[Airline Review] – Thai Airways (TG408) SIN-BKK/ (TG656) BKK-ICN – Business Class (31 Dec 15)

TG408 SIN-BKK

On The Ground

Singapore

Dnata Premium Check-in

Thai Airways uses the Dnata Premium check-in lounge in Changi International Airport for its premium passengers. The lounge is located behind Check-in Row 3 and 4 in Terminal 1 of the airport, where the Thai Airways Economy class is located. The lounge is decked out in earth tones with armchairs for passengers waiting to be checked-in should there be a crowd. There are also beverages available for waiting passengers. Data Premium check-in lounge is also utilised by several other airlines checking in their premium passengers such as Qantas. As I was walking into the lounge, a friendly ground staff welcomed me and escorted me to the check-in counter for Thai Airways. Only one counter is being used for the Airlines. The check-in lounge is empty at the time, I was prompted welcomed by the check-in staff and check-in was speedy. There is a corridor that leads into the immigration area at the lounge. Soon I found myself clearing the customs and in the airside of the airport.
Entrance to Dnata Premium Check-in Lounge
Passengers get sit-in check-in
The waiting area with beverages and reading materials available should there be a need to wait
Direct access to immigration control
Direct access to immigration control
This doorway leads to the immigration

Lounge

Thai Airways has a dedicated lounge located in Terminal 1, on level 3 of the transit area. A friendly ground staff welcomed passengers utilising the lounge. The lounge is rather small but good enough for passengers waiting for their flight. A large portion of the property is being dedicated to passengers for their resting. There is some finger food (mainly Thai cuisine) available between the entrance of the lounge and the passenger waiting area. Beverages are also made available behind the food counters. Magazines and newspapers are also available nearby the food section. There is another section where can access the internet from. There are no shower facilities nor a toilet at this lounge. The nearest toilet is outside the loge. There are also powerpoints at each seat for passengers to charge their electronic gadgets. Despite the size, the Thai Airways lounge is rather comfortable to rest in while waiting for the flight. From the looks of it, the lounge seems to be rather underutilised as there weren’t many users of the lounge. The food offering is rather limited.
Entrance to the Thai Airways Lounge
Passenger Rest area. The lounge is decked in the Thai Airways purple theme
Passenger rest area
Passenger rest area
Reading materials for passengers to pass time
Cold Beverages
Beverage counter
Finger food available
Finger food
Fried rice and Tom Yum Soup are also available
Internet access area

Changi Airport Transit Area

Changi Airport Transit Area is like a shopping mall, with loads of duty-free shopping from cosmetics to luxury brands such as Hermes, Burberry to name a few. There is no lack of shops to keep transiting passengers occupy while waiting for their flights. Other facilities are made available such as rooftop gardens, rest areas, and even a theatre. For this trip, I spend most of my time in the lounge, hence leaving little time for me to shop around.
Shopping in Changi Airport Terminal 1
Thai Airways used gate D32 for their SIN-BKK leg. At the time of my checking-in, most of the passengers were already waiting for boarding. I like the Changi Airport waiting area as it allows passengers to look into the tarmac at the bird that they will be boarding momentarily. This flight seems full as passengers almost fill the waiting area. As with most airline practices, Thai Airways boarded their Premium passengers and passengers who require assistance first before the rest of the passengers were boarded.
Gate D32
Looks like a full flight to BKK
TG408 getting ready for its flight to BKK

Bangkok

Lounge

There are several lounges spreading across Suvarnabhumi Airport for Thai Airways. There are separate lounges for passengers flying their business class and first-class passengers. There are four lounges spreading across the airport for Thai Airways Royal Silk passengers. Three of the four lounges offer shower facilities. The largest of the lounge is located at Concourse D. The lounges offer similar finger food as the one in Changi Airport, mainly sandwiches and dim sums. Beverages are also being offered in the lounges. All the lounges offer the same food. Passengers waiting for their flights can visit any of the four lounges or even hop around the lounges. No announcements will be made for any flight leaving, hence passengers are urged to watch their boarding time closely. The lounge is rather cosy, decked out in the familiar Thai Airways purple as seen in the lounge in Singapore Airport. A huge proportion of the lounge area is set aside for passengers to rest. I had the chance to use the shower facilities in the lounge while waiting for my next flight. The shower room is as good as those found in a hotel room. The shower room is large with a toilet bowl and a wet area. Thai Airways uses Thann shower amenities in their shower room. A towel is provided by the friendly lounge staff as they prepare the shower for passengers.

Location of the lounges in Suvarnabhumi Airport
Entrance to the lounge
Entrance to the lounge
Finger food in the lounge
Beverage counter
More food
The lounge is decorated in the Thai Airways purple
Me in the lounge
Rest area of the lounge
Grabbed myself a coke while in the lounge 
Shower room
Wet and dry area of the shower room
Thann Bath amenities
Food and beverage area of the lounge
Food selection
I like to decor of the lounge, gives one a cosy feel

Passengers flying with Royal Silk Class are treated to 30 mins of either foot massage or shoulder and neck massage. The massage service can be found at the Royal Orchid Spa. As one walks into the spa, friendly ground staff welcomed passengers and enquire which treatment will one be taking. After which, masseuses are already standing by escorting passengers to the massage area. The ambiance in the Royal Orchid Spa screams of zen and tranquility. The entire area feels more like a proper spa than an airport lounge. I opted for the foot massage and the professional masseuse is very skillful in her trade. The massage took away the aches and pains I had on my legs.

