May 26, 2001 03:34 PM
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Olympic airways is the national airline of Greece, founded by Greek shipping tycoon Aristotle Onaissis in the 50s. The airline's hub is in Athens from where it flies to destinations mainly in Europe, North America and the Middle East. It serves only one city in Asia (Bangkok) en route to its 2 Australian destinations (Sydney & Melbourne) which apparently have the largest Greek population outside Greece!
My experience of the airline is very recent having flown from London to Dubai return via Athens.
I cannot fault this airline for punctuality...no problems in this department. However, I found the cabin staff to be very indifferent.....it certainly was not service with a smile. The quality of the food was inconsistent: very good on my outbound flight , however absolutely disgusting on my return sector . Unlike most other airlines, there was only a single choice for meals in economy...so for example if you don't eat beef.....that's tough!!!. The entertainment on board also leaves a lot to be desired...... forget personal TV sets, the flight I was on was still using the old-fashion 'tube ' headsets!!
Maybe I'm being too hard on this airline...I should't really complain as the price I paid for my ticket was actually very reasonable, and the airline got me to my destination safely and on time with minimal stress......but Olympic airlines is certainly no Emirates or Singapore airlines who would be the true Olympic Champions in any airline contest !!!!!!