka Tower, as well as some of Melbourne’s best shops, which were all on our list of things to do and see. Most of these places are in easy walking distance, with an average walking time of about half-an-hour (30 minutes).

We loved every minute of our stay at this hotel – we found the place okay after driving from the airport – and were greeted by a friendly valet who unloaded our bags and pointed us in the direction of the opulent reception lobby. Also on this floor is one of the Hotel lounges with a bar/coffee shop.

Plenty of staff to assist at the Hotel, and soon we were checked-in and assigned a room on the 47th floor of the tower. The Hotel is actually on top of a section of offices, and rooms start on about the 30th floor of the building.

A view of Melbourne is therefore always guaranteed – and the view from our room on the 47th floor was spectacular!!

The room is quite big and features a huge King-Size bed, as well as a desk and chair, and sitting chairs. There is plenty of luggage storage space, and a lovely fully appointed marble bathroom, which is a little small though.

The room also features air conditioning, wide-screen plasma television, with free cable television channels and pay-per-view movies. There is also a full mini-bar and tea and coffee making facilities. There are also lots of little extras like robes, slippers, writing paper, sewing kits, show polish, to name a few, that just make your stay a little nicer! Incidentally, most of these items are also available for purchase too!

We didn’t partake of any meals at the hotel – we did have one opportunity to have dinner at the Hotel’s main restaurant, however, there weren’t any tables available until quite late into the night. That was a bit disappointing – especially on a Sunday night. Book early to avoid disappointment!

Overall, the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins Hotel was a fantastic place to stay. Of course we couldn’t fit everything we wanted to see into this visit, so when we return, we will definitely be staying at this Hotel again!

HOTEL REVIEW – Best Western Reef Resort Motel – Mackay

2011-05-19T20:02:00.000+10:00

My wife and I were ‘forced’ to try another motel in Mackay due to the poor customer service of our ‘regular’ place – we rang three times one day and couldn’t get a hold of anyone – not even an answering service!

So I looked online and found the Reef Resort Motel right next door to other place, and thought that we might give it a go.

And we weren’t disappointed!

Firstly, the Reef Resort Motel is not really a Resort, merely a motel, much like the other motels along Nebo Road in Mackay, where this one is located. Guests can drive in off Nebo Road, and on first impressions, there is plenty of parking and heaps of good sized and varying standard of rooms.

We booked into a standard room at the far end of the motel away from the main road. The room was of a good size and even featured an outdoor area out a rear sliding door. Facilities are quite nice with free cable television, tea and coffee making facilities, air conditioning, ceiling fans, and even a minibar in the refrigerator. Outside, there is a barbeque area and a beautifully landscaped pool area.

The bathroom is quite large, with a shower, toilet, and massive vanity unity that extended the length of the bathroom. The only concern was the huge amount of ants that seemed to make the bathroom home!

There is also a lovely restaurant onsite – Pipers Restaurant – that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Room service is also available.

On the whole, we were very impressed with this motel. It was a very clean and comfortable place that has great facilities. For a comparable price to some other places we have stayed at in Mackay, the Reef Resort Motel will certainly be a place where we will stay again.

One downer for me was that unfortunately, just before we arrived, they dropped out of the Qantas Frequent Flyer Scheme.

TRIP REPORT - Sydney to Mackay - Virgin Blue Airlines - Embraer E-170

2011-05-13T18:32:00.001+10:00

Trip Report – Sydney to Mackay – Thursday 21 April – Virgin Blue Airlines – DJ1473 – Embraer E-170 – VH-ZHD.

Searching for the cheapest and 'best' way to get from Sydney to Mackay I found Virgin Blue was (as always) offering the cheapest fares by some margin over Qantas/QantasLink. The main issue I have with Virgin Blue though, is that most of their flights connect through Brisbane, and as we have unfortunately discovered, a late departure out of Sydney can mean a missed connection out of Brisbane.

Fortunately the direct Sydney to Mackay flight (one per day ONLY with Virgin Blue) was available and while it wasn’t the cheapest option, with the price about $20 more expensive each than the connecting flights, for the guarantee of getting to Mackay in one flight, and no chance of missing a connection, we decided to take them!

On the day we took the Sydney Rail Link from the City and got to the Domestic Terminal 2 at the Airport in no time. The crowd in the Virgin Blue terminal was pretty big with two queues to choose from – one to check-in and one for bag drop. There was also big lines for people running late for their called flights – as an aside, I can't understand how people can turn up at the airport just as their flight is being called... I couldn't do that.

We used the check-in kiosk and much to my surprise Virgin Blue’s seating allocations had split my wife and I into different rows and opposite sides of the cabin. Too make it worse, the cabin map had every seat taken so we couldn’t possibly change our seating.

So over to the queue and half the people joining the queue were being ushered either into the bag drop queue and into the Check-in queue even if they already had a boarding pass. We joined the Bag Drop queue, but soon found that the check-in queue was moving much faster.

Turns out most of the Bag Drop counters were being used to check-in the late comers for the called flights, and, the distance we had to queue was also shorter – so there’s a tip!! I was probably not a happy camper – I could see some nice planes taking off outside too!!

Anyway, after about half an hour, we got to the front of the queue and approached the counter. We politely asked the young Virgin Blue lady about being seated together, and to my surprise, she looked a little confused about what I was asking about. She soon realised and with a few clicks on her computer, my wife and I were seated together in Row 15. She even apologised about the mix up.

No exit row seat available as we were to travel on one of Virgin Blue’s Embraer E-170 aircraft, which only has the four exits – 2 at the front and 2 at the back. 2X2 seating is in the main cabin, and Virgin Blue have made the first three row ‘Premium Economy’ seating which cost much more that the normal seats!

We passed smoothly through the now infamous Terminal 2 security check, where days earlier an officer had 'tripped' on a loose cord and shut down the terminal for a couple of hours, resulting in hundreds of passengers being affected by delayed and cancelled flights.

We found Gate 35, but went further down to the end of the terminal, to the windows at the end, where we watched the plane action and took some photos for a couple of hours!

After spotting some nice planes, and having a nice cup of coffee, boarding time approached, so we went back to Gate 35, and there were plenty of seats. Boarding the E-170 was quick and easy, despite the plane being full for today’s flight.

Some interesting sights around the plane - Virgin Blue (now Virgin Australia) new B737 VH-YFC parked next to us!

Even though there are no Exit Rows, the seats are fairly comfortable – I managed to just fit my 6-foot plus frame into the space as shown. Although, I would have been a little more squeezed up if the person in front of me put their seat back!

Pushed back on time and started our taxi to Sydney’s Runway 16L – interestingly Sydney Airport was under SODROPS (Simultaneous Opposite Direction Runway Operations) with Runway 34L used for arrivals.

Rolling start and lift off, with two left turns and a nice view down the coast over the water and South to Cronulla and further.

A little while later, we crossed the coast near Newcastle before the flight plan would take us overhead Narrabri then onto Taroom in Queensland, then Rockhampton and on to Mackay.

The seat belt sign went off pretty quickly and the crew of three swung into action, with the food and drink service about to start. After providing the tech crew with their lunches, we had to wait about another 20 minutes for the trolley to eventually make our row. Most of the passengers had decent meals like sandwiches although I decided to have just the crackers and some water. I also had M&Ms and all up this cost $10. Not too bad.

After the trolley disappeared, the rubbish was quickly collected - although a lot of the passengers, including me, hadn’t finished eating/drinking, so we had to hold onto our rubbish until the crew did another collection!

About 15 minutes later the crew was back and so with rubbish collected, I settled back for the nearly 2 hour flight North.

No in-flight entertainment so magazines and the outside view had to do!

Eventually the Queensland coastline came into view and as well as Gladstone and then Yeppoon and the Keppel Islands. We were obviously overhead Rockhampton (as planned), and soon after the Captain came on the PA and announced we would soon be descending into Mackay for an on time landing.

Smooth descent over the water with lovely views over the Whitsunday Islands.

There was some cloud - not much - more thicker clouds out the left side of the plane with some scattered showers easily seen. Nice views of Abbott Point Coal Wharf and waiting coal ships.

Turning down wind the seat belt sign came on and all were to be seated. Mackay Harbour came into view and with a series of left hand turns we were on visual approach and finals for Runway 14 at Mackay.

Smooth landing and short back taxi onto stand 4 on the apron.

Off the plane via the front stairs, and through the new terminal, to the same old baggage collection area, where surprisingly, our bag was one of the first off!!

Off to the parking ticket machine and after a $100 Bill was paid we were off to lunch!

It is a shame these lovely little E-170s are leaving the Virgin Blue fleet – this was probably the first and last time I would travel on one. The direct flight option is such a simpler and better option than getting a connecting flight through Brisbane. There is no worry about missing a connecting flight – or not having bags make it Mackay. The 2 hour flight time does fly by when you have good reading material and the seats aren’t too uncomfortable as it seems Virgin Blue aircraft seats are just that little bit extra spaced apart than that of other airlines!

TRIP REPORT - Mackay to Brisbane to Melbourne - QantasLink/Qantas Airways - Dash-8-Q400 NEXT GEN / B737-800

2011-05-07T13:41:00.000+10:00

Trip Report – Mackay to Brisbane – Saturday 16 April – QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) – QF2511 – Dash-8-Q400 NEXT GEN – VH-LQB.

It was an early start for this flight with a 6.40am departure out of Mackay. Put the car in the undercover long term carpark at Mackay Airport, and off to the QantasLink counter.

This was the first time I had used Qantas/QantasLink online checkin – I checked both my wife and myself through to Melbourne the previous day and received four boarding passes which were easily saved and easily printed! Dropped our bags off at the counter and after a little wait time (there was also a QantasLink flight heading North due out shortly after ours) and they were checked all the way through to Melbourne.

I had a quick look around and took a few pictures of the Mackay Airport terminal redevelopment. There has been nearly $3.5million spent on terminal facilities including a new newsagent/book store and a bar. There has also been refurbishments made to the snack bar, car hire desks, and security screening, which have also changed locations within the terminal building. Eventually when the redevelopment is complete, there will be around 700 seats in the new and expanded passenger waiting area.

For the first part of our flight was to Brisbane. We were given seats in Row 11, about half way down the cabin. QantasLink’s brand new Bombardier Dash-8-Q400 NEXT GEN aircraft – VH-LQB – was parked outside and this was to take us South. The NEXT GEN Dash-8-Q400s have nicer mood lighting system on the inside as well as bigger overhead storage lockers.

