This video is sponsored by the lovely people at Dashlane. Keep your digital life secure and never forget a password again. Get yourself a sweet TWO MONTHS FREE of Dashlane Premium by heading to www.dashlane.com/paul and use the code PAUL at checkout. Read my review on this flight at Simple Flying: simpleflying.com/flight-review-thomas-cook-a330-200-premium-class-jfk-man/ I'm in Northern Ireland for a birthday weekend...so I may not be around the comments too much! Hope you have a great Sunday! Cheers!
I'm so glad you are not like those unrealistic airline reviewers that go from Qatar to Thomas Cook Airlines and start complaining about the differences. You set the expectations, and are fair and realistic in these reviews. Keep up the good work Paul!
It kinda sucks, I was really hoping to fly with them around Europe if I managed to get enough money saved up for a little trip before starting my first year of college (currently in senior year of HS). It looked like a nice experience.
There's always the possibility that someone could buy the name, trade and service marks, etc., from the bankruptcy estate and start a new new travel business, perhaps even with a captive in-house airline. After all, in the U.S., what operates today as "AT&T" is really nothing more than an expanded and re-branded "BELLSOUTH", successor to the old RBOC (Regional Bell Operating Company), Southern Bell... which was a part of the "original" AT&T!
@@thomasmann9216 becoming a youtuber does not make you money. You need to invest a lot upfront. Also get a bit lucky with growing. And 100k views may just net you 70 dollars..
Tim Vliegt the only thing Thomas Cook could have done better, is allowed the seats to recline further. I think it's a poor effort, to increase seat pitch without increasing seat recline further, which on an overnight red eye, would make all the difference in the world. Even allowing for the poor food, I think this - plus the continuous service with drinks (which I thought was good) - would really make it a winner. Some of the legacy airlines make a much bigger effort for premium economy, and give you a much bigger seat with a much bigger recline - although, I grant you it's more expensive.
Welcome back Paul 50 quid for an upgrade to PE is pretty Cheap !! I do like the laundry bag...over 40 years plus of flying in every class you can think of and have NEVER seen that...great idea !! The bloke next to you at 7.39 is well and truly in the land of nod !! From JFK to the UK for that price is outstanding in a Premium cabin !! I think you summed it up very well at the end...you get what you pay for and an airline such as Thomas Cook deliver a service which matches the price ! ( Remember when we used to buy Thomas Cook Travellers cheques ?) Oh I am getting old...well done again mate and keep those pretzels warm.
Fair review Paul. On the price point I'm flying TCX to LA in October in Economy outbound but Premium coming back, the difference was £35! so £230 each coming back (I did book 12 months out, and it was about £230 out to LA in Economy). Also FYI the catering on the Eastbound flights is different entirely to the Westbound flights due to the contract that they have with Gate Gourmet. The Premium James Martin meals can only be loaded in the UK, and like all airline food, only has a shelf life of a few hours once it's loaded.
Tried their long haul product earlier on this year from Manchester to Antigua and back. It was surprisingly good, even in the main cabin. The James Martin branded food was more than acceptable. Got an hour in the premium cabin between Antigua and Barbados on the way back and whilst my non premium seat on the overnight flight back to Manchester wasn't too bad, I suspect those extra few inches would have made a significant difference.
I've been to JFK with these 3 times now. Each time in economy to and from MAN. Have to say, considering the price is roughly £100 cheaper than anyone else, the product is just as good. It doesn't pretend to be anything it's not and the cabin crew have always been great. Only one time was there an issue - overnight flight to MAN where they'd had to swap in an Air Tanker A330 which had no onboard entertainment, no screens anywhere. People had to download the TC app and stream to devices, lot of unhappy people. Only a 6 hour flight tho so not a disaster. Overall, they're really good. Great videos, thank you 🙂
Liked the video . I fly probably about 6 long haul flights annually , and have done so for many years . I have to say that I have flown with Thomas Cook Airlines on one occasion , and I fall into the “ wouldnt touch them with a barge pole “ category . The absolutely worst airline experience I’ve ever had in over 35 years of travel , although to be fair , your experience appeared to be much better than the one I had .
Awesome review Paul! I noticed that Thomas Cook had a lot of similarities with Air Transat. Knowing that Thomas Cook and Air Transat used to share the first and second place as the "World's Best Leisure Airlines", I never actually knew how service was onboard Thomas Cook compared to Air Transat. Now that I have watched your trip report, I can proudly say that I now know the similarities and differences. What you got on that "Premium Class" product is very similar to Air Transat's "Option+" product. The service is decent, nothing bad, nothing amazing, you got a few amenities for the ocean crossing as well as good entertainment (which I also noticed that Thomas Cook and Air Transat used the same programs!). Overall I feel like the two airlines are very very similar, you could even call them cousins. Honestly, I see nothing better with Air Transat and nothing better with Thomas Cook either. They just seem like regular airlines who mainly transport friends and families on package holidays. If ever you have the chance to, you should definitely try out Air Transat to Montreal! I know they often have cheap flights from Gatwick to Montreal, often operated on either the A330 or A310. Cheers!
