Trip Report - First Class Seattle to Honolulu | Boeing 737 Max 9

[@suitesandlobbies]

I know that Boeing and more specifically the 737 Max 9 have been in the news the past few months for all the wrong reasons. Will you avoid flying this aircraft if the alternate options does not upset your flight plans and is comparatively priced? Let me know your thoughts on this.

[@philvie]

As an aircraft mechanic, the recent incident with the doorplug coming off in flight is incomprehensible to me, Boeing has got some major issues with quality workmanship, that being said, the 737 max aircraft have gone over with a fine tooth comb because of these issues so I wouldn't hesitate to fly in one now.

[@suitesandlobbies]

Aloha Phil, I did not know you were an aircraft mechanic, good to know for sure. Thanks for your thoughts on flying this aircraft, especially with your background and experience.@@philvie

[@rucky_665]

Yes I fly Airbus whenever possible and Boeing only if I can’t help it.

[@suitesandlobbies]

Thank you for sharing, Boeing definitely has its work cut out for it.@@rucky_665

[@seanspencer8179]

look like the cheese thing was Bruschetta.

[@daveb2280]

I was on the inaugural flight from SEA-HNL back in 2007 in FC. The service back then was impeccable. It was a very memorable experience. Back then, employees cared about your journey. I was also on other inaugural AS flights back then when AS did a massive expansion (SEA-ORD, SEA-EWR) and shared FC with many AS executives. Nowadays, I doubt I would even recognize a once great airline that AS was. With their reduced services and higher fares it was an easy call to move to AA as I retired in Dallas. AA isn't much better (in some cases, worse) but at least AA takes care of their elite FF.

[@suitesandlobbies]

The decline in service levels among domestic carriers seems to be a recurring theme. In the second half of 2025 I hope to review JAL, ANA and others to see how things compare. I hope over time I can get some inaugural flight under my belt as well. Seems to be a great memory for many travelers such as yourself, thanks for the share. 👍

[@themattressrun]

very good review. straight to the point, no frills, covering all the main points.

[@suitesandlobbies]

Thank you!

[@moose354]

Nice report. We'll be on the same flight in first class, day after tomorrow.

[@cawcaw1064]

I love the Straightaway Margarita, I mix it with the ginger ale since it is strong. I still want to try the old fashioned.

[@suitesandlobbies]

Good idea on the ginger ale mix, will have to try that.

[@moose354]

The reason that no butter is served with the bread is that the tomato and mozzarella mixture is supposed to go on the bread and eaten together like Italian Bruschetta. This was explained to me by my wife who knows best.

[@suitesandlobbies]

I shared your comment with my wife and she agreed 100% with what you said. She also agreed with the reason for no butter and eating it like Italian Bruschetta. 😉

[@JocularHunterOfficial]

How much fuel does that plane take to get there

[@suitesandlobbies]

Great question, I have no idea actually. I am sure it depends on load, winds, and possibly a few other factors. I am guessing an average is out there somewhere.

[@arisaos]

i’m still scare to ride on this plane

[@suitesandlobbies]

Thank you for sharing, I know others worry as well.

[@thomasmooreCQ]

I'd love to try Alaska's Honolulu service from Paine field & return to Seattle on a daytime delta flight.

[@suitesandlobbies]

I was quite happy with my Delta flight in economy from HNL-SE and yes, daytime flights are so much better.

[@silversurferhi]

That kal bi is more like pot roast with Mr Yoshida sauce

[@suitesandlobbies]

Agree!

[@FlyandStay-524]

No avoid