Leg room is still ample on in these Dash-8s as well.

After some mucking around with final paperwork we eventually taxied away from the terminal about 5 minutes late. But being a quiet morning we taxied straight out onto the runway, all the way down to the end of Runway 14 at Mackay. Straight off and up through some low cloud before the seat belt sign was eventually turned off about 10 minutes after take-off. Mind you it was still a little bumpy but it was bearable.

Cabin service commenced soon after with breakfast consisting of a hot Danish pastry as well as a pack with yogurt and a muesli bar, and some juice. I also had a coffee. A lovely breakfast on this flight - similar timed flights with QantasLink out of Emerald provide a little less breakfast than this!

Cabin crew were very efficient and had the cabin cleared up after another 20 minutes or so. With this longish flight (one and a half hours) we then spent about an hour of reading and entertaining ourselves with the cabin crew never to be seen.

Descent started and the seat belt sign came on as we started to break though the cloud layer over South-East Queensland. Nothing majorly uncomfortable but there were some bumps with a couple of the bigger ones making some passengers gasp!

We touched down pretty much on time onto Runway 19 at Brisbane. Our captain obviously wanted a quick exit off the runway and some heavy breaking was applied (heaviest I've experienced) and we managed to make taxiway A4 and then straight onto the QantasLink apron - where VH-LQB is pictured below later in the morning.

We had a gate on the QantasLink remote parking (Gate 15 I think) and after a short wait for a bus we were soon in the terminal and straight through security to head upstairs in the Qantas terminal and the next part of our flight to Melbourne.

Trip Report – Brisbane to Melbourne – Saturday 16 April – Qantas Airways – QF617 – Boeing B737-838 – VH-VZD.

We got upstairs at the Brisbane Domestic Terminal, but didn't know which to gate to go to, so we took a guess and walked to the end of the Qantas terminal finger in the Brisbane terminal as this is where the ‘City Flyer’ services operate from. Sure enough, we were to depart from Gate 16.

The other good thing about waiting in this area is some good plane spotting opportunities of aircraft at Brisbane taxing to and from Runway 19.

I decided to ask at the Qantas desk about exit row seats and after a bit of passenger shuffling, much to my surprise we were changed to Exit Row 13 - complete with a window!

I do remember from previous flights on Qantas B737s - which we were on today to Melbourne – that the space and legroom of the regular seats in the aircraft is actually quite limited, and for a 2 hour flight, it would probably start to get a bit uncomfortable for my 6-foot plus frame. Better to sit in a roomy seat than squeeze into some other seat!

Anyway, some plane spotting done, boarding was on time and when we sat down, the amount of legroom in the exit row is really fantastic! The B737 features three abreast seating and we did have a person sitting next to us but still the amount of room was fantastic!

Push back was on time and after a short taxi to Runway 19 (past some spotters at the Acacia Street Loop Road) we had a rolling start and take off for the trip South. Nice sweeping left turn after departure on the Laravale SID, which took us toward the Brisbane Bayside, followed by a slow right turn down toward Armidale, and further South.

As we climbed up through the clouds the seatbelt sign was turned off after about 10 minutes, although there still a few bumps with the occasional bigger bump. Captain came on and welcomed us aboard and advised of a 1 hour 55 minute flight to Melbourne, so we settled back and enjoyed the radio with the occasional change to the cabin TV where an episode of Top Gear was playing – no news on weekends!

I noticed that the cabin crew were aged a little older and more experienced than other Australian airlines I have flown with recently. I didn't think they were as was friendly as some of the other airline crews I've had, but they were fine to me and most of the other passengers.

Cabin service began but as the trolley got to about row 10, we hit some pretty heavy turbulence and the seat belt sign quickly came on – but only briefly. Once service resumed we were served a lunch choice of a sandwich or quiche, followed by a drinks service. I had the quiche and some water. The quiche was so fantastic that I asked for more but they had run out they were so good! Even the crew missed out! Oh well…

My wife took the other options of sandwiches, and she also had a (mini) Coke!

I settled back and enjoyed the entertainment and after what didn’t seem like much time at all, the captain came over the PA with the good news that we had picked up a tailwind and we would land about 20 minutes earlier. So a 2 hour flight time became a 1½ hour flight. Nice!

Descent was uneventful with the seat belt sign coming on as we were breaking through some low level cloud. Touch down on Melbourne’s Runway 16 was smooth. Off the runway and taxi past the Virgin Blue terminal and the International terminal, with a Qantas A380 parked on the remote stand.

We taxied onto the Qantas apron and onto our parking gate. Shortly after, we were off the plane and after a couple of plane photos (Singapore Airlines B747-400 in Star Alliance Colours), we went downstairs to collect our bag and pick up our hire car. Our bag was actually one of the last ones out – but at least it made it all the way from Mackay!

It was really great to be travelling with Qantas again – I don’t get to travel on this full service airline much, and I enjoyed it. Although not the friendliest crew to speak to, they were thoroughly professional and really good at their Job. All up, great food, good service, and a great seat although as mentioned, we were lucky to sit in the exit row seat, and be comfortable for the entire flight.

UPDATED HOTEL REVIEW – Accor Hotels Formule One Hotel – Sydney Airport

2011-04-27T20:27:00.000+10:00

This recent plane spotting trip was for a weekend - 2 nights all up - unfortunately it came with a lot of bad weather in Sydney. I flew with Virgin Blue and a Trip Report can be found HERE.

I again stayed near the Airport at the Formula 1 Hotel, and again requested a room on the 6th floor. I was given room 632 - which is in the new wing of the hotel - and at the end of the corridor which has the large window that overlooks the NSW Air Ambulance and the General Aviation apron as shown below.

The room itself didn't have the best views of the airport due to the fire escape staircase being right outside and next to this room - this was disappointing. I could only see the GA Apron - as can be seen in the picture below - and the nearby fast food outlets.

I am thinking that Room 633 which is opposite 632 could be a much better room where a lot more action would be seen.

The hotel was very busy during this weekend stay - the reception desk is open 24-hours a day - and from what I could see and experienced, the staff were very patient and handled everyone (including me) in a very friendly and helpful way.

Facilities at the Hotel are basic – it is officially a 2-star hotel – and their market is for transit passengers who need a bed for a day or a night. The room is small – mine is pictured below – this room features only double bed with a closet style bathroom/toilet, which unfortunately floods when guests take showers. There is also a small TV and desk and chair. The windows are double glazed and keep out the aircraft noise! On-site parking is available for a fee.

Breakfast is available daily in a sitting area on the ground floor of the hotel, and vending machines also provide ample selection of food and drinks for other times of the day. There are also nearby fast food outlets which also offer in-store free wireless internet connections!

Overall, for the enthusiast, this hotel is perfect for a one or two night stay, at most. For a longer stay near the airport, there are other airport hotels nearby that range from three-star to five-star. These offer better facilities, and some enthusiasts report that views of the airport are comparable to the Formula One Hotel.

TRIP REPORT – Brisbane to Sydney to Brisbane – Virgin Blue Airlines (ERJ190/B737-800)

2011-04-25T20:32:00.021+10:00

Trip Report – Brisbane to Sydney – Friday 18 March – Virgin Blue Airlines – DJ958 – Embraer E-190 – VH-ZPK.

This trip was to do some spotting and catch up with family. After my meeting ended at 12pm I ventured to the airport to check-in for my 4pm flight. I used the Virgin Blue Quick Check-in Kiosk, and with a simple swipe of my Velocity card, I received my boarding pass. I was seated towards the back of the plane (again!!) in row 22.

I then had a look at the nearby departures board and noted that my flight was not scheduled to leave until 5pm. Did this mean more spotting time in Brisbane?? So I went upstairs in the Brisbane terminal, through security and took a seat and watched some planes.

I decided to have a walk down the new centre finger (Common User Terminal) redevelopment whilst it was empty. It looks very nice - as shown below - despite some construction still occurring.

It looks like the gates are operational with Tiger Airways, Jetstar, Alliance Airlines, Aeropelican, Sharp Airlines, Skytrans, and Pel-Air (REX) flights all departing from this part of the terminal. I also got a big surprise when I ventured the toilet in this area... Plane spotting opportunities abound!!

I discovered my flight had then been put back a further 15 minutes and saw that in fact all flights to Sydney were running late - poor weather in Sydney was the given reason. I tried my luck to get on an earlier flight that was now also delayed.

It was 3pm and the lovely Virgin Blue staff member got me a seat on the 3.30pm flight which had in fact been rescheduled to depart at 4.00pm. So I was essentially leaving on time!!

Embraer E-190 VH-ZPK arrived on gate 41 to take us South. Boarding started about 3.45pm – we were greeted by Virgin Blue staff in their lovely new uniforms – and by 4pm we had started push back. Shortish taxi to Brisbane’s Runway 01. With the departure to the North, a sweeping right turn had us heading South.

Some good views back to the West over the Port of Brisbane and Brisbane Airport, and further to Brisbane City. Soon after Archerfield Airport came into view, before we disappeared above the clouds. We wouldn't see the ground again until long finals into Sydney.

I was seated in row 10, on the right hand side with a nice view out the window of the wing. The Embraer E-190 is fairly roomy for my 6-foot plus frame - as shown – it’s not very spacious, but I wasn’t cramped up as I can be some bigger planes!

The seatbelt sign stayed on for about 20 minutes and then eventually the food and drink trolley came out. Problem was it only just made it past me in row 10 before descent had commenced and they ceased the service. On descent though, the Captain advised that holding was required to sequence us into Sydney and we were allocated a landing time of 5.30pm. That was about half an hour late for this particular flight... But on time for me according to my original booking!! Holding was done and off we headed to Sydney. Long final approach to Runway 16L with nice views over the airport as we were on finals.

Long taxi past the tower mound viewing area and the control tower and onto the Virgin ramp and parking beside another Embraer and a Boeing B737.

We ended up parking a bit later than expected at 5.45pm. There were some very unhappy passengers that got off the plane and missed flight connections, but I was happy with the Virgin Blue service in that I got Sydney pretty much by the time that I had expected!!

PS - I was greeted by this lovely billboard at the entrance to Sydney Airport while I was walking to my hotel!! I stayed at the Formula One Hotel at the Airport, and a Hotel Review can be found HERE.

