My First Economy Transatlantic Flight in 6 Years…A Quick Turnaround to the US

I’ve only been in Kiev since Sunday, but I received some sad news yesterday that requires me to get back to US by Friday morning for a funeral. Luckily, our points hobby allows for plenty of flexibility, especially last minute. Timing was really important in this situation and so I’ll be flying economy class across the Atlantic for the first time in six years. It’s not that I’m a business / first class snob, I’ve just had no reason to fly economy the last several years. If I was traveling for work, a business seat was standard. When traveling for pleasure, I always try to get the highest value for my miles and I like to indulge in a business or first class seat and sample new products.

Well, today I’ll be in the back! I’m flying KLM from Kiev (KBP) to Amsterdam (AMS) and then onwards to JFK. A total of 11 hours of flying time…

I’ve got my MacBook Air and Nook charging as I type this from the business class lounge in Kiev (thankfully lounge access is still granted with my elite status). I need my devices fully charged as there will be no power outlets in economy.  They should be fine by departure time, though I’m wishing I brought my neck pillow with me…

Anyway, on the plus side, I’ll have the opportunity to write my first ever economy class trip report. Should be a different experience than the Austrian new business class experience I had on the way here.  I’ll be turning right around on Saturday to head back to Kiev…

KBP Business Lounge…

There goes my plan to stock up on food for the 3 hour flight to AMS…