Cheap and easy (Flybe)

Member Name: bkecky

Product:	Flybe
Date:	15/09/09 (43 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Took the stress out of my journey

Disadvantages: Slightly more expensive than my regular flight.

I have used flybe on a number of occasions to fly between Avignon and Southampton and Paris and Birmingham, and so far I have to say I have yet to experience any problems with my flight. I use Flybe when Ryanair's flights have not been on the day I wanted and although Ryanair's pricing has been creeping up Flybe are a little more expensive and if you book in advance you won't get as cheaper flight as if you book with Ryanair in advance.

The main advantage that I find with Flybe is that you get up to 20kgs luggage allowance instead of the usual 15kg with Ryanair. This is great for me because I travel with a backpack so to get over 20kg in it would be a real challenge. Therfore I know when I go that I am not going to be over the weight limit. Another advantage is that you do get allocated a seat. If you book online you can book your seat in advance for a charge but as I travel alone I don't mind where i sit. As a family you might want to book in advance though. It certainly relieves you of the cattle market rush that you can get on budget airlines where seats are not allocated.

One of the downsides is that the overhead cabin storage space is tiny! You would not be able to fit the maximum hand luggage size bag in there. It is most good for laptops and bags but anything else and you are stuck with it by your feet for the whole flight.

The seats on the aircraft are quite comfortable and I find it easy to fall asleep in them. During the flight they have the usual sell like most airlines but no one disturbed me the whole flight and the cabin crew were very pleasant and weren't huffy or seemingly overworked.

I did have to check-in at the machines from Southampton but they were easy to operate although the passport swipe wasn't working. I did get a sinking feeling when I saw them as I am not a fan of relying on computers but it was really quick and easy. So quick and easy that I took 5 minutes to check in and then I was hanging around. Next time I will arrive later! Then I had to proceed to drop of my baggage, which was equally as straight forward and simply produced my ticket and passport and my bag was off on its way. There were no queues either so that was a nice surprise.

If you prefer life easier than this Flybe also operate an Economy Plus programme, which allows you 30kg of luggage and also you can take a laptop on in addition to your hand luggage. This would really benefit any business travellers. Also your ticket is interchangeable so you can change it at the last minute with no charge.

Overall I like Flybe, OK a little more expensive but so much less hassle than Ryanair where you are fighting your way to the plane. If they did my regular route for a cheaper price I certainly would use them more often.

Summary: Definitely worth a go