Trip Report – Sydney to Brisbane – Sunday 20 March – Virgin Blue Airlines – DJ957 – B737-800 – VH-VON.

Some really poor weather for the couple of days of spotting in Sydney.

I drove back to the airport and dropped off the hire car. Up to the Virgin Blue Self Check-in Kiosks. Nice an easy and received my boarding pass for the flight to Brisbane.

On this occasion, I didn't bother asking for an exit row seat. I had Seat 7A – on the left side of the plane.

Took a couple of more pictures from the terminal but ended up buying some late lunch and then sitting and waiting for my flight. I was sitting at the correct gate, until, as was happening with most of the Virgin Blue flights this afternoon, there was a gate change. So everyone trudged down to Gate 34 - where VH-VON has parked - but there wasn't much seating left! So I, along with lot of other people, stood and waited for the boarding call which came about 10 minutes after the scheduled departure time.

I ended up being one of the final passengers to board and found my seat after shoving the backpack and camera bag into the overhead locker. Surprisingly plenty of overhead locker room, despite this flight being pretty much full. And it was full due to an earlier flight to Brisbane being cancelled - the two ladies beside me were supposed to fly earlier in the morning, but had to wait at the airport all day!

Legroom is okay on the B737-800 - certainly more roomy and comfortable than another B737-800 operator in Australia!!

So push back ended up being 45 minutes late with a seemingly pointless paperwork delay - I say pointless because no-one came to the plane with paperwork and no-one seemed to be taking anything off the plane. One good thing about a delay of this length though, is that it seems that Virgin Blue’s CSM’s are allowed to turn on the AVOD for all passengers FOR FREE!! What a nice touch – especially if there is something good on TV!!

Off we then taxied to Sydney’s Runway 16L. It is a fairly long taxi, but we were fortunate to get a rolling start with quick take off. Lovely views over the Kurnell refineries and Botany Bay, and then a series of turns to head out over the ocean. Then, a series of left turns had us then heading North toward the Gold Coast and then Brisbane.

Through a little bit of low level cloud although it seemed to be clearing up from the last couple of days poor weather - that'd be right!!

The seatbelt sign went off after about 10 minutes and the cabin device began. I bought some fancy new chips, chocolates, and a drink.

With the afternoon sun shining in, the window shades came down for the remainder of the flight.

In all this turned out to be an uneventful flight that went by quite quickly. We started our descent over the Gold Coast – according to the in-flight map anyway! Soon after, the seatbelt sign came on as we started to fly through the cloud that was over the top of South East Queensland.

We broke through the clouds at about Logan and turned onto the Runway 01 ILS overhead Archerfield. Touched down in Brisbane about half an hour after the scheduled time. Many apologies from the CSM about the delays - I believe he said because of weather delays earlier in the day.

Straight off the back of the plane and into the end of the Virgin Terminal - which as pictured, is undergoing some construction work - and to the hire car company for the evening drive to my accommodations.

In all – despite the delays – which are obviously NOT Virgin Blue’s fault – which some passengers don’t believe – these were a couple of enjoyable flights on Virgin Blue. Their product is really high quality and new uniforms are looking really nice and adding a sense of high-end professionalism that is a feature of a system that is becoming a major airline. Some people will still knock the user-pays system, but remember this is still a low-cost airline, and remember you always get what you pay for!!

HOTEL REVIEW – Route 66 Motor Inn – Emerald

2011-03-26T09:22:00.000+10:00

The Route 66 Motor Inn is one of the newest accommodation options in Emerald, which is one of Central Queensland’s rapidly growing towns. It's located close to the centre of town, and is within a 5-10 minute walk to most of Emeralds shops and cafes. It is also located approximately 5km from the Airport.

As shown above, the Route 66 Motor Inn unfortunately fell victim to the recent flooding in Emerald, however the owners have made rapid progress in the clean-up, and at present, about two-thirds of the rooms are available for accommodation.

It was evident from my recent stay that there is some flood damage to these rooms, however, this is merely cosmetic and didn’t affect the overall quality of the room. There is also some parking limitations at the moment, with damaged beds and furniture as well as tradesmen’s vehicles taking up some of the parking spaces normally used by guests.

The owners have also established a flood ‘barrier’ around the motel property.

I have stayed at Route 66 Motor Inn previously, before the flooding, and on each occasion – including this one – the room is very modern, and very comfortable, and, surprisingly spacious. The rooms aren’t much to look at from the outside, but are feature packed, with 1 or 2 beds or bedrooms, air-conditioning, lounge, table and chairs, work desk, LCD TV with free cable TV channels, as well as a fully appointed kitchenette with tea and coffee making facilities.

The bathrooms are also roomy and modern, and feature water-efficient shower heads and an exhaust fan!

The Route 66 Motor Inn has a restaurant, and despite not eating there personally, it is highly regarded, and appears to have a good range of delicious menu items for breakfast and dinner.

The Route 66 Motor Inn aims to cater for all range of travellers – not just the shift worker or executive – but families and tourists alike that may be just passing through town. It is a modern facility and the staff have always been extremely friendly and helpful.

HOTEL REVIEW – Comfort Inn The Rose Motel – Mackay

2011-02-26T11:42:00.005+10:00

The Comfort Inn The Rose Motel Mackay has always been one of my favoured places to stay in Mackay. The Hotel is located on Nebo Road (the Bruce Highway), about 4km from the Airport, and about 4km from the City Centre.

Facilities at the motel are quite good with both standard (featuring one bed) and bigger deluxe rooms (with two beds and a lounge) available. Both types of rooms feature air-conditioning, TV with free cable TV channels, as well as tea and coffee making facilities. A coin operated laundry, and a Mediterranean styled pool area with BBQ facilities, are also available for motel guests.

The motel boasts a restaurant, which opens for breakfast and dinner, and room service is available. There are also other places to eat nearby to the hotel, including fast food, Asian food, and the popular Shamrock Hotel (a pub) across from the hotel on the other side of the highway.

For plane spotters, the hotel (like most hotels on Nebo Road) boasts superb views of aircraft either taking off from Runway 32, and on final approach to Runway 14 at Mackay Airport. The photo below, taken from the hotels pool area, and over the roof of the motel, shows a Virgin Blue B737 arriving on Runway 14 at Mackay Airport.

So with its convenience, reasonable rates, and comfortable and always clean facilities, the Comfort Inn The Rose Motel Mackay will always be my first choice for accommodation in Mackay.

TRIP REPORT – Mackay to Brisbane to Mackay – Jetstar Airways (A320) / Virgin Blue Airlines (ERJ190)

2011-02-01T06:00:00.000+10:00

Trip report – Mackay to Brisbane – Monday 3 January – Jetstar Airways – JQ883 – A320-200 – VH-VQK.

With most of the state of Queensland affected by devastating flooding, we had our driving holiday plans scuttled, and so it was necessary to fly to Brisbane from Airlie Beach to attend a friends wedding. Unfortunately at the short notice we needed the flights, there was only a limited availability out of Proserpine with only the most expensive seats available - $400 plus one way each person!

We decided to check Mackay and much to our surprise, most flights from Mackay to Brisbane were still available in the cheap bracket. The downside was a 2-hour drive from Airlie Beach to Mackay Airport South along the Bruce Highway.

Our outbound flight was with Jetstar, which meant we needed to be at the airport by around 9.15am to meet their half-hour check-in requirement. So we hit the road early and after a good drive we parked at the Mackay Airport Secured Undercover Long Term carpark – cost about $14 per day.

No-one in the check-in line so straight up to the counter. Bags checked-in and an unsuccessful enquiry about seats with extra legroom. We were assigned an isle and centre in the three-abreast seating of this Jetstar A320 aircraft - no windows available - and a telling off from the check-in agent to use the Internet to check-in early for a preferred seat! Fortunately, Jetstar's leather seats are quite comfortable and roomy enough for my 6-foot frame - except for when a back-rest is put on your legs!

Time for some overpriced breakfast from the Airport café and a walk around the Mackay Airport redevelopment site. A nice new newsagency to enjoy – “RELAY” – and plenty of boarding up where future shops are being built - as shown below.

Jetstar’s A320 VH-VQK arrived from Brisbane so we went through security – single line – which that took a some time while everyone had problems removing change and phones etc from their pockets!

We took our seats in the waiting area for the 9.30am boarding call - limited views to the aircraft parking area shown above. Our departure time at 9.45am came and there had been no announcements… until… it was announced we would be delayed by 15 minutes… and then… due to an engine problem… we would be delayed “indefinitely”.

Our plane was broken and we were going nowhere.

Turns out Jetstar ground crew had fixed the problem, but needed a licensed engineer to sign off on the work. Because there are none in Mackay, one was summoned from Cairns and it was announced that he would be flown down and due to arrive about 1.30pm, meaning we would hopefully be getting airborne about 2pm.

Jetstar handled this quite well – they kept all passengers well informed – in fact even the captain of our flight – who was obviously stuck too – came over the microphone to inform us all about what was happening. That was a nice touch.

Anyway, we went back to the main airport waiting area for some coffee and then lunch – again from the overpriced café – although selections were pretty limited due to the café being low on stock.

At 1pm we went back through security into the waiting area. At 1.20pm a small Cessna arrived and parked next to VH-VQK. An engineer popped out of the Cessna and into the A320. At that time we were invited to start boarding. As we approached VH-VQK at the front stairs, the engineer came down the back stairs and back in the Cessna and off they went… in all a 5-minute job for the engineer!!

So at 2pm, we were off – back-taxied and then rumbled down Mackay’s Runway 14.

It was a very bumpy climb through the clouds – the passenger with the window beside me bumped her head on the side wall at least twice – poor thing. I reckon the seat belt sign stayed on until we were nearly at our cruising altitude of 36000ft. Some pictures shown below taken out of the window - some of the flooding in Central Queensland can be seen.

Cabin service was very quick – suppose all the passengers had lunch in the terminal – although the alcohol was a popular option for some passengers!

The captain came on shortly before descent and advised us of our landing time and conditions in Brisbane. He then turned on the seat belt sign advising us that there was some ‘weather’ between us and Brisbane. A few bumps on descent – nothing major – but a very long final down the ILS and then touch down on Brisbane’s Runway 01.

