The 12.5-hour LATAM 787-9 Business Class flight from São Paulo to Los Angeles was a mixed bag, offering both comfort and disappointment. While the service was excellent and the seat was comfortable, the food was unremarkable and Wi-Fi was notably absent.
A Comfortable Start, But Then...
Boarding the Dreamliner aircraft, I was greeted warmly, setting a positive tone. The cabin design impressed me with comfortable seats, faux marble consoles, and mood lighting. The welcome beverage, a refreshing mocktail called BelliNO, and salted cashews were a nice touch. However, the lack of Wi-Fi on a long-haul flight was surprising and frustrating.
Dinner Delivers, But Not Without Flaws
Dinner service was delayed, but the meal itself was a mixed bag. The appetizer, prosciutto with mozzarella, was fine but skimpy. The main course, grilled pirarucú loin with moqueca sauce, was a better choice than the beef tenderloin with chimichurri demi-glaze, which was overcooked. The pistachio ice cream from Bacio di Latte Casa was a highlight, but the overall dining experience was underwhelming.
Sleep and Breakfast, Then Disconnection
I slept well, grateful for the individual air vents, despite their difficult reach. Breakfast, however, was forgettable, with a plain omelet and croissant. The coffee, both filter and espresso, was a bright spot. The lack of Wi-Fi continued to be a significant issue, making it challenging to stay connected during the long flight.
A Balanced Review
The flight offered a comfortable seat and friendly service, but the food and Wi-Fi were notable shortcomings. The beef tenderloin was a missed opportunity, and the lack of Wi-Fi was surprising for a modern airline. While I would fly LATAM again, I won't actively seek it out, and the full review will provide more details on the menu, IFE, amenity kit, and seat.
In my opinion, LATAM has room for improvement, particularly in the areas of food quality and in-flight connectivity. The experience was a mix of comfort and disappointment, leaving me with a balanced perspective on the carrier's services.
