24 Hours on the Lufthansa Boeing 747 Upper Deck: Chicago to Johannesburg

The Iconic 747 Upper Deck Experience

• ✈️ Embark on a 24-hour marathon journey aboard the Boeing 747, specifically focusing on the unique upper deck experience in Business Class.
• 💡 The 747's distinctive hump offers a sense of flying in a different world, providing a commanding view and a private jet-like feel with its 2-2-2 configuration.
• 🌟 Lufthansa operates the largest remaining fleet of passenger 747s, making this an iconic aviation experience that enthusiasts cherish.

First Leg: Chicago to Frankfurt

• ✈️ The journey begins with a flight from Chicago to Frankfurt on a 747-8, highlighting the special experience of climbing the stairs to the upper deck.
• 🍽️ The flight features a business class dining experience, including appetizers like asparagus and tuna, main courses such as beef and Thai vegetable curry, and a lemon tart for dessert.
• ⚠️ Criticisms include the difficult-to-use inflight entertainment system, sticky remote, non-responsive touchscreen, and unreliable Wi-Fi, though amenity kits are praised.

Layover and Second Leg: Frankfurt to Johannesburg

• ✈️ After a layover in Frankfurt, the marathon continues with another 747 flight, this time from Frankfurt to Johannesburg.
• 🌙 This longer flight offers a more robust menu, a mattress pad, and the unexpected surprise of Lufthansa's business class pajamas.
• 🍽️ While appetizers were standout, the main courses on this leg (prawns and beef tenderloin) were noted as overcooked, a contrast to the previous flight's catering.

Overall Experience and Ratings

• 🌟 The 747 experience itself is paramount, overshadowing specific ratings for an aviation enthusiast.
• ⭐ Ratings were given: Lounge (4/5), Seat (2/5 due to age, despite lie-flat capability), Food (4/5, with noted inconsistencies), IFE (3/5, due to age and functionality issues), and Service (5/5).
• 💰 Tips for booking include roundtrip business class for around $3,300 or economy one-way and business class back for $2,000, with mileage options also available.