We parked on Gate 29 (AKA Gate 37) which is one of the stand-off gates at the end of the centre finger of the Domestic Terminal at Brisbane which is being re-developed. This meant a walk along the tarmac and through a new ground level walkway and across an internal road before entering the ground floor of the Brisbane Domestic Terminal – right at the baggage collection carousel. Some photos below show this walkway and the developments taking place – complete with a new additional baggage carousel.

On the whole, it was a good flight, although the length of the delay did muck up plans we had for that day. I suppose engineering problems always crop up with airlines. In my opinion though, Jetstar handled our delay well – we were kept well informed – and they made every effort to get us away as quickly and as safely as possible.

Trip report – Brisbane to Mackay – Monday 10 January – Virgin Blue Airlines – DJ609 – Embraer ERJ-190 – VH-ZPA.

It was a very wet start in Brisbane and after driving through rain all the way to the airport we were glad to be under cover and in the terminal. Returned the hire car without drama and proceeded to the virgin blue check-in area.

We used the quick check kiosk (interesting to hear these maybe done away with soon) and we were assigned two seats in the very back row. Checking if other seats were available I could see that the Embraer ERJ-190 we were to fly on, was full.

I'm starting to wonder how airlines allocate seats as I seem to always now have seats assigned in the rear section of the planes I am travelling. Dropped the bags off and through security to enjoy a coffee and watch planes through the rain! Soon after VH-ZPA arrived on Gate 40 to take us to Mackay.

The rain had stopped and boarding soon started. We boarded via the tarmac and rear stairs. It was announced that push back would be delayed whilst connecting passengers joined us from another flight. Should be about a 5 minute delay.

We were actually ready to go at 10.50am, but once these passengers came and the plane was closed, we eventually pushed back at 11.15am, that was 15 minutes late.

Quick taxi to Brisbane’s runway 01 and we were airborne after a long and rough take off roll. Plenty of wind and bumps as we climbed, and the seat belt sign was off about 20 minutes into the flight.

The seats in the Embraer ERJ-190 are quite cosy but not uncomfortable. They are in a 2-by-2 configuration. It also helps when the passenger in front doesn't put their seat back onto you!

Several passengers were interested in the views out of the plane of the flooded areas of Central Queensland. The photos below show what Bundaberg looked like.

Cabin service was complete after about 10 minutes with not too many people buying lunch - we decided to wait until we arrived at Mackay as well!

It was fairly clear outside and as we commenced our descent there were some lovely views out to the Whitsunday islands, and the coal terminal at Hay Point with all the ships parked in the sea waiting to load, as shown below.

I'm sure the other side of the plane would have had the less pretty views of the flooded city of Rockhampton.

Soon Mackay Airport was visual out the left side of the plane and with a sweeping left turn were on finals and then touched down on Runway 14, about 10 minutes late. Plenty of apron works this week with drainage pipes being replaced, so a longer than normal taxi past the northern apron with the Pel Air Saab freighter and a nice surprise of a Convair 580 freighter of Pionair, We parked next to another Embraer, with this one coming up direct from Sydney.

We were one of the last off the plane with only the front stairs used at Mackay to disembark the plane – always. Into the construction zone that is the terminal and to wait for our bags which took about 15 minutes to come through in fits and spurts - connecting bags first - direct bags like ours, near then end.

Off the carpark, paid the big bill, and off for lunch. A great trip in the Embraer, enough room for my big frame, but I am getting a bit sick of always being allocated seats at the back amongst the screaming kids!

HOTEL REVIEW – Budget Motel Chain – The Gold Coast Airport Motel – North Kirra

2011-01-26T18:00:00.000+10:00

I’ve stayed at this motel on previous occasions, both by myself and with my parents. On all occasions, the owners – Tony and Sue – have offered high quality and reasonably priced accommodation and a very friendly and warm welcome that makes every stay at this hotel fantastic.

Despite being an “Airport Motel”, there are actually no views of the Airport from the motel. Its location is actually across from the Gold Coast Airport at North Kirra on Golden Four Drive (across the Gold Coast Highway). This means the airport is an easy 5 minute drive or 15 minute walk across these two major motorways.

The hotel is part of the Budget Motel Chain, and only has a 3-star rating. That said though, each room I have stayed is always presented in a very clean and tidy manner. The rooms are also serviced daily. In my opinion this motel presents to a higher standard than other 3 and 3½ star motels that I have stayed.

The Gold Coast Airport Motel provides a number of room choices with all of these having air-conditioning, a refrigerator, and tea and coffee making facilities. Room service to all rooms is also available, and there is a pool and spa at the property.

However, one of the main features of the motel for the traveller is that the owners offer a free pick-up and drop-off service from and to the Airport. They guarantee to meet all flights into Gold Coast Airport. For this service, you simply need to ask. Should you have a car, there is free parking with some undercover spaces available.

The Gold Coast Airport Motel is close to the beach and surf clubs, shopping centres, cinemas, restaurants, and it is just a 20 minute drive to Jupiter's Casino and Surfers Paradise. There is public transport at the motel's front door, with Surf Side bus links to Robina rail station giving you easy access to Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

I highly recommend the Gold Coast Airport Motel to enthusiasts as it offers affordable accommodation in a great location, directly opposite the Airport. With this convenient location and excellent service, you can be assured of absolute comfort, privacy and safety.

TRIP REPORT – Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) to Brisbane to Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) – Virgin Blue Airlines (B737-700) / Jetstar Airways (A320)

2011-01-20T18:00:00.001+10:00

Trip report – Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) to Brisbane – Sunday 26 December 2010 – Virgin Blue Airlines – DJ1118 – B737-700 – VH-VBK.

With the prediction of flooding rain for the Whitsundays we left Airlie Beach early to head to the airport. The Whitsunday Coast / Proserpine Airport is about 10km out of Proserpine. All up it was about a 40km journey from Airlie Beach.

We got to the airport about 9am to be greeted by the cleaner and the sign below. The cleaner stated that the Virgin Blue staff will open the terminal when they arrive at about 12.20pm. This is a Whitsunday Regional Council regulation. With my wife heading home, it left me with a 3½ hour wait outside trying not to get wet.

Whilst sitting outside it was interesting to note that the airport currently has a very small carpark. It had quickly filled up, meaning most arriving cars had to park on grass or in mud and even in some cases illegally. This needs to be improved - do not drive and park here!!

Also, the terminal is currently undergoing a major redevelopment as shown below.

Several airport staff arrived around midday, as did some other early bird passengers. Right on cue at 12.20pm the doors opened.

There were about a dozen people there so check-in was quick and easy at one of the three desks. In fact for most of the time, the queue was never really long despite three or four buses arriving with groups of passengers from Airlie Beach and surrounding areas.

The simple canteen was quite busy - especially being lunchtime - and the limited seating quickly filled up. Some people were left standing with most of the outside seats wet or having smokers nearby.

About 40 minutes before departure Virgin Blue announced that passengers should go through the single security check point to avoid congestion. Most people did this and the security queue was never really long. Through to another seating area before proceeding past the works area and out to the tarmac and the plane – no aerobridges here!

There is basically one gate for arrivals and departures with the rest of the terminal closed for the redevelopment which should see more gates and bigger seating areas.

One of Virgin Blue’s Boeing B737-700s, VH-VBK, arrived for our flight to Brisbane.

Once boarding commenced so did another torrential downpour, but to Virgin Blue’s credit two large bins of umbrellas arrived for passengers to use to get to the plane. It was then interesting to note the Virgin Blue staff - who only service this one flight for the day - were then going about their duties in the pouring rain without any covering!! That's commitment!!

And then right as the front door of the plane closed, the rain stopped!

We started and taxied away on time and were quickly in the air off Proserpine’s Runway 11. Some good views of the flooding around the Bruce Highway before we disappeared into the clouds. The next sighting of the ground was on late finals into Runway 01 in Brisbane!

I paid for the extra legroom of Row 12 and was assigned the window with a clueless woman in the aisle next to me. Live TV was working fine too! Plenty of room - remembering the seats in Row 11 in front do not recline - something a young couple couldn't understand until I explained this to them after they accused me parking my knees in the back of their seats!

Just after an hour in the air, we were into a very wet Brisbane. Taxi to Gate 41 and then off the plane - in all we were dead on time! Bags came out quickly - but wet!

Trip report – Brisbane to Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) – Friday 31 December 2010 – Jetstar Airways – JQ830 – A320-232 – VH-JQX.

With the Virgin Blue lunch time flight to Proserpine having only the flexible expensive tickets available, it was Jetstar that I had to take back to Airlie Beach. The downside was an evening arrival into Proserpine with scheduled touch down at 6.35pm local.

Like previous flights with Jetstar, check-in opened 2 hours prior to the scheduled take off time of 4.55 pm. I had already booked the exit row window seat of 12A, and was issued with my boarding pass and baggage tag using the automatic check-in kiosk at the Jetstar terminal in Brisbane (pictured below).

Through security and a wait to see one of Jetstar’s oldest Airbus A320s – VH-JQX - arrive to take us north.

Boarding commenced a little late through Gate 38 which is an aerobridge gate at Brisbane. The flight looked to be pretty full but everyone was soon seated and we ended up pushing back about 10 minutes late. We taxied out past the centre finger which is looking to be nearly complete, and then we later passed the main spotting spot at Brisbane - the Acacia Street "Loop Road" - some pictures below taken through a dirty window!

Take off from Brisbane’s Runway 19 with some nice views (although through the dirty window) out to the Eastern suburbs of Brisbane and Moreton Bay. The other side of the plane had the best view of Brisbane city! With the CORAL SID we completed our turn to the North to be greeted by the low afternoon sun shining brightly though the left side windows. Window shades down!

The seatbelt sign remained on for some time before the cabin crew started their cart service. This was quick with not too many purchases from the cart - I had the Pringles!

Everything was completed pretty quickly and after about another 10 minutes we started descent into Proserpine. The seat belt sign came on pretty quickly as well, with some big patches of cloud around Mackay and Proserpine, but all the way to touch down there weren't too many bumps.

After a series of left turns from overhead the field - which couldn't really see due to cloud - we were on a long final to Proserpine’s Runway 11.

We touched down a little late and after a back taxi along the runway we parked on Jetstar’s gate at the northern end of the apron.

Off the plane and into the terminal which was quite busy and hectic with about a dozen or so transfer, taxi, and limousine drivers all milling around with their passengers. After finding my wife we went outside to wait for my bags which come on a trolley to the baggage collection area for both airlines which is outside of the terminal.

