“steaks on a plane” - Brilliant! I couldn’t of course but imagine a King Cobra in the toilet bowl when you mentioned this (twice) and am pretty sure that was your intention?!
I was a little nervous actually but whilst I don't thrust my camera in people's faces I don't hide it either.... I as Alex says, I think they're more relaxed these days!
Hey Matt, long term occasional watcher, first time poster, ex-airline ops guy here. It seems likely to me that the agent in Al Safwa told you it was a ‘contact’ flight, rather than ‘contract’. It’s an industry term meaning that the aircraft is parked at a gate that has an air bridge, as opposed to a remote stand. Since it’s not a very easily understood term for non-employees, the agent should really have used more everyday language with you when explaining why you weren’t being bussed to the aircraft.
I think you're absolutely spot on. The agent actually said it to her colleague before explaining to me that there was no bus and I had to make the hike myself. Which is why I didn't fully hear what she said. It does seem strange that Qatar can't run a bus around to a terminal gate id the plane isn't on a remote stand - lots of other airlines manage it!
Lucky you didn‘t get Qatar‘d. We flew the A380 in First from BKK to DOH and then were supposed to continue on the 777 First to Zurich only to get an aircraft change. I would have loved to try the seat. Granted the foot area really does look narrow for a first class seat. That lobster/crab dish looked incredible, glad you had a good experience!
Fab video Matt. You did extremely well on 1 hour sleep, I'd have been pretty grumpy lol. The fact you got 7 flights for 180k avios and £600 is incredible, well done you! lookign forward to seeing the rest of the trip
Well done on not saying “pacifically with Cathay Specific” in your introduction 😊. May I express my gratitude for not featuring the yellow scary bear in a Doha clip. That is the stuff of nightmares. And… Once again, a fair and balanced review Matt, great work. Long may you continue!
Having experienced Qatar Airways recently for the first time, I would not say that they are a 5 star airline, in fact the phrase of "organising a pishup in a brewery" came to mind.
Always look forward to finishing work on a Sunday night to have dinner with your video on the big screen. Great insight, thanks for sharing! I’m considering doing a QF F redemption myself one day in the near future, so some great pointers here!
Living in Seoul, I’ve had quite a number of Cathay flights - and the cabin does look very familiar! I remember those planes on Seoul-Hong Kong route before 2020. Now Cathay flies A330s and A350s with occasional A321neo service - and none of them have first class seats. Your video did bring up some great old memories 🥲
Another well timed video. need to go to Australia next year & one of my four suggested routings is on Qatar. Watching all the available videos in the interim.......
Love your content Matt and at £255 that's some ridiculously good value. Good on you! Have you considered posting in 4K? I think it would lift the videos up a notch if that is something that can be achieved.
Thanks - interesting question. I film in 4k so it would be possible, but for the walking shots I have a wide angle lens and zoom in to what I want to feature... That zoom allows the shot to stay HD but I'd lose 4K definition.... Some videos I can do this - its certainly something I should experiment with. 4K wasn't an option when I started this!!!
Exceptional report Matt. No second caviar , no cheese, no port …what’s going on? Must be the sleep deprivation.. did you mention that by the way. Best David
Another good video Matt! Poor ground experience but food looked great however I think they need to step up their game for first class as their business is so good
Cheers Callum. My next flight was Emirates F and Qatar has a way to go yet! I hope building an F offering doesn't result in a dilution of their business product
Precise and Fair, as always. I have yet to fly Qatar, largely as my routes are quicker with BA....but one day a longer routing must be undertaken! As you flew over UAE, I was down there still mopping up my balcony after the huge deluge.
Hello Matt; really enjoyed the video (as usual); have you/will you do a separate video about your 7 sector redemption for 180000 + £600 ? Kind regards.
A few have asked - its a tricky one.... Do it right and this multi-award chart can deliver some exceptional value... Perhaps too exceptional value. If I shine a light on it and hundreds of people start booking these, the door may close.... So I'll probably not make a video about it!
Thanks a lot for the flight check, Matt. When I saw the headline I initially thought you had taken the A380 (which also plies this route) but I was wrong ! As you say what QR is offering is more like quasi-first class at the present time. Its new first class seat is scheduled to be unveiled at the Farnborough Airshow in July. I wouldn't be surprised if management aren't working on having a premium economy cabin too. The A380s will remain on the fleet for years to come (Al Baker had no intention to reactivate them - he was not an A380 fan - but he had to eat his words and return some A380s to service to meet customer demand).
@@MattsPlanet Maybe another tine Matt as I don't attend Farnborough. Judging by the reports from IATA AGM in Dubai the delivery schedule for the 777-X is further delayed (according to EK's boss).
Excellent video Matt, and I hope there will soon be an in-depth patreon exclusive explanation of the avios multi partner redemption! I love the Cathay first class product - have now flown it twice (once from HKG-CDG when it was effectively sold as Business with a First seat, then the other CDG-HKG in proper First). Super comfy product and agree with many of your findings. Think it was quite poor form of the Qatar crew to not note the *primary* storage position or explain the functions as a good F class crew should. They can't really have the excuse that the aircraft is new to Qatar, I believe they've had them for a year! I may also add Singapore Airlines to your leading First Class products ;) Highly recommend trying the CX First product (proper) too, their bedding is some of the best.
Cheers Callum - I enjoyed making this video and enjoyed the flight!!! Singapore is probably an oversight in the F rankings.... I'd love to fly all of them but don't want to become a Trek Trendy clone channel!!!! Budget is also an issue....
Great video as always Matt, thanks :) My boyfriend and I flew redeemed QR first class in the exact aircraft from DOH to BKK two weeks ago, we boarded from the al safwa lounge and took the first class transfer bus from there, so it is quite strange that the agent would deny you. Either way, I hope you enjoyed the experience overall and I look forward to Qatar announcing their new first-class product!
