The worst flight experience we've ever had - Eastern Airways from Aberdeen to Wick, Scotland

We were super-excited to learn of the return to service of Eastern Airways between Aberdeen and Wick in Caithness, Scotland. So excited that we splashed £200 for a couple of return flights in their first week back since 2019. Surely this will be a friendly wee airline, right? Well that's not what we experienced on both the outbound and return legs. Watch on to see why we'll never fly this airline again. Like EVER.
ABZ WIC 14 Apr 2022 09:30 10:10 Flight T3 561
WIC ABZ 15 Apr 2022 17:50 18:30 Flight T3568
Hi, I’m Steve. I am a travel reviewer and post my trip reports here on KZbin. I pay for my own travel and produce my own videos. If you have any questions about my journeys or travel advice in general, please drop me a comment - I do read every single one. I’d also love to hear any recommendations you may have for future content, or why not challenge me to try something a little out of the ordinary! If you are looking to collaborate on any type of project, I’d love to hear from you - email me your ideas and hopefully we can work together in the future.
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'I remember Well' by Cody Francis
Map courtesy of Google Maps
Flight map courtesy of FlightRadar24
#EasternAirways

[@Paul_Lucas]

Think I have come across Eastern's weird "no filming" rules before, a long time ago. There are ways and means of telling people not to film, but a curt "switch that off" instead of a "Hello! Sorry, but you'll have to turn that off please" is not going to win hearts and minds.

[@anthonybaiocchi3028]

I think they are way past being polite about filming on an aircraft. Not sure of FIA rules, but they are rightly pissed off with being filmed without their permission, in what consititutes a work environment, and definitely not a public space. Even the other passengers, who value privacy, might have issues. Public spaces are different.

[@Paul_Lucas]

@@skydancer4224 Untrue on both counts. I see you joined only yesterday, specifically to give abuse to this channel.

[@anthonybaiocchi3028]

@@Paul_Lucas having a differing opinion is not abuse. An aircraft is not a public space, and these people are at work (both parties). If you'd like to have a conversation about legalities that's one thing - I'm sure if they'd done some research first they might have found it necessary to apply for a filming permit, and crew permission. Otherwise are we just free extras in, whoever chooses, video blogs,and even me as a fellow passenger would be pissed off. Even if it was just for some stupid social media picture. When out on public streets, or in public spaces, or private land that allows that, that's different. The content matters, and debating this doesn't constitute abuse.

[@Hundredakerwood439]

There seems to be a deliberate campaign on Facebook and other aviation websites to slag off Steve Marsh with lies and misinformation by I assume the staff associated with this company or their friends. What a mess that company must be .

[@murringo9]

It's an amazing thing seeing the view from a plane and filming or even just taking pics of the view should be a part of the experience. At least let people record that.

[@BenedictRaikes]

I've also had a bad experience with Eastern the one time I flew with them from Sumburgh to Edinburgh on their E170. When boarding there was no cabin crew by the door, they were in the galley with the pilots eating a pizza and seemed annoyed to have to come and deal with passengers. They went round and inspected everyones phone to ensure it was switched off, not merely on airplane mode. Then during the flight the two cabin crew were either sat in the back loudly giggling and discussing a night out they'd had the previous weekend and up the front chatting with the pilots with the flight deck door open for what seemed a very long time. The only time they spoke to me was to tell me to turn my phone off. I have no issues if the airline has a no filming policy or need electronic devices off for safety, but the total indifference to customers and indeed irritation shown by staff at having to interrupt their gossip to do their jobs is, I think, totally unacceptable.

[@wokeupandsmellthecoffee214]

As a former flight attendant with the great Flybe I found this Eastern customer service unacceptable. I'd have politely explained what the company policy is although at Flybe we welcomed anyone with a camera. I miss my job and meeting people we flew all over the UK & Europe.

[@robertmansfield2856]

It's pleasing to see Flybe is up and running again.

[@andy70d35]

Great airline Flybe used them for a few years, cabin crew were always amazing. Really hope they come back stronger than ever. Loganair is the worst airline ever in my opinion, we had a cruise booked in 2020 we had planned for a few years, and it got cancelled because of covid and Loganair refused to refund our flights.

[@freespirit6209]

Still miss Flybe!

[@markc8956]

Flybe were the worst I've ever flown with. As someone with MH issues,which include anxiety, staff on the first flight I took LAUGHED at me when I said to them how I was feeling when I boarded and didn't do anything to help.

[@wokeupandsmellthecoffee214]

@@markc8956 I guarantee if I were operating that day I'd have looked after you. I did it all my career and won many awards for customer service (43 years).

[@Timstravels01]

Did Wick-Aberdeen last week. Same flight attendant, same instruction to “switch that off”. Felt very uncomfortable and OTT. 7 hours on the train from Wick-Aberdeen Is preferable to that standard of customer care. Thanks for highlighting this, I shall be doing the same.

[@ametrinemoon]

That's dreadful!

[@alexandermenzies9954]

@@davet11 I very much doubt the last para. Total nonsense.

[@steve-marsh]

Great vid Tim, cheers for posting on this too - so sorry you had to go through the same flight experience though. Truly awful!

[@Timstravels01]

@@steve-marsh abysmal

[@tomcarr1358]

@@alexandermenzies9954 NB Lossiemouth operates Typhoons in the same area.