With Jetstar’s container usage, the bags needed to be unloaded from these and placed onto the trolleys. This was a time consuming process and then of course the outward baggage had to be loaded onto the outbound flight as well! The bags eventually came through after about 20 minutes and then it was a free for all to get the bags.

Bags collected, it was time to hit the road with a slow drive out of the airport and pretty much all traffic headed to Proserpine with most continuing to Airlie Beach.

A nice flight with Jetstar. Although the current situation at Proserpine Airport, with the luggage collection described above needs to be improved. Hopefully this will occur with the redevelopment in progress. A baggage collection area with a carousel will be installed. To be honest, this facelift and the others can't the finished soon enough!!

In all, it will be interesting to see the final product of the Proserpine redevelopment - it is currently a small airport with few facilities - and only has two scheduled RPT flights each day - hopefully a bigger and better airport will encourage more airlines and destinations to come to Proserpine!!

HOTEL REVIEW – Quality Hotel Sheridan Plaza – Cairns

2011-01-10T18:00:00.000+10:00

I had seen this hotel on Sheridan Street in Cairns during a recent trip up North and thought that I would give it a try as a "Plane Spotting Hotel". There are other hotels on Sheridan Street, in fact I stayed in another further towards Cairns City some years earlier, however this hotel is the closest major Cairns Hotel to Cairns Airport – about 2-3km to the terminal. And it’s also only 2-3km to the Cairns Central shopping centre.

This hotel is advertised as “affordable luxury”, and I would agree. This modern, 4 ½ star, boutique style Hotel is quite reasonably priced for a short-term stay. Our price also included a full buffet breakfast each morning in the main downstairs bar/restaurant.

The hotel has seen some recent refurbishments and features three types of rooms from deluxe (as we had shown below) to expansive suites.

What I like the best though, was that about half of the 74 rooms in the hotel have a view onto Sheridan Street from a private balcony (as we had). This provides almost unobstructed views to the some of the flight paths to and from the airport. The preferred runway for plane spotting from the hotel is Runway 33 in Cairns, when literally all aircraft pass by the front of the hotel on short finals for landing. I have found this runway is used a lot in the tropical summer months of December and January. Some pictures are shown below.

Should Runway 15 be in use, spotters can still see all departing traffic, although some of the smaller aircraft will make an early left turn before they actually reach the hotel as shown below.

The hotel has superb facilities, with a mini-bar, fridge, and tea and coffee making facilities in the air-conditioned room. The hotel also has a gymnasium, outdoor pool, free Internet Kiosk, guest laundry, and free undercover parking. The hotel staff were always friendly, and the ladies at the check-in desk provided great assistance to us in booking tourist day trips to local attractions.

There is a service station next door to the hotel, and being on a busy street does provide a fairly high level of noise that has caused some negative reviews of this hotel. However, I would recommend the Quality Hotel Sheridan Plaza as a good choice to stay for the aviation enthusiast.

TRIP REPORT – British Airways – London (Heathrow) to Paris (Charles De Gaulle) and return – Boeing B767-300

2011-01-01T21:25:00.000+10:00

14 September 2010 – BA306 – London (Heathrow)-Paris(Charles De Gaulle) – Boeing B767-300 – G-BZHB

After spending two wonderful days of spotting at the Renaissance Hotel (photos below), we arranged for the free Hoppa bus (included in the Spotters Accommodation package) to take us to Terminal 5. We must have just missed the bus as there was no-one waiting… so we waited about 20 minutes and along came the hotel guests, and then finally the bus!

Heathrow’s Terminal 5 is a HUGE place – and the home of British Airways. Check-in was really quick and easy at one of the many BA self-check-in kiosks (they are similar the Qantas terminals we have in Australia). We then proceeded towards a counter to drop our bags off. We were through this process almost straight away as we were ushered by a friendly BA assistant to an empty counter. Bags checked-in, although some rearranging had to occur as BA has a policy that no bag shall be over 27kg.

Through security and immigration – not much of a queue – although VERY strict and different screening procedures to Australia – we had to remove almost every lose article of our body/clothes/feet!

This is when we found Terminal 5 mind-blowingly huge… To the left and right were shops galore – and straight out front was a food hall – about 50 metres past that was the huge glass front and aircraft gates – see some photos below.

We wandered around and enjoyed a lovely fried breakfast at one of the restaurants. This was followed by some quick shopping, before we finally found our gate and a nearby seat.

Our gate was part of a ‘double gate’ – Gates 15 and 16 together – and of course, two flights were leaving through these gates at the same time – so things were hectic! Our plane - G-BZHB - is shown below waiting for us!

The boarding time came by and we eventually heard our call about 10 minutes later. Straight down the escalator to the ground floor of the terminal and out the gate and into our B767. The front was a business class setup (Club Europe Zone), with what looked like two sections of economy (Euro Traveller Zone) with different seat pitches.

We took our seats right at the back of the plane – Row 40 – and in the centre – no windows!

The overhead lockers were surprisingly quite small so packing bags in these were a challenge – problems were also caused by the amount of ‘stuff’ that some people brought on board!

We ended up pushing back pretty much on schedule, and soon after we started our taxi off to Runway 27 Right. A nice long taxi past the outlying sections of Terminal 5, and then past Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Plenty of interesting aircraft to be seen outside the windows – but alas were stuck in the middle of the plane!

Probably about 20 minutes after we started the taxi, we lined up and were airborne towards Paris – all up it is about a 40 minute flight.

After a few minutes, the captain advised that the cabin service could start and soon after the crew swung into full gear – I have never seen cabin crew work so fast! It was breakfast time and the crew got through the entire B767-300 cabin, handing out breakfast rolls and a cold drink in about 10 minutes.

They packed up these trolleys – and while we were still eating our breakfast – the crew had proceeded to start collecting the rubbish from the forward part of the cabin.

While we were eating I realised that we had already started our descent in Paris. Suddenly, the captain advised the crew that there was 10 minutes to landing – the crew looked at each other and shifted in to overdrive!

We finished the snack and our rubbish was collected. The cabin was then prepared – seatbelt sign on – cabin checks done – aircraft was on finals!! All seated in time for touch down on Runway 27 Right and a warm welcome to a sunny and crisp Paris!!

We then taxied across the field – past a new Air France A380 and several very exotic types and the various terminals at Charles De Gaulle.

We eventually got to our gate at Terminal 2A and were able to disembark. Through a couple of walkways – basically following the ‘crowd’ – and to immigration. Passport stamped and off to baggage collection.

Despite being about the only plane arriving into Terminal 2A, the bags came out after about 20 minutes waiting… Ours came – and was damaged – a nice big hole in the side of our nice new bag… Thanks British Airways!

Through arrivals and we found our transfer to our Paris Hotel.

17 September 2010 – BA303 – Paris (Charles De Gaulle)-London (Heathrow) – Boeing B767-300 – G-BZHA

So after a few lovely days in the French capital it was time to head to Rome, albeit via London (Heathrow). We arrived at Charles De Gaulle terminal 2A, and found a big group of people looking rather disorganized, and yes, that was the queue to check-in for British Airways.

It seemed that our flight to Heathrow was the only one leaving this part of the terminal this morning. Although I then noticed the Kuwait Airways check-in open next door. It was in its own secured portion of the terminal and was under armed guard. Passengers only permitted to enter… Not even this Aussie tourist in search of a toilet!

After finding that much needed toilet stop, (too much good food the night before!!!), the BA check-in queue was bigger and much more disorganised.

There was one issue I found with BA’s setup – the automatic check-in counters were placed near the queues so passengers were struggling to check-in – and this was an issue as the BA staff would eventually only take bags from those who had already checked-in… It was chaos!!

So after waiting about 10 minutes, I noticed a kiosk was free, so I seized my opportunity to check-in on one of the kiosks. Boarding passes in hand, we lined up along with everyone else, and then after about another 10 minutes, BA staff arrived and began collecting bags… But chaos continued… Suddenly 320 different lines of people were forced to merge into one 10m roped off line to drop bags… aaarrrrggghhh!!!

Eventually with boarding pass in hand, we got to hand over our bag and politely requested if it could be taped up a but seeing how BA ripped it during the inbound flight. We received a stern look and a telling off that we should have done something about it when we arrived, but the girl behind the counter found some tape and the temporary repairs were completed.

Upstairs through security and passport control. Pretty easy and quick in Paris – again, we had to remove virtually everything from our bodies.

Found our gate and found some food – we still hadn't eaten breakfast and there were no good food shops open – aaarrrrggghhh!!!

Boarding commenced pretty much on time and soon we took our seats by the window at about the middle of the plane on the right hand side. These seats seemed to be a bit roomier than the inbound flight. Again like the inbound flight, passengers struggled to fit their luggage in the overheads. This flight was also full.

As the sun finally came up over Paris we pushed back and commenced a long taxi from Terminal 2A to the other side of the airport to depart from Runway 27 Left. It was a pity the window was foggy as we taxied past some beautiful and exotic aircraft parked on aprons just ready for spotters to log (as shown below)!!

Take off was pretty quick, and after a series of right hand turns over the French country-side, we set course for the English Channel and on to London.

The cabin service was very fast again. We had a 45 minute flight time, and breakfast (a roll again) along with a drink was served, consumed, and packed up in about 20 minutes. By this time, we were descending into London Heathrow’s Runway 27 Right. Surprisingly there was no holding, and we proceeded straight into London. The photos below shown downtown London and the view to the South, as we made our final approach.

Off the runway and past terminal 3, it was a fairly quick taxi to our gate at Terminal 5. We taxied past several BA aircraft already parked, and after a short delay for another aircraft to get out of the way, we pulled into our gate. Some photos below show London Heathrow in the early morning.

Off the plane, and straight to the immigration queue. Passport stamped and bags collected. Out through the ‘Nothing to Declare’ door – and no quarantine officers – pretty surprising compared to Australia!

Off to find a taxi and a quick trip to Terminal 4 for our flight to Rome.

Overall I really like the British Airways product on this short haul sector. The only downside was the chaos that we endured while waiting to check-in at Paris. Perhaps arriving at the airport a little later might have meant less time waiting and less frustration – who knows? It was an experience that I have never experienced in Australia, and hope never to. About 10metres of roped off line doesn’t work with about 200 impatient and tired passengers, who want to check-in, drop bags, and find some breakfast and coffee.