@@MattsPlanet ah yes, it was at a remote stand, I assume that’s probably the reason why. But I would still say the excuse the agent gave out was pretty strange 🤔
Fantastic video Matt, incredible value achieved too. Will you be posting a video showing the full routing and how you booked it etc? That would be greatly appreciated. I’ve heard about the partner redemption from HfP but actually seeing how it’s found and booked would be really helpful! All the best. Cheers!
Cheers Jack. I have a sense that there's value in these redemptions that's "too good to be true" and the door may close if there's too sharp a light shone on it.... So I'm inclined to not make a dedicated video about how I did this.... Although I am likely to share the detail with my Patrons - sorry to be so commercial about it, but its the only way I can think of to share the detail without being the reason why those redemptions are restructured...
I've never had the first class bus in Qatar F on longhaul (only on shorthaul), but on their A380 pre-pandemic I did used to get a personal escort between the gate and Al Safwa both ways in Doha: I've seen elsewhere this might no longer be part of the service. There was usually still a bit of standing or sitting around at the gate though. ISTBC, but I've always assumed that the buses are only for remote gates. Gate C24: you should've taken the monorail! I'm not surprised if the signage didn't direct you there though. Other than the Champagnes, the other wines were very business class. I've also recently got to the age where alcohol isn't always the go-to beverage on a plane anymore, and that pot of tea is one of the key differences of F to business. Glad you got the caviar: in F, IME they have had a history of leaving it off flights leaving at breakfast time, so I have tended to avoid those flights. You'll have to let use know how it compares to Emirates' F caviar... I already know my answer ;-) Anecdotally, my impression has been that Qatar have improved the food offering in the past year or so, including on red eyes where the food offering in business was disappointing to say the least. Despite its age, I really love this Cathay F seat. I've had three RTWs on it on the JFK-HKG and HKG-Europe segments, among other trips. You can sit three people in those suites. The bed is super comfy. Cathay used to have the facilities to fry eggs and make fresh toast in the galley. The sheer size and gravitas of the table is just awesome, a facet that BA have dropped since their newer F no longer has buddy seats. And that personal at seat closet is how a closet should be, but I doubt BA's listening with their miniscule string vest closets.
Thanks so much Howard - brilliant insights! The remote gate thing may be the key, although I'd assumed they'd run buses to their own A380's heading to London - I think I'll have to book another trip to find out!!! I did take the monorail as far as it went but it was still a hike all the way round the garden to the gate! Hard to pick a winner in the caviar battle - adding that salmon did make Qatar's offering stand out though... And I may have made a bad choice of my main on Emirates but I think Qatar edged the meal overall.... A sample of one and I would fully expect the result to reverse over a number of trips! And that seat really is nice!!! Happy memories!!! JAL next, with any luck!
Great video, you have balanced the positives and negatives (well as negative as first class!). It is odd to see such a disconnect with the service onboard and the ground. One would think that those are relatively cheep and ways way to elevate the experience to a first class one!
I flew on Qatar at Xmas from Doha to Phuket operated by one of the ex Virgin Australia aircraft. Like your experience gate 34 was used and business class passengers were made to wait until economy had boarded. This meant a very rushed pre-take drink and disgruntled passenger who had expected priority boarding and a relaxing pre take off drink. Still at 6’6” I found the seat very comfortable and in my opinion better than the Q-suite for sleeping although I was surprised that despite being in service with Qatar for over 12 months they still hadn’t sourced any mattress toppers
A few have asked - its a tricky one.... Do it right and this multi-award chart can deliver some exceptional value - like I got... Perhaps too exceptional value. If I shine a light on it and hundreds of people start booking these, the door may close.... So I'll probably not make a video about it!
Looks a nice flight overall and some great views out of DOH and overhead Dubai. Have flown QR in the pointy end (never First though) a few times and always had a good experience. However, I am a bit wary of their reputation for inconsistency, both in terms of the occasionally cold service and their penchant for equipment swaps. Hopefully the new management will look to address these issues. From what I gather, morale among many members of staff had reached rock bottom under the previous regime so looking forward to giving them another go later in the year or early 2025, potentially flying on into Sharjah so I can blag my way into Al Safwa for a few hours.
Cheers Nick - you've been paying attention! Consistency and equipment changes are the bane of the Qatar passengers life.... And Sharjah is a great point of entry into the UAE, after a solid 9 or 10 hours in the Al Safwa!!!
A few have said the bus only works for a remote gate but it was all a bit odd.... A shame really as the F bus is a real experience and even if its a terminal gate it would save you a lengthy walk.
On a recent flight to DOH from BKK I got up upgraded to 1st at the gate - looked similar although was 1-2-1 configuration so no wall separation on one aisle side - privacy a little lacking. Think it was due to a plane change so less business seats. Seat was great to sleep in (after 3-4 drinks) although both my main and desert 1st choices had run out by the time they got to me…caviar was nice though no salmon with mine. Guess catering was a bit rushed with plane change. Did have both champagnes though!
That was a pleasant "ding" to get at the gate! Sounds like you were on one of Qatar's own 380s which has that 1-2-1 layout with almost zero privacy... If they were upgrading it may well be that they didn't have enough meals loaded... Great experience though?
@@MattsPlanet oh yes no complaints overall. They were able to semi replicate my main from the business class menu but bed was a definite win. The one toilet I went in was massive (it had a bench) so guess that’s the 380?
