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I'm coming home! (Flight 3 of 4). (pics)

 
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jbalonso777
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Joined: 05 Jul 2012
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Location: Never, never land

PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 1:53 pm    Post subject: I'm coming home! (Flight 3 of 4). (pics) Reply with quote

Link to next TR: http://airlinersindia.s4.bizhat.com/viewtopic.php?p=116653#116653

0830 am
In the uncomfortably warm room (and bed)
Kolkata, WB, India

After a long day (and warm night) I woke up on a sunny Kolkata morning. My schedule for the day was clear:
Breakfast: Luchi and aloo'r dom, malpoa (its just puri bhaji basically, in a more Kolkata way, and a sweet)
Lunch: Granny's awesome lunch that she makes (forget about the flight, that was just a one off!)
Snacks: Mutton egg roll....
Dinner: Double mutton biryani.

Oh, I am a Bengali, who doesn't stay in Kolkata, who is not much of a fan of Kolkata, but loves Bengali food! Razz That then, was my plan. The rest was down to the cousins...
So while they were deciding, I sneaked out of home to take a few pictures, but sadly, they followed me. I couldn't go around much, but here are a few pictures from our 'para'. Smile

That is their 'shobji'r dokaan'. In simple words, the vegetable vendor (well out of focused, yes).

An unused hand rickshaw..

Dig ups, everywhere...



Their 'pujo bari'



An early morning smoke for him...

Just another morning in CCU Very Happy


I miss these chips (Lays also!) in CMB Sad

Taking all these pictures, it interested the little cousin. He also, took his sister's cell phone, and went on taking pictures. A bit extreme, to be honest, as he got a picture of a dog taking a dump Shocked
But anyways, he will learn Smile
The first appointment of the day was waiting for me, so it was to get back home. There is nothing NOTHING better than Luchi and aloo'r dom for breakfast! After that, I did what I do best: irritate my cousin; To unbearable heights! For example, this:

I asked her if I could take a picture of the Bengali script, (while she was doing her homework, of course!), which turned out to be half an hour long! I have no idea how many pictures I took, just to irritate her!! Razz

Just before lunch, we went to the South City Mall, the gaming area. I thought I'd just spend some time with the little cousin. So we played air hockey, where I was alone, and both the cousins teamed up. It brightened my day for sure! 70-0 in the first game, 88-4 in the second!! Blown away! Then followed the car simulation, where I was doing fine, leading the race by a large margin, until my Uncle took over from the little cousin, and spun me out! Well, deep down, I know I had won that race Evil or Very Mad

Once again, back home, it was time for the second appointment. I'm not such a fan of the hilsa fish by the way, I find too many bones there. But anyways, I had some fish (I have no idea which one!), and a few more bengali things, not too sure what exactly Razz

That evening, just before we went out to get appointment number 3 and 4, I headed for the terrace, to find: A LOAD OF CROWS!!!!








The planes keep stalking me!!! (SG B738)

So after we bought the food, I started to irritate my cousin a little bit more, giving a few missed calls every few minutes (yes, I know she calls me with a weird name Mad )



And now, time for some AWESOME biriyani!!! Very Happy

That night, my uncle made me listen to Santana's 'Black Magic Woman' and increased the volume during the guitar solo. Well, it was good, but I still think Kirk Hammet is better. (maybe the best! Twisted Evil) I didn't want to argue, because, usually, I am the one who loses. Even if I divert, I just simply mess up, that's all!

DEPARTURE DAY
'For once, you have chosen a wise flight'. Those were the very words used by granny when she got to know the timing for my flight. The last two times I left CCU (when I was alone), I took an early morning 0630 flight to BOM (my first TR Smile ), and a 0705 flight to BBI (TR maybe coming up Confused ). This meant, leaving home in 'dark times'. I had booked IndiGo+, where I slected seat 7F (engine sounds!) and a Non Vegetarian meal. But ever since Dad got transferred to BOM, Granny has been becoming smarter: earlier, when we used to stay in CCU, she used to send us to the airport 4 hours before departure ( Laughing ). But after the transfer, she has decided to spend 'as much time as possible' with us, and made sure we reached the airport only an hour before departure time! This was bad news for my spotting hopes! So it was decided, I would leave at 0930.
What was a surprise to me, was the driver. A really fun, caring but fast driver, left his job after a stint of almost 20 years! This meant, a new slow driver. And by slow, I mean, really slow, not good enough for Kolkata (or Indian) standards! So we left home, at 0935, already 5 minutes late. To make it worse, (Kolkata people will know), there was a jam from the Ballygunge Bridge, up until Ruby Park. From there to Science city was a cruise, until we got stopped by the construction of metro bridges and working hours traffic. Missing the flight was very likely for me. There were a few more jams after that as well! Evil or Very Mad Granny maybe, had pushed it WAY too far this time! But good for me, as next time, I'd at least get more spotting time! Razz What if I miss the flight was the first time that kept coming in my mind. Well, another Jet Airways flight maybe Sad
I also had made arrangements with friends in Mumbai in the evening, so I HAD TO make the flight!
On the Rajarhat Highway, Dad called up. He asked me if I had finished check in (knowing, how early I like to go to the airport Razz ). But I told him that I wasn't at the airport yet. Oh yes he was angry, very angry!! Why me? Why on the day when I'm going back home? WHY?!