Entrance to the Royal Orchid Spa
Entrance to the Royal Orchid Spa
Christmas decorations in the Royal Orchid Spa
Masseuses leading the way to the treatment area
Very professional massage service

As Suvarnabhumi is a large airport and the facilities, as well as the gates, are spread out, one is advised to cater more time for transit or even to get to their gates. As arrival and departure are located on different levels of the airside, one is advised to cater time to get to the departure hall (passengers will be subjected to x-raying their belongings and removal of boots before access is granted to the departure level, where the lounges are located).

The bus taking us to our flight

The Cabin

TG408

TG operates Boeing 777-300 for their SIN-BKK leg. The aircraft is decked with the signature Thai Airways purple in the cabin. The 34 shell seats Business Class cabin has a 2-3-2 configuration, with the first row in an odd configuration of 2-2-2 seating. Each window seat has a generous two window panels. In the Economy Class cabin, this flight has 330 seats in a 3-3-3 configuration.

Walking down the aerobridge
Friendly pursuer greeting passengers 
Business Class Cabin
Each window seat has two window panels
Business Class Cabin

Both lavatories for Business Class is located at the front of the aircraft, just behind the door to the cockpit. The lavatories are a tad cramp for a Business Class cabin. Compared with other airlines, the amenities in TG lavatories are slightly limited, with only hand wash, moisturiser, and perfume. There are tissue and handkerchiefs available in the lavatories as well. No toothbrush or mouthwash is available, perhaps due to the short flight time for this sector. One thing I like about the TG lavatories is the sensor tap.

Sensor tap and sink area of the lavatory
Toilet bowl
Other amenities found in the lavatory

TG656

TG operates A330-300 for this BKK-ICN leg. As with the previous flight, the aircraft is decked with the Thai Airways purple in the cabin. There are a total of 36 seats Business Class cabin with a 2-2-2 configuration. In the Economy Class cabin, this flight has 263 seats in a 2-4-2 configuration.

TG 2-2-2 configuration in Business Class Cabin
Amenities such as amenity kit, slippers, and headphones are already placed on the seat
Slippers are also provided on this leg, other than in-flight socks found in the amenity kit
Thann amenity kit for all Business Class passengers
Dinner and wine menu is being distributed when passengers got settled into their seat

Both lavatories for Business Class is also located at the front of the aircraft, just behind the door to the cockpit. The lavatories onboard feel more premium than the previous leg with the wood trimmings.  Compared with other airlines, the amenities in TG lavatories are slightly limited, with only hand wash, moisturiser, and perfume the same as the previous leg. There are tissue and handkerchiefs available in the lavatories as well. No toothbrush or mouthwash is available, however, these are already distributed in the amenity kit. The taps onboard these aircraft are also sensor operated.

Toilet bowl
Sensor tap and sink area
Perfume and moisturiser
The wood trimming makes the lavatory feels more premium

The Seat

TG408

TG uses shell seats in this flight, with a pitch of 70″ and 20″ wide. The seats are capable of reclining to 170 degrees, which provided an almost flatbed for passengers who would like to snooze during the flight. Legroom is superb in this cabin. The seats feature a massage function, which essentially is adding some form of vibration to the seat, hardly any massage at all. The seat controls are located on the left side of the seat. The headphone jack is located under the right armrest, together with a power socket. There are no USB plugs on the seats. An additional reading light is located on the top of the seat, other than the ones on the ceiling of the cabin. There are a couple of cup holders and some slots for reading materials behind the seat in front of us.

Business Class seats 
Ample legroom
Seat controls
Headphone jacks
Powerpoint in the seat
Reading lights and divider
In-flight reading materials
Aircraft Safety card
Dinner and wine menu was distributed when we got settled down onto our seats
Storage on the back of the seats in front of us
Fully reclined seat configuration

TG656

TG uses shell seats in this flight, with a pitch of 70″ and 20″ wide. The seats are capable of reclining to 170 degrees. This is important for flying on an overnight flight, which provided me with a good rest. As with the SIN-BKK leg of the flight, the legroom is superb in this cabin and I can stretch my leg all the way. These seats also have a massage function. The seat controls are located on the left side of the seat. The headphone jack is located under the right armrest together with two USB jacks. There is also a power socket under the armrest of the seat. An additional reading light is located on the top of the seat, other than the ones on the ceiling of the cabin. There are a couple of cup holders and some slots for reading materials behind the seat in front of us.