[@derekwalker6900]

I can't resist passing on some of my flight experiences from Wick. The first time I flew from there was around 1961 or 2, I was 6 or 7 at the time. We flew from Wick to Manchester and back. The plane was an old Dakota or DeHaveland or some such thing. Whatever, it looked like the original silver bird, all unpainted aluminium. When we landed back at Wick, I can remember watching two men pushing a 2 wheeled barrow with a barrel on it running out of the main hanger to meet the plane. This was Wick airport fire brigade. Another time, when I was a teenager, I flew out from Wick to Aberdeen with Logan Air. I was in a little six seater with a bunch of managerial types, very toffee nosed. As we flew over the Murrey Firth, one of these said "Oh! Look at all the white tops on the waves. It must be very rough down there". To which our pilot replied "No, that's the salmon heading in towards the rivers. Do you want a closer look?" With that he put the plane into a steep dive and levelled out about 100 feet above the water. There were some very pale managers got off that plane. I loved it. The return flight was with BA I believe. It was a flight from Aberdeen to Shetland with a stopover at Wick. It was a VERY foggy day. The plane approached Wick airport from the south-east, which meant we were coming in from the cliff end. All of us in the know started holding our breaths, all you could see under the plane was fog. When we eventually saw water very close underneath, a collective groan went up. Then the plane went into a steep climb and the pilot told us he couldn't land at Wick as the weather was too bad. He then told us he was flying on to Shetland and all us Wick passengers went "WHAT". Eventually, over the Orkney's he told us that Shetland was also fogged in and he was forced to return to Aberdeen. I eventually got home to Thurso in a coach from Aberdeen. In all, I was undeway for 16 hours that day.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much for this comment Derek- a pleasure to read! And oh I wish I'd had the opportunity to fly on an old silver bird!

[@therealrobertbirchall]

Try a winter flight on a Sabb 350 to Shetland 😂😂😂😂 very bumpy all the way then a spectacular hard right bank around Sumburgh heed to the runway. You want to kiss the ground when you get off the plane.

[@PlanesTrainsEverything]

You were reading my mind Steve. I've just finished a land and sea journey through Wick to Kirkwall. I noticed the Eastern Airways Aberdeen-Wick service and wondered what it was like. Four days later you post the video. Over the years I haven't heard a great deal of positive feedback about Eastern, but your video was a real eye-opener.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Scott, such a shame as I love wee airlines and obscure routes just like you! Hey, we're destined to bump into each other soon :D

[@dazzlingdaz187]

Well done Eastern Airways, that was brilliant PR...

[@steve-marsh]

Their Fawlty Towers Experience will be getting a load more bookings for sure

[@easternairways1678]

Hi Steve, We thank you for bringing this to our attention. Whilst this is not the service that we expect of our staff representing us an organisation, we do appreciate you have highlighted this giving us the opportunity to investigate and take the necessary actions. A separate email has been returned to you with results of our investigation following this unfortunate incident. Thank you again for taking the time to do what you do, and we wish you all the best for your future content creation. Regards, Eastern Airways

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks, appreciate the reply, will respond when I'm back home.

[@Itsthejourneynotthedestination]

@@steve-marsh Spill the beans.

[@marviwilson1853]

Pity someone had not faked an Eastern Airways post with some rude and obnoxious remarks!

[@oober2004]

Can you clarify your filming policy for us, would be much appreciated. Thanks.

[@richmorris2870]

@easternairways1678 what is the filming policy?

[@patricklinsley1070]

I flew Eastern Airways back in 2007 from Southampton to Newcastle. I flew in the Jetstream 41 in thne way up and had no problems from the cabin crew when it came to filiming. The following day I flew back in their Saab 2000 and got the same response as you did "Switch that camera off!" All the tact and subtley of a slit throat!.

[@marviwilson1853]

What you have to do in this situation, which is something they don't expect and catches them out, is to respond by questioning their abrupt approach so that all in the cabin can hear. They think they are generals and the passengers are soldiers with no right of reply.

[@blister6884]

We have two staff members who are starting their degrees in hotel/hospitality later this year. We are sending them on a weeks walking holidays before they start. Eastern have been recommended as a live experience in passive aggressive communication, a bit like the John Cleese training vids of the 80’s. Apparently it’s a staggering example of how not to behave, and the reputation is spreading - we are based in the southeast and the degree course is in london - so eastern can expect an upturn in bookings from those wanting to see it for themselves. 🥴👍

[@marviwilson1853]

Could be an interesting marketing strategy to have an airline that openly abuse their passengers. I'd fly with them just for the laughs.

[@were-all-human9427]

this post should be added to their twitter page and see how long it stays up?

[@paulcharlesworth9114]

Thanks for the honest, even handed review, and well done for not letting it ruin your day. Enjoy the rest of the weekend.

[@onlycompetitions5083]

On the plus side, they did make sure your anorak arrived safely. I have fancied seeing Wick, ever since The Big Yin walk down the stairs cut into the cliff. Happy Easter.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha true! :) Heyyy - those stairs will feature in the next video (but from the sea - I'd love to walk them as well) :)

[@katesterly547]

and this is one reason why I always try to say thank you for the work you do to bring these videos to us. it doesn't only mean physical work it means mental work by putting up with people that are so unhappy with their job and with themselves that they want to make everybody else around them unhappy too! I think I would be open to going public transportation for the 7 hours, if I had time, than putting up with their attitudes. Too bad you didn't accidentally hit the record button on your phone and get them being nasty to you. I hope everyone on the flight reports them. Say hi to Alicja for me. Happy Easter to you both. Be well, stay safe, hope you travel happily from now on, love from Texas.

[@steve-marsh]

Hey from both of us and Happy Easter :) I really had hoped to bring a nice video for the holidays but it is what it is I guess! It genuinely is the only time I've ever not wanted to get on a return flight, I would have much rather just jumped on a train home. Thanks so much for the support and coming along on our wee trips - I felt so bad taking Alicja on this one!

[@mikecrean8849]

Great video again Steve. Wick and surrounding areas looked really nice. I’m glad that Eastern Management picked this up and got back to you. Hope it improves their customer service and the dreadful attitude of their flight attendants. This was almost Faulty Towers !!

[@kimberleyhartwell431]

You two are always so positive, so this experience must have really been bad. Good on you for serving up a roasting! We'll look forward to seeing your video on Wick itself.... hopefully a much better experience than the trip there 😃

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Kimberley! I really hate to post a negative review but I couldn't lie about this experience, and I was probably still a bit too kind in the review! Thankfully the bit in-between was a lot more positive and fun :)

[@simonwhitlock9189]

It would appear that Eastern will soon be out of business if they keep treating there customers like dirt and don't get me started on airport parking charges, funny story, Townsville airport which is the tourist destination to the Barrier Reef and all the islands decided to impose a ten dollar charge on all vehicles for dropping off and picking up and this included taxis, needless to say the cabbies where not going to wear this so they simply stopped going to the airport to drop off or pick up the resulting chaos was spectacular and the cabbies won and the charge was dropped, you have to admire the power of the people. Wishing you all the best for a very happy Easter and will be looking out for your video from Wick, take care and stay safe, cheers.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha love it Simon! :D Believe it or not, for overnight parking, booked in advance, they were quoting around £60 - our hotel was cheaper :D Aw the best!