Let me change that: YES HURRY, LOTS OF WORRY!!!!!! (Note that guy taking a leak, Oh, India will never change!!!)

PRE-BOARDING STUFF
Anyways, we reached the airport, 55 minutes before departure time. I have NEVER been this late for a flight! I didn't get a glimpse of the new terminal, because I was in a hurry.....I entered the usual crowded terminal, 50 minutes to go.....
Baggage screening was quick, but check in took a long time, because of over-weight baggage for the pax in front of me. There was a bit of screaming for sure, yes. Well, once I got my boarding pass, it would be sure that I wouldn't miss my flight! But for me, check was done really quickly....SEQ 144. Oh my God! I have never been so late for sure!


Security check was another breeze. With 35 minutes to go, boarding was surely started by then. The gate was 2A, which was a ramp boarding (YES!!). But Gate 2A was located in a part of the airport which I had never been to:


I wanted to be the last one to board, I needed to calm down!

3 parts of the 6E boarding pass: the passenger copy, agent copy, and the special services part...

BOARDING
It surely wasn't the last bus, but I was on it, with few people in it. I took my favourite seat, the last seat in the bus..and I clicked away! Very Happy

Dad's first flight on an A319 was on this bird, VT-SCA, CCU-AJL-CCU. Hang on, INDIAN colours on this bird!! And also, I got down from EPI from this very aerobrigde, dedicated for Air India maybe?
Anyways, I changed sides, to get a perfect shot of my aircraft. For the record, my only flight with IndiGo was on VT-INR. I'm sure they won't give the same aircraft as 9W does, right?
Anyways, back with the bus: cool, comfy. Not a jaw rattler! Well, 6E is IndiGo's coolest airline anyways!


VT-ESJ, on an International flight, most likely Kathmandu..AI-747 Cool


Alliance Air ATR42!!!! How rare is that!!! IS that the last surviving CD coloured plane around?! I really want to go to the northeast once more on that aircraft!!


9W B73H, VT-JGT, Bangkok most likely?


My airline, but not my aircraft..


There she is, hiding!


S2 B73G..


VT-JBK


1.6 year old VT-IGY!!!


The ground stuff...


Oh wait, I'm not an Airbus person AT ALL! Razz


Revving up, all set to go! (Even ESJ in the background..)

While going up the awesome swirly stairs, JGW gave out a loud whoosh from the CFM56's to taxi away..wow they sure are quite loud! Anyways, a few more pictures of IGY Smile


These are with the DSLR! Lucky no one saw me! Cool Cool Cool

This was already a different felling from entering AI's A320's: first the crew, young and cheerful. An old lady was shown the cockpit of the A320! Second, cabin was full. Third, temperature was just right! Fourth, and quite obviously, the 'smoke' coming out of the aircon (what is it called?), showing the humidity of the city. Anyways, I took my seat 7F, where in 7D a really kind gentleman was sitting, who smiled at me and got up when I said I have to get in.
So there I was, onwards to Mumbai!!!!


The last I flew on BOM-CCU was on that bird, VT-JBP!! (my first TR Smile ). Before JBP, it was JBM...I don't think she was around Razz
And before that, KFP, surely not around!


This is the 'new' India. I guess, 9W is becoming hopeless, IndiGo will (and shall) rise to the top! Oh, wait, they already are at the top Razz
And the new airports, terminals. A pretty bright future ahead!


Quickjet I presume?

The reflections...



At exactly 1107 am, the lead FA welcomed us all onboard (yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls...what about the teenagers?!?! Razz ). After saying '1110, closing doors for an on-time departure' she gave us details of the 2hr10min flight, which included the details of pilots and cabin crew. She gave everyone's names, and where they came from (pilots from BOM, a few FA's from BOM, DEL and HYD). Interesting, not one from CCU! And another thing, she also named the languages spoken on board by the cabin crew onbaord. No IndiGo no! Its not cool when you copy stuff from Emirates!
DEPARTURE
At exactly 1113 am (yes, a before time flight despite my delay!), the IAE V2500 engines were fired up, and we were on our way! Even better, the middle seat was empty...I expected the whole to be full!

FLIGHT DETAILS
COOL AS BLUE: IndiGo 6E-324, CCU-BOM 16th JULY 2012
Aircraft: Airbus A320-232, VT-IGY 1.6 years old
Seat: 7F
Departure time: Scheduled-1120, Actual-1113
Arrival time: Scheduled-1355, Actual-1343
Loads: Just about 85%

Copyrighted, website and owner..


Slats down, ready to go!

Alright then JBP, I hope you don't operate 9W256 for me Razz


DC3's I guess?




While taxiing, the FA's did a few more checks in the cabin (even taking out stuff from the bags for the passengers). I quickly went through the 'Hello 6E' (they meant Hello SexY) magazine. I saw an IndiGo A320 model on sale. Rs 550. I knew I could buy this, and skip McDonalds in Mumbai for a day! I was sure to ask the cabin crew about this!..Oh wait, all the big money was in the baggage hold of the A320...bummer!! It looked so nice!!
Anyways, continuing with the taxiing, we were number 1 for take off. Being a little bit before time can mean that you either are number 1 for take off, or you are number 4 or 5. Luck was with us!!