The seat at lounging mode
Seat fully reclined for sleep mode
There are a couple of USB jacks located beside the Headphone jack
Powerpoint socket under the armrest
Seat function control
Aircraft information card
Contents of the seat pocket

In-Flight Entertainment

TG408

The AVOD onboard features a 15″ touch screen TV with no lack of movies for passengers to watch onboard and the movie selection is quite large. There are also the latest Hollywood blockbusters available. The controller for the AVOD is located under the armrest on the left of the seat. Noise-cancelling handphones are already distributed on the seats when I boarded the aircraft.
Large 15″ TV
AVOD control is located under the armrest
AVOD controller

TG656

As with the previous leg, the AVOD onboard features a 15″ touch screen TV and a huge selection of entertainment options from movies to TV shows to games to music. The controller for the AVOD is located under the armrest on the left of the seat. Noise-cancelling headphones are already distributed on the seats when I board the aircraft.

15″ AVOD TV screen
A newer model of IFE controller
The backside of the IFE controller

Meal Service

TG408

As with many premium class, pursuers came around serving welcome drinks upon passengers got settled into their seats. A warm towel is also being distributed upon settling into my seat. This is also when the pursuers distribute menus and came around later to take orders for the meal.

Welcome drink. The purple drink is TG’s signature “Violet Breeze”, a must-try nonalcoholic beverage
Menu
Wine list

Moments after the seat belt sign is off, the pursuers sprung into action, with one going around distributing pre-meal nuts and drinks. The rest of the crew prepares the meal. I opted for the prawn meal, which is flavourful and not too spicy. As this is a short flight, there are no separate servings for appetisers and main course. With all meals all served at once, this feels more economy (except that it is presented in nicer china) than premium class.

Nuts and drinks are served as soon as the seat belt sign is off
I opted for the tasty prawn
My friend opted for the chicken

TG656

Same as the previous leg,  pursuers came around serving welcome drinks upon passengers got settled into their seats. A warm towel is also being distributed upon settling into my seat. This is also when the pursuers distribute menus and came around later to take orders for the meal.

Moments after the seat belt sign is off, the pursuers sprung into action, serving meals for passengers. This time around, due to longer flight time, there is time for the crew to split the meal service into an appetiser, main course, and dessert. I opted for the braised chicken, which is a delight. After the trays are being cleared, the crew came around checking with passengers if they want coffee or tea. During the flight, when I was sleeping, I woke up to find a bottle of water being placed by the crew in the cup holder in front of the seat.

Meal Options
Beverage options
First course – appetisers
Main course
Dessert
Tea after meal

Service

Service onboard both legs are impeccable. Crews exhibit the warmth of the Thais with smiles seen throughout both flights. They are attentive and thoughtful. Service is prompt and meals are cleared in a timely manner. The crew is seen patrolling the cabins throughout both legs to ensure that all passengers are well taken care of. Even for a short 2hour SIN-BKK leg, the crews are seen smiling and acceding to the requests of all passengers. TG offers a book the meal service for all premium class passengers, however, the options are rather limited. I did not utilise this option as I prefer the “surprise” factor when it comes to meal onboard.

Overall

TG is becoming one of my favourite airlines. With warm service seen onboard both legs of my journey from SIN to ICN. Crews are seen walking up and down the cabin and serving drinks throughout the flight. I like the fact that a bottle of water is being placed for passengers while they were sleeping so that one can be kept hydrated. This is a very nice touch, whereby most other airlines do not provide. TG provides oversized pillows and quilt (not those fleeced blankets) in their Business Class, which is great for sleeting. In terms of hardware, the cabin seems aged and seats are not 180 degrees recline, however, it still provides a great sleep for my BKK-ICN leg of the flight. The entertainment system onboard allowed me to keep entertained, making the flight time seem short.

[Airline Review] – Thai Airways B777-200ER (TG402) / (TG401) – Economy Class, SIN-BKK, (6 Nov 14) / BKK-SIN (9 Nov 14)

On The Ground

I usually fly Thai Airways to Bangkok, mainly due to the price factor. Originally I was thinking of separating the 2 reviews. However, on second thought, most of the stuff will be repetitive. The experience in terms of the hardware for both flights will be the same, given that the same type of aircraft was used for both legs of the flight. The differing experience would be the service in flight and the food on offer.

TG402

We boarded TG402 at Singapore Changi Airport. As we were early, the queue was rather thin. It is always recommended to check in early at the airport, especially the SIN-BKK route as the destination is rather popular. The staff at the counter was not particularly in the mood for a chat, but more of trying to get her job done as soon as possible. As per standard practice, we got our bags checked in relatively quick and handed our boarding pass. I always like to check in early whenever I get to the airport, catering more time for shopping and exploring around the immigration area. Changi Airport in Singapore is an Airport where one would find even 3 hours is insufficient to spend here. There are tons of duty-free shopping (comparable to the shopping mall that one would find in town), with big brands like Chanel and Gucci for one to shop. There are also tons of activities the airport offers, with amenities like cinema, massage chairs, gardens (there are several gardens in the airport spreading across all 3 terminals). We checked in early to cater time for shopping.

