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Taken October 2003 from New York to Bishkek

Aeroflot has inherited a bad reputation for the chaos following the break-up of the Soviet Union. As a frequent traveler to the region (on my own money!!, I am looking for the best deals and since I speak Russian, I can deal in a more efficient way with their rather unfriendly airport customer service in Moscow.

The first leg of the flight, New York-Moscow was pretty good. Food was plentiful and as tasty as any other major international airline. The drink service was a bit more limited, but what would you expect if you paid 1000$ less than the other "western" companies. The flight was on time and the in-flight crew was helpful and even friendly. But the entertainment was dismal aboard (old russian movie from the 70s, but the Russians seem to like it).

Aeroflot now offers visa-free connection for all the flights connecting to CIS destinations (Central Asia, Caucasus, Ukraine etc) leaving from Sheremetyevo-1 terminal (not connected to the international terminal). If before, you needed a visa to change terminals, now you use their free transfer service. It is a bit chaotic, but these people pull it out, albeit in a very disorganized way... but it works. But Sheremetyevo airport is positively one of the worst airports in the world... so if you are picky on this issue, take another airline.

The second leg was also on time, the plane half-empty and the food was just amazing. However, the plane stank and the seats were not comfortable on this old TU-154, and seat pitch was minimal.

Aerflot is by far the best value for central Asia, more than a 1000$ cheaper than international counterparts and with an overall good quality... especially if you can speak some russian.

Aerfolot gets you from point A to B in a relatively efficient manner, but if you are looking for absolute peace of mind, try another airline... but is it worth 1000$ more???

Do not be afraid of Aeroflot and your wallet will thank you...