Here we go then!


The IAEV2500's were applied a lot of power, and the sound was just, simply amazing! But it felt a bit different, obviously, because I am more used to Boeing take offs! But the bad part? The lady behind me was maybe a first time flyer, as she held on my seat, during take off and climb Mad Evil or Very Mad Not as bad as FLG though Razz



Blue Dart B752 in CCU, usual suspect..

Rotation...already!






And a few stored IT ATR's...


Alright then CCU, untill..I don't know when!

Fantastic reflections!







The engines had their power changed every few minutes. This was a question I was surely going to ask, if I entered the cokcpit!
INFLIGHT
Service began, slowly, because this is quite a long-ish flight. There were 2 (maybe 3) trolleys, doing the services. One FA was selling food to the PAX, while one was giving food to the IndiGo+ passengers.




Sadly for me, taking pictures was an uphill struggle. Not only did I have to turn around, the lens wouldn't focus, because of clouds throughout the flight, till descent! This meant, seat belts signs were on throughout. My food came just a bit more than half way through the flight..



For most of the flight this was the view Sad

When my turn arrived, the kind FA asked me for my boarding pass, and tore of that extra part. There wasn't a meal that I had expected, instead, just select what you want...
I went for the most expensive there was, the Punjabi Paratha..
While I mostly tried to sleep before food was served, I read the stuff written on the box while eating. Interesting stuff was written for sure!
To go along with that, a coke.

Well, paratha and chicken was cold, but tasted good. Although, I guess hot meals (to buy) would be better, because their main rivals have that.. This is the only lace where IndiGo lacks.



The newer one, as compared to AI's A320!!

Water was served after the trash was collected, obviously the crew said 'On time is a wonderful thing, please help us clean the stuff....' type things..





Wait a minute, this belongs to the 9W B738 aircraft!!


DESCENT AND ARRIVAL
Following this, descent started, on what was most certainly the shortest flight for me from Kolkata to Mumbai. It was quick! Or Maybe the crew took a bit of time in serving me food, the wait made it shorter. But here I was, slowly approaching, closer and closer to Mumbai!



One of many turns before landing in Mumbai, its still the same!


Mumbai, please. For the next 9 days, just please be dry!!!


Looks like the traditional Runway 27 approach...

More reflections!

Ah come on! Please don't rain!

But it does look pretty cool!

Yup, Rwy 27!




Gear down!


Mumbai at its finest: skyscrapers and slums!

Incing closer!

Oh! The metro line seems to be done!



There we are! AIX B73H's and AI B77L! Mumbai...here I am!!! Very Happy

A B744 with the aerobridge..

Closer..


EL AL B762...

1343, on time touch down!

More AI wide bodies! And the new terminal!

That's the only moving IT aircraft I saw during the trip...



The criss cross!







Now we slowed down, and entered towards the parking. Landing was very, very smooth, followed by the usual hard braking. The IndiGo flight comes to an end then. Time for Mumbai to take over...9 months later!

Wait a minute, something is wrong...
I get it!
An extra door behind, which means, a Boeing 737-900ER!


The ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls announcement followed. And then, arrival at terminal 1C! Fantastic!


JNZ undergoing big service!

Compare this 9W logo with logo on the 9W 739!



And now, GO Air!



There we go then, ground force doing its job for another on time departure!

I waited for everyone to get off, so I could get a chance to visit the cockpit..

Private jets..


SMOKE SMOKE SMOKE!

But when I went in front of the cockpit, the person with wheelchair told me 'App utar jaiyye'. Ugh come on! But anyways, that didn't stop me from talking to the captain!
Me: Hello Captain! Can I ask you a question?
Capt.: Fire away! (IndiGo is India's coolest airline!)
Me: Why was the engine being applied power while we were climbing?
Capt.: I set it to auto throttle, which is different from the Boeing 737 (he knew I'm a Boeing person already Razz ). Here the throttle moves on its own.
Me: Wow that's interesting, I've never seen that happen in a Boeing! Anyways, I flew the Boeing 777 a few months ago!
Capt.: Oh beauty! Emirates I guess?
Me: HAH, yes! South Africa it was!
Capt.: Wonderful place isn't it?
Me: Sure is! But I couldn't fly the A380 yet.. *click*

Capt.: My advice, dont fly on it. I went to USA on the A380, took me an hour just to get the luggage! Don't fly on it unless you have only cabin luggage or if you fly Business and First..
Me: Oh, that I would tell everyone! *click*

One last thing, what was our cruising altitude?
First Officer: 360...
Me: Thank you sir! Nice meeting you!
Capt.: Take care!

So there I was. In Mumbai. Crowds in the baggage hall greeted me..


After getting the bags, I met my friends, and drove away home!
On the way, a rare bird:

16th July...AND IT STILL FLIES!!!!