TG402 berthing at Changi Airport
Taking off onboard TG 402

TG401

As we were running late on our way to the airport, I whipped out my mobile phone whilst on the cab to the Suvarnabhumi Airport, fearing that we might miss the check-in timing. Checking online first does buy us extra time (usually airlines would stipulate at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure for passengers to check-in). Speaking of which, one should cater 2 hours for the journey from downtown Bangkok to Suvarnabhumi Airport, taking into consideration the notorious traffic jam that Bangkok is so famous for. I would say Thai Airways had a great mobile site that allowed me to do online check-in whilst on our way to the airport. With the online check-in, we only have to be at the airport 1 hour before the scheduled departure.

With online check-in, we headed towards the Thai Airways counter at Suvarnabhumi Airport, located at the mid part of the terminal building to have our luggage checked in. One other advantage of online check-in is that the queue isn’t that long, we only have to wait for 2 mins at most for our turn. This saves one a lot more time to explore the immigration area of Suvarnabhumi Airport. I would strongly recommend that one make use of the online check-in function that airlines provide. The service on ground is pretty much standard, however this time around (as compared to our outbound flight), the staff at the check-in counter seemed more friendly and volunteered directions on where we should head for the immigration area and where our boarding gate will be. As we were already running late, we did not have much time to explore the airport terminal. There are a few shops (mostly selling perfumes, tobacco and alcohol) that we have time to explore before heading towards our gate for boarding.

Sculpture in Suvarnabhumi Airport depicting Thai folklore
Duty-free shops at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Duty-free shops at Suvarnabhumi Airport

The Seat

We were onboard the B777-200ER on both flights (TG402 and TG401). Thai Airways uses a purple coloured theme in their cabins. The seats are decked out in blue, purple and yellow, which gives the cabin a more vibrant look. The legroom for this configuration of the aircraft is sufficient and does not feel too cramped. The aircraft is configured in 3-3-3 seatings in the economy class, giving each passenger 34″ of space between each seat and 18″ of width on each seat. The seats also reclined 122° which is fairly comfortable for economy class on a 2-hour flight.

Economy flight Cabin onboard TG 402
Economy Cabin onboard Flight TG401
Pursuers going around ensuring passengers are comfortable onboard TG401
The legroom is good onboard TG402
Good leg room onboard TG401

In-Flight Entertainment

Each seat comes with their individual Audio Visual On Demand (AVOD) TV screen. Each screen measures 9″, keeping passengers occupied throughout the flight. The AVOD system is a touch screen, however, the system seemed to lag and rather insensitive. Passengers are better off using the remote controller, stowed on the sides of each seat to gain faster access to the TV/movie programmes one desires.

9″ TV screen
Front camera live feed to the AVOD
Options on the AVOD
AVOD located above the tray table 
Standard controller for AVOD 
Safety Card onboard Thai Airways 
Inflight magazine available in each seat pocket

Amenities

Pillows and fleeced blankets together with headphones are distributed by the flight crew before departure, which keeps passengers comfortable and entertained throughout the flight. These days such amenities (at least blankets and pillows) are seldom being distributed, even on full-fledged airliners. The lavatory onboard both flights are rather cramped, however, sufficient for one to manoeuvre around in. Each lavatory comes with the hand soap, sanitary napkins and hand soap. There are also extra puke bags that can be found in these lavatories.

Lavatory
Basic lavatory amenities

Meal and Service

The service onboard differs on both flights. I shall cover both food and service in this section of the review.

TG402

There are 2 food options on this flight – Omelette and chicken porridge. Both options taste equally bad and blend and there seems to be an obvious note of mass production with very lousy ingredients for both options. The food proportions are small and not good enough to serve as a meal. As a precursor to the meal, the portions seemed sufficient. Other than the 2 options, Thai Airways also included a small croissant and some cut fruits (3 slices to be exact) as part of the meal. Coffee and tea along with other drink options such as Coke, spirits and alcohol, and fruit juice are available onboard.

Omelette onboard TG402
Chicken porridge onboard TG402
Orange juice – my only drink onboard TG402

The service onboard this flight is very bad. Throughout the flight, there do not seem to have any service for drinks. Flight attendants are only seen before departure, at meal service and before landing. There are no runs for fluids onboard and one would have to call for the attendant to have some drinks served up. The crew onboard this flight do not seem to be very friendly either. The atmosphere on board seemed to be very gloomy as I hardly see any smiles on the faces of the crew. There is this particular crew that has a very sour face, as though she just fought with her boyfriend before the flight. I witnessed an instance where another passenger requested for some drinks from her, she just showed him her palm and only return some 30 mins later despite she was with a cart. The said crew even gave the passenger a very hostile stare when serving up his drink. Throughout the flight, there isn’t any hint of any smiles that the Thais are famous for. Foodservice is very slow and slag and passengers are rushed into finishing their meal.

TG401

As with most airliners, TG401 also gave passengers 2 options when coming to food. There are chicken fried rice and baked fish for passengers to choose from. The food on this flight is decent. At least there is more taste to them compared to TG402 I flew in from. As with most economy class food, the food is sufficient to sustain one from hunger pains throughout the flight, but insufficient to fully satisfy one’s stomach. I had the chicken fried rice, which also comes with an omelette. It tasted decent, but can be a little on the bland side. There are also sides such as buns, salad and moose served alongside the meal. As with the previous flight, drink options such as coffee, tea, Coke, juices and alcohol are also available.