Looked like a great experience (once you were onboard) - and another interesting and enjoyable video! I find it really weird that they wouldn't put on a bus to the aircraft for yourself and the other F passenger - shouldn't make any difference if they are selling and branding this as a Qatar flight (not like it's a wet least with a different air crew or soft product) - and given there were just two of you, i'd have thought they could even get you a car or minivan to take you to the aircraft. Fairly poor experience to make you schlep across the terminal, when they don't do that for other flights.
Indeed - someone suggested that the bus may only work with remote stands and the intra-gulf flights on narrow bodies are usually remote... But they also fly F to London which would be boarded from the gate.... It was a bit strange! Hope you can make a redemption work!
just what i was looking for Matt - thank you, got an Avios seat in F from LDN to BKK later this year, should be fun, is it always 777 on that route ? i had the same config from NYC to YVR on Cathay, not long enough to make the most of it really. i had a banquet in aa lounge so wasn't hungry 😕
The first class buses are only used in the Al Safwa lounge if you’re on a remote stand, I got caught out with going on the same aircraft in F to IST. Had to walk to the gate. The scan at the top of jetbridge to the best of what I’ve been able to gather is the scan that tells Qatar’s systems that you’ve boarded and taken the flight, for things like tier points, Avios etc.
The bus thing makes sense - it surprises me that no intra-gulf flight leaves from a terminal gate.... And the BP check - why on earth can't they do that at the first check-point???
@@MattsPlanet you’d think there would be a way for the systems to make it work from the data gathered from the airport systems, especially at Hamad since it’s effectively QR’s airport! There are some that go from contact stands but honestly it’s mostly a numbers game with some security stuff thrown in. C1-C12 are the additional security gates where everyone effectively gets “SSSS” and they serve the 12 US destinations in the morning. That leaves another 28 gates in a morning departure peak. 4 of which normally have an A380. MAN, EDI, the 2 LHR’s almost always go from one. Usually one of the morning BKK’s. Before long there aren’t that many left
I could be wrong but I'm fairly certain bus boarding only happens when on a remote stand at DOH. All contact gates require you to self transport to the appropriate gate and as you rightly point out some are further away than others. Perhaps you misunderstood the word contact with the word contract and got the wrong end of the stick in this respect.... entirely possible when operating on 1hr of sleep. Great video though none the less and you're spot on: apart from the arabic coffee, caviar and a few extra menu options, the First Class soft product really is no different to Business. I certainly wouldn't waste my money on QR F when J is as good as it is (aircraft types permitting of course).
Thanks Charlie - entirely possible it was "contact" rather than "contract" and that would make excellent sense.... Did I mention I only had 1 hour of sleep????
The bus is only provided for flights departing on remote stands where all passengers go to the aircraft by bus. The staff was referring to contact gates, not contract i.e. not remote hence boarding by airbridge.
That makes sense - I didn't quite hear what they said but it could have been contact rather than contract.... Hard to believe that so many intra-gulf flights go from remote stands....
@@MattsPlanet They should still have been able to offer the golf buggy or similar to the gate, poor show considering that is a very long walk even if you use the train!
Thanks Matt. Maybe the previous CEO was right about Qatar not needing a 1st class😂😂. So annoying how many contracting, mostly, groundstaff get the premium check in and boarding process wrong😶🌫️. All appear to have been redeemed by ample space for feet😊🇿🇦👍
The boarding process looked very poor and hopefully just a one off. Anytime we have flown Qatar BC I'm pretty sure there was a separate queue for premium passengers but none of our flights originated from Doha so maybe that is the difference. Did have a titter with the "Steaks on a plane" quote.😄😄
Many airlines dont seem to have a premium ground experience (except a longue) whereas air france etc are accompanied to the gate. Having staff escort to ensure security /boarding is seemless would improve the first class experience
I am good at collecting avios, but would struggle to pay for any first class not in Avios, or any first class where you have to pay full price. So maybe you could do all the first class you can get using Avios, as that content appeals as its attainable with some wise collecting via nectar, ebay, ba e store, ba amex etc
Flew qatar business last year from a bus gate, almost all economy passengers were boarded while we all stood and waited like lemons. Turns out there wasnt a business bus available at the time, needless to say after waiting over 30 minutes at the gate, once boarded the entire business cabin was less than impressed. Also on the BKK route. Maybe they just don't like it!!!
I've seen Qatar service nosedive too, specially their group service and boarding. It's like they still haven't figured out how to do priority boarding or maybe they forgot during COVID. My inflight experience in business was not really great either. They treat all flights to the Indian subcontinent as inferior. Mid night flight for 4 hrs, lack luster menu, no amenity kit or pyjamas and the crew forgot two of my 4 choices. I didn't bother to remind them as I just wanted to sleep. But I've realised that air travel is going to get worse before it gets better. Plus my bags came out damaged as well
Bit like a business class seat. Ba hasn’t credited me my double tier points yet. Do you know how long they take to go on your account. Btw have you been to the airport terrace lounge at Malta. Food not the best but the outdoor terrace is..
I've seen reports that they can take a month - it really is quite poor of BA to be so unreliable.... Long time since I've been to Malta and I don't remember a terrace... The Gibraltar terrace is fun!
Hi Matt, what is the routing of your 7 flights trip? did you go RTW? also did your 2 first class flights book as Business class avios fares due to the longest flights being business class?
I booked LHR-AMM-DOH-BKK / HKG-DEL-HEL-CPH-LHR. 2 legs in F booked into F as the multi-partner award books into a class based on the longest flight.... Which was neither of the F legs
I have on / off buyers remorse for my 177.5k Avios redemption to Sydney on BA club dormitory 787-9. Interesting to see what you can get for a few Avios more and few hundred £££ less.
It seems that the bus only works for remote gates - Bangkok seems to be a "Contact" departure (in contact with the terminal, rather than a contract gate) so it will be time to lace up the walking boots....