[@pauls3204]

Eastern make their money from Royal Mail and sadly won’t go bust anytime soon They don’t give a hoot about passengers

[@devon896]

Eastern bought AirSouthwest years ago, within a few months they completely screwed the timetable, most of the staff were on the verge of leaving and they forced the company to shut down. For that reason I have never used them and will continue to never use them. I was horrified when Flybe made them a franchise partner.

[@janettesinclair6279]

As I have said to others, I hope bad reviews do not result in fewer bookings, with the potential of cancellation of this flight as this is the ONLY flight from Wick to anywhere in the UK and beyond. People living in this town appreciate the recently restored airlink.

[@simonwhitlock9189]

@@janettesinclair6279 I understand your concern but if people are treated badly by the flight staff there will be repercussions, not a lot that can be done about that except get crew trained to be civil to the customers.

[@daveu88sanderson8]

A really nice review. I hope the airline makes amends once they see your review. Customer service is so important to all passengers. If cabin crew don't like their job, then find another job. Keep up your great reviews. Kind regards DS

[@jerseyscampi]

In reply to your question about the approach to runway 13, looking at the approach charts there are a lot of obstacles like wind farms and a radio mast surrounding the area so this has to be avoided by going out for a long final by flying over the airfield and straight out before turning on to the approach.

[@gwendolynfish2102]

Thanks for the heads up on Eastern! Good to see you both! Happy Easter! Counting our days!

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Gwendolyn! :D

[@ttv2951]

Happy Easter guys, Thx for sharing sorry the flight was so bad. Cant wait for the Wick video .

[@bmaspen95]

Hi Steve, firstly so nice to see you both out together, sorry for the hostility you faced. Still great to see your adventures none the less. Always great to spend time with you.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much Brian! I felt so bad taking Alicja on such a horrible flight, but thankfully the bit in-between was a lot of fun - that'll be the next video :)

[@bobbarnett4926]

@@steve-marsh She's tough as nails. You're really lucky

[@a.mgaming3418]

This is interesting! A few years ago, me and a friend took a flight with Eastern from Cardiff to Anglesey on the J41, the crew were great and more than happy for us to video and take photo's, even at the end of the flight the captain invited us into the cockpit and talked us around the aircraft. Shame to hear this bad experience!

[@maggienificent]

What on earth, that is ridiculous that the crew acted that way. Good thing it was a short flight and I am anxious to see more on your time in Wick!

[@reesestevenson5492]

Big bummer from the start! Can’t check yourself in, cold sandwiches gone, over priced food, then rude staff? Dang…. Well at least your jacket was safe on the flight! Haha 😂 Glad to see the Buckeye stuff! Oh, and Happy Easter to you both! I hope you’re enjoying the new place!

[@ingaborlowski1536]

😳😳😳 my reaction as I heard how rude the staff was!! Aghast!! Still shaking my head to the thought….glad y’all had a good time nonetheless. Look forward to your video of Wick. Happy Easter 🐣

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Inga! Yeah, thankfully the bit in-between was a lot more fun :D Happy Easter!

[@TukayAway]

I had thought of taking the train up to Wick and flying back to save a bit of time. Looks like some lucky hotelier will profit another nights stay instead of Eastern Air pocketing it. I look forward to the next video to see if you can recommend a hotel or B&B in Wick. Excellent job as always!

[@sannybaldy]

Can't beat Mackay's Hotel in Wick, great food, the entrance to the restaurant is on what is officially the shortest street in the world. The Bank House B&B on Bridge St is also good.

[@steve-marsh]

I'd rather WALK to Aberdeen :) Aye, Mackay's looked lovely :)

[@weallmakechoices7456]

@Stevemarsh Are you determined to stick the knife in and ruin it for the people of Caithness? You should take your video down. You’re clearly on some kind of stupid vendetta.

[@torquilmacleod2577]

Sorry to hear you guys had a crap experience but glad you uploaded as needs to be addressed. Happy Easter and look forward to your next upload 🐣

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers! I hate to upload negative stuff, but the truth had to be told :)

[@DrBrazell]

HOW CAN ANYONE BE RUDE TO YOU GUYS! So sorry you had a bad experience with Eastern, but thanks for sharing so we'll all avoid that service.

[@graemewilliams3212]

Bloody hell! Sorry that you both had to encounter that! Hope you both have put in complaints etc, cos I wouldn't have stood for that myself! Hope you both have a great Easter and looking forward to seeing what you both got upto in Wick itself. :)

[@caz211072]

In all fairness. Not that you can excuse the dreadful service. The crew are probably fed up. In 2020 the airline culled loyal, valuable staff despite the furlough scheme it what was the most rigged and fudged redundancy scheme ever. The best crew binned off and cheap and cheerful labour kept behind. The HR team are the most volatile and vile group ever known, preaching mental health awareness yet being the biggest reason themselves for the about of stress and anxiety people were feeling. Most of the management were equally as bad, the cabin crew management were fragile and pointless. No support or back bone at all. Some of the cabin crew trainers were the only thing holding it together. And now its probably worse. Those unlucky enough to keep their job were forced on indefinite unpaid leave as bonded, or had pay cut after pay cut, allowances cut and worked like dogs for less than probably universal credit. So they're probably fed up and exhausted. An inexcusable experience agreed but the behind the scenes is worse as the route cause.

[@steve-marsh]

I can see what you're saying and agree. But as someone paying them £200 for these flights, I have to review what we experienced and I was probably a whole lot kinder in the video as it was the most toxic cabin atmosphere we've ever experienced. A truly awful service.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Graeme! Thankfully the bit in-between the flights was a lot more fun and will be the next video :)

[@sojourn6697]

@@caz211072 of course management are always behind poor performance of staff, usually playing politics or some other stupid management game BUT, if staff are unhappy as you say they are then for their own sakes and everyone else’s, they need to get out.