Chicken Fried rice onboard TG401

The service onboard this flight is way better than TG402. The crew on board seemed to enjoy their work and smiles were kept on their face most if not all the time. The crew spread their joy to the passengers, which made the flight lively and enjoyable. Meal service was prompt and the crew distributed the food at a good speed, collecting the trays at a later time, giving passengers more time to consume their food. Drinks service is seen throughout the flight. I requested for a can of Coke to be shared with my friend when the attendant came around to collect the empty can (he was merely passing by my seat), he offered another can so that we can keep ourselves hydrated. My friend also requested for Children activity pack so she can give it to her children who were not flying with her. The attendant took the efforts to look for the activity packs and did so with a smile that the Thais are famous for. Attendants are very visible throughout the flight ensuring that passengers are well taken care of and their requests are being met.

Overall

The level of service onboard Thai Airways seemed to vary with the crew and the time of the flight. I have noticed (with my experience onboard Thai Airways) that the service level on the first flight is usually the worst, no matter if one is travelling on Business Class or Economy Class, whilst that of the last flight would usually be better.  The airlines have a few misses and hits and the greatest of all misses is the service that one would get onboard. The hits gotta be the little amenities such as pillows and blankets that most of us take it for granted that are still available onboard. Nonetheless, for a short flight to Bangkok from Singapore (and back), I would still choose Thai Airways provided the price is right.

Taking off from Singapore Changi Airport
Taking off from Singapore Changi Airport
Arrival at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport
Taxiing at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport

 

[Airline Review] – Thai Airways B777-200ER (TG409) – Economy Class, BKK-SIN, (30 Dec 13)

Pre-Flight

The check-in counters for Thai Airways is located in the midsection of the Airport in Bangkok. There are several counters for Thai Airways thus it is imperative that passengers check the correct check-in row from the screen located in the centre of the airport terminal. The queue at the check-in counter bounded for Singapore was light, there was practically no waiting time, partly due to the numerous counters were opened for this flight. The Check-in process was swift and the staff waste no time in processing our check-in. I requested for the last row of seats, which was promptly assigned.
Check-in counters in Bangkok International Airport
There was a huge crowded bounded for Singapore on this flight when I reached the boarding gate, most of the passengers were already there waiting for their outbound flight. It seemed that this flight is full. Despite an almost full flight, the ground staff at the check-in gate managed to process the boarding with ease like a well-oiled wheel, and wait time is reduced to a minimum. TG409 is located at the far side of the airport, buses were arranged to ferry passengers from the terminal to the tarmac. Again, this is where one can see the well organised Thai Airways in managing a nearly full flight of passengers swiftly and with minimum delays.
Waiting for boarding at the boarding gate
View of the Tarmac at the boarding gate
Boarding at the gate
The bus that ferries passengers from the terminal to the aircraft

In-Flight

Pursuers are seen at the door of the aircraft greeting passengers and directing passengers to the correct aisle according to their seat assignment. The flight that brings me to Singapore on this leg is serviced by the 2 class Boeing 777-200ER. As with other Thai Airways flight, the Economy Class cabin is decked out in their iconic purple colour with seats in both purple and bright yellow colours, which adds a certain liveliness to the cabin. There seemed to be an overhaul onboard this aircraft. As I walked from the Royal Silk Class to my seat, I observed that the seats in the Royal Silk Class being different from that when I flew into Bangkok.
Bright Economy Class cabins
The Economy class cabin is spotless and bright when I walked in. The newly overhauled seats in the Economy Class seats are both comfortable and bright. The seat pitch is slightly longer at 86 cm (or 34″) apart compared to the 82 cm (or 32″) in the other Thai Airways aircraft. Being in the last row did give me more legroom than those upfront. Only the last seats in this aircraft (apart from the Royal Silk Class) are dual configured in 2-3-2, whereas the rest of the Economy Class is configured in 3-3-3. As with the other aircraft, the seat controls for reclamation is located on the armrest, while the control for the AVOD is located below the screen. There is a hook by the side of the AVOD screen and also a USB outlet.
Pursuers saw helping passengers with their luggage
The AVOD screen is larger than the other Thai Airways aircraft, at a 10.6″ screen. Perhaps due to the recently overhauling of the aircraft, the AVOD is very responsive and is packed with loads of entertainment options from Movies (both Hollywood and Thai movies to games to short sitcom clips) to cater to passenger’s preference.
The new AVOD system onboard TG409
The meal was tasty as well. I opted for the Thai Curry Chicken set, which is mildly spiced and the chicken is tender. The only downside is the portion is a tad small, perhaps due to the tastiness of the food, one would want more of that.
Mealtime
Close up of the Thai Curry Chicken
Mealtime
The lavatory is located right behind my seat. The newly renovated lavatory is spotless and seems larger then one would experience in a typical Economy Class lavatory. Other then the hand wash (which is the only option in Economy Class of most airlines these days), TG409 also has eau de cologne in the lavatory for passengers to smell good after their flight.
Toilet seat
Eau de cologne available in the lavatory

