United 787 Premium Plus: A Journey from Hong Kong to Bangkok
I recently embarked on a captivating journey from Hong Kong to Bangkok, flying in United Airlines' Premium Plus cabin on a Boeing 787. This short but delightful daytime flight offered a unique experience, blending comfort and convenience.
A Visit to the Hong Kong United Club
My adventure began with a revisit to the Hong Kong United Club, a place I hadn't stepped foot in over a decade. As one of only four United Clubs outside the United States, located in London Heathrow, Mexico City, and Tokyo Narita, this club holds a special place in my heart, evoking cherished memories.
Fifth Freedom Flight: A Unique Offering
United operates a daily tag flight between Hong Kong and Bangkok, strategically utilizing its 787-9 aircraft before it returns to Los Angeles. This flight is a Fifth Freedom route, meaning United exclusively sells tickets between HKG and BKK, albeit at higher prices compared to competitors like Cathay Pacific. However, fares originating in the USA are remarkably reasonable, as I discovered during my journey.
Upgrade Challenges and Rewards
I attempted to upgrade my ticket using PlusPoints, but due to my fare class, it would have required 80 PlusPoints to reach business class and 20 to reach premium economy. Despite missing the business class upgrade, I was rewarded with a premium economy upgrade just before boarding. Given the flight's duration of 2.5 hours, I found this arrangement satisfactory.
Premium Plus Cabin: A Blend of Comfort and Economy
The Premium Plus section is situated behind business class, featuring 21 seats in a 2-3-2 configuration. My assigned seat was an aisle seat in the center section of the first row, with the middle seat remaining unoccupied. The seats, while purple, offered a wider space than economy class with extended recline and leg rests, making them surprisingly comfortable for a short flight.
Onboard Experience and Hospitality
The purser's warm welcome and introduction to passengers added a touch of hospitality. Breakfast was served after takeoff, offering a choice between congee and scrambled eggs. I opted for the latter, accompanied by sausage, potatoes, a side of fruit, and a less-than-appetizing shelf-stable croissant that lacked warmth. Nonetheless, the eggs and fruit were a delightful treat.
Flight Duration and Future Insights
Although the flight was scheduled for three hours, it actually lasted closer to two hours. I plan to provide more detailed insights into seat features, in-flight entertainment (IFE), Wi-Fi, service, amenities, and lavatory facilities in my comprehensive trip report.
In summary, United Airlines' Premium Plus cabin offers a pleasant upgrade over economy class, yet it remains a significant step below business class in terms of luxury and comfort.