Recently returned from a Thomas Cook flight.Orlando to Manchester and back.We also went Premium economy and in our opinion so worth it..I enjoyed the meals,seems that you get better food from Orlando than New York,no sandwich for us we had a proper meal.My husband needs an electric wheelchair and an oxygen concentrator,the ground staff and flight crew were amazing and made the process so easy( IT’s been 14 years since we flew to UK..so much has changed) It’s the small things that make you happy.Tetley tea,Cadbury’s hot chocolate,Ribera..I was so happy lol..We would definitely fly with them again...
we flew to and from Calgary ,,Canada some years back with them in premium economy and they were great, apart from 1 flight attendant who really wanted to be somewhere else the crew were brilliant and they were great with our 6 year old
I once flew JFK- MAN on BA flight 1503 (a Boeing 767-300...I’m aging myself here) in 5hrs 20min! Those winter jet streams are something! It would have taken longer flying to Las Vegas from New York that night.
Another great report! I’m surprised with all your travel that you don’t have priority pass or something similar to access lounges when not flying in premium cabins. Keep the reports coming I love watching them
Aries Yang one of the better single episodes they had on Thomas Cooks, if you got that in the free selection. Just from my experience with TC last year. Crap IFE if you didn't pay a fiver, not that I knew how to. Good thing I had my own entertainment.
I've flown Thomas Cook many times from Calgary to the UK, and the experience has always been positive. Great airline, and an awesome review as always. 👌
We've used Thomas Cook for pretty much all of our holidays and flights over the last ten years and I have to say that we've always had a great service from them. Really hope that they can weather the storm they seem to be going through at the moment
scott1980 They're not that good for 7+ hour flights though. Virgin is much better, you get more than 12 things to watch (6 films and 6 single random episodes mid-season of whatever 6 shows they plucked them from) and get worthy games.
@@Roadent1241 I've done a few long haul flights with them (Vegas and Cuba) and to be fair, for the money I have no complaints. Try United, transatlantic on a 757-300, a truly awful experience!
Hi Paul. I travelled Virgin Atlantic Premium economy on the upper deck from Orlando to Manchester. I do recommend it.We upgraded and it was worth it. The seat has storage compartments under the window, lots of recline, food delicious and the best part is that there is a foot rest. Also it is right behind the cockpit. Take off and landing from the upper deck is so so so so quiet.
I really agree with how visceral it feels boarding a widebody aircraft by stairs. I once boarded a TUI 787 by stairs in Punta Cana and the sheer size of the engines was amazing to see up close.
We have flown premium economy many times with Thomas Cook from Manchester to Las Vegas. Never any reason to complain. Completely fair value for the money.
Worst gate in NYC is D9 in terminal B at LaGuardia (American Airlines). It is a remote stand, has no dedicated seating area, and entrance is just a fire exit with a podium in front of it. Usually services obscure NYC flights like to Richmond, VA.
I'm hoping to return to Manchester soon to visit my cousins in Bolton. When I was checking fares on Expedia, I noticed Thomas Cook Airlines. After seeing your review, Paul, perhaps I shall try them out, albeit in the premium class. It seems worth the extra money for a bit more comfort. I love d Manchester last time I was there. Beautiful country, and the people were so wonderfully friendly. If I didn't live in America, I'd live there. Or in Norfolk.
I flew virgin premium LHR to JFK last week and have to say it was superb, the food was great heading out however wasn’t so keen on the breakfast heading back
I flew premium class on Thomas Cook's sister airline Condor and had a similar experience. If you're comparing it to the big carriers' premium economy products, it comes up short, but if you compare it to their regular economy products, it compares pretty well. I think the latter is very fair, as premium economy on Thomas Cook/Condor is usually priced similar to regular economy on the legacies. I was pleased with my flight and value, but I also spent a lot of the flight thankful I wasn't in Condor's regular economy with the 30 inch legroom, no headrest, and very limited entertainment selection!
Myself and my wife did the MAN-JFK route with Thomas Cook in economy the other year and they were great to fly with! Food was adequate and a staff very friendly. Would 100% recommend them to anyone in fact We were actually meant to be flying with Thomas Cook again this year on the MAN-MCO route but due to a change of travel date we had to change the airline we’re flying with
Wow, really reasonable price for Premium Economy!! Thanks for the great review!! Will help on my future trips, didn't know that Thomas Cook had their own airline too... haha.
In may I flew from Düsseldorf (germany) to Catania (Italy) in premium economy class. I booked my meal on the website of Thomas Cook. I had a really tasty food and a very nice flight.
Like Paul said you'll only ever been on one of these flights if you are going on a package holiday. I have been on the A330 with TC to Cancun and paying extra is well worth it as you get to take more in your suitcase , get the use of a premium lounge in the UK airport you fly from plus security fast track. Also the food is much better flying from the UK.
