It’s time for another Snanpshot – this time looking at FlyBe between Birmingham and Hamburg.
As the flights were similar in the air, I’ve merged these two snapshots into one.
Pre-Departure (Birmingham)
On-line check-in allowed, with a boarding pass re-print to accommodate a seating change request.
Security was handled quickly, and I was through to airside within 10 minutes.
The plane was boarded for an on-time departure from the old EuroHub (Gate 1A).
Pre-Departure (Hamburg)
No Online check-in was allowed – with check-in opening two hours before departure. A window seat was granted at check-in, with all bags weighed, and certain carry-ons being tagged for gate checking.
Security took its time – mainly as my bags were densely filled, and everything had to be unpacked for security to work out what the heck was in them.
The plane boarded from the Non-Schengen Area.
Boarding
Boarding was by bus to remote stand in both cases. Birmingham Airport insisted on using one bus, Hamburg used two buses to take full loads of passengers out.
The Planes
Bombardier Q400 (Dash8-Q400) aircraft were used. Outbound used the new “purple plane” paintwork, whilst the inbound plane used the more classic White and Light blue paint colour scheme
The Seat
It was 17″ and a bit across. Not too tight, but average for the type used on the aircraft.
IFE and Connectivity
None
Catering
Onboard catering is a buy-on-board service at the fare level chosen. Water was purchased on plane at £1.80 for 500ml – more expensive than Birmingham Airport, but at a price parity at Hamburg Airport
Views
Minimal due positioning in the plane. Also, Flybe need to invest in Windex.
The full trip report is coming soon… (right after I finish the Chicago trip report)!
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