[@normandalgarno3242]

Thanks Steve. Sorry for your bad experience with that airline. I hope it didn’t completely ruin your trip. It’s hard to believe a small regional airline could be so discourteous. I hope you have followed up with a report to the company. That small aircraft needs to be full of passengers to justify the trip. Regardless basic human kindness and friendliness should prevail. If the airline personnel don’t like their jobs, they should try working at McDonald’s. Wouldn’t last one day there.with that attitude. Always a pleasure to travel with you on those interesting trips around Scotland.

[@shinertom142]

A true vlogger .. saying it how it is, … Steve , you are truly brilliant in how you portray your vlogs , wether it’s the best or even a bad experience.. it’s how we all want to see .. Keep em comin’ ✌️🙏

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers for this! I hate posting negative stuff, but I'll never lie to you guys!

[@robertbeaty8744]

Sorry to watch and hear about your bad experience with eastern airlines. Years ago my wife’s and her parents all worked for and retired from Eastern Airlines, U S A. That airlines, now long gone, was not indicative of the experience you’ve just had. It was a great airlines to work for and to fly. As a former licensed pilot, all I can say is that you walked away from your landing which puts you ahead of the game. Also your previous video was fantastic as the scenery spoke for itself, no narration required. Keep up the good work!

[@southernairs]

This isn't like yourself to complain, so the experience must have been really bad! I wanted to fly them one day but after seeing this maybe not... Anyway, thank you for the video! Even though you couldn't show much it was still pretty dam good! Very informative 😁 much love to you both and happy Easter 😁😁 BanjoMan

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers BanjoMan! All the best to you too from the both of us! Yeah, it was such a shocking experience, I really wouldn't recommend, especially for aviation lovers like us :(

[@pestcontrol1634]

The world doesn't revolve around Steve Marsh and his camcorder. A commercial flight is a shared environment not his personal movie set. Nobody buys a plane ticket to be an extra in his homemade movies. He's not showing any respect to the other passengers yet he demands respect. Let him walk if he hates being flown around so much. Talk about spoilt.

[@DaveyPalmer1]

Thanks for the heads up on Eastern Airways Steve. I'll strike a line through them on any future flights searches. Two hundred quid to be treat that? Disgraceful. You should have titled your video 'Eastern Airways Get On Our Wick"! Looking forward to your video about your time in Wick though - love a good ride out on a RIB. BTW, just had to cancel our Seafari trip on a RIB out of the Isle of Seil next month as my wife has broken her arm after a fall. Gutted, but we're still going to explore Argyle anyway. BTW2, any sign of Alicja's latest video from Poland.

[@steve-marsh]

Haha love the title Davey :D So sorry to hear about the fall, hope the recovery is fast and you're spoiling her :) Alicja's video didn't work out I'm afraid - she had planned to film at the train station but it is a refugee place at the moment, so it didn't feel right to film there.

[@DaveyPalmer1]

@@steve-marsh that must have been really powerful for Alijca to witness Steve. Hope she's doing ok.

[@janettesinclair6279]

Eastern will have to up their customer service training but, as I have said to others, I hope these bad reviews do not result in the cancellation of the ONLY flight out of Wick to anywhere.. People here have to pay the full cost, but appreciate the return of the only airlink to other parts of the UK and beyond.

[@williamavery9185]

Why do that ? Strike a line......for gods sake why not take the fight and enjoy its uniqueness. Only if you have a sence of humour, and your own man.

[@weallmakechoices7456]

It’s as if they want it to fail and wick become flightless again. Very disappointing.

[@tsr207]

Can not believe the poor service you received ! Flying between Jersey and Guernsey on Aurigny you only had the captain as crew on the Islander -but they always made you very welcome ! Looking forward to the next video as always !

[@xkr510]

Thanks for the heads up. Also thanks for the videos. Left Scotland at 16 and many of the places you visit I had never even heard of. SO interesting and great to see. Thank you. Please let us all know if you ever hear from Eastern……….

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Ross, will do! Be interesting to hear what they have to say! And thanks so much for watching the videos and supporting the channel :)

[@18robsmith]

That cabin crew had certainly missed a few pages in charm school 😞 Shame because that's such a nice flight up the coast. Just a thought as to why they overshoot Wick by so much - it's in the hope that passengers will remember seeing John O'Groats from the air more than they will remember the cabin crew...

[@steve-marsh]

Haha love it Rob :D

[@mikeneville9149]

Obviously went to j,macinroes school of charm and decorem.

[@gordonknox8851]

Thanks for the warning mate, won't be using them and I'll make a point of passing it on.Enjoyed the video, cheer's.

[@michaelkelly8861]

Great video Steve, me and Sally were here in Oct 2019. Memorable for the fact that Sally spent 6 nights in the main hospital due to pneumonia!!!!. The fact that I was on my own meant I walked the city, visited all the main football stadia yes 3 of them. The park is fabulous and a great place to relax. The atocha is fabulous and was our exit to Seville to get flight home. I would just add that the staff at the hospital were fabulous and helpful. Would go back as there is so much to see. Thanks again Mike & Sally in Cardiff x

[@AutumnAcorn6682]

Hello Steve! I just found your channel a few minutes ago. I really like the content you make, I think it's very unique! If you would want, I highly recommend going on the ATR flight on Eastern Airways from Belfast to Southampton. The service is amazing and it's one of the best flights I've ever flown! The aircraft itself looks very nice! I could see a future video with you flying this route!

[@Cheeseatingjunglista]

Use to travel thru Dyce every two weeks for a few years back in the 80's, prop plane to Sumburgh then chopper, or just straight chopper if we were anchored further south - sounds like little has changed!!! Thanks for the heads up on Moody Air

[@steve-marsh]

Wow, sounds like you had some cool adventures in the 80s! Love it!

[@psrpippy]

I hope you’ve tweeted the link to this video to Eastern. I wonder what their take on it is. I was a steward for BA for over 31 years and we were never that rude or demanding regarding mobile phones and video recording devices.

[@arilebon]

I'm sorry to hear your experience on Eastern Airways. The smaller airlines usually are polar opposite and have excellent customer experience. Hopefully Eastern received your review and it can serve as a wake-up call.