Service

The service onboard this flight is far better than my inbound flight in Royal Silk Class. I can feel the warmth of the pursuers onboard this flight. After settling down I approached a pursuer to ask for a deck of playing cards, she mentioned that they have given out all the playing cards in the previous flight, however, she told me that she will look around and see if she can find one for me. The pursuer returned to my seat a little later with a deck of playing cards and told me with a genuine smile that this is the last deck of cards she can find and apologised for that.  The pursuer told responsibility for a fault which is not hers, this goes to show that they value customers on this flight.
Before taking off, the pursuers were seen going from seat to seat to distribute blankets, leaving no seats uncovered. This is a stark difference from the Royal Silk Class which I flew in. The pursuers on this flight took initiative throughout the flight ensuring that passengers are comfortable and well hydrated. They are seen walking around asking passengers (including me) if I need more drinks. Once they saw the empty cup, the pursuer would start to ask if passengers wanted more drinks or shall she clear the cup. This level of attentiveness is what should be accorded in the Royal Silk Class during my inbound experience.
Taxiing to the runway
Taking off
Take off
During mealtime, pursuers were spotted going around distributing food to a nearly full flight with a relatively short amount of time taken. After 30 mins into meal service, it seemed that all passengers have gotten their food and were enjoying their meal. Meal trays were promptly collected after the meal as well.
View of the sky

Overall

TG409 is a pleasurable flight to fly in. The cabin is newly overhauled with comfortable seats and responsive, power-packed AVOD. The more important aspect is the warmth in service projected by the pursuers. They go all out to ensure that passengers feel comfortable during the flight.

[Airline Review] – Thai Airways B777-200ER (TG402) – Business Class, SIN-BKK, (25 Dec 13)

Pre-Flight

Thai Airways counter is located in Terminal 1 of the Singapore Changi Airport. The check-in counters are sufficiently manned, as such the waiting time isn’t long. I was initially flying on Economy Class (hence was not escorted to the Premier Check-in lounge) but decided to get an upgrade at the airport. After paying for the price difference in classes, checking in was swiftly done. The staff at the counter did the usual by reminding me which gate the aircraft is located and the boarding time. She also handed me the invitation to the Thai Airways lounge and provided directions on where it is located.

Thai Airways Lounge

Thai Airways lounge is located on the level above the immigration counters and there are signs that lead up to the lounge. The exterior of the lounge looks refreshing, however, nothing seemed to be changed from my previous visit 3 years ago. The staff at the front desk saw me walking in and greetings were accorded promptly. I surrendered my invitation to the lounge and headed for the lounge to relax a little before my flight.
Entrance to the Lounge in Changi Airport
The interior of the lounge was dim in colour, the central theme colour was brown to give it a sense of class and cosiness. However, the lounge felt a little underwhelmed, as it is rather small facilities are limited. There are very limited options for food and drinks. The main bulk of the area of the lounge is dedicated to seating patrons, while the food counter occupies a small portion of the lounge. There is also a very small corner where one can find business facilities such as computers and internet access. There are also some reading materials, with a collection of major business and travel magazines and newspapers.

Snack area
Snack area
Snacks that I opted
Internet terminals
Reading materials

In-Flight

The flight from Singapore to Bangkok is serviced by the Boeing 777-200. This aircraft has only 2 classes – The Royal Silk Class and the Economy class. Upon entering the aircraft, pursuers are standing at the gate greeting and welcoming passengers on board. I showed them my ticket stub and was briefly told where my seat is located. Drinks were served shortly after I settled down and menus were distributed at the same time. The pursuer came back shortly and asked for my option for the meal.
The bird that is taking me to Bangkok
Pre-flight drinks
The Royal Silk Class is decked in purple colour and the seats are in egg-shell shaped. The seats offer 152 cm (or 60″) pitch, which feels spacious. The seat is capable of reclining to around 170 deg for sleeping. The seats are electronically controlled via the panel on the armrest located in the centre of 2 seats. The Royal Silk Class onboard this flight is arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration. The seats are very comfortable and have massaging functions for passengers. Tables on the seats are stowed inside the armrest. There are also reading lights located on the top of the seats for passengers to utilise.
Cabin in Royal Silk Class
Seat Controls
Reading lights
The controller for the AVOD is located on the side of the armrest and the system offers passengers variety options to keep oneself entertained throughout the flight. The screen of the AVOD is rather large however the AVOD system seemed to lag a fair bit.
AVOD system
Large screen
AVOD controller

Meal Service

As this is the morning flight, only one course is being served. Before the meal service, pursuers were seen placing a small piece of table cloth. Soon came the meal with the option that was consulted before taking off. After which, the pursuer was seen popping around the cabin with a basket of bread for passengers to choose from. I opted for the chicken omelette and the taste was pretty standard.
Menu
Meal options
Drinks options
Drinks options
Chicken omelette
After the meal, pursuers came by to clear the table and asked passengers if they want coffee or tea. As I saw on the menu the option for cappuccino, I opted for one. Drinks were made available throughout the 2-hour flight.
Cappuccino
Drinks onboard

Lavatory

The lavatories are located to the front of the aircraft and were decorated with orchids. There are amenities such as eau de cologne, moisturiser and hand soap made available.

