Asiana is South Korea’s second largest airline (after Korean Air).
My flight to Seoul and back with this airline in ‘Business Smartium’ was driven with anticipation, firstly as it was rated 5 star by Skytrax and secondly, it was my first flight on an Airbus A350-900.

     The outbound flight didn’t start off too well. There was some confusion when boarding, as the sinage for economy and business class passengers was not easily visible. So there was a constant moving of passenger to the right queue, which caused some delay. However on boarding, I was welcomed with a smile and directed to my seat and was wished an enjoyable flight. The cabin looked new, spacious and airy, especially as the A350 does not have the hand luggage storage bins in the middle. The layout was impressive, with just 28 seats in a 1x2x1 layout, and had isle access to every seat. I had selected a window seat (2K) for more privacy. 

     Once settled in, I took a few moments to check out my seat functions, and surroundings. The cabin itself was designed in soft eye pleasing yellow ochre and beige, including the seats. The seat itself was wide enough at 22 inches and a pitch of 77 inches. All the usual needs like plastic sealed blanket and pillow, slippers and noise canceling headphones were provided. The L’Occitane Amenity Kit was adequate, although not exceptional. There was space to store personal items and a side table top area for drinks and snacks. The reading lamp and seat functions were easy to operate and power points were within easy reach.

     The seat itself though comfortable in seating and angled positions, felt a little hard. It’s effect was later realised, as when ‘bed time’ came, and the seat was extended to fully flat, the lack of a thin mattress and larger pillow, made it difficult to get a good nights sleep. I had to request an additional pillow, which helped slightly.

     The seat itself is unusual, in that apart from the standard seat belt, there is an additional shoulder harness strap (not sure the technical term for this).  Unusually too are the tray tables which are located at the back of the seat in front, instead in the arm rest. Once folded out, it felt sturdy, although as I am not very tall, it wasn’t possible to bring the table forward enough for my comfort.

     Shortly before push back, a flight attendant came over and introduced herself with a welcome again, while offering pre-flight drinks - Champaign and soft drinks, along with hot towels. The relaxed and friendly tone, was to follow throughout the flight.

     This was  ‘red eye’ flight, and ten minutes after take off the flight attendants came around taking drinks and dinner orders. The menu was - Western and Korean cuisine. I opted for the Bibimbap meal - a traditional meal of rice with accompaniments and soup, which was both visually appetising and absolutely delicious. The service was unhurried, and well timed serving each course, and cleared away promptly. I am not too keen on sweets, so followed up with a cheeseboard. Later it was coffee and cognac.

     Soon after dinner, lights were dimmed. Checking out the IFE, I found a couple of the latest movies, although the choice was very limited. Programs could be easily selected by touch screen as well as with the handset.

     Following the hearty satisfying dinner, I extended my seat to a flat bed position, and despite not being too comfortable, I did manage to get some rest.

    A couple of hours before landing, the cabin crew come around to take your order for a snack - which was actually quite a substantial meal. Again, the service was super efficient and polite. At the end of the flight, when disembarking, I was asked if I enjoyed it, which was yet another nice touch.

     My return flight was equally enjoyable. The dining again was superb - I opted for  western cuisine this time. And in-between meals, if you were not asleep, the flight attendants would come around quietly, asking if you would like anything else, such as drinks and snacks, or indeed an steaming bowl of noodle soup, like what a passenger across the aisle was enjoying.

Western meal, Lobster Tail starter salad

Western meal, chicken with mushroom sauce