23 October 2011

Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires (AEP)

Carrier: Aerolineas Argentinas

Flight Number: AR1257 Departing 2035

Duration 3:15 mins

Class: Y – Economy

Seat 20D

Aircraft  type: B737-700 /  Two class configuration 12 Business and 116 economy

Check-in experience:
I had heard the traffic out to Rio's GIG Airport from Copacabana can be delayed by traffic jams so I left my hotel early. As it turned out Sunday's aren't busy and I arrived before the check-in desk was open.

Exactly 3 hours prior the desk opened. As I was 3rd in the queue there was no wait and the friendly Aerolineas Argentinas check-in agent had me processed in moments.

My journey today was going to be a long one. RIO to BUE (AEP airport) then transfer across town to BUE (EZE airport) for my flight to SYD.

My bag was only checked to AEP but I was given seat allocation & boarding passes on both services.

On time performance:
The flight was delayed leaving Buenos Aires by approximately 45 minutes.

Seat/cabin conditions:
This aircraft was one of Aerolineas’ newer aircraft. The 737-700 was no more than two years old and was in excellent condition.

Meal & Snack service:
A late evening snack was served approximately 40 minutes after departure in a colourful presentation box. Ham & Cheese roll, Chocolate & Caramel biscuit, Butter toffee sweet and a choice of refreshments including coffee/tea, water, juices and soft drinks. (No alcohol was served)

Entertainment:
Aerolineas have two inflight magazines. Cielos Argenintas; a general interest magazine and ALTA; the airlines official inflight monthly. There was no in-seat LCD TV screens and no drop down TV’s.

Service:
The crew were friendly, smiling and seemed to go the extra mile to ensure passengers had a good flight.

I had asked for an aisle seat but on boarding found I had been given a window. I’m not sure if it was my lack of Portuguese but I assume the check-in agent knows the difference between and aisle and window? Luckily it wasn’t a full flight and I was able to move to an empty row at the rear.
Other Details:
Follow Aerolineas on twitter @Aerolineas_AR or Like them on  facebook.com/aerolineas_argentinas