Thats it for IndiGo,
coming up on the last part, Mumbai and the final flight!
9 supreme days of action lay ahead, not only friends, but small chores, like my visit to the doctor (about the sickness I mentioned in the BBI TR, my slip disc, etc), fixing the camera, etc.

Stay tuned!

Regards
Jbalonso777

Link to next TR: http://airlinersindia.s4.bizhat.com/viewtopic.php?t=12618
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Last edited by jbalonso777 on Tue Dec 04, 2012 11:31 am; edited 2 times in total
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Nimish
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 3:16 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Lovely pictures of Kolkata - I keep thinking of visiting that city for a couple of days but it's tough to convince the family to go there for a vacation Smile.

Seems like a troublefree 6E flight - the on board meals are quite average and they take abnormally long to get the service done.

Glad you managed to make it to the airport on time!
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jbalonso777
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 3:43 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Nimish wrote:
Lovely pictures of Kolkata - I keep thinking of visiting that city for a couple of days but it's tough to convince the family to go there for a vacation Smile.

Seems like a troublefree 6E flight - the on board meals are quite average and they take abnormally long to get the service done.

Glad you managed to make it to the airport on time!

Kolkata is definitely not a place for a holiday, but if you want, you can sneak out and visit that place for a few days! But for a holiday, there are many other places you can visit, like go through CCU, take IXB or GAU as your base, and visit places on The Mighty Himalayas!
Troublefree IndiGo flight for sure, lived up to my expectations (to be honest, food was the only thing that didn't meet my expectations), service was also a bit, strange.

Oh yes, that was lucky! I'm sure any plane spotter wouldn't mind a 24 hour transit in an airport, as long as the tarmac could be seen! But like I mentioned, I've never been so late for a flight.

Regards
Jishnu
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Last edited by jbalonso777 on Fri Aug 31, 2012 6:26 pm; edited 1 time in total
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sabya99
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 5:29 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

I enjoyed your Kolkata pictures. It seems you live near Southern Avenue/ Lake area! The airport pictures are also good. Some civil engineering work yet to be finished on the north side of integrated terminal. Airport looks pretty busy. Is rapid exit taxiway operational now? Perhaps you took off from 19L using my favorite Kilo taxiway. The DC-3 you saw belonged to Biju Pattanaik and have lots of history under its wing. We have discussed in that in NSCBI airport forum. Hope to get more pictures from you in the forum. Good luck. Very Happy
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jbalonso777
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 6:25 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

sabya99 wrote:
I enjoyed your Kolkata pictures. It seems you live near Southern Avenue/ Lake area! The airport pictures are also good. Some civil engineering work yet to be finished on the north side of integrated terminal. Airport looks pretty busy. Is rapid exit taxiway operational now? Perhaps you took off from 19L using my favorite Kilo taxiway. The DC-3 you saw belonged to Biju Pattanaik and have lots of history under its wing. We have discussed in that in NSCBI airport forum. Hope to get more pictures from you in the forum. Good luck. Very Happy

Just as you asked, for a few pictures from CCU!
Southern Avenue yes, close to the Rectangular (or Triangular Confused ) Park. But honestly, leave me somewhere, blind folded. Even if I untie the fold, I won't find my way back home, CCU or CMB! Razz
I'm lucky that I got those pictures, I'm lucky I was on an empty bus! But my personal favourite is the fuselage of my aircraft Smile
I'm not too sure about the rapid exit taxiway, but what I can say is, the moment I landed in CCU (on the AI A320), we docked at the terminal lesser than 3 minutes later. I assume it is operational Smile
19L yes, but we didn't have a full length take off, so once again, I assume it was taxiway Kilo Razz
Was that the DC3 parked near the fire station? I remember seeing one there...in 2008...but I will see that in the forum (pretty big topic!)
If you know the Durga Puja, I think I'll need you to wait till October. This will be the first time I'll be at CCU's Durga Puja with the D40!
(oops, there is my first preview of the upcoming TR!!)

Regards
Jishnu..
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sumantra
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 7:18 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Nimish wrote:
Lovely pictures of Kolkata - I keep thinking of visiting that city for a couple of days but it's tough to convince the family to go there for a vacation Smile.

Hmm...Nimish, I have done the tourist circuit on many cities in India (many on some memorable train trips, in the plebian sleeper class, and only a few, when on official trips, on an AC train or by air. Calcutta was one city I had been able to see only as recently as 2004. Apart from the crumbling infrastructure, the filth and the mire, the places I really liked were the Indian Museum (this is superb!), the Victoria Memorial, walking along the Esplanade, Science City, K. C. Das sweets(which I just had to visit....ah, there I go with my food fantasies). I got a chance to ride the impressive metro only in 2007 - both the above were official trips on the Howrah/Sealdah Rajdhani Express, which I also enjoyed (the meals have an extra item, as compared to the Mumbai/August Kranti Rajdhani). I visited the city with my parents in 1975 or so, where I remember the Alipore Zoo and the Nehru Museum. In 1989 I also visited the city on the urging of some of my friends, to see the city during the Durga Puja - yes, that was quite an experience. I guess I should pen down some of my experiences in the cities where I have done the tourist circuit in visits in the 1990s, and before.

jbalonso777 wrote:
(oops, there is my first preview of the upcoming TR!!)


