Aircraft subs during holiday periods

[wannabeinvestmentbanker]

I was just wondering if anyone had any historical knowledge or first hand experience as to whether VA subs any of its aircraft (i.e. 330 to 737) during holiday periods where business demand is subdued (i.e. Christmas and Easter)

I am looking at using one of my complimentary flexi upgrades to business on a transcon flight from Sydney to Perth next easter, mostly likely on Good Friday. It is highly unlikely that I will retain WP this year so want to experience the new J suites while I have the opportunity. Currently, the flight I am looking at has the 1-2-1 config so should be all good and looks wide open.

Additionally, if I take the 7pm ex Sydney, would that be a full dinner service?

 

[bullerdude]

They will generally manage the aircraft based on demand and availability - so if they have an a330 that is half-full and a 737 that can run the route then they would likely swap, the hard part is trying to guess when this might happen.

Given that there are usually lots of people flying around easter (at least in economy) I suspect you will be fine.

 

[Bagpuss]

I've never experienced a sub from Perth regardless of season, though I know it happens. My partner was J class Per - Mel, the flight was cancelled but moved onto QF J class! I'd doubt subs over a holiday season with a possible exception of Christmas Day. At the end of the day there is operational issues etc. though I would doubt a downgrade expect for an operational issue (IE breakdown). All airlines pause any major updates etc to their fleet to ensure all aircraft are operating during their busy periods to make sure they are highly profitable.

 

[Bagpuss]

I've only gone on morning flights but I would expect 7pm to be full dinner service. Its more the red eye flights which I would imagine has a different service as I'd expect they would offer breakfast on arrival.

 

[smit0847]

I was just wondering if anyone had any historical knowledge or first hand experience as to whether VA subs any of its aircraft (i.e. 330 to 737) during holiday periods where business demand is subdued (i.e. Christmas and Easter)

I am looking at using one of my complimentary flexi upgrades to business on a transcon flight from Sydney to Perth next easter, mostly likely on Good Friday. It is highly unlikely that I will retain WP this year so want to experience the new J suites while I have the opportunity. Currently, the flight I am looking at has the 1-2-1 config so should be all good and looks wide open.

Additionally, if I take the 7pm ex Sydney, would that be a full dinner service?

I did MEL-PER on good friday last year and there was no subs.

 

[Sprucegoose]

You will be well fed and watered

 

[Intra]

...I'd doubt subs over a holiday season with a possible exception of Christmas Day.....

Not even then; Christmas Evening 2014, BNE - PER on an A332 in J; 3 in the entire cabin, had an entire side of J to myself & pretty much my own dedicated crew member! Bliss!!

Had no idea what the loads were like in Y; I stayed on my side of the curtain!