Helsinki Airport
Was very laid back, not much rush or hubbub, so much so we got a little panicked when we realised we had 20 minutes to board. Did a fast scary walk to gate 52; to realise we were in boarding group five! - they'd only just got on to group 3. Phew.
In to the hold
We decided to put our larger cabin bags in the hold, just couldn't be bothered to faff with them.
So off went the 45L & 30L in to the hold, leaving me with my 22L & Tom with the 18L tote plus his 23L which is all medication, So this doesn't count to any weight allowance.
Japan Air Lines
We chose them because of the choice for vegetarians plus the economy seats are supposed to be a good size for their class. the seating configuration for the rows are 3, 4, 3. We gambled in a 2 row and chose a window seat and an isle seat, hoping no one would grab the seat in the middle - thankfully we gambled well, we had room to move about throughout the whole flight.
Food
Two meals, all lovely. A little odd but fresh - enough.
Fizzy spillage
Hurrah for air pressure & electrolyte tablets! duh, thought I take my evening medication with some... I ended up wearing it in my lap, MORTIFIED! I had to do something, my seat got soaked, and my trousers would be un-bearable to wear for the rest of the journey! I had thought to bring back up underwear & a top, but crucially not trousers. the flight attendants were so lovely, brought me a pair of tracksuit trousers & a matching top ... and they fitted! they even took my soggy bottoms off to dry in the galley!
Sleep
Our fancy head support/eye-mask combo worked a treat! We both slept reasonably well considering.
The View
I nabbed the window seat, some amazing views of lands I have never seen with my own eyes!
Stats
- Departed Helsinki 17:55 (Local time)
- Arrived in Tokyo Haneda 13:55 (local time)
- Duration: 14 hours
- Distance: 7,820 km
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I will add photos soon!