Orchid decoration in the lavatory
Washbasin
Toilet bowl
Toilet paper

Service

Service is rather disappointing onboard this flight in their Royal Silk Class. The pursuers were seen to be friendly to selected passengers but not all. Pillows were placed on every seat but not the blanket. The pursuers subsequently distribute quilts to every passenger except me. I had to ask for practically everything onboard this flight. The pursuers also took some time to return to me with a blanket.
I asked for a cappuccino after the meal but was given a long face when I rejected both coffee and tea and opted for a cappuccino instead. The pursuers also stop short of me when distributing immigration card. I had to ask for one, which took them 20 mins to return with one for me. Similarly, the pursuers did not even come round to collect the meal tray while they were going around collecting for other passengers. I had to press the buzzer to alert them that I had long finished my meal.

Overall

Thai Airways has a huge room to cover for their service lapse on this flight. I was treated transparent most of the time despite being in their business class. Everything had to be asked and I was often skipped a few times.  The seats are however very comfortable and passengers have no lack of entertainment options onboard.

[Airline Review] – Thai Airways – Business Class, SIN-DEL, (10 Jun 11)

SIN-BKK

Airline Lounge

The airport lounge at Changi Airport for Thai Airways is located on a level above the immigration, located in a quiet part of the busy airport. The facade of the lounge is designed to give visitors a sense of class. I was greeted with a warm smile by the staff who was manning the counter and she did the usual procedure of checking the lounge invitation and welcomed me to the lounge.

Entrance to the lounge

The interior of the lounge was dim in colour, the central theme colour was brown to give it a sense of class and cosiness. However, the lounge felt a little underwhelmed, as it is rather small facilities are limited. There are very limited options for food and drinks. The main bulk of the area of the lounge is dedicated to seating patrons, while the food counter occupies a small portion of the lounge. There is also a very small corner where one can find business facilities such as computers and internet access. There are also some reading materials, with a collection of major business and travel magazines and newspapers.

Passenger seating area
Reading materials for passengers
Business Center in the lounge
Limited snack in the lounge
Drinks offered in the lounge

Overall the lounge felt basic and underwhelmed. Despite this, it is still a conducive enough for travellers to relax before their flight with Thai Airways

The Aircraft

The flight from Singapore to Bangkok is on 777-200. The seat I was assigned to was on the first few rows, window. The cabin looks spacious and clean. The egg-shaped seats gave the whole cabin a futuristic look. The cabin is well-lit and everything looked well maintained. The load on Business Class from Singapore to Bangkok is usually light, mainly due to the short flight time.

The bird that flew me on SIN-BKK leg

The Seat

The seat is very comfortable and is capable of reclining to almost flat. The seat features an adjustable personal reading light and comes with massage functions built into the seat itself. The seat pitch is wide enough to enable me to fully stretch my legs. The distance between the seat to the personal TV is wide enough for passengers seating at the window seat to access the aisle. The seat is generally comfortable in all positions. There are pre-programmed positions on the controls of the seat as well as options for passengers to adjust the angle as one deem comfortable. The table is stowed in the armrest of the seat, which does not feel intrusive.

View of the seat
Personal TV onboard

In-Flight Entertainment

Thai Airways offers a comprehensive list of entertainment onboard, ranging from the latest movie to movies from Thailand. There are also sitcoms and travel programmes to prepare passenger for their trip to Thailand. Games are also available for those who prefer to keep their minds occupy with games.

Spaciousness

Meal Service

Food was rather standard and nothing fantastic. There is, however, a comprehensive list of drinks ranging from liquor to soft drinks to juices. One can also request for a cappuccino instead of the standard coffee.

Appetiser
Main course

Service

The service onboard is pretty standard. Despite being in premium class, the services do not seem to shout of premium. It felt as though it is no different from that offered in economy class. The only difference is that pre-flight drinks are served when passengers got settled onto their seats. Orders for food service was taken shortly after drinks were served. Despite the short flight from Singapore to Bangkok, Thai Airways managed to serve the meal course by course.

Staffs onboard do not seem to be interested in providing good services. Their service, as previously mentioned, was pretty standard. Passengers were not ushered to their seats, nor does the staff bother to remember the first names of passengers. Newspapers were not offered, unlike some other airlines, where newspapers were offered even in economy class. Passengers were not given smiles even during food service runs.

Overall

Thai Airways offer decent hardware in their Business class in this leg. The equipment seemed well maintained without any hiccups, however, they can do more in terms of service.

