The first time I travelled by Paramount, I tried booking a ticket through their call centre, but the number was forever engaged. After numerous attempts, I gave up and booked online.
The aeroplane looked gorgeous--a deep rich blue and white with a flash of pink. We stepped in and the airhostesses were friendly and courteous. But that was only to be expected. What with the airfare war hotting up all over India, no airline can get away with unfriendly staff (except of course Indian and Deccan who are in my mind relagated to the ’hopeless’ category.! ) Inside the plane was comfortable and the legroom was adequate. I didn’t expect so much space though. It;s much better than the other aircrafts being operated on the same route. Those tend to make too much noise near the propellers and God help you if you get stuck on the seat close to the wing. But this was sleek--could barely hear the engine. Pretty smooth ride throughout, but we had good weather that day.
The music piped overhead was soft but I didn’t quite like the number being played. I was however very impressed when they started the meals. It was a morning flight from Coimbatore to Chennai. Before the airhostesses could get anywhere near me, I smelt the delicious, mouth-watering aroma of typical South Indian filter coffee. There’s nothing in the world I like better and imagine finding it in an airline! However, as a co-passenger pointed out, the promoter of the airline happens to be a Tamilian South Indian so I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. The food was typical south Indian fare--upma (without a drop of oil!), steaming hot vadas. I enjoyed my meal. The service was swift and plane flew pretty fast. The moment I completed my meal, we were set to land.
The baggage retrieval was swift. In all, a very good experience. This is one airline to watch out for. At the moment, they’re only operating Southern routes (had a peek at the route map on their inflight magazine). From what I know, the airline has had a very warm reception from the South. I’ve travelled three times so far (not counting the return journey) and it’s always been jam-packed, but it remains to be seen whether this kind of personalised attention and service standard, punctuality and attention to detail will be observed when the airline ventures into the North and grows bigger. I hope so but only time will tell.
Another thing I liked about them was their valet service. I hate lugging around my bags (I always seem to over-pack, god knows why!) These valets met me at the airport (Have no clue how they identified me as their passenger.) Anyway, when they asked if I was travelling with Paramount and I nodded yes, they immediately relieved me of my suitcases (two enormous ones) and the check-in process went on smoothly. It was over before I knew it and I was escorted to a lounge (not so great one but I guess that’s not the airlines fault! These ancient airports of ours need upgrading fast!!) The flight was on time, but the announcements could have been better at the lounge. However, there were friendly staff there who let me know once the plane was ready for boarding.
I would certainly recommend Paramount--of all the airlines out there, this seems very promising.