[@steve-marsh]

Here's hoping! Small airlines, planes and airports are always my favourites so this was a BIG disappointment!

[@mattnav273]

Glad i came across this vid Steve ive had plans to use Eastern on a couple of trips 1 of which wouldve been this ABZ-Wick journey but luckily i managed to visit the area by car last week including John O Groats They wont be getting a penny from me terrible customer service Subscribed btw great vids :) keep them up

[@SirPrancelot1]

Sorry to hear about your terrible experience but thanks for the warning. I haven't even heard of Eastern Airlines but will not use them should I be up in that part of the world. Perhaps viewers should all email the management to alert them of this experience but I suspect they wouldn't care. For flight staff to be like this suggests that the company is rotten at the top as well. Attitudes permeate downwards. Imagine living in Wick and using this airline on a regular basis. It would be one thing if it were budget but paying fares like this........On the bright side I'm glad you had a good day and look forward to the video. Happy Easter! P.S. Strapping your jacket into a seat!!!???!!!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much for your comment, I think you are absolutely spot on! I would rather have walked back to Aberdeen, but thankfully the bit in-between the flights was really fun :)

[@janettesinclair6279]

Imagine living in Wick if this, the only air connection, gets cancelled due to bad reviews.

[@weallmakechoices7456]

@ Janet - at last there’s an air service back in wick. All the people now saying they won’t travel on this route after a silly private video is disheartening to say the least. There should be support for the route and perhaps we’ll get an Edinburgh run reinstated. These reviewers are full of themselves for a 25 minute flight at £39!

[@janettesinclair6279]

On the comment about strapping a jacket down - if there are no overhead lockers, in the (agreed unlikely) event of an emergency landing and quick evacuation needed, loose debris - e.g. jackets, could hinder this action. (Speaking as someone who has experienced an emergency landing I totally understand)

[@baseeeeeeee]

I used to travel Eastern regularly from Norwich to Aberdeen when I worked offshore. This was 10+ years ago, so it's sad to see how they've changed, because they used to be a great wee airline. I remember the complimentary glass of champagne in the air, just what you need after 4 weeks offshore!

[@steve-marsh]

Nice! Aye, a shadow of their former self by the sound of it! Although it may just be one person who made the whole experience so miserable for all onboard...

[@martinfairley5261]

Yeh, i used to work for Eastern Airways on the ground (mainly the ticket desk) at Aberdeen.Its dissapointing to see this.In my day we had standards.

[@martinfairley5261]

Also do they not still have the lounge in Aberdeen. All Eastern passengers can use

[@lunis471]

Wowza what a greetings I just went on a flight to Pisa. Airport yesterday and the smiles and welcomes made a lovely start to the day, then departing the aircraft was the same. I love your videos you guys thanks for this. Your adventures are fabulous Sorry about your journey, I also would be worried about the safety of this airline goodness knows what their getting up to that lot!! Hahahah thanks for the stream Greetings from Dumfries and Galloway 😁

[@copper6600]

A very Happy Easter to you both and Thank you for this video it tells that you never know what comes,important is that you both are very nice poeple.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much! I really didn't want to post a negative video, but had no choice with this one. Mire positive stuff to come soon :)

[@Michael-wr1yy]

Hi Steve, what a shame, and hugely embarrassing for them. I've done a lot of flying recently with Loganair, where the cabin crews are nearly always lovely, and even when I recognise a crew member and say oh you carried me on such and such flight last week( like they are going to remember) they always at least pretend to remember which is I think a great sign of customer service. Eastern has never been on my radar as I've never had cause to use them, but I may be in Wick later in the year....hmm choo choo train maybe.

[@legionnairegonk4425]

As someone once said to me, some days you have to experience others personal misery and anger issues for a few minutes or hours - but they have to live with it 24/7 everyday. But by not 'biting' you are the bigger and better person Steve 👍.

[@steve-marsh]

Well said! :)

[@RebMordechaiReviews]

Sorry to hear about your experience on Eastern Airwaya. After I watched your video, KZbin popped up a news report, uploaded on the 12th April about the reopening of Wick airport due to council demand, with reduced airfare. Perhaps there is a bit of resentment on behalf of Eastern being forced re-open an unprofitable route? Just a guess. Or perhaps there are other Eastern flights with the same lack of customer service? I wouldn't know. We drive everywhere. Anyway, thanks for the shot of the bottles of Old Pulteney Single Malts. Very nice.The distillery celebrates many famous local fishing trawlers on its labels. You also have the famous Clynelish Brura distilleries to the south and Wolfburn to the north in Thurso. We usually start from Ferris/ Benromach and drive through Inverness and up the A9 then A99. Such a wonderful route passing through Glenmorangie and Balvenie on the way. You see how I navigate Scotland by its distilleries? (Big grin).

[@iainmclaren964]

I just came across your channel, presumably because I follow other similar ones. Interested because of the Jetstream but amazed at the "service". I experienced similar on an EDI - Newark with Continental, now part of United, some years ago. A nearby passenger didn't immediately shut his laptop and the "stewardess" bawled at him that "there are marshals on board this flight". Maybe you got off lucky!

[@zweispurmopped]

At Eastern, they don't call their cabin crew cabin crew, they are Flight Utility Directors (FUDs). 😁 Richt, I'm off! 🥳

[@steve-marsh]

Beautiful! :D :D :D

[@caliburn50a]

I can see eastern airways going out of business with attitudes like that. Common curtesy costs nothing I worked in the leisure industry dealing with the general public, even when a person is being awkward you always remain polite and explain things in a calm manner. Hope your visit to Wick itself was enjoyable even if the flight wasn't. Have a happy Easter both of you.

[@steve-marsh]

And to you Les! Cheers, and you are spot on mate!

[@WhatALoadOfTosca]

I thought they had gone out of business, haven't they?

[@vlogsvlog531]

Nice to see the "terrific two" together again!! Eastern Airways....kept me waiting for ages in Gibralter Airport....at least the viewing gallery made the wait enjoyable. Ah Wick, home to the shortest street in the world. Been there 👌

[@steve-marsh]

The Wick video will be a whole lot more positive than the flight bits :) Love GIB airport!

