Flight Review: Qantas – Gold Coast to Sydney return
Take off with the next generation. We take a seat on Qantas from the Gold Coast to Sydney return.
Flight: Gold Coast to Sydney return
When: Saturday 12 July 2016
Aircraft: 737-800
Class: Economy
Configuration: 3-3
Seat: 10A / 15A
Duration: 1.10 hours
Verdict: 9/10
Frequency
Qantas operates a number of daily flights between the Gold Coast and Sydney and vv.
Frequent Flyer
Qantas has its own frequent flyer programme, which you can also earn points via many other outlets than just flights.
Lounge
Qantas has a dedicated lounge at the Gold Coast (Coolangatta) Airport and Sydney Domestic Airport. The brand new Qantas Club is now open at Gold Coast Airport, just on the left as you pass through security. Qantas Club members and Partner members are welcome at The Qantas Club when your next onward flight that day is on a Qantas or Jetstar Airlines* flight number. * Jetstar Airlines refers to Jetstar (JQ), Jetstar Asia (3K). The Sydney Domestic Airport Qantas Business Lounge is located on Departures Level, opposite Gates 4 and 5.
Baggage
Qantas economy passengers are allowed 1 piece at 23kg check-in, however those Silver or Gold Frequent Flyer members or Qantas Club members have extra allowance. Carry on allowance is 1 piece at 7kg. Additional baggage can be purchase prior to departure and at the airport.
Checking in
I did an online check-in via the website and had the boarding pass sent to my phone. As I was travelling to Sydney and return in the same day, I had no luggage, just my carry-on bag, so this option meant I could breeze on through straight to the gate. Even if you have luggage, I highly recommend the online check-in prior to travel as the bag tag and drop service is also very efficient.
Onboard
Qantas’ domestic fleet of Boeing B737-800 aircraft have been upgraded, with greater levels of comfort and enhanced in-flight entertainment options.
In addition to refreshing the look and feel of the cabin and improving seat comfort, this flight had improvements to in-flight entertainment. There was full seatback video on demand in-flight entertainment for each passenger, with wireless Q Streaming entertainment.
Seat
The Economy seats are extremely comfortable, with 30″ pitch, 5″ recline and 17.2″ seat width. The seats also feature a 9″ seat-back inflight entertainment touch-screen, individual USB port, access to PC power, four-way adjustable headrest and ergonomic cushions.
Service
Qantas crew go through rigorous training of safety and service, and this was evident on the flight. All staff members were friendly and helpful. I still think the new uniforms look fantastic and all staff seemed proud to wear it and happy to be there.
Meals
As I was on an early flight out of the Gold Coast to Sydney I received a breakfast box, which was just enough to nibble on for the short flight. Refreshments and tea and coffee were also served. On return from Sydney, the flight was slightly delayed so not only did we receive a hot dinner meal but also wine and beer were added to the drinks service.
Entertainment
My flight had seat back touch screen inflight entertainment with hundreds of entertainment options are available, including new release movies, TV shows, CDs, games and Q radio channels as well as Qantas’ exclusive interactive Lonely Planet Guides. A dedicated kids zone offers all-G rated content for young travellers. The flight also had wireless Q to stream on-demand TV, movies and music direct to my smartphones.
I must admit, I am always a fan of the inflight magazine, and the ‘Qantas Spirit of Australia’ magazine never disappoints. I enjoyed flipping through and reading travel inspiration and information, local’s guides to the best restaurants, top hotels and travel experiences. As they are free to take also, I popped a copy in my bag to read later.
Kate was a guest on Qantas from the Gold Coast (Coolangatta) to Sydney return.
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