THE FLIGHT: Northwest Airlines flight NW101 to Detroit, Michigan, USA (codeshare KL6101 with KLM). Departing London Heathrow's Terminal 4 at 8.50am; flown by an A330.
THE CHECK-IN: A nightmare! Terminal 4 was heaving early on this Wednesday morning, with queues extending well beyond their alloted spaces. The NWA check-in desks were no worse than any other, but it still took close to an hour to complete the DIY check-in and bag drop-off. The staff, despite being under considerable pressure, were very amiable. They also explained that although my bag was checked all the way to my end destination, I would still need to collect it in Detroit and drop it off again for my onward flight to Kansas City.
THE BOARDING PROCESS: The prolonged check-in experience meant that the flight was boarding by the time I'd proceeded through security – which, thankfully, was a much quicker progress. Passengers weren't called by seat number so a lengthy queue formed, affording me the time to grab some breakfast.
THE SEAT: The Economy cabin was almost full so I was fortunate to have a window and aisle seat all to myself. The cabin upholstery was in a range of smart blues and the seat and environs were comfortable.
THE SERVICE: Newspapers and immigration forms were offered to passengers shortly after take-off, followed by a drinks service and wholesome lunch. The audio-visual on-demand entertainment system featured nearly 50 films – from classics to blockbusters – 16 radio channels and a choice of 40 CDs and 12 games. Unfortunately the AVOD system wasn't properly loaded until an hour or so into the flight due to a tech-nical hitch. A snack was served shortly before arrival in Detroit.
THE arrival: A fairly long taxi to the gate but then off the aircraft pretty swiftly. Immigration was the quickest I've experienced in the US and the baggage carousel started churning bags out pretty promptly too.
THE VERDICT: A chaotic and stressful check-in process was in stark contrast to the serene atmosphere, great comfort and amenities of the impressive onboard experience. Transiting to my onward flight in Detroit – an NWA hub – was, like the immigration process, the smoothest I've experienced in the US.
THE DETAILS: NWA/KLM fly daily from Heathrow to Detroit, departing at 08.50 and arriving at 12.35 local time. Economy return fares start from £666; Business returns from £2,454. See: www.nwa.com / www.klm.com Andy Hoskins