On board both flights though, the cabin crew were thoroughly professional, and have obviously been doing this job well for a number of years. The quick cabin service didn’t seem to faze them, and at all times – even when trying to fit huge bags into the small overhead compartments – they remained calm and professional… Really impressive!!

I would definitely be happy to fly with British Airways again – although perhaps next time, I would try to check-in online – or before we got to the terminal – to save some time and hassle with queuing with the many other frustrated passengers…

TRIP REPORT – Royal Brunei Airlines – Brisbane to London (Heathrow) to Brisbane – Boeing B777-200 – LONG!

2010-12-24T20:08:00.008+10:00

The actual routing of this trip was Brisbane – Brunei (Bandar Seri Begawan) – Dubai – London – Dubai – Brunei – Brisbane

Saturday 11 September 2010 – BI0074 – Brisbane-Brunei (Bandar Seri Begawan) – Boeing B777-212(ER) – V8-BLB

Check-in was to open at about 10.30am (2 hours prior to take off) so we had some time to have a drink and sit around for about an hour. The check-in queue was not that long by the time we joined the queue, and with 6 check-in points for the economy section, after 20 minutes, we were at the front of the queue. One surprise once we got the front the queue was that we were checked-in on a business class check-in point – obviously this section is a little quieter – so it is a nice touch that they process more passengers by ushering them into the business class line!

Unfortunately though, being checked-in on a business class didn’t equal an upgrade. But we enquired and received a pair of seats in the bulk head row (52) which meant extra leg-room for the trip to Brunei.

The flight (like all on the Royal Brunei) was going to be full, so hand baggage restrictions were strictly adhered to – 7kg – we had to shuffle some jackets and pants to the big suitcase so we could carry our laptop and other toiletries on board. Our bags were checked right through to London, and we were also issued with boarding passes for the next sectors from Brunei to Dubai and then London. We had to check on the ground in Brunei about the availability of bulk-head seats as system locked Brisbane agents out.

Boarding was by row number and was strictly enforced. We were eventually called aboard and found the other passengers in our row had taken pretty much all of the overhead space… so we pushed and shoved and managed to make all our stuff fit!! Turns out my wife and I got to spread out across the centre three seat of Row 52 – the economy section of these ex-Singapore Airlines aircraft are 3x3x3.

Also on these B777s are Personal Televisions with Audio Visual Entertainment on demand, with movies, televisions shows, radio, video games, and travel maps and times.

Hot towels came out, followed by comfort packs with socks, eye mask, and toothbrush and toothpaste. There was a spoken safety demonstration, before push-back about 5 minutes late. Take off was from Brisbane’s Runway 01, and with the IBUNA SID, we made a series of right-hand turns to overfly the field and then towards the North-West.

As with all these long-haul Royal Brunei flights, a snack is served first – about 10-15 minutes after take-off, followed by a main meal about one hour or so into the flight. Royal Brunei is an alcohol-free airline which suited us fine, and seemed to keep most of the younger and perhaps rowdy passengers away from this airline with the majority of passengers on these flights being married with children and generally over 40! Drinks (water/juice) and nibblies are offered regularly, before another meal service about two hours prior to landing. The selection of meals was pretty limited – generally beef or chicken.

One thing I did like was that the Royal Brunei Flight Attendants, when not serving food and drinks, kept freshening up the toilets, so while we were seated close to the toilets, a fresh essence kept wafting out!! Even after 6 hours of flying the toilets were very clean and fresh!!

The flight time seemed to pass fairly quickly, probably helped by watching a couple of the movies on the AVOD system. It was indeed a great system, with plenty of new release and classic movies that would suit all ages!!

We were starting our descent into Brunei and the captain turned the seatbelt sign pretty much straight away advising that there are some tropical storms nearby. There were some light bumps but nothing major. We broke through the clouds and made a series of left hand turns and landed at Bandar Seri Begawan Airport on dusk.

A nice little International Airport that has got its market well identified and catered to. Transit passengers (like us) were ushered off the plane and through a well signed passageway into the waiting area of the terminal – no chance of passing through immigration “by mistake”!! The terminal area has plenty of seating and a nice selection of souvenir and food shops, including two cafes that serve hot and cold food, and coffee and tea! There are also day-stay rooms down a set of stairs – something we investigated for the return journey – as well as toilets and showers.

The pictures below show the terminal area and aircraft parking area with two of Royal Brunei's B777-200's waiting for departures later in the evening.

Saturday 11 September 2010 – BI0097 – Brunei (Bandar Seri Begawan)-Dubai-London (Heathrow) – Boeing B777-212(ER) – V8-BLA

No bulk-head seats available for this long sector to Dubai and then onto London (Heathrow). Our flight was called about 2 hours prior to departure (after about 2 hours waiting in the terminal), and we passed through a security check-point before proceeding to a smaller departure gate lounge. Some people were found out and not happy about this procedure especially with the restrictions on liquids seeing numerous bottles of water being surrendered. We emptied our water bottle in the terminal and were able to refill it onboard the plane!! Nice!!

We boarded and had a window and centre on row 58 – with another passenger in the isle. It was interesting that a prayer was said before this flight unlike the service from Brisbane. The plane pushed back pretty much on schedule, and after a nice long roll down the runway, we set off for Dubai.

Despite not having the extra legroom of the bulk-head seat, these seats were fairly comfortable for my six foot frame, and with a bit of wriggling around, I was able to get fairly comfortable and catch some shut eye! Same sort of in-flight service occurred in this sector, and again the Flight Attendants when not serving food and drinks were doing a sterling job at keeping the toilets clean and fresh.

Nice smooth descent and some great views over the city and high-rises of Dubai, saw us land about midnight Dubai time to a balmy 38 degrees centigrade outside!!

Upon disembarking the plane, we surrendered our boarding passes at an arrivals gate and received a numbered card. Upstairs into the arrivals area – and toilets and drink taps – before we were diverted to a security screening point and then back down to the lower level departure area.

WOW!! Dubai is an opulent terminal with big open spaces and plenty of intricate and beautiful decorations (as shown below).

Plenty of easy to read sign-postings – and plenty of shopping outlets!! Also plenty of gates, and ours was about a 5 minute walk back down to the end of the terminal. With this essentially being a transit stop, with only a handful of passengers leaving and joining the flight, by the time we had reached the gate area, the gate was open and we were able to sit in the waiting area for the flight. It was here that our numbered cards were swapped for our boarding passes which were the original ones received in Brunei. V8-BLA is pictured below waiting for its passengers.

Boarding was a little late, but a short taxi to the runway, saw us in the air shortly after 2am. I took a couple of pictures of the AVOD TV flight map shortly after leaving Dubai and overhead Europe.

We had the same seats as one the previous sector, and again we were fortunate to be able to get some sleep on this sector. In-flight service was again the same as the previous sectors, however the meal before landing at London was a nice breakfast of a beef roll.

We commenced descent shortly after crossing the English coast, and were advised that we needed 20 minutes of holding for a landing time of 6.05am (which was still early then scheduled). This holding seemed to go on forever, and included a thorough spraying of the cabin. By my watch, we circled for about 30 minutes, but that said, we then had some direct tracking to overhead London – with some fantastic dawn views over the Thames, O2 Arena, Houses of Parliament, and Hyde Park - some grainy pictures below!

We landed Runway 24L at about 6.10am and with Royal Brunei operating from Terminal 4 at Heathrow, a short taxi had us on the Gate at about 6.15am. V8-BLA is pictured below parked at Heathrow.

It was quite cold outside – a big change from Dubai!! With Terminal 4 not at its busiest yet, immigration was pretty quick and easy, through to baggage reclaim, and wonder of wonders, our bag made it safe!! Quarantine is pretty relaxed as compared to Australia, with an unchallenged path through the ‘Green Line’ (nothing to declare).

In all, I was really impressed with Royal Brunei. I don’t mind that they don’t serve alcohol as I’m not a drinker on aeroplanes. I thought the menu items for the meals, despite being limited in range, were really tasty and I enjoyed each meal that I had whilst on board. The extra touches that the Flight Attendants do – fetching extra food and drinks, assisting with sick passengers, and the cleaning/maintenance of the toilets – was really impressive and should be commended. A really great in-flight experience – I was really looking forward to the long journey home at the end of the holiday!!

Thursday 30 September 2010 – BI0098 – London (Heathrow)-Dubai-Brunei (Bandar Seri Begawan) – Boeing B777-212(ER) – V8-BLE

Well our holiday was over… An early start in Central London had us on the way to the airport at 5am for our 9am departure. Made it to Terminal 4 to find that check-in wasn’t open, and a queue about 30 people long. We decided to join the queue, and ended up waiting about 30 minutes before check-in finally opened with 6 agents working the Economy lines.

Had a nice check-in agent, who checked us and our bags through to Brisbane. Enquires were made about a seat in the bulkhead row and much to our delight, we were provided with a window and centre on the left-hand side of Row 52 (just behind the wing). Through security at Heathrow to find some breakfast (eventually at Starbucks), and a seat to relax and watch some arrivals on Runway 27L. Boarding began about 30 minutes prior to departure, and was again by row number. We took our seats – plenty of room in the overhead lockers this time – and with all passengers aboard, we pushed back about 5 minutes after the scheduled departure time.

We received our hot towels – but they were cold – and then received our comfort packs. Taxi to depart on Runway 27R – crossing Runway 27L and taxi past the redevelopments on Terminal 2. We had to wait for a couple of departures, but about 15 minutes after push back, we were airborne and heading South-East towards Dubai.

A fairly slow climb up to 36000 feet, with some nice views over the English countryside as shown below.

The flight attendants got the go ahead to start their in-flight service about 10 minutes after take-off, with the seatbelt sign eventually being turned off about 25 minutes after departure. Service was essentially the same as the previous flights, with nuts and soft drinks or juice coming out first, and then a meal – either beef or chicken (again) following about an hour later. We settled in for the cruise, enjoying the Personal TV Entertainment unit, which again was working faultlessly. As we approached the Middle East, our attention was then drawn to the Jett8 Cargo B747 Freighter flying below us as we commenced flying over the Afghanistan mountains. Some of the 'sights' are pictured below.

Night was falling as we commenced our descent into Dubai, with some spectacular views again of the city (the grainy picture below was the best I could do!).