Hi I need help with Qatar to query some vouchers. Their customer service is not good. How do I escalate this. Is there a customer protection body in the uk who can help me.
Qatar is known for poor customer service. I don't know about them specifically but twitter (or X) can be a good way of getting attention. If they're Qatar vouchers you may have trouble getting traction with a UK agency as they'll operate under Qatari laws I'd imagine
I'm trying to book these tickets on qatar it shows seats available however when I put use my companion voucher it then shows no availability??? Any solution's thanks 😮
You'd have to book through BA to use a companion voucher and then it only works on the BA flight and not any Qatar ones. The voucher can be used on BA, Iberia and Awr Lingus
First class video. Frustrating when ground experience is not so good...Hamad airport is huge and a First class bus with the red seats would have been very welcome. I really do not like chaotic boarding. On-board looked very nice (headwind desired for business/First, tailwind for economy). Really good First FAs should make someone feel "highly valued" with a personal touch - my First experience is very limited compared to business. I would have thought Etihad would be on the leading list.
Cheers Dave - my F experience is not extensive but I'm happy to build it for your entertainment!!! My next flight was on Emirates in F and it was quite good.... Stay tuned!
I flew the same plane in business 2 weeks ago and the plane was disgusting 🤮 it was filthy. I used the cold towel to wipe surface areas clean and the towel was black with grime. The material of the seat was dirty and old and really looked poor quality compared to Q Suite. I was very disappointed with the service they offered. Ignored you most of the flight. Yes I think the only difference is the smelly spray is cheaper toilette in business, I think it’s a perfume in first. No date,coffee or caviar. All in all it was the worst flight out of all 4 flown.
Qatar is a lovely product but their Boarding is an absolute shambles. I've criticised them at the gate with their Supervisor before for this but heard nothing back....
“steaks on a plane” - Brilliant!
I couldn’t of course but imagine a King Cobra in the toilet bowl when you mentioned this (twice) and am pretty sure that was your intention?!
Its a difficult image to shift!!!
I hope qatar doesn't ban you like they did other CZcamsrs who dared criticise them.
QR has a new CEO today.
I was a little nervous actually but whilst I don't thrust my camera in people's faces I don't hide it either.... I as Alex says, I think they're more relaxed these days!
The best bit of my Sunday is when your video drops. Thank you sir!
Thanks so much! I'm happy to hear that but I am tempted to say you should get out more!!!
Hey Matt, long term occasional watcher, first time poster, ex-airline ops guy here. It seems likely to me that the agent in Al Safwa told you it was a ‘contact’ flight, rather than ‘contract’. It’s an industry term meaning that the aircraft is parked at a gate that has an air bridge, as opposed to a remote stand. Since it’s not a very easily understood term for non-employees, the agent should really have used more everyday language with you when explaining why you weren’t being bussed to the aircraft.
I think you're absolutely spot on. The agent actually said it to her colleague before explaining to me that there was no bus and I had to make the hike myself. Which is why I didn't fully hear what she said. It does seem strange that Qatar can't run a bus around to a terminal gate id the plane isn't on a remote stand - lots of other airlines manage it!
Lucky you didn‘t get Qatar‘d. We flew the A380 in First from BKK to DOH and then were supposed to continue on the 777 First to Zurich only to get an aircraft change. I would have loved to try the seat. Granted the foot area really does look narrow for a first class seat. That lobster/crab dish looked incredible, glad you had a good experience!
Always a nice surprise when you get on the plane you were expecting when flying Qatar!
Fab video Matt. You did extremely well on 1 hour sleep, I'd have been pretty grumpy lol. The fact you got 7 flights for 180k avios and £600 is incredible, well done you! lookign forward to seeing the rest of the trip
Thanks - took a bit of work to get that booking but it was worth it!
Well done on not saying “pacifically with Cathay Specific” in your introduction 😊. May I express my gratitude for not featuring the yellow scary bear in a Doha clip. That is the stuff of nightmares. And… Once again, a fair and balanced review Matt, great work. Long may you continue!
That bear gets enough publicity!!!
Having experienced Qatar Airways recently for the first time, I would not say that they are a 5 star airline, in fact the phrase of "organising a pishup in a brewery" came to mind.
Sorry to hear that. Qatar can be inconsistent for sure...
Well done clearing your plates, that must've been a real struggle ;) I wonder if you can buy old first class seats, fancy one of those at home.
I hate wasting food!!! You can actually buy seats - they come up on ebay every now and again... Sure you're living room (or shed!!!) is big enough????
The best meal you've ever had on a plane... wowzers.
I've had better on the ground, but the competition is less fierce in the air!!
Thanks for the info + video!
Thanks as always Jimmy
Always look forward to finishing work on a Sunday night to have dinner with your video on the big screen. Great insight, thanks for sharing! I’m considering doing a QF F redemption myself one day in the near future, so some great pointers here!
Thanks Matteo. Qantas F is definitely on my list
On the big screen? Shit you need to get out more. 🤣 did you turn on the Dolby Atmos too?
Fantastic Matt! Proper champagne in a champagne glass, served with cheese and olives, that’s all you need!
Lots of boxes ticked!
Another great video Matt. Keep up the good work.
Will you be providing a trip summary when all done, including tier points, costs, etc.
Thanks - as I've said a few times, this is a tricky one as that multi-partner chart is a little marginal - these trips are really hard to book too!!!
Living in Seoul, I’ve had quite a number of Cathay flights - and the cabin does look very familiar!
I remember those planes on Seoul-Hong Kong route before 2020. Now Cathay flies A330s and A350s with occasional A321neo service - and none of them have first class seats.
