Ever had a flight where you forgot you were even flying? I recently travelled from Brisbane to Auckland in Premium Economy and back in Business Class and I did just that. With a flight time of just under four hours each way, I arrived feeling surprisingly refreshed, something that doesn’t often happen after flying.
And why China Airlines between Brisbane and Auckland?
China Airlines is the best kept secret for flying between Brisbane and Auckland! Who would have thought that a Taiwanese owned airline called China Airlines, has great services with great flight schedules between Brisbane and Auckland five times a week. In a full-service airline that includes a hot meal and inflight entertainment.
Quick Summary
China Airlines Background: Taiwan’s flagship airline carrier
Founded in 1959, China Airlines is proud to be Taiwan’s flagship carrier. From their hub in Taipei, they connect travellers to the world with an extensive network reaching 193 destinations across 29 countries. Since 2003, China Airlines has proudly served Brisbane, and since 2011, Auckland, bringing travellers closer to Taiwan and beyond with their award-winning service and seamless global connections.
Check In and Lounge Access
Checking in with China Airlines at the Brisbane International Airport was seamless with the check in machines and friendly staff asking to assist each passenger during the process including tagging each bag and bag drop.
We were invited into the new Escape Lounge located up the escalator once through duty free, on the terminal’s mezzanine level (level 4). The lounge itself felt like a little sanctuary: big windows overlooking the terminal, natural light, and staff who greeted everyone with a smile. It was lovely chatting with the friendly staff about the space and how quiet it was for a Sunday on a long weekend. And I loved the quote on the wall that read “Collect memories, not Things” this really sums up why we travel.
First Impressions: Boarding the A350-900 in Brisbane
The China Airlines airport staff were very inviting and friendly, and a sense of calm carried through as I boarded the flight to Auckland.
What really stood out to me as a frequent traveller is the inviting warmth of the aircraft’s interior décor. Instead of bland, monotonous walls, the cabin features wood-grain accents and warm lighting, creating a welcoming and calming ambiance throughout the flight.
Premium Economy Highlights
I was flying in Premium Economy from Brisbane to Auckland and the cabin is designed for comfort. Onboard, the layout of Premium Economy immediately stood out.
The fixed-back shell seats meant my space was truly mine, no seatback suddenly tilting into my lap, no awkward negotiations for personal space. The 2-3-2 configuration felt balanced, never cramped, and I noticed right away there was ample room to stand and stretch without the constant worry of bumping my head on an overhead bin.
Business Class Highlights
For my return journey I travelled in business class from Auckland to Brisbane. Being greeted by name and offered a drink right away, instantly creates a sense of calm.
In Business Class, the absence of overhead bins above the middle seats made the whole cabin feel open and airy, less like a plane, more like a thoughtfully designed lounge. And with the 1-2-1 configuration, every seat has aisle access, making for a pleasant journey.
Warm lighting with my very own lamp and adjustable reading lights. And a seat which converts into a fully flat bed, which I tried out and fell asleep.
Meals
On my Premium Economy flight, I was pleasantly surprised by the delicious lunch, a hearty cottage pie with broccoli, a crisp side salad, a genuinely fresh bread roll, and a light fruit salad. The meal was fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented on real crockery with metal cutlery and a linen napkin, a lovely touch of class in the sky.
For my Business Class flight home, I was welcomed with a refreshing drink the moment I settled into my seat, soon followed by the wine and dinner menu, now that’s my kind of flying! When it was time for dinner, the flight attendant “set the table,” complete with a linen tablecloth over the pull-out tray. I chose the salmon with vegetables, a prawn salad, a fresh bread roll, and a fruit salad, paired with a lovely red wine. Everything was beautifully presented on real plates and glassware, no plastic in sight. For dessert, the citrus cheesecake stole the show; I told myself I’d have just one bite, but of course, I couldn’t resist finishing it all.
In-Flight Entertainment
The entertainment screens were a generous size, and the noise-cancelling headphones offered great sound quality. However, after browsing through the in-flight movies and TV shows, I found the selection a little limited, so I’d recommend bringing your own entertainment just in case.
The Ideal Flight Schedule for Travellers & Road Trippers
The timing of the flights between Brisbane and Auckland made practical sense. My afternoon departure from Brisbane meant I wasn’t rushing at dawn, and landing in Auckland in the early evening meant arriving fresh, giving travellers plenty of time to unwind before hitting the road the next morning.
The return flight from Auckland departs in the evening, giving travellers the freedom to enjoy a full final day exploring before heading to the airport. Touching down in Brisbane later that same night means you still make it home and enjoy a good night’s sleep in your own bed.
Practical Tips and Insider Advice
Extra Service Partners
If you’re wanting to fly with China Airlines…
If you would like personal help planning your trip with China Airlines, please reach out:
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