The constant depravity to plan trips to new and exciting places certainly did not escape me towards the tail end of the year. What did I do? Well, after a beautiful time with friends and family before, on and after Christmas, I wanted to take advantage of some free time that I had. I’d made a promise to a friend that I’d seen not too long ago and realized that there was a new nonstop service between Chennai and Port Louis, Mauritius. Shockingly prices in Economy were north of $1500 USD. Business was in the range of $3500. This is where the beauty of Aeroplan kicked in and there were seats available to book. I went ahead and booked a one way not knowing the exact date that I’d have to return. Not wanting to pay penalties and since this was an award ticket, it only made sense.
Surprisingly Air Mauritius was operating their Flagship A350 that frequents London, Paris, and Johannesburg, on this route. The previous flight had the A330-200 and a couple weeks after had the A330-900 NEO. It almost would have been stupid of me not to take it at this point. The flight was just shy of 6 Hours. Enjoy the shots.
Our Route was quite simple given the nonstop service from Chennai. This was my 2nd time flying down, previously having taken the Air Mauritius service from Bombay to Port Louis nonstop on the A330-900 NEO both ways
The new Integrated Terminal in Chennai
Not sure how I feel about the aesthetic
This is the point where I was told I had to have a return ticket booked otherwise I wouldn't be allowed to board. At this point I quickly opened up my Aeroplan app and booked an Air India (Vistara) flight back on the A321
The lounge entrance with a seperate section for credit cards and those who are business / first class
The new J Lounge
Interesting aesthetic. I just don't love the roof of this terminal
After a quick snack, boarding started flashing on the board so I made my way over
A big upgrade from the previous boarding gates (that still exist just to the west of the integrated terminal which is now the Air India Terminal)
A cozy cabin with a staggered 1-2-1 Layout
My seat for the 5 AM Departure
A very noticeable amount of space that could have easily fit a comfortable arm rest
Wear and tear already showing
Cabin was at half capacity by the time the boarding gates closed
Welcome bergs passed around. I went for the watermelon juice
Liking these colors
New safety videos are always refreshing
A nebulous view on this humid morning in Chennai
Went over to the left side of the plane after takeoff and was greeted by this
Spectacular
It just got better
and better
and better
A quick breakfast service commenced. I try not to eat Breakfast on planes unless it's fruit and meusli. But had to get it for the photo. Interestingly Air Mauritius hits the lights off after the late night / early morning departure. However the captain informed the passengers and crew that there was potentially heavy turbulence as we approached Port Louis so they conducted the service after takeoff
Last shot before I passed out for 3 hours
Solace
Approaching Port Louis
A quick coffee service. The crew insisted I have the sandwiches and sweets. Had a couple bites of the sandwiches and had a great coffee.
Our Routing as began descent
First signs of life