Your video did bring up some great old memories 🥲
I'm getting a taste for F cabins - I need to do a Cathay F flight to see what its like today... That seat would have been amazing 10 years ago
Another well timed video. need to go to Australia next year & one of my four suggested routings is on Qatar. Watching all the available videos in the interim.......
If you can find (or afford) an F seat to Sydney that would be a special experience for sure!!! Although the Q Suite is by no means a shabby option!
ANOTHER GREAT video from you matt shame about the experience from the Qatar ground crew etc etc. many thanks
Thanks - I enjoyed this one!!!
Love yr video's and yr very dry sence of humour 👍👏🤣
Thanks for watching them!
Amazing to see the booking is going well Matt… another fantastic, informative video. Thoroughly enjoyed 🙌🏽
Its all down to you mate!!! Painful to book, but a delight to experience!
Found out that you might be flying Emirates First Class soon. Is it true? Love the vid btw
I did! Video will be along soon....
Love your content Matt and at £255 that's some ridiculously good value. Good on you!
Have you considered posting in 4K? I think it would lift the videos up a notch if that is something that can be achieved.
Thanks - interesting question. I film in 4k so it would be possible, but for the walking shots I have a wide angle lens and zoom in to what I want to feature... That zoom allows the shot to stay HD but I'd lose 4K definition.... Some videos I can do this - its certainly something I should experiment with. 4K wasn't an option when I started this!!!
Love you 'stick around' opening :)
People complain if I don't include it!!!
@@MattsPlanet My suggestion is keep it too!
Exceptional report Matt. No second caviar , no cheese, no port …what’s going on? Must be the sleep deprivation.. did you mention that by the way. Best David
I think I mentioned it, but let me check.... Clearly in a delusional state!!!
Another good video Matt! Poor ground experience but food looked great however I think they need to step up their game for first class as their business is so good
Cheers Callum. My next flight was Emirates F and Qatar has a way to go yet! I hope building an F offering doesn't result in a dilution of their business product
Precise and Fair, as always.
I have yet to fly Qatar, largely as my routes are quicker with BA....but one day a longer routing must be undertaken!
As you flew over UAE, I was down there still mopping up my balcony after the huge deluge.
Cheers Matthew. That Dubai deluge looked apocalyptic!!!
Hello Matt; really enjoyed the video (as usual); have you/will you do a separate video about your 7 sector redemption for 180000 + £600 ? Kind regards.
A few have asked - its a tricky one.... Do it right and this multi-award chart can deliver some exceptional value... Perhaps too exceptional value. If I shine a light on it and hundreds of people start booking these, the door may close.... So I'll probably not make a video about it!
Josh Cahill favourite airline!! NOT!!!😂😂😂 Such a brilliant youtuber!!👏👏👏tell it like it is😊 Qatar like that😂😂😂
Thanks - no issues filming for me - the crew embraced it actually!
Brilliant a route I'll be doing next Feb.
Have a great trip!
Thanks a lot for the flight check, Matt. When I saw the headline I initially thought you had taken the A380 (which also plies this route) but I was wrong ! As you say what QR is offering is more like quasi-first class at the present time. Its new first class seat is scheduled to be unveiled at the Farnborough Airshow in July. I wouldn't be surprised if management aren't working on having a premium economy cabin too. The A380s will remain on the fleet for years to come (Al Baker had no intention to reactivate them - he was not an A380 fan - but he had to eat his words and return some A380s to service to meet customer demand).
I was looking at the dates for Farnborough just this afternoon!!! We should have a coffee... Qatar just needs planes and the A380 qualifies!
@@MattsPlanet Maybe another tine Matt as I don't attend Farnborough. Judging by the reports from IATA AGM in Dubai the delivery schedule for the 777-X is further delayed (according to EK's boss).
Excellent video Matt, and I hope there will soon be an in-depth patreon exclusive explanation of the avios multi partner redemption!
I love the Cathay first class product - have now flown it twice (once from HKG-CDG when it was effectively sold as Business with a First seat, then the other CDG-HKG in proper First). Super comfy product and agree with many of your findings. Think it was quite poor form of the Qatar crew to not note the *primary* storage position or explain the functions as a good F class crew should. They can't really have the excuse that the aircraft is new to Qatar, I believe they've had them for a year!
I may also add Singapore Airlines to your leading First Class products ;) Highly recommend trying the CX First product (proper) too, their bedding is some of the best.
Cheers Callum - I enjoyed making this video and enjoyed the flight!!! Singapore is probably an oversight in the F rankings.... I'd love to fly all of them but don't want to become a Trek Trendy clone channel!!!! Budget is also an issue....
😂 and I think we don’t want you to become Mr Trek Trendy!
Great video Matt, I'd definitely give that a whirl
We can debate whether it was better than Emirates F!!!
@@MattsPlanet Sorry about that ☹
@@philbrassington557 Ha ha! No worries at all Phil, loved the video
Thank You ✈️
It was my pleasure!
Great video as always Matt, thanks :)
My boyfriend and I flew redeemed QR first class in the exact aircraft from DOH to BKK two weeks ago, we boarded from the al safwa lounge and took the first class transfer bus from there, so it is quite strange that the agent would deny you. Either way, I hope you enjoyed the experience overall and I look forward to Qatar announcing their new first-class product!
Thanks - was the plane at a remote stand??
@@MattsPlanet ah yes, it was at a remote stand, I assume that’s probably the reason why. But I would still say the excuse the agent gave out was pretty strange 🤔
Fantastic video Matt, incredible value achieved too. Will you be posting a video showing the full routing and how you booked it etc? That would be greatly appreciated. I’ve heard about the partner redemption from HfP but actually seeing how it’s found and booked would be really helpful! All the best. Cheers!
+1!