I think I will do about 70 flights this year in various classes, I quite like premium economy, certainly its worth £50, indeed I'd happily pay a fair bit more for the legroom and shoulder room. As for this flight, I might check it out depending on the price as I'd have to get Manchester from Essex. I have boarded a BA747 by stairs, that gave you a good impression of the size.
have flown on TC in economy a few times now ( flights only not package), last one was a return MAN-JFK in spring of 2017. The flight from MAN-JFK was nothing of note really, not brilliant, but not bad either. The mistake we made was booking on the return flight that was operated by AirTanker, this was the most miserable flight experience of my life, not helped by the gate 'changing' 3 times only to end up back at the first gate and load by bus. The plane itself must have been from the early 90's, with a hastily cobbled together interior (I counted 3 different colours and patterns of seat trim) which were the narrowest seats I've ever sat in. The inflight entertainment consisted of aisle mounted screens that showed the same film on a loop and a whopping 2 audio channels. The whole experience invoked memories of my first package holiday to Spain as a kid of about 5 back when you had no choice but to watch the film shown on the bulkhead mounted screen and projector or listen to the 'comedy' audio channel. i was willing to give them another chance at the end of 2018 for a holiday to Cape Verde, only for them to change the time, date and airport about a month before departure! Rebooked on the original date from Manchester not Birmingham as originally planned with Tui, but had to fight tooth and nail to get TC to pay the difference in cost. I'd be reticent to book with them in the future, that is if they survive their current troubles.
Flew that route both ways in economy about 18mths ago. Basic but significantly cheaper than AA or Delta. Lucky my flights weren't full so I had spaces next to me. However economy is tight and not very comfortable. But for the price (flight only) meant I could spend more on my hotel in NYC 🗽. I'd use them for East Coast flights but I think I wouldn't use them for the West Coast routes. Great video as always Paul
Interesting report. I last flew TC some years ago. It was at a time when they stopped the premium service and offered just the cabin only at an upgraded price which I recall was not cheap just for a wider seat. I was told by customer services that it was in fact feedback from their customers that made them make this decision. It just moved me to Thomson who were offering the premium cabin. You are correct about the economy cabin, I found it quite cramped on the A330. I am sure one of the subscribers will advise when TC changed their policy.
This video comes very timely - I'm flying from MAN-SFO in economy later this year with Thomas Cook! The fare was considerably cheaper than with the legacy carriers so it was kind of a no brainer.
I’ve just flew on a Thomas cook a330 long haul in economy and i just want to add that the seats don’t recline (which I believe premium do) and they have a lot less padding that the ones in premium economy
Strange route MAN-JFK, it has changed to many different airlines over the years. BA used to do it with a 767, but dropped it to boost their services on the LHR-JFK route. American and United have also both previously flown this route. Now it seems the choice is Thomas Cook or Virgin.
I just landed today with Thomas Cook in Premium Economy and got the bag on the way there and a nice hot drink flask on the way back, both containing the same amenities.
Wow! - I used this very same flight back in May, and will probably do it again. Flew out 10 days earlier MAN to SFO with Thomas Cook, and yes, the catering on the outward flight was much better, better than BA and MUCH cheaper. Then JetBlue OAK - JFK for $129!. Would definitely use both these carriers again.
Such a shame to see a long term stalwart of the UK Package Holiday industry going. I would never have imagined it would have happened. Glad u got a trip on this service. Very interesting as always!
Hey Paul Great vid mate While you’re in Australia you should try out a small airport about three hours north of Sydney called Newcastle Airport This airport is one of the only airports where you walk to and from your plane on the tarmac and for the first time is running international flights to Auckland in New Zealand. Would be a cool experience for any traveler
When you're not a regular you get a handstand especially in the evening where it's the peak time. Gate space is very limited at T4. Not as bad as T1 but its close. Morning you always get a gate.
As someone looking at premium economy options for travelling to Orlando next year, this was a really handy video as Thomas Cook is one of the airlines I'm considering. Cheers!
@@you_know_nothing8612 How about letting us know how it goes? Especially regarding any credit card charges already made. How much effort for re-booking? I first learned about air travel disruptions when I was a child and a strike by nachubusts at Eastern Airlines kept me from what was supposed to be a surprise birthday party for my grandfather. Funny how a childhood experience can shape one's worldview as an adult! Seattle is a nice city. Check out the Museum of Flight. Makes the Udvar-Hazy of the Smithsonian look like a child's bedroom collection of hanging Airfix, Monogram, Aurora, and Revell kits by comparison.
Only ever flew with Thomas cook. Best airline to ever touch the sky. Best deals as well, £170 for an all inclusive holiday to turkey? Get a better deal than that! R.I.P Thomas Cook :,)
I flew them on a newish A321 London to Skiathos. The food and drink were good. The biggest plus was the premium security line which was 5 minutes compared to 45 minutes for economy. Not sure it was worth the 80 pounds extra on a 3 hour flight. Probably wouldn't pay the extra again.
