On the Ground: I arrived at the JFK counter with plenty of time. The check-in agents were engaged in conversation about the flight, but the process was quick and efficient. I was issued access to the business-class lounge located before security and made my way there. The lounge was spacious and comfortable, shared with other carriers operating flights to the Middle East at the same time. I managed to get some work done before heading to security, and the overall ground experience was smooth and well organized. (28/30)
Pre-flight: Settled into my window seat in a 2-2-2 configuration, I soon realized I had left my computer charger plugged into a lounge outlet. The same agent who had checked me in was on board performing pre-flight duties. I explained the situation and he made calls to locate the charger. Because the lounge was before security, there wasn’t enough time to courier the item to the aircraft, but they agreed to hold it for me until my return. The mistake was mine, and the airline staff handled it professionally—I retrieved the charger when I returned to JFK ten days later. The seat itself was comfortable, resembling the older first-class style that reclines almost flat, with an 83-inch seat pitch. There was little privacy between adjacent seats, but generous legroom separated my seat from the row ahead. Cabin crew were pleasant, though not particularly attentive before takeoff. I settled in and prepared for the flight. (27/30)
In-flight: The Boeing 747-200 was loud during takeoff but settled into a smooth cruise. Once airborne, flight attendants handed out menus decorated in RJ colors and crowned accents, a nice visual touch. For appetizers I chose the Oriental option, which included baba ganoush on a lemon crown, kishkeh with tomato wedges, and makdous halves on lemon slices. Appetizers arrived on a prepared tray alongside soup and salad. For the main course I selected cheese tortellini with a sweet tomato and oregano sauce; the menu also offered beef, chicken, or grilled hammour. Presentation was simple and practical rather than elaborate, which facilitated efficient service. The food tasted good overall, and the crew moved briskly, offering a selection of wines to complement the meal. The seat provided enough comfort for me to sleep for much of the journey. I woke for a modest breakfast and received a warm welcome to Amman from the cabin crew as I disembarked. (35/40)
The Experience: Business class on Royal Jordanian felt straightforward and professional. The cabin did not have a lounge-like, homey atmosphere, but service was courteous and efficient throughout the journey.
Total Score: 90/100