SEOUL (ICN) TO NEW YORK (JFK)
On the Ground: The Signiel Seoul concierge arranged a car for my transfer to Incheon Airport, which was helpful since my flight departed close to 10 a.m. and an early departure was recommended. At Incheon I checked in at Asiana Airlines’ business-class desk and was swiftly assisted. I was looking forward to my first experience on Asiana’s Airbus A380-800 in business class, having previously flown their first-class product. Security was smooth and I spent a little time shopping in the duty-free area before heading to the lounge.
I’ve visited Asiana’s first- and business-class lounges multiple times; they are efficiently run and staffed by friendly employees. The business-class lounge at Incheon offered a wide selection of hot dishes, made-to-order scrambled eggs, salads and a variety of beverages. Each seat area provided ample power outlets and reliable Wi-Fi. Boarding proceeded on schedule, and although the A380 is a very large aircraft, the process felt organized with no delays in boarding or disembarking.
Pre-Flight: Cabin crew welcomed passengers at the door, offered reading material and hung up my sport coat. A pre-flight drink — Laurent Perrier Brut Champagne — and warm mixed nuts were served. The amenity kit, featuring L’Occitane products, included practical items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, ear plugs, an eye mask and lotions. The A380’s generously sized lavatories were well stocked with lotions and sprays. Takeoff was smooth and on time.
In-Flight: To get settled I plugged in my electronics at the Asiana Business Smartium Class seat. The briefcase fit under the footrest for takeoff, and the tray table deployed easily and pivoted for quick exits. Seat controls were intuitive and the in-flight entertainment offered a wide selection of movies and audio options. My business-class cabin was located on the A380’s upper deck in a 1-2-1 configuration; my single window seat provided good privacy and a sufficiently large monitor for watching films.
After menus were handed out and I was served a Chivas Regal on the rocks, I planned the 12-hour flight: watch a couple of movies, work and then dine before attempting sleep on the flat-bed seat. The menu offered both Western and Korean options. The Western selection featured choices like beef tenderloin or cod, with starters such as lobster and other canapés. I opted for the Korean menu and enjoyed bibimbap — rice mixed with vegetables and meat, served with gochujang red pepper paste. The meal concluded with cheese, fruit, dessert and a glass of Port.
Following dinner I reclined the seat into a fully flat position and rested several hours, waking in time for a light breakfast before landing. Throughout the flight the cabin crew provided attentive, warm service, reflecting the consistently high standards Asiana is known for. The combination of friendly service, the spacious A380 cabin and the Business Smartium seat made the journey comfortable and efficient.
For travelers who appreciate a superb business-class experience, Asiana’s A380 Business Smartium is an excellent option; those seeking an even higher level of luxury might consider trying Asiana’s first-class suite on a future trip.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ Asiana flight attendants are welcoming and attentive.
◆ A380 lavatories are notably spacious.
◆ Choosing bibimbap is a flavorful way to experience Korean cuisine on board.