Flew this route with them in 2017, upgraded to premium but found the seat bloody uncomfortable and complimentary drinks service sparse. As it’s a Delta hub and virtual unknown in US, it gets the least priority when gates assigned. Fortunately I had Delta Sky club access. Used KLM thereafter changing at Schipol, far better carrier.
Hi Paul, I recently did the Thomas Cook flight from San Francisco to Manchester. Return trip Premium was $717, only $100 more than regular. As someone has had flown TC to Dalaman in Turkey, I thought it was a no brainer. Those four hours to Dalaman were horrible in economy, like cattle. Anyway I must say I was impressed with the flight, priority check in, security, boarding, seat was ok for someone 6’2”, entertainment ok (I also watched TinTin to zone out, was great!)... main food meal was good, the snack before landing was disappointing. Staff were pleasant and regular but when one asked if I wanted ice in my red wine I did chuckle 🤦♂️ Overall a positive experience, I’m a regular commuter between SFO and MAN and a direct flight is so much easier, and the upgrade is worth it on a 10 hour flight for your sanity. Looking forward to my return flight soon. Good video, keep them coming!
Absolutely agree Paul. The way I see it, premium brings the standard on TCX from charter economy to legacy economy level. We found good much better Europe to America as wel
I think it's an excellent choice for pax who can't afford to fly business or are a family of 4 and the expenses go skyhigh..Thank for such a fantastic review Paul..As always you are a pleasure to watch and listen to..Now you only have to fly Virgin and their all-new A350-1000 on the route! Or BAs A350-1000 to TLV or DXB! :))
This video is sponsored by the lovely people at Dashlane. Keep your digital life secure and never forget a password again. Get yourself a sweet TWO MONTHS FREE of Dashlane Premium by heading to www.dashlane.com/paul and use the code PAUL at checkout.
Read my review on this flight at Simple Flying: simpleflying.com/flight-review-thomas-cook-a330-200-premium-class-jfk-man/
I'm in Northern Ireland for a birthday weekend...so I may not be around the comments too much! Hope you have a great Sunday! Cheers!
Paul I saw you at Manchester when I was going to Turkey wanted to say hi but I had to board would of loved to have had a picture with you
U too
@@jamesrichardson5094ik it's wired but which airport??😄😄
@@abifrench7596 what u mean
fly to omaha nebraska usa sometime please
As I am watching this now: R.I.P Thomas Cook😥✈️
Edit: Wow, didn`t knew I had that many likes
Fuckers took my £1.000 with them
Rocking 00 Sorry for your loss.
Rocking 00 This things happens unfortunately😢
Rocking 00 I can’t see how or why. Even if you booked flights only then your credit card company will refund you.
MRCHRISJONES123 Great reminder👍
I'm so glad you are not like those unrealistic airline reviewers that go from Qatar to Thomas Cook Airlines and start complaining about the differences. You set the expectations, and are fair and realistic in these reviews. Keep up the good work Paul!
Raise a glass to Thomas Cook Airlines - we will remember you!
The Thomas Cook office in Washington, D.C. arranged my first trip to Europe, back in 1965.
It kinda sucks, I was really hoping to fly with them around Europe if I managed to get enough money saved up for a little trip before starting my first year of college (currently in senior year of HS). It looked like a nice experience.
Ya, but in 30 years next to nobody will remember them for anything other than one of the largest airline collapses in history.
There's always the possibility that someone could buy the name, trade and service marks, etc., from the bankruptcy estate and start a new new travel business, perhaps even with a captive in-house airline. After all, in the U.S., what operates today as "AT&T" is really nothing more than an expanded and re-branded "BELLSOUTH", successor to the old RBOC (Regional Bell Operating Company), Southern Bell... which was a part of the "original" AT&T!
You’re probably glad you flew on this prior to its collapse.
? Be hard to fly on them after?
@@jonjohnson2844 Yep the company went bankrupt
I flew on it before the colpased too
There’s still Condor
Dasher 353 not Thomas Cook scandinavia
I don't have time/money to travel at all so travelling vicariously with your vids is a pure joy! Cheers bud!
Become a TH-camr.
@@thomasmann9216 becoming a youtuber does not make you money. You need to invest a lot upfront. Also get a bit lucky with growing. And 100k views may just net you 70 dollars..
I'm in the exact same situation😂
Well Paul, you should archive this video forever. R.I.P Thomas Cook
Ironic that this video prolly will be historic
“This is probably the less glamorous airport gate in the city”
Well there is Newark Airport
@@keyonastring shhh Dont be telling United that haha
Newark is its own city
LaGuardia would like a word
Then there is 35X in DC lol
Aren't you clever?
Very fair assessment Paul.
Great video! The small price for the upgrade really is worth it.
