Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Don't knock till you tried it

I have flown with NOK Air ATR-72 twin-turboprop from Sakon Nakhon to Bangkok. 
I can say I'll remember the flight for some time and won't be repeating it any time soon.
In flight you receive a miniature hot dog on a sweet roll which is eaten in three bites.
You are offered seconds on a four ounce container of water.
If you do want a meal, order it when you book your flight for an additional charge. I must admit, that meal was absolutely delicious. Think two or three people (including myself) ordered meals

I suspect the aircraft I flew in had been in service on other routes for some time.
Seat cushions were well worn where it counted, totally flat.
My own seat being worn with age began to feel painful after 20 minutes into the flight.
It felt like sitting on a metal bench.

Preparations for landing were announced with a jolt which I would compare to a sudden down-shifting in an eighteen wheeler.  After that flying seemed a bit rough till we landed at Don Mueang Airport.  If you have a connecting flight, you'll have to take a shuttle bus to the international airport.

My schedule in Bangkok changed unexpectedly.  I needed a few extra hours before my return trip.
I asked if I could change to the afternoon flight to Nakhon Phanom.
I was informed I could not change my destination or cancel my flight (for a refund) and would have to purchase a new ticket to Nakhon Phanom.
I opted instead to fly on a Thai Airways 737 to Udon Thani.
Complimentary newspapers, boxed meals, coffee or tea where provided.
The flight was shorter and more comfortable.

I did have to spend a few extra hours riding in a car from Udon, but made good use shopping along the way.
Related Aviation News at 
http://inspiring-isaan.blogspot.com/2009/12/thai-to-stop-udon-flights.html
Nok Air to assume three Thai Air Routes beginning March 2010 http://www.bangkokpost.com/business/economics/29893/thai-boss-insists-nok-handover-will-go-ahead

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

What was the cost of the Thai flight compared to Nok air