Jishnu - I loved every bit of this trip report. As usual, in point form.
- As Sabyasachi recommends, please go through his very impressive thread on the Editorial/Analysis section, on the NSCBI airport, its history, and related items. This is a storehouse of interesting snippets, and parts of history which he has painstakingly brought out. Please do not miss the part about Biju Patnaik's DC-3, and the old East-West runway (which you can see a bit - it is where your plane turned after take-off.
- A luchi is not a puri! It is far more sinful. A puri has atta (coarse wheat flour), while a luchi is made of much finer refined flour (maida).
- Ah...vegetables. Calcutta is known for affordable vegetables, though people in the city do not partake of them as much as a veggie-lover would.
Mmm...bitter gourd, raw papaya, drumsticks, parwal to the right, and kundru to the left (Ah, I use Delhi'ite terms, though I do not know the English term for the last item).
- The pictures of the hand-pulled rickshaw make poignant settings - nice pictures!
- Nice pictures of the qunitessential Ambassador taxi, and a distant shot of a `jaw-rattler' city bus (to borrow your term!)
- The biriyani looks interesting - which joint is this? One of my Calcutta friends treated me to food from `Bhaja Hari Manna' - the cottage cheese preparation was very nice.
- The Rajarhat road (Eastern bypass?) is a very scenic one, vast empty expanses of green. I have done this stretch on the way to the airport, and found it quite nice. The Ambassador taxis really shudder at 90kmph!
- Gates 2 and 2A are possibly the only `new' and well-maintained part of the otherwise depressing domestic terminal. They have a good view of the ramp, and have good lighting, and many power-ports.
- The aerobridge which EPI docked on, and SCA was on, is not a dedicated Air India aerobridge - in fact, most of the time, I have seen Indigo aircraft on this, at least, for the evening departures out of the city.
- The Indigo bus looks nice! It has been quite a while since I travelled on one.
- CD coloured planes: DEL's ATR is also in those earlier colours. I have travelled on these a couple of times. I want to travel on one of the new liveried ones!
- The Indigo ramp is beautiful!
- Very nice pictures of the starboard engine!
- Indigo copying from Emirates - languages spoken on board, yes. Further, also note the Indigo logo on the belly of the plane, a la the Emirates ones.
- Indigo overall look like a nice airline to fly, and it is nice to see them doing well. This TR comes after Nimish's Indigo TR - yes, Nimish, this was the item you wanted to have! The cabin crew are a bit tardy at times, the food disappointing, but overall, flights are on time, planes are clean and well-maintained, and the overall experience is quite nice. Good for 6E!
- FLG - ha ha! Yes, we remember that person in your earlier report
- The right turn over the cargo area after taking off from the North to the South, and the subsequent passing over the Hooghly, are sights I love to see, with the Howrah Bridge and the Vivekananda Setu visible from the air, just before the cloud cover comes on.
- You had a Coke? I thought you liked Pepsi and Mountain Dew better!
- The Mumbai 27 approach brought back many memories, the descent with the Airoli bridge and the Thane creek, the view of the Hiranandani Gardens, IIT Bombay and The Powai lake in the distance, Powai hill, Jari Mari, the Mithi river (drain?), the Air India hangars in the distance, and...touchdown!
- The livery difference between the 9W 738 and 739 - good observation! The log looks a bit bigger on the 739, and more towards the edge - is it just me?
- You had a nice and friendly cockpit crew on this trip! Terminal 1-C is of course, fantastic, and the favourite place for The Wife, and Junior, too.
Thank you for posting yet another nice report!
Cheers, Sumantra.
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jbalonso777
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 8:03 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

sumantra wrote:
jbalonso777 wrote:
(oops, there is my first preview of the upcoming TR!!)


