Is Sichuan Airlines' business class worth the price?

Sichuan Airlines presents a compelling, yet potentially ambiguous, value proposition with its business class offering on long-haul routes. A recent review of a Cairo to Sydney itinerary, via Chengdu, highlighted a surprisingly attractive fare of $2245 per person. This price point immediately raises questions about the quality and amenities, particularly concerning the crucial flat-bed seat, which was challenging to verify through the airline's official, Chinese-language website.

The journey itself, conducted on an Airbus A330-300, revealed a mixed bag of passenger experience elements. While check-in at Cairo International Airport proved chaotic, the transit process in Chengdu was notably smoother, despite the lack of an airbridge for boarding. The business class cabin, configured in an older 2-2-2 layout, did offer a fully flat bed, a large entertainment screen, universal power, and USB charging ports, providing essential comfort for the extended flights. However, the absence of complimentary pajamas and the dated cabin layout, requiring passengers to step over neighbors for aisle access, marked areas for improvement.

The culinary experience emerged as the most significant drawback. Despite Sichuan cuisine's renowned reputation, the in-flight dining offered limited choices, with a single dinner option and two breakfast selections, often described as overcooked or merely acceptable. The language barrier further complicated food descriptions, and a notable lack of snacks between meals, coupled with a restricted wine selection, underscored a disappointing aspect of the service. Entertainment options were also limited, primarily featuring Chinese-language content with only a handful of Hollywood films.

Conversely, the crew service received high praise for its politeness and efficiency, even amidst language differences. A notable incident involving a forgotten carry-on bag in the Chengdu lounge showcased the staff's dedication, as they successfully retrieved the item despite the considerable distance to the aircraft. Ultimately, the review concluded that for the price and the availability of a flat bed, Sichuan Airlines' business class remains a viable option for budget-conscious long-haul travelers, provided they manage their expectations regarding in-flight dining.