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United Airlines is a huge operation. When one of the most famous airlines in the United States swallowed-up Continental Airline’s operations, they began operating Newark Liberty International Airport as one of their main hubs on the east coast. The hub is roughly 20 minutes from Manhattan which makes it a very desirable option for New Yorkers to book flights for trips around the globe. United knew what they were doing.
So, when looking for the perfect non-stop 7 hour flight from the New York area to Lima, Peru for the weekend, I was faced with two options. The first option was on the massive South American-based LAN Airlines which flies non-stop from JFK International Airport. Or, United Airlines from Newark. I chose United Airlines.
Arriving at Newark Airport on Friday, I was faced with crowds jetting-off to all corners of the planet. Being that I was booked in United’s Business/First class, I didn’t have to deal with the crowds – luckily. I ran to the private counter where the friendly staff greeted me and quickly checked me in for the flight. I was handed my boarding pass where I jumped into a short security line for those flying in United’s premium cabin. Thank Goodness.
I boarded to plane first where flight attendants welcomed me on-board with a glass of champagne. United’s Boeing 757 was sizable, but not huge. The Business/First cabin had 16 seats. Each seat was soft, comfortable and spacious – easily reclining and morphing into a lay-flat bed for the long flight. In front of me was an 18-inch flat screen television with a plethora of new releases and a moving map of our flight plan. I was in my element.
About 40 minutes into the flight we were served a delectable lunch. I chose a roasted chicken with rice and vegetables. Surprisingly, the food was delicious. The lunch was preluded by an appetizer of salmon and proceeded by a homemade slice of cheesecake. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Shortly after lunch I stretched-out and fell asleep under a thick comforter with my head on a feather pillow.
Shortly before landing, I awoke and sipped a cup of green tea while watching a film I had been wanting to see for a few months. As I finished-up, we touched down safely in Peru. I existed the aircraft first and couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable experience. In the end, I was thoroughly impressed by United’s premium cabin. It was just, simply stated, the best.
