Aviation Bucket List Experience

Flying on a 747-8 with Air China

• Route: Shanghai to Beijing in business class
• 747-8 is a rare plane; only 48 passenger variants produced
• Airlines operating 747-8: Lufthansa, Korean Air, Air China

China's Presidential Plane

• China obtained a designated Air Force One in 2016
• Prior attempts with a Boeing 767 in the 1990s
  • Plane was compromised with listening devices
  • Returned to commercial use, eventually sold
• Current presidential jet is a modified Air China 747-8

Experience on the Plane

• Business Class on upper deck
  • 2-2 configuration; flatbed seats
  • Good for traveling with a companion
  • Ample storage options
• Meal service was impressive for a 2-hour flight
• In-flight entertainment better than other Chinese airlines
  • Limited English TV shows
  • Variety of games available

China's Air Marshals

• Different approach: visibly present, not undercover
• Role includes stopping terrorism and antisocial behavior
• Historically employed by airlines, not government

Additional Observations

• Air travel in China seen as a luxury
• Surprise at quality of Chinese airlines in business class
• Interesting arrangement of first class seats for weight distribution

Conclusion

• Enjoyable experience flying with Air China
• Encouragement to explore more with Chinese airlines in business class