Tim Vliegt the only thing Thomas Cook could have done better, is allowed the seats to recline further. I think it's a poor effort, to increase seat pitch without increasing seat recline further, which on an overnight red eye, would make all the difference in the world.
Even allowing for the poor food, I think this - plus the continuous service with drinks (which I thought was good) - would really make it a winner.
Some of the legacy airlines make a much bigger effort for premium economy, and give you a much bigger seat with a much bigger recline - although, I grant you it's more expensive.
Welcome back Paul 50 quid for an upgrade to PE is pretty Cheap !! I do like the laundry bag...over 40 years plus of flying in every class you can think of and have NEVER seen that...great idea !! The bloke next to you at 7.39 is well and truly in the land of nod !! From JFK to the UK for that price is outstanding in a Premium cabin !! I think you summed it up very well at the end...you get what you pay for and an airline such as Thomas Cook deliver a service which matches the price ! ( Remember when we used to buy Thomas Cook Travellers cheques ?) Oh I am getting old...well done again mate and keep those pretzels warm.
Fair review Paul. On the price point I'm flying TCX to LA in October in Economy outbound but Premium coming back, the difference was £35! so £230 each coming back (I did book 12 months out, and it was about £230 out to LA in Economy). Also FYI the catering on the Eastbound flights is different entirely to the Westbound flights due to the contract that they have with Gate Gourmet. The Premium James Martin meals can only be loaded in the UK, and like all airline food, only has a shelf life of a few hours once it's loaded.
Tried their long haul product earlier on this year from Manchester to Antigua and back. It was surprisingly good, even in the main cabin. The James Martin branded food was more than acceptable. Got an hour in the premium cabin between Antigua and Barbados on the way back and whilst my non premium seat on the overnight flight back to Manchester wasn't too bad, I suspect those extra few inches would have made a significant difference.
6:22 Ahhhh good old Tom and Jerry
Hey buddy thats a cucumber not a courgette.
Definitely. And it even looked like thin sliced pickled cuke.
Classic Tom and Jerry is epic, can’t fault u on that
I've been to JFK with these 3 times now. Each time in economy to and from MAN. Have to say, considering the price is roughly £100 cheaper than anyone else, the product is just as good. It doesn't pretend to be anything it's not and the cabin crew have always been great.
Only one time was there an issue - overnight flight to MAN where they'd had to swap in an Air Tanker A330 which had no onboard entertainment, no screens anywhere. People had to download the TC app and stream to devices, lot of unhappy people. Only a 6 hour flight tho so not a disaster.
Overall, they're really good. Great videos, thank you 🙂
You got in there to fly them just in time! RIP Thomas Cook
The main reason they exist... they don't exist any more
Liked the video . I fly probably about 6 long haul flights annually , and have done so for many years . I have to say that I have flown with Thomas Cook Airlines on one occasion , and I fall into the “ wouldnt touch them with a barge pole “ category . The absolutely worst airline experience I’ve ever had in over 35 years of travel , although to be fair , your experience appeared to be much better than the one I had .
Awesome review Paul! I noticed that Thomas Cook had a lot of similarities with Air Transat. Knowing that Thomas Cook and Air Transat used to share the first and second place as the "World's Best Leisure Airlines", I never actually knew how service was onboard Thomas Cook compared to Air Transat. Now that I have watched your trip report, I can proudly say that I now know the similarities and differences. What you got on that "Premium Class" product is very similar to Air Transat's "Option+" product. The service is decent, nothing bad, nothing amazing, you got a few amenities for the ocean crossing as well as good entertainment (which I also noticed that Thomas Cook and Air Transat used the same programs!). Overall I feel like the two airlines are very very similar, you could even call them cousins. Honestly, I see nothing better with Air Transat and nothing better with Thomas Cook either. They just seem like regular airlines who mainly transport friends and families on package holidays.
If ever you have the chance to, you should definitely try out Air Transat to Montreal! I know they often have cheap flights from Gatwick to Montreal, often operated on either the A330 or A310. Cheers!
Recently returned from a Thomas Cook flight.Orlando to Manchester and back.We also went Premium economy and in our opinion so worth it..I enjoyed the meals,seems that you get better food from Orlando than New York,no sandwich for us we had a proper meal.My husband needs an electric wheelchair and an oxygen concentrator,the ground staff and flight crew were amazing and made the process so easy( IT’s been 14 years since we flew to UK..so much has changed) It’s the small things that make you happy.Tetley tea,Cadbury’s hot chocolate,Ribera..I was so happy lol..We would definitely fly with them again...
I once boarded a 777-300ER by bus. The plane was full. Boarding took forever :D
better than never am i right
Well you can't really say "I advise flying Thomas cook" now
RIP thomas cook. First it's monarch then it's thomas cook. Mainly due to budget carriers
"Least glamorous gate in the whole city"
Every gate in LaGuardia: Am I a joke to you?
we flew to and from Calgary ,,Canada some years back with them in premium economy and they were great, apart from 1 flight attendant who really wanted to be somewhere else the crew were brilliant and they were great with our 6 year old
I once flew JFK- MAN on BA flight 1503 (a Boeing 767-300...I’m aging myself here) in 5hrs 20min! Those winter jet streams are something! It would have taken longer flying to Las Vegas from New York that night.