Cheers Jack. I have a sense that there's value in these redemptions that's "too good to be true" and the door may close if there's too sharp a light shone on it.... So I'm inclined to not make a dedicated video about how I did this.... Although I am likely to share the detail with my Patrons - sorry to be so commercial about it, but its the only way I can think of to share the detail without being the reason why those redemptions are restructured...
@@MattsPlanet Oh you cheeky devil! No worries, understood mate. Appreciate the video and the response nonetheless, thanks again.
Your vlogs get better and better Matt... my one rule is "no snakes sorry 😅 steaks on a plane" seafood looked superb...
That pie was delicious! I think the quality of the flight makes my stuff look better!!
I've never had the first class bus in Qatar F on longhaul (only on shorthaul), but on their A380 pre-pandemic I did used to get a personal escort between the gate and Al Safwa both ways in Doha: I've seen elsewhere this might no longer be part of the service. There was usually still a bit of standing or sitting around at the gate though. ISTBC, but I've always assumed that the buses are only for remote gates.
Gate C24: you should've taken the monorail! I'm not surprised if the signage didn't direct you there though.
Other than the Champagnes, the other wines were very business class.
I've also recently got to the age where alcohol isn't always the go-to beverage on a plane anymore, and that pot of tea is one of the key differences of F to business.
Glad you got the caviar: in F, IME they have had a history of leaving it off flights leaving at breakfast time, so I have tended to avoid those flights. You'll have to let use know how it compares to Emirates' F caviar... I already know my answer ;-) Anecdotally, my impression has been that Qatar have improved the food offering in the past year or so, including on red eyes where the food offering in business was disappointing to say the least.
Despite its age, I really love this Cathay F seat. I've had three RTWs on it on the JFK-HKG and HKG-Europe segments, among other trips. You can sit three people in those suites. The bed is super comfy. Cathay used to have the facilities to fry eggs and make fresh toast in the galley. The sheer size and gravitas of the table is just awesome, a facet that BA have dropped since their newer F no longer has buddy seats. And that personal at seat closet is how a closet should be, but I doubt BA's listening with their miniscule string vest closets.
Thanks so much Howard - brilliant insights! The remote gate thing may be the key, although I'd assumed they'd run buses to their own A380's heading to London - I think I'll have to book another trip to find out!!! I did take the monorail as far as it went but it was still a hike all the way round the garden to the gate! Hard to pick a winner in the caviar battle - adding that salmon did make Qatar's offering stand out though... And I may have made a bad choice of my main on Emirates but I think Qatar edged the meal overall.... A sample of one and I would fully expect the result to reverse over a number of trips! And that seat really is nice!!! Happy memories!!! JAL next, with any luck!
Great video, you have balanced the positives and negatives (well as negative as first class!). It is odd to see such a disconnect with the service onboard and the ground. One would think that those are relatively cheep and ways way to elevate the experience to a first class one!
Thanks - lets hope the new CEO finds a way of elevating things
I flew on Qatar at Xmas from Doha to Phuket operated by one of the ex Virgin Australia aircraft. Like your experience gate 34 was used and business class passengers were made to wait until economy had boarded. This meant a very rushed pre-take drink and disgruntled passenger who had expected priority boarding and a relaxing pre take off drink. Still at 6’6” I found the seat very comfortable and in my opinion better than the Q-suite for sleeping although I was surprised that despite being in service with Qatar for over 12 months they still hadn’t sourced any mattress toppers
Thanks Paul. I got one of their clapped out A330s from DOH to HKT a couple of years back so an ex-Virgin plane is a clear win!!!!
Hey Matt, super vid as usual... Are you going to do a vid on the 7 flights for 180k avios? cheers
A few have asked - its a tricky one.... Do it right and this multi-award chart can deliver some exceptional value - like I got... Perhaps too exceptional value. If I shine a light on it and hundreds of people start booking these, the door may close.... So I'll probably not make a video about it!
@@MattsPlanet That's a shame 😥
Tea? Impersonator! Just you wait till I tell the The Real Matt !
He's locked in the basement, he'll never hear you!!!
Looks a nice flight overall and some great views out of DOH and overhead Dubai. Have flown QR in the pointy end (never First though) a few times and always had a good experience. However, I am a bit wary of their reputation for inconsistency, both in terms of the occasionally cold service and their penchant for equipment swaps. Hopefully the new management will look to address these issues. From what I gather, morale among many members of staff had reached rock bottom under the previous regime so looking forward to giving them another go later in the year or early 2025, potentially flying on into Sharjah so I can blag my way into Al Safwa for a few hours.
Cheers Nick - you've been paying attention! Consistency and equipment changes are the bane of the Qatar passengers life.... And Sharjah is a great point of entry into the UAE, after a solid 9 or 10 hours in the Al Safwa!!!
Great review! Maybe the staff were referring to your flight being at a contact gate (rather than some kind of contract)?
A few have said the bus only works for a remote gate but it was all a bit odd.... A shame really as the F bus is a real experience and even if its a terminal gate it would save you a lengthy walk.
On a recent flight to DOH from BKK I got up upgraded to 1st at the gate - looked similar although was 1-2-1 configuration so no wall separation on one aisle side - privacy a little lacking. Think it was due to a plane change so less business seats. Seat was great to sleep in (after 3-4 drinks) although both my main and desert 1st choices had run out by the time they got to me…caviar was nice though no salmon with mine. Guess catering was a bit rushed with plane change. Did have both champagnes though!
That was a pleasant "ding" to get at the gate! Sounds like you were on one of Qatar's own 380s which has that 1-2-1 layout with almost zero privacy... If they were upgrading it may well be that they didn't have enough meals loaded... Great experience though?
