After a five-days holiday in the sunny Dubai, it was time to return home. Earlier we flew on an Emirates A380 on the way here, and on our return trip, the Emirates B77W is waiting to take us home as EK352, one of the five daily services to Singapore.
FLIGHT DETAILS
Emirates, EK 352
Dubai International (DXB) - Singapore Changi (SIN)
Boeing 777-31H(ER), A6-EPH
Delivered 18/12/2015, msn 42327
ETD: 2115 (UAE standard time / GMT + 4)
ETA: 0850 (Singapore standard time / GMT +8)
Seat Number 42C
Pre-departure
Arriving three hours prior to departure time, we found ourselves in the huge check-in hall at Dubai International Airport's Terminal 3. Home to Emirates' worldwide operation, there were plenty of check-in desks, each designated with its own purpose. Being a QF member, I usually headed for the frequent flier assigned desk, although the staff members at DXB seemed to be slightly confused about the QF frequent flier status in relevance to EK's operation.
Nonetheless, minus the confusion, our check-in was handled efficiently and we're able to proceed for passport controls and security screening, before finding ourselves at concourse B's transit area.
As each boarding by zones were enforced, the process of boarding the aircraft was done systematically.
Passing through a glimpse of EK's business class product on the B77W.
Passing through the rear section of Economy Class, with most seats being soon occupied by the passengers queuing behind us.
Getting settled on our seat. Thankfully for us, the load was not as full so we had 42 A & B to ourselves while 42C left vacant.
The aircraft is fitted with the new Information Communications & Entertainment a.k.a. ICE system. As you might notice, the seats also come with a USB port and a universal electric socket, which means no need to worry about your electronic devices running out of its juice. That being said, this aircraft is one of the few Boeing 777 on Emirates' fleet that is not fitted with an on-board wireless internet, yet.
Upon boarding, refreshing towel packs were handed out. At the same time, doors were closed and we were cleared for push-back.
In flight: Dubai to Singapore.
Taking off from Dubai, courtesy of the tail camera view on the ICE system. We had a smooth climb away from the sparkling city lights of Dubai at a distance, as we were getting settled to our cruising altitude of 34,000 feet.
One of the few modes on the moving map on the ICE system. Here's showing our initial climb above the Gulf of Oman.
The view of our Economy Class cabin as soon as seat-belt signs were switched off. Rough estimation puts economy class were on about 80 percent occupancy on this flight, with only few of us originated our journey in Dubai. Most passengers were connecting passengers traveling as tour groups.
Dinner were served approximately 90 minutes after take-off, and we had our grilled chicken with baked potatoes as our mains. Accompanying it was a heavenly custard dessert, that I wished I could have asked for another one.
Following the dinner service, hot beverages including coffee/tea was offered as we continued cruising towards Singapore, as shown in the moving map. I took a nap following the dinner service, while my brother enjoyed some movies on the ICE system.
About three-hours into the flight, I was awake from my nap. The cabin lights have been completely switched off to allow passengers to rest, leaving it totally dark. I decided to check the menu cards given on boarding, and saw that instant noodle cups are available on request, outside meal service timings.
My instant noodles was delivered by one of the friendly cabin crews in charge of my aisle, in no time after I asked for it. Catching up on TV shows on the award-winning ICE system is even better with a late-night snack, doesn't it?
Having passed the Bay of Bengal with few light bumps, dawn was breaking as we were closing in to the island of Sumatra. At this stage, we had less than two hours before our arrival into Singapore Changi Airport.
Not long after sunrise, cabin crews rolled the meal carts once again, serving breakfast trays to everyone. The tray consists of a croissant, a muffin, and fresh fruits. I had a cup of tea to accompany my breakfast.
Arrival into Singapore
After breakfast service was cleared, the captain came on the PA system letting everyone know that we were on descent to Singapore. Window shades were back into its original position, as most passengers were awake from their nap, anticipating the arrival to the city-state.
At around 0845hrs, our aircraft touch-down smoothly at Changi Airport's Runway 20R. Following a short taxi, we were docked at gate D44, marking the end of our 7-hour red-eye flight from Dubai, and also our holiday.
Had the chance for a photo with Maria, one of the friendly crew members assigned on our aisle. Thank you to the caring team aboard EK352 for looking after us along the journey.
A glimpse of our aircraft, as we made our way out through the L2 door.
Final thoughts of the flight
Based on what you've read so far, how do you think this flight should be rated?
Personally for me, I found my experience on this flight to be delightful. Having a brand new aircraft gave the sense of excitement and comfort, given the minor signs of any wear or tear on the cabin. The 3-4-3 seating arrangement is arguably an issue to some, although thankfully it did not became mine on this flight.
Meal service was rather generous in today's Economy Class standards, with both dinner and breakfast services served to expectation. However, I was rather impressed with having an instant noodle on request outside the meal service timings. Certainly something to be appreciated by late-night snacking bunch like myself. Last but certainly not least, the flight would not be as great without the warm and caring crew on this flight, who delivered every request with efficiency and a welcoming attitude. Keep it up!!
Feel free to reply or comment for any questions or thoughts. Thank you for reading!