[@vlogsvlog531]

@@steve-marsh look forward to it 👍

[@pbsteamatspeed7683]

Sorry you weren't able to film more of your trip Steve as the scenery looked fabulous. Most airlines simply politely ask you to turn devices to flight mode so as not to interfere with on board systems, so I wonder what Eastern's actual policy is? Would make it difficult to work on a journey with them so thanks for highlighting this.

[@websitesthatneedanem]

I've posted this on Eastern Airways Facebook page! 😄

[@steve-marsh]

Beautiful! Cheers Martin!

[@matthewsadventures1924]

Happy Easter Steve if you are struggling for a Summer holidays you could maybe go to Amsterdam You can fly from Glasgow and Edinburgh if you have something else planned I am looking forward to see it Happy Easter Steve have a good one.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much for the great idea Matthew! I'd actually thought about doing a wee ferry trip there as well, but the flight may be the better option, all the best!

[@thomaswislocki2804]

You should wait until the ferry service to the continent is up and running Steve, the nearest service is from Newcastle, We lost our Hull - Zeebrugge service when brexit came in. A shame I used it every three months or so to take parties to the Western front and a one day shopping trip with the wife....all gone now... The Hull to Rotterdam is running again but I won't use it after the way the crews were sacked by p&o, it's just as though I have Benn abandoned in the middle of nowhere...Tom

[@blbl8326]

Thanks for the video! Now I wont be flying with them for sure (especially charging that amount for such a short flight). Sad that ruins the holiday mood Hope you have a Happy Easter!

[@steve-marsh]

Thankfully the bit in-between the flights was a lot of fun, but we still had the dark cloud of a flight back hanging over us, I'd have rather WALKED home :D

[@hanspronk2749]

We would have loved to see more of Wick. Happy Easter

[@steve-marsh]

It will be the next video mate, and a lot more positive :)

[@truebrit3578]

Given that you could well be in the running for the most pleasant contributor on KZbin the title came as something of a surprise! I am sure that someone from Eastern will see the video and perhaps the company might reach out to you. According to their Twitter stream (April 15th) this is a new PSO route (Public Service Operation). Perhaps there is some issue on the rostering or something that is making the staff unhappy?

[@steve-marsh]

Aw thanks so much! And I really hate to be negative, but I couldn't lie about this one! I'd love to hear what they have to say about this, I'll update if I hear anything from them :)

[@oliverrosik567]

I've flow Eastern many times from Teesside, and I also took the Wick-Aberdeen route, on previous routes it seemed so nice, now on the Wick flight, everything changed and the cabin crew were rude, kept telling me to turn off my phone, and more. It was the worst Eastern flight of my life.

[@steve-marsh]

Sorry to hear you’ve had the same experience Oliver! What a horrible experience they crest onboard eh? And so unnecessary!

[@pauldg837]

@@steve-marsh What you should really do is send this to Eastern (as high up the chain as possible). And invite them to leave a comment.

[@howardalexander0621]

Had the flight been full of passengers, where would you have been expected to put your coat? Weird.

[@johnallan4826]

I would love a seven hour trip by train or van, but impossible for a day trip idea. Looking forward to the video of wick you seemed to enjoy it. Happy Easter to you too

[@steve-marsh]

And to you too John! I'll be on a train round Scotland on Tuesday for the day, hopefully that goes a bit better and makes a more positive video! :)

[@johnallan4826]

Off all the other flights, there has to be one. Never mind Flybe soon. A nice start to a Sunday Steve and alicja

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers John!

[@andrewmarsden1970]

Love these Scottish short flight options. Eastern look to be avoided though.

[@steve-marsh]

Me too mate, they are always my favourites, so this was a big disappointment.

[@williamavery9185]

No not at all. This is a life experience dont miss it !!!

[@thomaswislocki2804]

An example of telling it like it is, far removed from the sycophants that bend over backwardness hoping to get free flights and train tickets in return for an undeserved favourable revue of their services Steve. Nice one mate, looking forward to seeing the Wick tour...

[@andrewpalmer7811]

Hi Steve, sorry to hear about your experience with Southern. I flew with Logan Air from Edinburgh to Wick on business a while ago and the cabin crew were lovely, let me take pictures as I’m an Englishman that was blown away with the beauty of the Eastern coast as we flew up. They even pointed out some landmarks along the way! Thanks for the video, take care Andy 👍🏻

[@andrewpalmer7811]

Apologises Eastern, not Southern. 😝

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Andy, aye Loganair are fantastic, thanks for the comment!

[@andrewpalmer7811]

Hi Steve, thanks for the reply, I just watched Tim’s Travels video. I’m sure he caught your Inboard flight as his Outbound flight, same miserable flight attendant! 😡😆😆

[@user-qf1vx2wn2w]

Sorry to hear about your unfortunate flight ✈️ from Aberdeen to wick but wick looks nice

[@andmar]

I flew to Wick last week , had the same cabin crew (Julia) as in the video - absolutely horrendous attitude from her . Impersonal announcements (even though there were only 8 of us) , didn't engage with 1 single person . Sat on her backside in the back row of the plane and barked orders to SWITCH OUR PHONES COMPLETELY OFF and NOT MOVE AROUND THE CABIN to prevent the spread of Covid . Please tell me how you're likely to move around a Jetstream 41 ?????? Worst cabin crew I've ever encountered , nasty , unfriendly, unwelcoming .... Eastern Airways should be ashamed of employing her on a route they're trying to promote again.

[@williamavery9185]

Can i have Julias cell number ? Sounds a bonny brai girl !

[@heeeeeresrossy]

She was worried that by people moving around would spread Covid...on a plane? She's a clown, pure & simple. I hope she's had her marching orders.

[@michaelarcher6278]

Really hope you will take that up with the airline, never heard such nonsense from an airline crew. I don't fly very often but when I do I always film the take off and landings and have never been told to " switch that off"

[@steve-marsh]

Yeah, email waiting for them mate, it was truly ridiculous, and the way the message was delivered just made it worse. She stood behind us and watched us closely, we felt like school kids!