@@MattsPlanet oh yes no complaints overall. They were able to semi replicate my main from the business class menu but bed was a definite win. The one toilet I went in was massive (it had a bench) so guess that’s the 380?
@@mrh7758 That's the 380. That forward loo is big enough for Emirates to get a shower into it...
Looked like a great experience (once you were onboard) - and another interesting and enjoyable video! I find it really weird that they wouldn't put on a bus to the aircraft for yourself and the other F passenger - shouldn't make any difference if they are selling and branding this as a Qatar flight (not like it's a wet least with a different air crew or soft product) - and given there were just two of you, i'd have thought they could even get you a car or minivan to take you to the aircraft. Fairly poor experience to make you schlep across the terminal, when they don't do that for other flights.
Indeed - someone suggested that the bus may only work with remote stands and the intra-gulf flights on narrow bodies are usually remote... But they also fly F to London which would be boarded from the gate.... It was a bit strange! Hope you can make a redemption work!
just what i was looking for Matt - thank you, got an Avios seat in F from LDN to BKK later this year, should be fun, is it always 777 on that route ? i had the same config from NYC to YVR on Cathay, not long enough to make the most of it really. i had a banquet in aa lounge so wasn't hungry 😕
If you got F all the way through, LHR-DOH will be an A380. Then DOH-BKK can be either the A380 or these second hand 777s
@@MattsPlanet cheers Matt … checked my booking … only J from LHR to Doha, oh well better start looking at seat selection…
The first class buses are only used in the Al Safwa lounge if you’re on a remote stand, I got caught out with going on the same aircraft in F to IST. Had to walk to the gate.
The scan at the top of jetbridge to the best of what I’ve been able to gather is the scan that tells Qatar’s systems that you’ve boarded and taken the flight, for things like tier points, Avios etc.
The bus thing makes sense - it surprises me that no intra-gulf flight leaves from a terminal gate.... And the BP check - why on earth can't they do that at the first check-point???
@@MattsPlanet you’d think there would be a way for the systems to make it work from the data gathered from the airport systems, especially at Hamad since it’s effectively QR’s airport!
There are some that go from contact stands but honestly it’s mostly a numbers game with some security stuff thrown in. C1-C12 are the additional security gates where everyone effectively gets “SSSS” and they serve the 12 US destinations in the morning. That leaves another 28 gates in a morning departure peak. 4 of which normally have an A380. MAN, EDI, the 2 LHR’s almost always go from one. Usually one of the morning BKK’s. Before long there aren’t that many left
I could be wrong but I'm fairly certain bus boarding only happens when on a remote stand at DOH. All contact gates require you to self transport to the appropriate gate and as you rightly point out some are further away than others. Perhaps you misunderstood the word contact with the word contract and got the wrong end of the stick in this respect.... entirely possible when operating on 1hr of sleep. Great video though none the less and you're spot on: apart from the arabic coffee, caviar and a few extra menu options, the First Class soft product really is no different to Business. I certainly wouldn't waste my money on QR F when J is as good as it is (aircraft types permitting of course).
Thanks Charlie - entirely possible it was "contact" rather than "contract" and that would make excellent sense.... Did I mention I only had 1 hour of sleep????
The bus is only provided for flights departing on remote stands where all passengers go to the aircraft by bus.
The staff was referring to contact gates, not contract i.e. not remote hence boarding by airbridge.
That makes sense - I didn't quite hear what they said but it could have been contact rather than contract.... Hard to believe that so many intra-gulf flights go from remote stands....
@@MattsPlanet They should still have been able to offer the golf buggy or similar to the gate, poor show considering that is a very long walk even if you use the train!
I always give your videos a like, but for this episode I did it specifically for use of the word “thusly”
Shakespeare made up words, why can't I???
I believe the first class buses from the lounge are offered on Gulf flights only.
I've heard some say its remote gates only... Can't remember a gulf flight getting a terminal gate when I think about it
I’m afraid boarding isn’t QR’s forte. Their boarding process in DOH is teadious and multi-layered.
I don't remember it being that bad.... I need to rewatch my own videos to see how it worked previously!
Thanks Matt. Maybe the previous CEO was right about Qatar not needing a 1st class😂😂. So annoying how many contracting, mostly, groundstaff get the premium check in and boarding process wrong😶🌫️. All appear to have been redeemed by ample space for feet😊🇿🇦👍
My next flight was Emirates in First so there is scope for Qatar to offer one too!!!! My feet were very happy!
The boarding process looked very poor and hopefully just a one off. Anytime we have flown Qatar BC I'm pretty sure there was a separate queue for premium passengers but none of our flights originated from Doha so maybe that is the difference.
Did have a titter with the "Steaks on a plane" quote.😄😄
Thanks Craig - things improved when I got aboard!!!
Many airlines dont seem to have a premium ground experience (except a longue) whereas air france etc are accompanied to the gate. Having staff escort to ensure security /boarding is seemless would improve the first class experience
I don't want to clone Trek Trendy's content but I would like to experience a few more Firsts!!!
I am good at collecting avios, but would struggle to pay for any first class not in Avios, or any first class where you have to pay full price. So maybe you could do all the first class you can get using Avios, as that content appeals as its attainable with some wise collecting via nectar, ebay, ba e store, ba amex etc
Out of curiosity, could you share a video or comment about your 180000 multi-partner ticket please?!
Send me an email....
Flew qatar business last year from a bus gate, almost all economy passengers were boarded while we all stood and waited like lemons. Turns out there wasnt a business bus available at the time, needless to say after waiting over 30 minutes at the gate, once boarded the entire business cabin was less than impressed. Also on the BKK route. Maybe they just don't like it!!!
Qatar's boarding should probably be on the new CEO's list of things to look at!
