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Taken 19 April 2008 from London, England (City Airport) - LCY to Rotterdam - RTM

I have not flown out of London City Airport for quite a number of years and had forgotten what a pleasant airport it is. While there were plenty of departures scheduled the airport maintained an efficient, friendly and unhurried feel. It is still possible to arrive only 15 minutes before departure and board the flight providing you have only hand luggage and I can see that this was clearly possible. I had used on-line check-in which worked well (I have often had problems with this in the past) and as I had only hand luggage I did not need to use the airport counters - but had I done so there were no queues evident. Long waits for security have become almost routine in air travel these days - but not here! I entered the security area and there were 4 lines open and all empty. Very courteous staff saw me through in a couple of minutes. The lounge is an oasis being quiet and comfortable and a pleasant place to wait for boarding. As for the flight - another pleasant experience. The VLM cabin crew - unusually all male - were very friendly and did a good job. Sweets were handed out before take off and drinks plus coffee/tea offered along with a filled roll, apple bar and chocolate. They cam round with extra rolls for anyone who wished them and refills of tea & coffee were also promptly offered. The flight was about half full. Arrival at Rotterdam was 20 minutes early and we were quickly though the arrival hall and into the terminal. This journey reminded me of what flying used to be like - a real pleasure and both VLM and the airports are to be commended.