I travelled from Hyderabad to Seattle On Lufthansa via Frankfurt and Denver. I returned back to Hyd a couple of weeks later taking United flight from Seattle to Frankfurt(Via Chicago) and Lufthansa in the final leg to Hyd.
First of all, most passengers had trouble at Hyderabad at check-in counter as they are allowing only 1 hand baggage including laptop. The airline’s explanation was that it was the rule from Govt of India and they are just implementing the same. Many passengers had a tough time sorting out the essentials from their hand baggage and stuffing into the laptop case. I had a big argument with the staff at the Check-in counter. My point was that if Indian Govt does not allow more than 1 hand baggage, it should be clearly mentioned in the tickets so that the passengers would come prepared well, rather than struggling at the airport. Other than that issue, the staff at the counter are friendly, courteous and were wearing a smile even at the odd hour of 3AM.
The boarding process was smooth and the flight took off on time. The flight staff were very professional. There was a wide range of choices for drinks and the food was also very good. But the only bad part is that there is no personal entertainment in all the flights and I had to travel continuously for 29 Hrs! The Leg room was adequate. Overall, I had a decent flight, but travelling for 29Hrs at a stretch is a real test of your endurance.
I will also have to make a comparison between Lufthansa and United.
United had better and more comfortable seats and got much better leg room(I would call it American size leg room!). The appreciation ends there and there are way too many complaints. The flight stewards are arrogant, old and very ineffieient. There was no choice of food and whatever provided was absolutely tasteless. Later in the day we were served a soggy burger for breakfast! All the drinks will be charged, even in the international flight from Chicago to frankfurt. We were provided used ear plugs and the video is shown using projectors(as opposed to LCDs in Lufthansa). It can be summed up as more comfortable flight but horrible service.
Lufthansa on the other hand was more balanced. The food and drinks were good. Earplugs were sanitised and entertainment choices were broader catering to most international customers. The flight attendants were very pleasing and carried on their job efficiently. If they include personal entertainment and may be improve on leg room, they are the best!