When I was invited to a wedding near Lyon, I chose to book a flight, for almost 3 times less than the train on this ultra-profitable line for the SNCF.
Check-in
Curiously, while it is possible on all other flights, the choice of seats at the time of booking is not possible for domestic flights on Air France.
Nevertheless, thanks to my Club 2000 status and my partner’s Platinum status, we are placed in 01A/C in what should be a CRJ1000 of HOP! At the time of online check-in.
Ground experience
The flight was scheduled to depart from Orly’s Terminal 3, in the brand new, connecting building between ex-Orly West and ex-Orly South.
This means, incidentally, no access to the lounge for Schengen flights, as the lounge (temporary at the time of flight) is only in the international zone.
Passing through security is very easy, however, as the priority lane works perfectly.
However, I deplore the erratic signage, especially in the former Orly West, where it is rather difficult to find your way between the terminal, check-in and boarding areas.
Boarding
Priority boarding will be strictly respected by the ground staff. Because of the CRJ1000, it will be a bus boarding and our cabin luggage is tagged.
So we boarded the bus via a steep staircase that would take us to the aircraft, and in which we waited for a good fifteen minutes until it was full.
Cabin and reception
Stunned, I discovered that the aircraft would not be a HOP! CRJ1000. But a Fokker F100 from Aviantair and I’m upset.
Not that I don’t like this plane or have any doubts about the safety of the airline, but I don’t think it’s right that I wasn’t warned at any time. The boarding pass indicated that the flight was operated by HOP!
However, the welcome is courteous. I inquire about the change of aircraft, and I am told that this was planned a long time ago… I doubt it!
Service and catering
The service is the classic Air France domestic service, with a full bar and a choice between sweet and savoury snacks.
Arrival and disembarkation
We arrive at the U gates in Lyon, reserved for regional aircraft. But it’s still much better than having a bus…
Bottom line
Not a bad experience, but it’s always worrying to have an airline substitution operating at the last minute.
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