The passengers were taken by bus from Gate 65 (the flight crew were sitting with us for a short while), and after a quick photo op, it was all aboard. It was like stepping back about 25 years, and although it was non-smoking, there was nicotine staining on the cabin panelling. The toilets were reminiscent of one on an old British Rail carriage
.The seating was surprisingly comfortable, If anyone here is going on one of the remaining flights, I'd recommend row 9, right next to the L2/R2 doors, so plenty of leg room. The flight attendants were exceptionally pleasant and polite. Ryanair & Co could learn a thing or two from Biman!We were on the ground for about 40 minutes or so awaiting clearance, and offered a sachet of juice and bottle of water. Once the engines were started, we were off quickly, with a very short and powerful take off from Runway 15. According to my boarding pass, the destination was Black Bushe. As there were aircraft contrails a long way above us, I would guess our cruising altitude was about 24,000ft. Everyone was out of their seats and looking around, so those who took aisle seats still got a good view.
On the way back, were we given certificates, signed by two Biman captains. After a flight of exactly one hour, with a very smooth landing, the passengers were allowed a quick glimpse of the flight deck to take photos, and another chance to photograph the aircraft before returning to the terminal by bus.
After returning, there was time for a trip to the special souvenir shop in the old viewing gallery. There, one could buy a Biman DC10 safety card (n.b. there were none on the aircraft at all
) Bill.