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Taken May 2004 from Los Angeles, CA - LAX to Beijing - PEK

I arrived at the LAX check-in desk about four hours before flight time, the only way to ensure any kind of seat selection on Air China. I successfully scored a window seat in an exit row for this acceptable B747-400 flight, which departed on time at 01:40.

Boarding procedure was random and a bit chaotic (no instructions were given pertaining to boarding from the rear to the front of the cabin).

In-flight service was acceptable if not rather indifferent. The staff who served our area of the cabin had minimal proficiency in English, but certainly did their best to serve the passengers. The first meal service was prompt, though the meal itself was wholly unpalatable. In-flight entertainment included Chinese-only films, which nobody watched. Staff frequently cleaned the toilets (a mark in their favor, especially on such a long flight). Breakfast options included a Chinese- or Western-style menu.

The early-morning arrival at Beijing's Capital Airport was flawless - one of the smoothest 747 landings I've ever experienced. Disembarkation was fast, as were immigration and customs formalities.

Air China, though not an award-winner for service or amenities, provides safe and competent service on well-maintained aircraft.