On my latest assignment, I traveled to the Netherlands to preview a cruise ship intended for the China market that was built in Germany. It just so happens it was Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Joy, which is actually an American company.
That's the international nature of what I do, and as a Delta Air Lines enthusiast, I once again returned home on the American carrier as well-aboard an Airbus A330-200.
Check In/Security (8/10)
My journey actually began in Germany after disembarking the Norwegian Joy in Bremerhaven the day before. So, I checked in online and cleared security at the Bremen airport.
As my first leg was operated by KLM, I couldn't check in using the Delta app as I would ordinarily. Also, the KLM app never emailed me my electronic boarding pass as it said it would, (though it didn't really matter in the end because I was required to print my boarding pass after all).
Security was a breeze. Germany is usually known for extra scrutiny, but other than having to take my laptop out separately, my carryon was screened easily enough by the X-ray machine alone, not requiring all my camera gear to be removed separately.
It actually makes me wonder if they're using more effective imaging technology at this airport because even the body scanners were a variety that I had never seen before. It was honestly the closest experience I've ever had to expedited TSA Precheck in Europe.
My overall score here would definitely be higher if it weren't for the lackluster check in.
Terminals (8/10)
As great as the security was at the Bremen airport, the rest of the terminal was a bit odd.
I hold Platinum Medallion status in the Delta SkyMiles program, which allows me premium lounge access when I travel internationally. However, the lounge was located outside of security, and I always prefer to get that process out of the way before enjoying any such perk.
Of course, had I known how quick the security process was going to be, I might have partaken, but you just can never be sure. Having made the call to go straight to the gate, I was surprised that there was no Wi-Fi of any kind once there, free or paid.
At least by the time I made it to Amsterdam, the main terminal was once again world-class.
In fact, this was the first time I was directed to use the new automated passport control system as a US citizen, and the process was super quick. I even still got a cherished stamp to add to my now-bulging passport. The only bummer? The SkyPriority line at the Delta security questionnaire checkpoint was backed up well into the main walkway, but it did move quickly enough.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Flight Review: Delta Air Lines From Atlanta to Frankfurt[/READMORE]
Seats/Space (8/10)
Once onboard, everything was "Delta-as-usual except for the hordes of empty seats (displayed around me on the app) actually filled in once actually ready to depart. An off-duty SkyWest flight attendant explained to me that the app doesn't always display codeshare seat purchases, which is a good future tip to be aware of, although not one that particularly makes planning any easier.
Thankfully, he also pointed out a clearer row with an empty adjacent seat so I could get some more elbow room to work on my laptop. I did wish, however, for power beyond a USB port (itself helpful) because my computer could've certainly used an outlet too.
Space wise, the seats were standard Delta, meaning I could easily open up my 13" Apple MacBook Pro and type away, as well as recline my seat sufficiently. Legroom was also plentiful, as was overhead bin space for my carry on. The Airbus also nicely had individual air nozzle controls overhead.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Flight Review: KLM From Amsterdam to Los Angeles[/READMORE]
Amenities (9/10)
The greatest onboard business amenity was certainly the Wi-Fi (something I definitely missed on KLM last time), while the entertainment center was nicest for leisure purposes. Delta truly has the best screens for watching movies and TV shows, and the complimentary selections are terrific too.
I only wish the internet access was also free. At one point, I got a glimpse of a usually hidden cursor show up on the display, and it was the Mac OS variety, which must be another reason I like it so much. (Apple fanboy calling here.)
Meal service began with a choice of three lunch entrees. I opted for the chicken parmesan with side salad, edam cheese, table crackers, pretzel roll and black forest gateaux, most of which I've had before. The highlights continue to be everything but the main. The chicken was just too bland, but the chocolate and cherry dessert was great.
A mid-flight snack of chive crackers, cream cheese, salted caramel popcorn, marbled chocolate bar and mints was better overall. It was the perfect accompaniment to watching TV. Shortly before landing, the final food selection was a tasty Italian meatball hot wrap and an ice cream cup, both of which were a perfect sendoff to a fine flight.
Service (9/10)
Of course, service remains a shining star onboard Delta as the flight crew was solid.
Attendants regularly pass by to check on things, pass out hot towels and cold waters, collect trash and gather recycling. One thing they didn't do this time was announce what the meal choices were ahead of passing them out; I generally like to have made my choice before they arrive at my seat. Overall, though, there were no complaints.
Overall (42/50)
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