Jishnu - I loved every bit of this trip report. As usual, in point form.
- As Sabyasachi recommends, please go through his very impressive thread on the Editorial/Analysis section, on the NSCBI airport, its history, and related items. This is a storehouse of interesting snippets, and parts of history which he has painstakingly brought out. Please do not miss the part about Biju Patnaik's DC-3, and the old East-West runway (which you can see a bit - it is where your plane turned after take-off.
- A luchi is not a puri! It is far more sinful. A puri has atta (coarse wheat flour), while a luchi is made of much finer refined flour (maida).
- Ah...vegetables. Calcutta is known for affordable vegetables, though people in the city do not partake of them as much as a veggie-lover would.
Mmm...bitter gourd, raw papaya, drumsticks, parwal to the right, and kundru to the left (Ah, I use Delhi'ite terms, though I do not know the English term for the last item).
- The pictures of the hand-pulled rickshaw make poignant settings - nice pictures!
- Nice pictures of the qunitessential Ambassador taxi, and a distant shot of a `jaw-rattler' city bus (to borrow your term!)
- The biriyani looks interesting - which joint is this? One of my Calcutta friends treated me to food from `Bhaja Hari Manna' - the cottage cheese preparation was very nice.
- The Rajarhat road (Eastern bypass?) is a very scenic one, vast empty expanses of green. I have done this stretch on the way to the airport, and found it quite nice. The Ambassador taxis really shudder at 90kmph!
- Gates 2 and 2A are possibly the only `new' and well-maintained part of the otherwise depressing domestic terminal. They have a good view of the ramp, and have good lighting, and many power-ports.
- The aerobridge which EPI docked on, and SCA was on, is not a dedicated Air India aerobridge - in fact, most of the time, I have seen Indigo aircraft on this, at least, for the evening departures out of the city.
- The Indigo bus looks nice! It has been quite a while since I travelled on one.
- CD coloured planes: DEL's ATR is also in those earlier colours. I have travelled on these a couple of times. I want to travel on one of the new liveried ones!
- The Indigo ramp is beautiful!
- Very nice pictures of the starboard engine!
- Indigo copying from Emirates - languages spoken on board, yes. Further, also note the Indigo logo on the belly of the plane, a la the Emirates ones.
- Indigo overall look like a nice airline to fly, and it is nice to see them doing well. This TR comes after Nimish's Indigo TR - yes, Nimish, this was the item you wanted to have! The cabin crew are a bit tardy at times, the food disappointing, but overall, flights are on time, planes are clean and well-maintained, and the overall experience is quite nice. Good for 6E!
- FLG - ha ha! Yes, we remember that person in your earlier report
- The right turn over the cargo area after taking off from the North to the South, and the subsequent passing over the Hooghly, are sights I love to see, with the Howrah Bridge and the Vivekananda Setu visible from the air, just before the cloud cover comes on.
- You had a Coke? I thought you liked Pepsi and Mountain Dew better!
- The Mumbai 27 approach brought back many memories, the descent with the Airoli bridge and the Thane creek, the view of the Hiranandani Gardens, IIT Bombay and The Powai lake in the distance, Powai hill, Jari Mari, the Mithi river (drain?), the Air India hangars in the distance, and...touchdown!
- The livery difference between the 9W 738 and 739 - good observation! The log looks a bit bigger on the 739, and more towards the edge - is it just me?
- You had a nice and friendly cockpit crew on this trip! Terminal 1-C is of course, fantastic, and the favourite place for The Wife, and Junior, too.
Thank you for posting yet another nice report!
Cheers, Sumantra.

Thank you so very much for reading!! Very Happy
-I will slowly be goring through that..in fact, I've just read about the forgotten Air Bases in West Bengal, what a sad end!
-Well, thanks a lot for correcting me! Razz Maida and atta is a major difference for sure!
-Not too many veggies in Kolkata for sure, everyone depends on the 'Park Circus Mutton'! But anyways, this is Airliners-India! Delhi'ite or Mumbaikar terms are surely allowed!
-Thank you! Very Happy
-That bus, is not a jaw rattler. Its something more irritating! My mother has a better term, I will put it up when I find out!
-Biryani is from Arsalan, (Mumbaikars: its open in Khar West!). But Bhaja Hari Manna is another Champion restaurant! Kobirajee is the signature dish I guess! Bengali food is simply one of the best!
-Well, I guess Rajarhat Highway and Eastern bypass is completely different. Its not exactly green spaces anymore, buildings and malls are shooting up! My uncle did 120kmph in his Nissan Sunny..
-Yes, I wasn't in a mood to see the 'horrible' part of CCU airport! It was also luck, to be honest. I didn't know that part of the airport was open for boarding! I always used to see CISF people there..
-Well, I don't think there are dedicated aerobrigdes anywhere! Maybe its just our observations Smile
-Well, maybe the best bus in the aircraft shuttle industry! Razz
-I prefer the old one, to be honest. I want to fly 'Alliance Air' once again. Although it will be AI regional annoucements, I want an up close shot (ABA and ABD I've flown on).
-Its the best way to speed up boarding! Very Happy
-Once again, thank you!!
-Like I mentioned in the TR, not cool IndiGo, not cool! I haven't noticed the belly Shocked
-Fantastic airline to fly on! But food wise, I think SG gets the cookie. They have a wonderful 'new' selection on board!!
-FLG is someone who I laugh at these days Razz
-I took off from CCU during the Durga Puja's once. Although it was night, the Howrah Bridge was lit up! B-E-A-Utiful sight! But yes, I think CCU has the best take off views in the metropolitan India!
-Well, coke or pepsi or anything, doesn't really matter! But my personal favourites are: KIK cola in CMB, Thums Up in India. During the trip, that was the only time I drank something other than Thums Up.
-I've started to miss that approach..so much Crying or Very sad Crying or Very sad
How many times I landed there last year, but this year, only once Sad
By the way, yes, Mithi River is a drain!
-You are not alone, sir. I also find it towards the edge. WAY towards the edge!
-Friendly crew all the way! It really brightens up a flight, does'nt it! Terminal 1C is pure, pure joy Smile

Regards
Jishnu Smile
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jbalonso777
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 8:28 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

sumantra wrote:
Nimish wrote:
Lovely pictures of Kolkata - I keep thinking of visiting that city for a couple of days but it's tough to convince the family to go there for a vacation Smile.