Another great report! I’m surprised with all your travel that you don’t have priority pass or something similar to access lounges when not flying in premium cabins. Keep the reports coming I love watching them
I would recommend that you fly on Eva Airlines. I use them all the time and their service is fantastic, please give them a try.
They have the cute Hello Kitty airplanes❤🐺🐈❤
Tom and Jerry. I spy a man with good taste
Aries Yang one of the better single episodes they had on Thomas Cooks, if you got that in the free selection.
Just from my experience with TC last year. Crap IFE if you didn't pay a fiver, not that I knew how to. Good thing I had my own entertainment.
I've flown Thomas Cook many times from Calgary to the UK, and the experience has always been positive. Great airline, and an awesome review as always. 👌
Rip your flight
We've used Thomas Cook for pretty much all of our holidays and flights over the last ten years and I have to say that we've always had a great service from them. Really hope that they can weather the storm they seem to be going through at the moment
scott1980 They're not that good for 7+ hour flights though. Virgin is much better, you get more than 12 things to watch (6 films and 6 single random episodes mid-season of whatever 6 shows they plucked them from) and get worthy games.
@@Roadent1241 I've done a few long haul flights with them (Vegas and Cuba) and to be fair, for the money I have no complaints. Try United, transatlantic on a 757-300, a truly awful experience!
Hi Paul. I travelled Virgin Atlantic Premium economy on the upper deck from Orlando to Manchester. I do recommend it.We upgraded and it was worth it. The seat has storage compartments under the window, lots of recline, food delicious and the best part is that there is a foot rest. Also it is right behind the cockpit. Take off and landing from the upper deck is so so so so quiet.
I really agree with how visceral it feels boarding a widebody aircraft by stairs. I once boarded a TUI 787 by stairs in Punta Cana and the sheer size of the engines was amazing to see up close.
Flew on this exact plane a couple of weeks back, in fact, the exact seat I sat in is in this video, weird haha
We have flown premium economy many times with Thomas Cook from Manchester to Las Vegas. Never any reason to complain. Completely fair value for the money.
Worst gate in NYC is D9 in terminal B at LaGuardia (American Airlines). It is a remote stand, has no dedicated seating area, and entrance is just a fire exit with a podium in front of it. Usually services obscure NYC flights like to Richmond, VA.
I flew on this from Manchester to Orlando in economy, then Orlando to Manchester in premium on an overnight flight, definitely worth it!!
I'm hoping to return to Manchester soon to visit my cousins in Bolton. When I was checking fares on Expedia, I noticed Thomas Cook Airlines. After seeing your review, Paul, perhaps I shall try them out, albeit in the premium class. It seems worth the extra money for a bit more comfort. I love d Manchester last time I was there. Beautiful country, and the people were so wonderfully friendly. If I didn't live in America, I'd live there. Or in Norfolk.
I used to fly thomas cook and this video is definitely what Thomas cook was like now it's a online travel website for places in the uk but no planes
Thinking of all those who have lost their jobs! Thomas Cook were a brilliant company with amazing staff and never let their customers down!
I flew virgin premium LHR to JFK last week and have to say it was superb, the food was great heading out however wasn’t so keen on the breakfast heading back
I flew premium class on Thomas Cook's sister airline Condor and had a similar experience. If you're comparing it to the big carriers' premium economy products, it comes up short, but if you compare it to their regular economy products, it compares pretty well. I think the latter is very fair, as premium economy on Thomas Cook/Condor is usually priced similar to regular economy on the legacies.
I was pleased with my flight and value, but I also spent a lot of the flight thankful I wasn't in Condor's regular economy with the 30 inch legroom, no headrest, and very limited entertainment selection!
I wonder who is gonna take over all of the Thomas Cook planes and routes????
They very well may be going out of business!
i think i like flying with thomas cook whenever i go to america because it’s not as expensive as other airlines and it’s actually quite decent
Myself and my wife did the MAN-JFK route with Thomas Cook in economy the other year and they were great to fly with! Food was adequate and a staff very friendly. Would 100% recommend them to anyone in fact
We were actually meant to be flying with Thomas Cook again this year on the MAN-MCO route but due to a change of travel date we had to change the airline we’re flying with
Wow, really reasonable price for Premium Economy!! Thanks for the great review!! Will help on my future trips, didn't know that Thomas Cook had their own airline too... haha.
In may I flew from Düsseldorf (germany) to Catania (Italy) in premium economy class. I booked my meal on the website of Thomas Cook. I had a really tasty food and a very nice flight.
Like Paul said you'll only ever been on one of these flights if you are going on a package holiday.