We landed a little early, and with a short taxi, we were parked out our gate. Same procedure as the London bound flight – we were ushered off the plane, we received our numbered card, through the security check point for transit passengers, and back down to the departures lounge. We had a bit of time to spare, so had a quick look at a couple of shops (so many!!), and stocked up on water for the next leg of our journey. Also bought a Dubai magnet for the collection and was shocked at the very favourable exchange rate (compared to UK Pounds!).

Boarding gate opened, and we traded our numbered card for our original boarding pass. About a 20 minute wait and we were back on the B777 and ready for the next part of the trip to Brunei.

Pushed back pretty much on time, and a short taxi to the active runway – now in the opposite direction to our landing – so take off was about 5 minutes after we commenced our taxi. Again lovely views of Dubai on our climb out, and the in-flight service was again similar to the other flights. We decided to settle down and try to get some sleep, as departure from Dubai was at about 8pm and landing in Brunei was expected at about 8am (local).

We did manage to have some shut eye (which was good), but were woken up for the morning meal service about 2 hours prior to landing. Breakfast was egg or soup – the egg was quite tasty! Like the last sector into Brunei, the captain of this flight warned us of tropical storms on the approach path, so soon after we commenced descent, the seatbelt sign came on. Shortly after this, the spray also came out for the cabin. Descent was smooth, and with limited traffic into Brunei, we landed a little ahead of schedule with the sun shinning and the humidity running high!! We taxied past the military area and the Sultans VIP aircraft parking hangars (both pictured below on the opposite side to the terminal).

Brunei is really a quiet little airport, with only an Air Asia X Airbus A320, as well as some parked Royal Brunei B777s and A320s noted at the terminal (pictured below).

Before we disembarked the plane, all passengers were advised of their options for what to do during their time in transit. Passengers can be issued with temporary visitor visa for about $5 Brunei dollars, and then travel into the city where some passengers had booked hotel rooms for the day. There are also as many as three transit tours to different parts of Brunei, and all of differing lengths, available for passengers to sign up to once they have landed. Alternatively, passengers can try their luck in getting a day-room at the airport to be able to have a sleep and shower before their next flight.

We decided that we needed sleep, so after disembarking the plane, and making our way back into the terminal waiting area, we promptly made our way down the stairs in the centre of the waiting area to the day rooms. Fortunately, there was one (of about 15) available, and for 60 Brunei dollars (about AUD$50), we enjoyed the use of this room for about 10 hours (9am until 7pm). The day room is pictured below - it’s not much of a luxurious room – but at least there is a bed for much needed sleep – and there is a shower with a towel available for 5 Brunei dollars.

For those who don’t want the relative ‘luxury’ of using the dayrooms, the seats in the waiting area of the terminal don’t have arm rests so lying down on these and catching up on sleep in possible. There are also showers available to the general public within the downstairs toilet blocks, although I do believe that there is a small charge for their use.

For the transit passengers that took the tours, we heard a couple of them say that they had fun and thought that the tours were well worth taking – especially the tour to the ‘golden palace’ and the ‘monkey’ tour.

In our dayroom, my wife enjoyed the time sleeping, while I made several trips back up the stairs to terminal for food, coffee, and some plane-spotting. Not too many planes to spot though – just about the entire Royal Brunei fleet of all their types pass through in a day, while other aircraft of note were a Malaysian B737, Singapore B777, and an unidentified Antonov 12. The café and restaurant in the terminal have pretty good quality food, and potato chips and chocolates are also available from a grocery type shop. All the souvenir shops were open for business, with the traders offering the tourists (like me) great deals on their jewellery and other assorted souvenirs and knick knacks.

Several monsoonal showers passed through during the afternoon – quite heavy showers as shown in the photo below!!

After showers and some dinner, we returned our dayroom key, and proceeded upstairs and though security and into the waiting area for our flight to Brisbane.

Friday 1 October 2010 – BI0073 – Brunei (Bandar Seri Begawan)-Brisbane – Boeing B777-212(ER) – V8-BLD

We checked about the bulkhead seat, but a pair together weren’t available, so we took what we were given, which was a window and centre seat in Row 57. While we waited, the evening flight back to London (via Dubai) departed.

The flight boarded a little late (supposedly there was a late gate change due to an unserviceable boarding gate), and after all was on board, we pushed back some 15 minutes late. Long taxi and long take off roll, before some right hand turns towards Australia. Being a night time flight, we hoped for a bit more sleep, but feeling surprisingly refreshed after spending the day in the dayroom at Brunei Airport, we settled back and enjoyed some of the movies and TV shows on the personal TV.

In-flight service was again the same, with a snack followed by evening meal, and then breakfast served about two hours out of Brisbane. When not attending to passengers, the flight attendants kept a close eye on the toilets, and kept them smelling fresh!

With the sun rising out to the left side of the plane, we knew that we were approaching Brisbane. We started descending about 5.30am and landed about 5.50am. As we were the first plane at the terminal for the morning, immigration was fast, our bags came out eventually, probably after about 20 minutes, before we passed through Customs, and went outside for some breakfast!

Again, this was a really enjoyable flight with Royal Brunei Airlines. I would again thoroughly recommend them as a long haul option between Australia and England.

TRIP REPORT – Jetstar Airways – Brisbane to Mackay – Airbus A320

2010-11-08T18:19:00.002+10:00

Trip report – Brisbane to Mackay – Saturday 2 October 2010 – Jetstar Airways – JQ884 – A320-232 – VH-VQF.

At the end of our long journey overseas, we returned to Brisbane early in the morning, and courtesy of a lift (thanks again Mum and Aunty!!), we arrived at the Brisbane Domestic Terminal about 2½ hours before our flight. Jetstar have a fully automatic check-in system in Brisbane, meaning we had to simply type in our reservation number into the kiosk, specify how many bags we had to check-in, collect our boarding passes and bag tags, apply the bag tags (per attached instructions!!), and proceed to the bag drop and away we go!! Simple!!

And yes – it was very simple and easy!! We walked straight up to a check-in/bag drop agent (no queue necessary) and gave the bags straight over, and since exit row seats were available, we took them, and we were issued with our new boarding passes.

It does seem that all Jetstar passengers are encouraged to use the automatic check-in now as some people who said they couldn’t use the machines were being re-directed back to them to try again – perhaps the check-in agents will be done away with soon??

Up through a fairly big security queue – which we were now used to thanks to travelling though European airports – and straight to Gate 38 where VH-VQF (in new colours and pictured below) pulled up to take us north.

Boarding was though the front door only and by row number, although I don’t think the public like to play by these rules as there were people in just about every row when we eventually decided to board. Flight ended up being about 75% full. Push back and start – complete with "barking dog" – was pretty much on time, followed by taxi and fairly quick take off from Brisbane’s Runway 19. Through the clouds and a fairly smooth flight up North with the luxury of the extra legroom of the exit room – as shown below.

Snack service came through very quickly with no one really buying anything, so with that done, the cabin crew (only three) weren’t seen until preparations for landing. A very cloudy Mackay awaited us and the seat belt sign came on shortly after we started descent. We flew the VOR approach from overhead the airport with a left turn onto finals and landing Runway 14 at Mackay. Bags came out after about 10 minutes.

Jetstar service is great – I like the idea of the (nearly) fully automated check-in procedure – and as usual the on-board service was great.

TRIP REPORT – QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) – Mackay to Brisbane – Dash-8-Q400

2010-11-07T18:18:00.002+10:00

Trip Report – Mackay to Brisbane – Saturday 11 September 2010 – QantasLink – QF2511 – Dash-8-Q400 – VH-QOJ

Well this (comparably) small trip started my wife and I’s journey to Europe. A 6.45am departure meant an early start and we arrived at the airport at about 5.30am. Check-in wasn’t open, and neither was the airport's café… hmmm… we waited about 15 minutes and check-in opened with 2 agents checking our QantasLink flight in. Small queue and soon to the agent where our big (28kg) bag was checked in to Brisbane without dramas. We also checked in a smaller bag too. We were assigned seats in the back row of our plane, which again isn’t an issue as legroom is ample in the Dash-8-Q400.

By now the airport's café had opened so we settled back for some breakfast, then through security, and then waiting for our flight! The morning's Virgin Blue Embraer E190 service to Brisbane boarded, and whilst it was starting and taxiing away, we commenced our boarding. All this was done in about 15 minutes – flight was full. Engines start, taxi onto the runway and back-track to take-off Runway 14 at Mackay.

Some nice early morning views over the Hay Point and Dalrymple Bay Coal terminals (just South of Mackay Airport) with as many as 70 ships anchored out to sea waiting for their turn to load.

Breakfast was served and consisted of yogurt and muesli bar, along with orange juice and tea/coffee.

Smooth flight and descent with a nice view of Caboolture Aerodrome out to the left side.

We overflew Redcliffe and made a visual approach to Runway 19 into a fine and sunny Brisbane. Got to the stand-off gate, seat-belts off, passengers standing-up and keen to get off, bags were coming off… but we waited… and waited… and waited… Turns out another Dash-8 was taxiing out before we could get off the plane. We obviously then collected our bags pretty quickly and waited for our lift up to the International terminal (thanks Mum and Aunty!!).

Overall another great flight with QantasLink!

TRIP REPORT – QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) – Emerald to Brisbane to Emerald – Dash-8-Q400

2010-09-04T18:17:00.002+10:00

Emerald to Brisbane – Saturday 14 August 2010 – QF2404 – VH-QOA

Early flight from Emerald and surprised to use the newly opened departure/waiting area. This area is a little bigger than the old terminal (now a pile of rubble!) and will soon feature security screening (so hopefully Virgin Blue can start flying to Emerald!!). Nice views out the windows over the apron saw QantasLinks oldest Dash-8-Q400 arrive to take me to Brisbane (photo below). We boarded and lifted off about 10 mins late.

As mentioned in a previous report, I reckon that these aircraft are quite roomy. I have included a photo below of me sitting in my seat – an aisle seat and there is plenty of legroom – I’m over 180cm tall and I’m not cramped up. I will concede that the seat is narrow, but not uncomfortable.

A light refreshment consisting of foul tasting yogurt and a sesame seed bar was served along with drinks. Pretty ordinary selection – I didn’t each much!!