Hmm...Nimish, I have done the tourist circuit on many cities in India (many on some memorable train trips, in the plebian sleeper class, and only a few, when on official trips, on an AC train or by air. Calcutta was one city I had been able to see only as recently as 2004. Apart from the crumbling infrastructure, the filth and the mire, the places I really liked were the Indian Museum (this is superb!), the Victoria Memorial, walking along the Esplanade, Science City, K. C. Das sweets(which I just had to visit....ah, there I go with my food fantasies). I got a chance to ride the impressive metro only in 2007 - both the above were official trips on the Howrah/Sealdah Rajdhani Express, which I also enjoyed (the meals have an extra item, as compared to the Mumbai/August Kranti Rajdhani). I visited the city with my parents in 1975 or so, where I remember the Alipore Zoo and the Nehru Museum. In 1989 I also visited the city on the urging of some of my friends, to see the city during the Durga Puja - yes, that was quite an experience. I guess I should pen down some of my experiences in the cities where I have done the tourist circuit in visits in the 1990s, and before.

Sir, please don't mind if I shed some light on this comment as well Smile
First of all, I actually want to do a journey on IR's sleeper class one day. On a not so crowded train (hard work to find one out!). I agree with your statements about Science City, Esplanade, etc. but, K.C.Das. No sir, not done! Today, IMHO, Banccharam leads the sweet industry in Kolkata. Clean, elegant, new, but still retains that Kolkata-ness in the sweets! This is what I suggest that you try in Kolkata next time around. Metro is OK in Kolkata, but I'm sure its nothing compared to the modern Delhi system, although I hear there are new rakes coming in to replace the old ones in Kolkata. There was once a time (and I've seen it) when Sealdah Rajdhani offered a Continental dinner option for the AC 3 tier passengers. Best IR food I have ever had! But I hope you have tried the new Duronto Express? Alipore zoo is turning sadder with every passing day. I honestly had tears in my eyes when I heard the news of giraffe losing its life because of a tree branch coming into its neck while it was being transported. This is serious! Well, Durga Puja in 1990's and in 2010's will surely have A LOT of differences! It keeps changing! A new experience for every non bengali! Well, even me Razz . Yes, we surely hope you can compile a few notes about your trips back in the old days, when I (and maybe a few other people), may never had existed!

Regards,
Jishnu..
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shivendrashukla
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PostPosted: Fri Aug 31, 2012 10:54 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Hi Jishnu,
Excellent TR as usual. Nice Pics. Btw I flew VT-IFB 5 days after she was delivered to 6E Smile

Cheers
Shivendra
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PostPosted: Sat Sep 01, 2012 10:24 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

shivendrashukla wrote:
Hi Jishnu,
Excellent TR as usual. Nice Pics. Btw I flew VT-IFB 5 days after she was delivered to 6E Smile

Cheers
Shivendra

The newest aircraft I've been on is 0.8 years old. Flying on an aircraft 5 days after its delivery must surely feel awesome! And thank you for the comment Very Happy
Regards
Jishnu.
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sumantra
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PostPosted: Sat Sep 01, 2012 10:59 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

jbalonso777 wrote:

Sir, please don't mind if I shed some light on this comment as well Smile
First of all, I actually want to do a journey on IR's sleeper class one day. On a not so crowded train (hard work to find one out!). I agree with your statements about Science City, Esplanade, etc. but, K.C.Das. No sir, not done! Today, IMHO, Banccharam leads the sweet industry in Kolkata. Clean, elegant, new, but still retains that Kolkata-ness in the sweets! This is what I suggest that you try in Kolkata next time around. Metro is OK in Kolkata, but I'm sure its nothing compared to the modern Delhi system, although I hear there are new rakes coming in to replace the old ones in Kolkata. There was once a time (and I've seen it) when Sealdah Rajdhani offered a Continental dinner option for the AC 3 tier passengers. Best IR food I have ever had! But I hope you have tried the new Duronto Express? Alipore zoo is turning sadder with every passing day. I honestly had tears in my eyes when I heard the news of giraffe losing its life because of a tree branch coming into its neck while it was being transported. This is serious! Well, Durga Puja in 1990's and in 2010's will surely have A LOT of differences!

Jishnu, my confusion with the Rajarhat road and the Eastern Bypass shows that I still know nothing about the city, in spite of quite a few official visits to the place. In point form, again:
- IR Sleeper Class: I couldn't afford anything else. Anyway, I enjoyed the sights, sounds and smells of places around me. A non-crowded Sleeper Coach is something of an oxymoron. If the Railway guards are vigilant, it is often a pleasure in good weather.
- Banchharam - I will try this out, hopefully soon. Frankly, I had gone to the Esplanade area primarily to visit K. C. Das, it was good coincidence that the Indian Museum, the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan were close-by!
- The Calcutta Metro is a very old Metro, but clean, efficient, and well-maintained. That is what I liked about it. Of course, any other modern Metro would be far better, but it was nice seeing a well-maintained facility in the city.
- I like the Continental dinner too! It is offered on many Rajdhanis and Shatabdis. They used to budget for about two per coach, at one time.
- Duronto: I haven't tried this out as yet.
- Alipore Zoo - thanks for your interest - I will post my memories in all future posts, about any city I have done the tourist circuit on! It is sad to hear about the condition of the zoo, which at one time, used to be one of India's famous ones.
- Puja in Kolkata in 1989 - I liked the tiny places in which intricate pandals came up, each with a contemporary theme, and some novelty.
The crowds put me off a bit, I admit!
Cheers, Sumantra.
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PostPosted: Sat Sep 01, 2012 12:03 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

jbalonso777 wrote:
Today, IMHO, Banccharam leads the sweet industry in Kolkata

Jishnu, didn't Bancharam once have a...garden? Smile
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0310712/
Cheers, Sumantra.
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PostPosted: Sat Sep 01, 2012 1:27 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

sumantra wrote:
jbalonso777 wrote:

Sir, please don't mind if I shed some light on this comment as well Smile
First of all, I actually want to do a journey on IR's sleeper class one day. On a not so crowded train (hard work to find one out!). I agree with your statements about Science City, Esplanade, etc. but, K.C.Das. No sir, not done! Today, IMHO, Banccharam leads the sweet industry in Kolkata. Clean, elegant, new, but still retains that Kolkata-ness in the sweets! This is what I suggest that you try in Kolkata next time around. Metro is OK in Kolkata, but I'm sure its nothing compared to the modern Delhi system, although I hear there are new rakes coming in to replace the old ones in Kolkata. There was once a time (and I've seen it) when Sealdah Rajdhani offered a Continental dinner option for the AC 3 tier passengers. Best IR food I have ever had! But I hope you have tried the new Duronto Express? Alipore zoo is turning sadder with every passing day. I honestly had tears in my eyes when I heard the news of giraffe losing its life because of a tree branch coming into its neck while it was being transported. This is serious! Well, Durga Puja in 1990's and in 2010's will surely have A LOT of differences!

Jishnu, my confusion with the Rajarhat road and the Eastern Bypass shows that I still know nothing about the city, in spite of quite a few official visits to the place. In point form, again:
- IR Sleeper Class: I couldn't afford anything else. Anyway, I enjoyed the sights, sounds and smells of places around me. A non-crowded Sleeper Coach is something of an oxymoron. If the Railway guards are vigilant, it is often a pleasure in good weather.
- Banchharam - I will try this out, hopefully soon. Frankly, I had gone to the Esplanade area primarily to visit K. C. Das, it was good coincidence that the Indian Museum, the Victoria Memorial and the Maidan were close-by!
- The Calcutta Metro is a very old Metro, but clean, efficient, and well-maintained. That is what I liked about it. Of course, any other modern Metro would be far better, but it was nice seeing a well-maintained facility in the city.
- I like the Continental dinner too! It is offered on many Rajdhanis and Shatabdis. They used to budget for about two per coach, at one time.
- Duronto: I haven't tried this out as yet.
- Alipore Zoo - thanks for your interest - I will post my memories in all future posts, about any city I have done the tourist circuit on! It is sad to hear about the condition of the zoo, which at one time, used to be one of India's famous ones.
- Puja in Kolkata in 1989 - I liked the tiny places in which intricate pandals came up, each with a contemporary theme, and some novelty.
The crowds put me off a bit, I admit!
Cheers, Sumantra.

You are not alone, sir. I sometimes call it the Eastern Express Highway Razz
-Well, there are a few 2nd class seating coaches, day trains, empty, in North Bengal. I'm ready to go on those!
-Central Calcutta is full of old stuff! Anyways, I just confirmed with Mum and Dad, Banchharam is the best Sweet store in Kolkata!
-I haven't gone on the metro since, 2006 I guess?
-And now, all food is oily. Extremely oily! (More oily than my 9W meal pictures suggest Razz )
-I've gone on it twice, already. Both times BOM-CCU...I mean CSTM-HWH Very Happy
-I'm never going back to the Alipore Zoo. Especially after seeing zoos in South Africa!
-CCU crowds are a pain, pushing always! But the sights and sounds during the Durga Puja's is simply amazing! I can't wait for October!! (well, another preview there!)

sumantra wrote:
jbalonso777 wrote:
Today, IMHO, Banccharam leads the sweet industry in Kolkata

Jishnu, didn't Bancharam once have a...garden? Smile
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0310712/
Cheers, Sumantra.

Along with Kung Fu Panda, Cars, Mission Impossible series, Pirates of the Carribean Series, All Batman movies, All Avenger featured movies, Disney Classics, The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, The Exorcist, 'Senna', etc, 'Bancharamer Bagan' is one of my all time favouirte movies, and a movie which I will watch repeatedly!
I also love Satyajit Ray's award winning movies!
But the movie you mentioned, simply amazing! Its about a rich family trying to buy a big piece of farm land from an old man, who simply won't die!

Regards
Jishnu
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sabya99
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PostPosted: Sat Sep 01, 2012 6:11 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

@Jishnu Basu, your google posts ( Pictures) are now in skyscrapercity forum. It looks good, please keep up the good job.
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PostPosted: Sat Sep 01, 2012 10:02 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

sabya99 wrote:
@Jishnu Basu, your google posts ( Pictures) are now in skyscrapercity forum. It looks good, please keep up the good job.

Could you send me the link please, Sir?
I don't think anyone is allowed to take pictures like that, without permission....

Regards
Jishnu
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