I have been on the A330 with TC to Cancun and paying extra is well worth it as you get to take more in your suitcase , get the use of a premium lounge in the UK airport you fly from plus security fast track.
Also the food is much better flying from the UK.
Balanced, fair reporting. Thomas Cook has nothing to be ashamed of, given such a low price point.
I think I will do about 70 flights this year in various classes, I quite like premium economy, certainly its worth £50, indeed I'd happily pay a fair bit more for the legroom and shoulder room. As for this flight, I might check it out depending on the price as I'd have to get Manchester from Essex. I have boarded a BA747 by stairs, that gave you a good impression of the size.
have flown on TC in economy a few times now ( flights only not package), last one was a return MAN-JFK in spring of 2017. The flight from MAN-JFK was nothing of note really, not brilliant, but not bad either. The mistake we made was booking on the return flight that was operated by AirTanker, this was the most miserable flight experience of my life, not helped by the gate 'changing' 3 times only to end up back at the first gate and load by bus.
The plane itself must have been from the early 90's, with a hastily cobbled together interior (I counted 3 different colours and patterns of seat trim) which were the narrowest seats I've ever sat in. The inflight entertainment consisted of aisle mounted screens that showed the same film on a loop and a whopping 2 audio channels. The whole experience invoked memories of my first package holiday to Spain as a kid of about 5 back when you had no choice but to watch the film shown on the bulkhead mounted screen and projector or listen to the 'comedy' audio channel.
i was willing to give them another chance at the end of 2018 for a holiday to Cape Verde, only for them to change the time, date and airport about a month before departure! Rebooked on the original date from Manchester not Birmingham as originally planned with Tui, but had to fight tooth and nail to get TC to pay the difference in cost.
I'd be reticent to book with them in the future, that is if they survive their current troubles.
Flew that route both ways in economy about 18mths ago. Basic but significantly cheaper than AA or Delta. Lucky my flights weren't full so I had spaces next to me. However economy is tight and not very comfortable. But for the price (flight only) meant I could spend more on my hotel in NYC 🗽. I'd use them for East Coast flights but I think I wouldn't use them for the West Coast routes. Great video as always Paul
£50 for the premium is a bargain for that distance. Thank you for the video :)
probably hwy they went broke
Interesting report. I last flew TC some years ago. It was at a time when they stopped the premium service and offered just the cabin only at an upgraded price which I recall was not cheap just for a wider seat. I was told by customer services that it was in fact feedback from their customers that made them make this decision. It just moved me to Thomson who were offering the premium cabin. You are correct about the economy cabin, I found it quite cramped on the A330. I am sure one of the subscribers will advise when TC changed their policy.
This video comes very timely - I'm flying from MAN-SFO in economy later this year with Thomas Cook! The fare was considerably cheaper than with the legacy carriers so it was kind of a no brainer.
I’ve just flew on a Thomas cook a330 long haul in economy and i just want to add that the seats don’t recline (which I believe premium do) and they have a lot less padding that the ones in premium economy
Strange route MAN-JFK, it has changed to many different airlines over the years. BA used to do it with a 767, but dropped it to boost their services on the LHR-JFK route. American and United have also both previously flown this route. Now it seems the choice is Thomas Cook or Virgin.
Good video Paul. I work for Thomas Cook Airlines and this kind of feedback is invaluable to us to improve our customer product.
People : wow great review
Me : look Tom and Jerry !
You should do the steam dreams express from London to windsor
R.I.P TCX, An Airline That Will Be Deeply Missed :(
It's a lot but mainly in the late afternoon and evening. T4 gets extremely busy at that time everyday.
“Don’t touch with a barge pole” - never heard that one before. Pretty good 👍
I just landed today with Thomas Cook in Premium Economy and got the bag on the way there and a nice hot drink flask on the way back, both containing the same amenities.
Forgot to add, the bus comes in from the plane past where the A380s park, the close up view of them is awesome #avgeek
Wow! - I used this very same flight back in May, and will probably do it again. Flew out 10 days earlier MAN to SFO with Thomas Cook, and yes, the catering on the outward flight was much better, better than BA and MUCH cheaper. Then JetBlue OAK - JFK for $129!. Would definitely use both these carriers again.
I quite like walking across the tarmac myself.
Great, you said the “T” word. Now people are going to start getting pissed 😂😎
Just saying. I live in California and it is 2:30 am when you posted this. Great Video as always though!!!
Such a shame to see a long term stalwart of the UK Package Holiday industry going. I would never have imagined it would have happened. Glad u got a trip on this service. Very interesting as always!
Hey Paul
Great vid mate
While you’re in Australia you should try out a small airport about three hours north of Sydney called Newcastle Airport
This airport is one of the only airports where you walk to and from your plane on the tarmac and for the first time is running international flights to Auckland in New Zealand.
Would be a cool experience for any traveler
KaiThePie most airports have you walking to some planes
I guess the big question with these carriers really is how they compare against their actual competitors on these routes (looking at Norwegian).
