Continental is usually used by me on the EWR-DEL routes for they are most convenient and punctual; however service is nothing incredible. Flights are always on time upon arrival and departure, and because operations are daily, finding a seat on a precise date is done with ease. When it comes to organization..Continental beats Air India, Lufthansa (who looses bags), British Airways, and other of the numerous carriers operating to Delhi from New York. Also the flight is direct, with no layover in Europe which helps cut travel time. When it comes to precision, Continental takes the cake...but if one is curious about other capabilities of this airline in other aspects of the industry such as service , it is not disapointing but is not as extravagant as Thai’s or Singapore’s.
Don’t get me wrong, serivce on this airline is adequate, but not as comfortable as other airlines operating the same route. Seats are a bit tight, legroom and recline are OK. The flight attendants are corteous but robotic, and tend to become frustrated but still try to put on a smile at the end of the flight. The reason for this frustration after the first 10 hrs is because the route itself with a tailwind is15 hrs and with a headwind is 13hrs, making it the longest nonstop route Continental serves. Because of the flight’s duration FA’s get tired and begin to become angry- something the FA’s of Thai and Singapore are able to withstand.
However the flight attendants of Continental are fine otherwise and respond to passenger requests. The cabin and bathrooms are always spotless which is impressive after unhygenic Indians use them for 13 or 15 hours straight. Catering is delicious (they use real silverware :-0!! )and drink runs are done 2-3 times in the flight which is excellent for passengers who get dehydrated.
The IFE (in flight entertainment) is spectacular with personal TV screens and 12 video channels, 21 audio, and many video games to choose from; which really helps pass by the time. We land in Delhi bang on time or 1/2hr early, bags are already on the belt when we arrive...and we are out in 20mins due to great efficency by Continental ground staff! Overall Continental has a very good product. They are EXTREMLEY reliable which is an excellent quality to have in an airline, and service is comfortable and standard. If you are looking for a convienent, reliable airline with service that is OK..about 3 1/2 stars worth, Continental is right for you!