[@matthewsmith2787]

I remember getting off the plane, and took a picture on my phone, I heard lots of yelling and it was the ground staff having a go at me, and told me to delete it. Total nonsense, maybe they are trying to hide something

[@tormid100]

Despite your experience with this particular airline, I thoroughly enjoyed your video. It must be 30 years since I last visited Wick.

[@delboi19]

Great video, really enjoying your content with time off work this xmas. As a Customer Experience ambassador, your feedback on the service from Eastern is like nails down a chalkboard - how can something so simple as service with a smile be so hard to achieve, even as an individual with some pride around yourself! Dear oh dear. On the approach, that's an interesting one - by no means an expert but looking at the area adjacent the path, it looks like it's an effort to take away the noise produced by aircraft from Wick itself, that's guesswork though :).

[@michaelscott2789]

Tragic. Some People really aren't in a job suited to them. Flight attendant is an important job, you are literally the face of the airline. I've flown for over 30 years and have never had a bad experience so it really is an unexpected experience I think. Lucky it's only a wee shirt flight!!!! Looking forward to Wick, the wife just said "he's got a great life going all over Scotland". He has I said.👍😁🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Michael and wife :) Yeah, I echo your flight experiences as well, so this was a really nasty surprise!

[@airzulu2733]

Iam in my late 60,s and wouid love a job as cabin crew on trips like that. Oh well I will avoid Eastern after the experience this lovely couple had to go through . Must be other carriers we couid use . Hope Easterns management saw the clip .

[@janetmackinnon3411]

Thank you for this---a timely warning.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Janet! I don't like to make negative content, but no choice with this one!

[@ChrisBmufc]

Liked and subscribed! Hi from Dublin and a huge Happy Easter from the Emerald Isle to everyone

[@VisualEscapes469]

Thanks for the heads up will be avoiding Eastern. FYI Inverness Airport parking is also extortionate. I parked up at 04:55 Tuesday morning, Flew to Gatwick and returned Wednesday Evening around 21:30 £32 for les than 48 Hrs Parking!

[@bernicebest]

That was a disaster Steve, my late husband and I used to work at ‘EMA’ during the days when curtesy was uppermost, and the passengers were always right even when wrong 😑 pleased you and Alicja enjoyed the rest of your trip to Wick, I could make a joke about that but I won’t 🥴 🤗👋

[@steve-marsh]

Haha thanks Bernice! Yeah, thankfully the bit in-between was a lot more fun and will be the next video. I felt so bad taking Alicja on this flight though!

[@mstrdiver]

@@steve-marsh - Steve, it probably was for the best that she was there to also experience this sad excuse for customer service. It sounded so over the top that she may have thought you might have been dramatizing their displayed attitudes, and of course, 'Misery does love company'. Happy Easter guys.

[@ronnieince4568]

@@steve-marsh you could regard the experience as training for Ryanair service but in their case indifferent service comes a lot cheaper .!!!

[@Ciaran100]

on that plane - the JetStream41, it is a requirement to turn off all electronic devices for takeoff and landing as they can interfere with the electronics of the aircraft (as it an older and smaller aircraft), on my last Eastern flight the cabin crew politely explained this.

[@andrewjones-productions]

The clue is in your explanation which unfortunately reads more like an excuse for bad behaviour. At the time of boarding, the engines are typically not even running, so to tell someone to 'Switch that off' at that juncture is not only rude, but unnecessary. If the aeroplane is simultaneously attempting to take off whilst passengers are boarding then you have a point.

[@robertreid1774]

Great wee movie I was once offshore so visited Aberdeen often. As for the dreadful hospitality my recent experiences everywhere including pubs.. Who during covid think they are the law and people were so rude, but I made a point of reminding them I am the customer!?.. Much re training needed. Cheers 🍻

[@frankmacdermott1589]

I recently flew Eastern J41 from Aberdeen to Newcastle, and I must say the lady stewardess was fantastic, smooth on time flight, I am glad I did not have the experience you did!

[@steve-marsh]

Such a difference some nice service makes eh? Everyone on our flight was like a school kid in detention

[@D_B_Cooper]

What!!! In your videos you come across as a sound and easy going dude so this really must have pissed you off. Once I came back from London on the train and went in first class because it was a Scottish bank holiday and it was a tenner upgrade. The conductor was so rude and questioning, like I didn’t deserve to be there. This sort of attitude really can waste a trip. Edited to say - “How did you get this ticket?” “Emmmm I paid for it with money”

[@steve-marsh]

Aye shocking, has similar to that before as well in upgraded cabins! But this was flight was so bad it was (almost) funny!

[@Starman2319]

I worked seven years in UK civil aviation customer services. Eastern, thankfully, is unlikely to last long with that disgusting attitude. You'd certainly have been better off driving up in the van. Looking forward to your vid of your much more enjoyable time actually in Wick. Stay safe both.

[@steve-marsh]

Glad to hear it mate! Thankfully the Wick video will be a lot more fun to edit :)

[@Starman2319]

@@steve-marsh You did right to call them out, Steve.

[@robbiecockburn1489]

Hey Steve, you asked why the airplanes fly so far past the airport. Wick's procedure for us to land is solely VOR or NDB, so we have to fly over the beacon for about 8 miles, then double back on ourselves to align with the runway. Much easier on a nice clear day to break off and fly a visual approach. I used to fly EDI-WIK-EDI, but with pax loads like the 5 you had, you can see why the route just didn't work. Would love to have you onboard one of my flights some time! Keep up the good vids.

[@cardiffflyer]

Had the same experience a few times myself with Eastern Airways. Some cabin crew are less strict but most won't allow filming during take-off and landing.

[@SparkySenor]

I was also going to comment that you don't normally complain, so this just goes to show the poor level of customer satisfaction that you felt. I wholeheartedly agree with speaking up about the bad as well as the good. I hope your review helps this carrier to improve its business model. Thanks for the warning, though I doubt it's a route I'm likely to make. All the best to you both.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Michael, I couldn't lie about this one, but at the same time I hate posting anything negative, so I think I was actually still a bit too kind to them in the video, it was the weirdest hostile environment I've ever experienced!