When you're not a regular you get a handstand especially in the evening where it's the peak time. Gate space is very limited at T4. Not as bad as T1 but its close. Morning you always get a gate.
as always! very good review! you are inspiration to me as I started ny review-vlogs of my business class flight experiences ;-)
Ok
Hi Paul
I done think I have seen a review on Aeroflot the Russian airline, have you any plans to review them?
Kind regards
DS
Paul, we got the blanket and pillow combo on our overnight from MCO-LGW TC flight back in June
As someone looking at premium economy options for travelling to Orlando next year, this was a really handy video as Thomas Cook is one of the airlines I'm considering. Cheers!
I'm going business with Thomas Cook to Seattle, Washington. I'm so exited
Did that trip happen?
@John Pinckey . No not yet. Going in December for xmas :)
@@you_know_nothing8612 How about letting us know how it goes? Especially regarding any credit card charges already made. How much effort for re-booking? I first learned about air travel disruptions when I was a child and a strike by nachubusts at Eastern Airlines kept me from what was supposed to be a surprise birthday party for my grandfather. Funny how a childhood experience can shape one's worldview as an adult!
Seattle is a nice city. Check out the Museum of Flight. Makes the Udvar-Hazy of the Smithsonian look like a child's bedroom collection of hanging Airfix, Monogram, Aurora, and Revell kits by comparison.
@John Pinckney .Ok sure! I will let you know soon.
That was supposed to be "Machinists" at EAL!
Only ever flew with Thomas cook. Best airline to ever touch the sky. Best deals as well, £170 for an all inclusive holiday to turkey? Get a better deal than that! R.I.P Thomas Cook :,)
That is an amazing price for a trans-Atlantic flight! I have wondered about what this airline is like.....thanks for reviewing them!
Nice video. Isn't that cheese and cucumber?
Zucchini in North America
I thought it was a cucumber as well..
@@afcgeo882 yeah I know, it just looked different
That's what he said.
I flew them on a newish A321 London to Skiathos. The food and drink were good. The biggest plus was the premium security line which was 5 minutes compared to 45 minutes for economy. Not sure it was worth the 80 pounds extra on a 3 hour flight. Probably wouldn't pay the extra again.
Looks like that airline is gone.
Bagel ikr I wanted to fly it
Flew this route with them in 2017, upgraded to premium but found the seat bloody uncomfortable and complimentary drinks service sparse. As it’s a Delta hub and virtual unknown in US, it gets the least priority when gates assigned. Fortunately I had Delta Sky club access. Used KLM thereafter changing at Schipol, far better carrier.
Great video... Keep up with the excellent work your doing... Just a suggestion... Why don't you try Biman Bangladesh Airlines
You always give very fair assessments of airlines Paul and this was no different .
They went bust 2 am yesterday morning they were very good back in the day 😔 that another good company go to the scrap yard
As someone who resides outside Great Britain, did the bankruptcy come as a shock to the locals? Or was this a long time coming?
Sukrit Mishra shock to me lives in the uk
RIP you are one of the lucky people who flew before it went bust.
Hi Paul, I recently did the Thomas Cook flight from San Francisco to Manchester. Return trip Premium was $717, only $100 more than regular. As someone has had flown TC to Dalaman in Turkey, I thought it was a no brainer. Those four hours to Dalaman were horrible in economy, like cattle. Anyway I must say I was impressed with the flight, priority check in, security, boarding, seat was ok for someone 6’2”, entertainment ok (I also watched TinTin to zone out, was great!)... main food meal was good, the snack before landing was disappointing. Staff were pleasant and regular but when one asked if I wanted ice in my red wine I did chuckle 🤦♂️ Overall a positive experience, I’m a regular commuter between SFO and MAN and a direct flight is so much easier, and the upgrade is worth it on a 10 hour flight for your sanity. Looking forward to my return flight soon. Good video, keep them coming!
Absolutely agree Paul. The way I see it, premium brings the standard on TCX from charter economy to legacy economy level. We found good much better Europe to America as wel
Taxiing music, David cutter, Time spent, one of my favourite music. 😁
The plane you flew is borrowed to Thomas Cook UK from Thomas Cook Scandinavia. Is used to Thailand from the Nordic capitals in winter
I think it's an excellent choice for pax who can't afford to fly business or are a family of 4 and the expenses go skyhigh..Thank for such a fantastic review Paul..As always you are a pleasure to watch and listen to..Now you only have to fly Virgin and their all-new A350-1000 on the route! Or BAs A350-1000 to TLV or DXB! :))
No lounge access? What about your Priority Pass?
Flying with Thomas Cook premium class in 3 days time 😁❤️
Wow you actually got a Thomas Cook ticket before they got rupt
I’ve always wondered what Thomas Cook was all about so thanks for doing this very informative video Paul!👍✈️
Flew to Manchester a few months ago and was the opposite with the gates - jet bridge in Orlando and the stand and busses in Manchester.