We managed to make up a bit of time in the air, but a landing on Runway 14 and subsequent long taxi at Brisbane saw us pull up pretty much on time.

Brisbane to Emerald – Wednesday 18 August 2010 – QF2404 – VH-QOP

Easy check-in and waiting downstairs at Brisbane – was advised of a 20 minute delay due to the late arrival of the aircraft. Once it did arrive there were no less than 4 wheelchair passengers (plus partners) who had to be taken off the plane, so that delayed our flight even more. Ended up boarding and departing Runway 01 about 45 minutes late.

The usual departure path off Runway 01 is a series of right turns that take us back over Brisbane Airport before heading west. Today however, we received a nice shortcut from ATC, and headed west via a left turn straight after departure. We were treated to fantastic views of Redcliffe, including Redcliffe Airport – both shown below.

About 10 minutes after take off, our ‘light refreshment’ came out and as shown below – a nice pull apart and some apple pieces – much better selection on this flight!! Drinks followed and then we settled back for cruise.

Coming into Emerald it was a normal descent, however we seemed to orbit around Emerald Airport at least once, before completing the approach and landing. This was a bit bumpy with some steep turns – unsure why we did this – possibly a bit high. Unfortunately, some passengers were reaching for the sick bags. We eventually landed about 50 minutes after the scheduled ETA.

Baggage came out pretty quickly and was collected from the new temporary outside area adjacent to the new Emerald terminal – shown below. In all, apart from the delays, another pretty good flight with QantasLink.

HOTEL REVIEW – Accor Hotels Formule One Hotel – Sydney Airport

2010-07-20T21:37:00.001+10:00

During a couple of recent plane spotting trips to Sydney, my wife and I stayed at Formula One Hotel which is located at Sydney Airport. During our most recent trip in June 2010, we requested and were given a room on the top level (six) of the building, and overlooking the Airport.

Incidentally, we flew with Virgin Blue, and a Trip Report can be found HERE.

The hotel staff have always been very friendly and understanding of this request – they indicated to me that they do have a lot of enthusiasts as guests. Incidentally, the reception is open 24 hours a day.

The hotel itself has always had good views over the General Aviation area of the airport, but these have been enhanced with the recent opening the hotel’s new accommodation wing. Several new rooms were added – and the walkway to the end of the Southern end of the rooms now provides even better views over the corporate jet parking area of the GA apron – see photo below.

There are also distant views over to the main Runway 16R/34L, and fantastic views of all aircraft and departing from the smaller parallel runway 16L/34R.

Facilities at the Hotel are basic – it is officially a 2-star hotel – and their market is for transit passengers who need a bed for a day or a night. The room is small – ours is pictured below – double bed and bunk bed with a closet style bathroom/toilet, which unfortunately floods when guests take showers. There is also a small TV and desk and chair. The windows are double glazed and keep out the aircraft noise!

On-site parking is available for a fee.

Breakfast is available daily in a sitting area on the ground floor of the hotel, and vending machines also provide ample selection of food and drinks for other times of the day. There are also nearby fast food outlets which also offer in-store free wireless internet connections!

Overall, for the enthusiast, this hotel is perfect for a one or two night stay, at most. For a longer stay near the airport, there are other airport hotels nearby that range from three-star to five-star. These offer better facilities, and some enthusiasts report that views of the airport are comparable to the Formula One.

TRIP REPORT – Virgin Blue Airlines – Mackay to Sydney to Mackay – Embraer 190 / Boeing 737-700/800

2010-07-14T18:15:00.003+10:00

Mackay to Sydney (via Brisbane) – Sunday 4 July – DJ600 – Embraer E190 VH-ZPD / DJ938 – B737-800 VH-VUE

Early flight out of Mackay – due to having the connecting flight the quick check-in kiosks didn’t allow us to check-in so up to the counter we went – checked through to Sydney with a 1½ stop-over in Brisbane. Boarded on time – departed straight out of Mackay – smooth flight – in-flight service came through fairly quickly as not too many purchases were made. The Embraer 190s have plenty of room for a big bloke like me - and with the 2x2 seating, they actually feel like you're riding in your own private jet!! We had a smooth descent and landing in Brisbane – arrived on time. Our aircraft VH-ZPD is pictured above at gate in Brisbane.

For the Sydney leg, we noticed our flight was running 15 minutes late and with a gate change. We ended up pushing back 20 minutes late – departed to the South with a smooth climb to cruising altitude. Shortly before decent the pilot announced that due to weather we were slowing, and allotted a landing time some 35 minutes after scheduled arrival – slow but smooth descent with great views out the right side over Sydney – landed Runway 25 (cross runway) - and then a quick taxi past the International Terminal. Ended up leaving the plane about 45 minutes after our scheduled arrival. Bags came out without much delay - and so we started to walk to our hotel, the Formule One Hotel – Sydney Airport - review HERE.

Sydney to Mackay (via Brisbane) – Wednesday 7 July – DJ925 – B737-800 VH-VUL / DJ613 – B737-700 VH-VBY (Virgin Blue’s 50th aircraft)

From arrival into Brisbane we were to have only 30 minutes before our departure to Mackay. We should have thought about these flights a bit more carefully, despite Virgin Blue offering this combination as a bookable pair. Again the kiosks wouldn’t let us check in so up to the counter we went. I asked about the connection time in Brisbane and was told there shouldn’t be a problem but that there were ATC delays due to weather… oh oh!!

Sure enough our flight to Brisbane was delayed – ended up leaving about 30 minutes late – but we were reassured a couple of times that our Mackay bound flight would be held in Brisbane as there were about 20 passengers on our flight that were connecting like us. Typically long taxi in Sydney and then an uneventful flight, although we did slow when approaching Brisbane due to the weather. The Mackay bound passengers were given permission to deplane first, but as we did, the plane operating to Mackay was pushing back from the gate, and then the CSM announced that unknown to her, the decision was made not the hold the flight. We landed some 35 minutes late.

So began a 5-hour wait and then a further 20 minute delay for our Mackay flight. Thank goodness for the Blue Room!! Eventually in the afternoon we took off for Mackay in Virgin’s 50th aircraft VH-VBY pictured above arriving at gate in Brisbane. This flight was full, and the amount of room in the B737-700 seems to be a lot less than Virgin Blue’s other aircraft – B737-800 and Embraers. Long final approach into Mackay with great views over the city. Our bag came out fairly quickly which was a surprise as other airlines operating into Mackay actually put bags onto the conveyor belt after they have actually loaded the outgoing flight.

TRIP REPORT – QantasLink (Sunstate Airlines) – Emerald to Brisbane to Emerald – Dash-8-Q400

2010-07-12T17:10:00.003+10:00

With the monopoly that QantasLink has on this service, and the usually high load factor, I was surprised to get reasonably priced fares booked only a couple of weeks prior to the flights. QantasLink now operate between 4-5 services on this run each weekday, and 2-3 on the weekend.

Emerald to Brisbane – Monday 28 June – QF2413 – Dash-8-Q400 VH-QOT (pictured below departing Emerald)

Checked in at the new terminal counters at Emerald Airport – very fast with no other pax waiting – conveyor belt to the baggage area is loud though – had to walk past the construction zone to the old terminal waiting area – the new terminal waiting area is under construction and will feature security screening – there will also be a state-of-the-art QantasLink lounge for Qantas Club and Platinum and Gold Frequent Flyer members.

Flight to Brisbane left about 20 minutes late and was smooth and uneventful – full flight but plenty of room (I'm over 6ft tall and not skinny) - these aircraft are surprisingly roomy – light refreshments were served about 20 minutes into the flight, followed by tea and coffee – arrived in Brisbane about 15 minutes late – managed to make up some time due to favourable tail-winds at the cruise of 25000ft. In all, great service and another great flight from QantasLink.

Brisbane to Emerald – Wednesday 30 June – QF2406 – Dash-8-Q400 VH-QOU

I used the Quick Check-in facilities at Brisbane Airport – was assigned a window near the rear of the plane – checked the seat map and there were no other seats available – a full flight??

Boarded through the downstairs waiting area in the Qantas Domestic Terminal at Brisbane Airport – it was busy at this time with three other QantasLink flights and a Brindabella Airlines flight all departing about the same time – and then via the tarmac. Flight wasn’t full with just about every isle seat vacant – yet the check-in kiosk had the marked at ‘unavailable’??

Flight left on time but due to headwinds at cruising level 16000ft arrived into Emerald about 10 minutes late – light refreshments were served about 20 minutes after take off – followed by tea and coffee and the complimentary beer and wine service as happens on all Qantas and QantasLink flights after 4pm. Great service and a great flight with plenty of room again on QantasLink.

HOTEL REVIEW – Accor Hotels Formule One Hotel – Perth Airport

2010-01-23T21:30:00.001+10:00

I stayed at the Formula One Hotel Perth Airport once before and thought it was okay. I have also stayed nearby at a little more expensive motel, but decided to save and go with the cheaper Formula One again in January 2010. After this last time though, I will never stay there again!

I flew in with Virgin Blue in the early evening - a Trip Report can be found HERE - and picked up my hire car and drove to the Hotel where parking is free and there is ample room to find a carpark.

On the previous occasion, I arrived into Perth about 9pm to find the reception closed – there is no 24 hour reception here! There is a machine outside the locked door that, with a swipe of the credit card used to prepay the booking, you are issued with your room key which will also access the building.

I arrived earlier this time and found reception still open, so received my room key from the girl behind the counter.

The problem came when I entered the room – there was a fairly strong odour – like a public toilet – and much to my surprise an automatic room deodoriser that sprayed air freshener every couple of minutes – essentially I felt like I was staying in a public toilet!

I also found that the window in the room did not seal properly, and being in the middle of a hot dry Summer (January), the draft that came in through the unsealed window was quite warm and meant the air conditioning didn’t really have much effect on the room (pictured below). To make matters even worse, the TV could not be used properly as the remote control batteries were dead, and the buttons on the TV are almost inaccessible due to the security measures used by this Hotel chain in their rooms.

Reception couldn’t or didn’t want to help – I was told there were no other rooms available – the hotel was full – this was probably the truth as these hotels are usually pretty busy. The girl couldn’t even find batteries for the remote control!!

Overall, I was not impressed. I had the feeling the room had not been used for a while and had been badly soiled by a previous guest. While appearing to be clean, the room did have a strong odour about it, and as mentioned some facilities were not up to scratch.