[@PaulGodfrey]

Always remember emailing Eastern Airways about a delayed flight and getting an email back saying that since the delay of 1hr 55m was under 2 hours please be assured there was no need for a refreshments voucher. Legally correct of course but rather disappointing. Mind you the crew were pleasant and apologetic when the flight did arrive.

[@steve-marsh]

Ahhh a lovely considerate reply eh!? :D I wonder what kind of reply I'll get...

[@margaretwotherspoon566]

Awe well one to avoid then Steve,at least you enjoyed your day before you had to go through it again.💞

[@tenorclef4090]

Looking forward to you report on Wick! But if I go, I’ll definitely be taking the train instead.

[@steve-marsh]

A wise move! It really was a horrible experience and I was up for taking the train back!

[@thecrunge4431]

sad to hear of the experience. The local papers were talking up our connectivity. I think Wick is an underused airport and could make a difference to the local economy eg for surfing and starting the NC500 and/or LEJOG. I have has horrendous experiences on buses from Inverness to Thurso etc. I have travelled via Loganair Wick Edinburgh. could not be different friendly service with attention to H&S and security. Good coffee and complimentary Tunnocks bar. ABZ left much to be desired but the flight to CDG via Air France made up for it. You hire a car might help around, Yep Mackays Hotel or the Bank. Whaligoe Steps, Old Pulteney Distillery and the Fishery Museum worth visits, check dates. Castle of Mey worth a visit in season too.

[@BarneyLeith]

Sorry you had such a bad flight experience. In years of flying to the islands from Aberdeen, Edinburgh or Glasgow (sometimes the flight would stop into Wick, but I've never been into the town itself), I never experienced anything like that. Mind you, in those days it was either BEA/British Airways or Loganair. They were matter-of-fact flights, more like a bus service, but I can't think any of the staff were rude in that way. It sounds like the company culture of Eastern Airlines is unhealthy. Anyway, it's good to know that you both had a good time while in and around Wick.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Barney! We were able to shake it off and have a lovely couple of days. We still had the dread of the return flight though!

[@SimplyGobsmacked]

One would think most airlines would welcome the free publicity - a friendly (and perhaps humorous) crew and a beautiful flight up the coast. SouthWest Airlines have perfected this model. There are literally thousands of YT videos of fun times aboard SW flights. When the staff is as miserable and lacking in basic customer service training as this one, it signals bigger problems in the company, IMO. I would question what other basic training they lack. I think you're right to speculate about the safety of the airline. I wouldn't fly them after seeing this and reading several other web comments about similar experiences. Wake up, Eastern Airways! #easternairways

[@steve-marsh]

Thank you! Oh I'd love to sample the SouthWest experience :)

[@robbiephillipstravelsofple4790]

Such a same Steve Eastern always was a good airline to fly with happy crew and good service. I really hope some at Eastern watches your video and are very embarrassed by your treatment. Take care both

[@diannehardwick950]

A lovely part of the world that I visited on my rail, bus and ferry to Orkney. Loved it.

[@markwillis2800]

Eastern Airways also owns my nearest airport Humberside Airport. Since taking ownership of the airport in 2012 they have done pretty much next to nothing to grow the airport. They have hardly announced any new routes nor they have attracted any new airlines to the airport. They have done nothing to try to attract passengers in terms of marketing and there is not much in the way of a social media pressnce. All they have done is maintain their route to Aberdeen as well as the KLM route to Amsterdam. So much for the growth they promised 10 years ago.

[@steve-marsh]

I feel there are a few problems within that company! The service on the flights and the lack of progress at Humberside may point to something a lot more troubling!

[@57yaky]

Todos hemos tenido algún vuelo así. Gran trabajo y saludos

[@NatureFolklore]

Its a pity Eastern are that way. I have flown the Aberdeen to Wick route when Loganair operated it and they are such a sweet friendly airline. Nothing is ever too much trouble for them. I use Loganair to fly from Dublin to Inverness to see family in Moray and it’s always a great flight experience. I also remember Aberdeen to Wick being operated by British Airways a long, long time ago. Funny little aeroplane but still an ok experience. They handed out barley sugar sweets before take off.

[@davidlazarus67]

06:45 The Eastern sign saying “Why fly any other way?” Well bad customer experience is one reason why.

[@steve-marsh]

Spot on mate! Reading their website now is cringe compared to the service they provide in reality

[@davidlazarus67]

@@steve-marsh Well false advertising appears to be their business model.

[@caz211072]

In all fairness. Not that you can excuse the dreadful service. The crew are probably fed up. In 2020 the airline culled loyal, valuable staff despite the furlough scheme it what was the most rigged and fudged redundancy scheme ever. Some of the best crew binned off. The HR team are the most volatile and vile group ever known, preaching mental health awareness yet being the biggest reason themselves for the about of stress and anxiety people were feeling. Most of the management were equally as bad, the cabin crew management were fragile and pointless. No support or back bone at all. Some of the cabin crew trainers were the only thing holding it together. And now its probably worse. Those unlucky enough to keep their job were forced on indefinite unpaid leave as bonded, or had pay cut after pay cut, allowances cut and worked like dogs for less than probably universal credit. So they're probably fed up and exhausted. An inexcusable experience agreed but the behind the scenes is worse as the route cause.

[@matthewsmith2787]

Very true.

[@iwbarke]

Sorry to hear that this easn't your most enjoyable trip. Objective comment like you make maintains a lot of credibility and carries a lot more weight than a rant, well done there! Looking forward to seeing the fuller account of your exploration of Wick. I went up there (by train) a few weeks ago and had a great day. Hope you found that wooden sofa outside the furniture shop on High St? What an amazing feature that is, and very comfortable despite the hard cushions!

[@tars54]

Ahhh that's the trouble you have a nice wee job and then customers come along to spoil it for you! Pity I'd looked forward to some more shots of the J41, glad that the rest of your trip to week ,er Wick, was enjoyable.

[@LifeistooshortCK]

You delivered good advice for fellow passengers. Avoid that airline 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Here here! I hate to post a negative video, but I couldn't lie to you all!

[@the_duke_of_bork8702]

@@skydancer4224 Hi Julia!

[@janettesinclair6279]

I agree that there is a need for more cabin crew training for this one individual, but it seems a pity to tarnish a whole airline for one bad apple.