BKK-DEL

Airline Lounge

Bangkok Airport, being the homeland of Thai Airways, offers passengers 4 lounges spreading across the vast airport to rest while waiting for their onward flight. I tried 2 of the 4 lounges, namely the smaller lounge at Concourse C East and the largest of the 4 lounges – Concourse D. Passengers are entitled to a 30 mins head and shoulder massage while transiting at the lounge. Upon entering the lounge, the friendly staffs greeted me with a warm smile and welcomed me into the lounge upon me showing them my boarding pass. The staffs enquired if I would like to have my massage and I gladly agreed. I was arranged to wait for the staff who would give me massage in the lounge, while the friendly staff asked if she could serve me some drinks, which I promptly declined. The lounge was brightly lighted and Thai Airways made full use of the natural light to illuminate the lounge, giving passengers an impression that the lounge was large. This lounge has mostly armchairs, arranged in 2s and 4s to cater to single traveller and travellers who came in groups. The lounge has some bites to keep passengers filled up and an assortment of drinks and liquors. There are also TVs showing international news channels as well as an assortment of magazines ranging from business magazines to travel magazines and of course, the onboard magazines. The masseuse appeared in 5 mins and I was escorted to the massage areas, comprising of smaller rooms to provide privacy for passengers enjoying their well-deserved massages. The massage that I was given was fantastic, no different from those that one would find in downtown Bangkok. The skilful masseuse got rid of the shoulder ache that I was having for weeks. After the massage, I loitered around the lounge a little more and decided to check out the largest lounge in Concourse D.

The lounge in Concourse C East
Some of the food on offer in this lounge
Part of the lounge in Concourse C East
View of the tarmac from the lounge

The lounge at Concourse D is elongated in shape and as with the previous lounge, I was warmly greeted and welcomed to the lounge. I was told that there aren’t any calls for flights by the staff and was reminded to take note of the time of my onward flight. This lounge has a warmer and earthier feel as compared to the previous lounge. As it is located further away from windows, the lounge appeared dimmer and cosier.  After finding a quiet corner, I checked out the food that was on offer by the lounge. They offered small bite-sized snacks such as Chinese dim sum and fried spring rolls and samosas. There are also sandwiches out for passengers to grab. The concept of food offering is more to provide snacks and not a filling meal that passengers will not be able to eat more on board. There are also an assortment of drinks from fruit juice to soft drinks and coffee and tea to liquor at this lounge. As with the previous lounge, there are also TVs broadcasting international news channels and an assortment of reading materials from local and major international newspapers to magazines. The food offered tasted alright, and not exactly fantastic. However, it does the job of keeping on filled up temporarily while waiting for full meal service onboard. The toilet was large and showering facilities were also made available.

Food on offer in Concourse D lounge
Cosy feel in this lounge
Showering facilities in the airport lounge
Cappuccino from the lounge
Around the lounge in Concourse D
Me in the lounge

The Aircraft 

The Seat

This leg of the journey was flown by a 747-400. I chose a seat on the upper deck, which provides more privacy and quieter as compared to those on the main deck. This aircraft looked like it needs a major makeover or it is nearing its lifespan with Thai Airways. The interior of the aircraft looked old and like those in the 90s. The condition of the interior of the aircraft gave me a feeling that things are going to fall apart. The seats are those old type, where it reclined to a maximum of 60° The seats are hardly comfortable, but luckily for short flight time. Having said that the legroom is great, but feels slightly smaller than the 777-200 leg.

Seats on the upper deck of the 747-400

In-Flight Entertainment

The in-flight entertainment system is stowed beneath the seat and I had a hard time pulling out the TV screen. It seemed that the condition of the aircraft is so old that maintenance was not even done properly on it. As the screen is rather small, I did not enjoy the show too much. The controller for the entertainment system seems to be giving way and I had a hard time choosing between channels. The system seems to lag as well. I also had a hard time getting the table out from the armrest of the seat for meal service.

A very old entertainment system onboard

Meal Service

Food was rather standard as with the previous leg, but it does the job of keeping one from being hungry. As with the previous leg (and common across most of the airlines in the world), an assortment of drinks and wines are also available on this flight

Appetisers
I opted for the curry chicken

Service

As with the previous leg, service onboard was lacklustre. The staffs are more interested in getting their job over and done with rather than making passengers feel welcome. They certainly do not live up to the company’s tagline of smooth as silk as the services rendered feels pretty rough. The attendants also did the Thai culture a disservice as they are hardly seen to be smiling at the passengers. As with the previous leg, the service felt no different from that offered in economy class. Having said that, the mechanical staffs sprung into action the moment passengers step on board and I was presented with pre-flight drinks and menu for the flight. The attendant came back shortly to take orders for food service. Meals were served course by course, which seemed pretty standard for the premium class.

Staffs onboard do not seem to be interested in providing good services as with the previous leg of my trip. Passengers were not ushered to their seats, nor does the staff bother to remember the first names of passengers. Passengers were also not given smiles even during food service runs. Most of the time, the attendants were not spotted throughout the flight, other than food service and time to retrieve the trays.

Overall

On this leg of the journey, Thai Airways disappoints further with aged hardware and lukewarm service. It feels as if the airlines are not interested in competing in the competitive premium service of this day and age. Perhaps their focus is not on premium service, there is no differentiation with other airlines and seem that they are doing the standard things that the other airlines are offering in their premium cabins. It is hardly worth flying on Thai Airways premium class as experienced on both legs of my journey.