FLIGHT TO FRANKFURT

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Dec 23 .We left TUL, changed planes at DFW. We were originally to have an hour between flights but American Airlines moved our TUL departure time, so we were sweating a 40 minute layover in a huge airport (with a checked bag to fret about). Thankfully our departure gate was “only 3 gates down”, which in DFW –language translates to about ½ a football field of brisk walking. Off one plane, potty stop, then onto the plane to Frankfurt. Our plane was already have boarded and jam packed and we each had a wheeled carry-on and a tote. As we had bulkhead seats (31 A and B on a Boeing 777; economy configuration 2-5-2), we had no window, but knew this ahead of time. It was a trade-off for having the extra leg room. So FYI, If you’re flying economy on a Boeing 777, get a seat behind the bulkhead if you can. The trade-off is no window, but you can stretch your legs out (or in my case, up the wall) and you’re right by the bathroom. Travel alert: you will NOT be able to put your tote under the seat in front of you because there isn’t one. No matter where your seat is, before getting on the plane after you go through security, pack a small bag that you can carry in your hand and tuck into the seat with you with things you must have in flight (earbuds, MP3, glasses, snacks, medication) because on a crowded 10 hr flight you will be separated from any luggage you carry on. I promise.

The flight was your classic crowded flight to Europe. I can’t imagine being stuck in the middle row of 5 seats for 10 hours; unless I had benefit of sedation! There is no way to recline your seat at all in that section, and no legroom at all. The plane itself seemed a little worn out. Upholstery was tired; about ¾ of the video screens worked; and there was a lousy choice of movies (3) and audio (4 stations). The crew was lackadaskicial but polite. Airline food was, at best, edible. Really a disappointment. We were both able to catnap and when I woke at 0500, I got up and stretched and looked out of the emergency exit to the shimmering lights of Glasgow far below. Beautiful and exciting to see. We had a hurried breakfast on the plane (stale croissants and pitifully weak coffee) and then we landed in Frankfurt at 0700. It was still pitch dark and cold, but I will forever remember the cheerful face and welcoming comments from the German worker in the jetway. He was adorable. Now.....into the airport and to find our son!!!

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