I've seen Qatar service nosedive too, specially their group service and boarding. It's like they still haven't figured out how to do priority boarding or maybe they forgot during COVID.
My inflight experience in business was not really great either. They treat all flights to the Indian subcontinent as inferior. Mid night flight for 4 hrs, lack luster menu, no amenity kit or pyjamas and the crew forgot two of my 4 choices.
I didn't bother to remind them as I just wanted to sleep. But I've realised that air travel is going to get worse before it gets better. Plus my bags came out damaged as well
Doesn't sound like you got Qatar at its best.... Not sure I did either!!! Fingers crossed the new CEO sorts all of this out
Bit like a business class seat. Ba hasn’t credited me my double tier points yet. Do you know how long they take to go on your account. Btw have you been to the airport terrace lounge at Malta. Food not the best but the outdoor terrace is..
I've seen reports that they can take a month - it really is quite poor of BA to be so unreliable.... Long time since I've been to Malta and I don't remember a terrace... The Gibraltar terrace is fun!
Thanks Matt it’s really annoying there’s definitely an outside terrace really nice to
Hi Matt, what is the routing of your 7 flights trip? did you go RTW? also did your 2 first class flights book as Business class avios fares due to the longest flights being business class?
I booked LHR-AMM-DOH-BKK / HKG-DEL-HEL-CPH-LHR. 2 legs in F booked into F as the multi-partner award books into a class based on the longest flight.... Which was neither of the F legs
I have on / off buyers remorse for my 177.5k Avios redemption to Sydney on BA club dormitory 787-9. Interesting to see what you can get for a few Avios more and few hundred £££ less.
Looks like a nice emirates A380 opportunity between BKK and HKG. :) cin cin!
I’m flying Qatar first class to Bangkok later this year on there a380 will I be able to use the bus from the lounge do you think?
It seems that the bus only works for remote gates - Bangkok seems to be a "Contact" departure (in contact with the terminal, rather than a contract gate) so it will be time to lace up the walking boots....
Liked and comment
Full marks Gexrge!!!
@@MattsPlanet yessssss
Help Matt if I book my holiday to hawaii leaving from Heathrow can I upgrade my seat regards Stuart
You will be able to... Your question is a little open ended and it may cost a fortune, but it should be possible, either at the airport or in advance
it is the service that differs J and F class. The seat itself is less impressive
I thought the seat was much better than any business class seat....
Omg matt are you mad bro, turned down the bolly and the caviar, who even are you?!?!
I have been standing in the corner for 3 weeks now.... I know my failings!!!
The quality of the amenity kits have definitely gone DOWN HILL on many of the airlines including this one……‼️👀
Wait til you see what I got on Emirates!!!
Hi I need help with Qatar to query some vouchers. Their customer service is not good. How do I escalate this. Is there a customer protection body in the uk who can help me.
Qatar is known for poor customer service. I don't know about them specifically but twitter (or X) can be a good way of getting attention. If they're Qatar vouchers you may have trouble getting traction with a UK agency as they'll operate under Qatari laws I'd imagine
I'm trying to book these tickets on qatar it shows seats available however when I put use my companion voucher it then shows no availability??? Any solution's thanks 😮
You'd have to book through BA to use a companion voucher and then it only works on the BA flight and not any Qatar ones. The voucher can be used on BA, Iberia and Awr Lingus
@@MattsPlanet thanks I’ve tried ba but never any availability to any of the routes even for 12 months in advance
First class video. Frustrating when ground experience is not so good...Hamad airport is huge and a First class bus with the red seats would have been very welcome. I really do not like chaotic boarding. On-board looked very nice (headwind desired for business/First, tailwind for economy). Really good First FAs should make someone feel "highly valued" with a personal touch - my First experience is very limited compared to business. I would have thought Etihad would be on the leading list.
Cheers Dave - my F experience is not extensive but I'm happy to build it for your entertainment!!! My next flight was on Emirates in F and it was quite good.... Stay tuned!
My brain - " Don't say it, Don't say it, Don't say it ... Me "steaks on a plane *snork 🤣 #SorryNotSorry 🐍
I can only apologise....
Sorry, I need evidence for Cognac
I'm a man of my word!!! Unusual of me to have missed it as I do like a cognac!
I flew the same plane in business 2 weeks ago and the plane was disgusting 🤮 it was filthy. I used the cold towel to wipe surface areas clean and the towel was black with grime. The material of the seat was dirty and old and really looked poor quality compared to Q Suite. I was very disappointed with the service they offered. Ignored you most of the flight. Yes I think the only difference is the smelly spray is cheaper toilette in business, I think it’s a perfume in first. No date,coffee or caviar. All in all it was the worst flight out of all 4 flown.
These are old planes but you'd hope Qatar would have given them a deep spritz!! Disappointing to hear that experience
"no video evidence exists of ...' 😂😂😂
I usually video everything!
Qatar is a lovely product but their Boarding is an absolute shambles. I've criticised them at the gate with their Supervisor before for this but heard nothing back....
Indeed - its not an organisation where you expect much from a complaint.... New management though so hopefully things will improve
Careful, Matt. You'll get banned! 🤣
I said it was quite good so I think I'm safe this time!!!
Qatar service has been subpar these days, rushed service, and lack of emotion.
The crew can be variable - this crew was good and engaged but not quite at the highest levels
Are you pronouncing 'Qatar' correctly? You make it sound like a rather unpleasant throat and nasal build up of filth.
Probably not!!! I have a track record of getting things wrong.... Avios, anyone???
@@MattsPlanet In their tv ads they pronounce it 'cattah'.
That old wood veneer looks tired and ghastly. So outdated!
It was a little tired... Shame they can't use real wood but it would just be too heavy
@@MattsPlanet even normal plastic is fine