Background
With the capital of Namibia being the social, economic, and cultural centre of the country, it’s no surprise that the national airline, Air Namibia, transports business and leisure travellers to and from Windhoek and Johannesburg 14 times a week. In October, however, that number of weekly flights will be increased to 21 (three flights daily). The Boeing 737-500 is used for flights between Johannesburg, Windhoek, Cape Town and Lusaka (Zambia). Other carriers on Namibia’s national airline include the Airbus A340-300 and the newly employed Embraer ERJ.
Check-In
Check-in was quick and easy at Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport. An hour is all the time we needed to get from the city to the airport, find parking, check in, move through security and board the plane for take-off. In Namibia, when travelling across borders, no additional time is needed to check in at the airport, giving you more time to take pleasure in the country’s capital. If you do check in early and have a few Namibian dollars left to spend, you can enjoy a limited selection of duty-free stores.
Boarding
Hosea Kutako International Airport is a small airport when compared with most capital city airports, and for this reason boarding is as simple as walking a few metres up to an automated sliding door, where the clerk checks your ticket, before you head out onto the runway, where the Boeing is conveniently situated for your arrival.
The Seat
Taking both business and economy classes into account, Air Namibia’s Boeing 737-500 is capable of transporting a total of 108 passengers. Business class is limited to 20 seats in a 2-2 seat configuration, whereas economy class caters for 88 passengers in a 3-3 seat configuration. In both classes, leather seats provide more than adequate comfort, and in this instance, that was particularly important for what was a two-hour trip back to Johannesburg for me.
Which Seat To Choose?
As is the norm, business class passengers benefit from the usual exclusive services and additional leg room. So, if presented with the option, business class would be the obvious choice. However, if you are confined to economy class, a seat nearest to the front of the plane would be advisable. Unfortunately, I was seated near the back of the plane, and not only was the engine noise somewhat overwhelming, but I had to put up with a broken tray latch and a flickering light overhead, which was a bit unnerving. Fortunately, the friendly hostess accommodated me by moving me up to the front of economy class.
The Flight
Take-off was steady and drinks were served almost immediately. With a selection of coffee, tea, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a wide variety of refreshments were on offer throughout the trip. Food packs were served on time for dinner and the selection catered for all food preferences. Overall, the flight was a smooth and enjoyable experience, with very little in the way of disruptions.
Arrival
Landing in the evening proved spectacular, in terms of the view, with all the glittering lights of Johannesburg illuminating the ground below. Arrival was upon us before we knew it and came sooner than expected, thanks to the forceful tail wind. Arriving back home at OR Tambo International is always exciting and this occasion was no different. Friendly airport staff made sure that there was a quick transition from passport control to baggage collection.
Verdict
Overall, a good, solid flight without any unnecessary frills. However, attention should be paid to the general upkeep of the cabin. Otherwise, the friendly flight staff made the journey a very pleasant experience.
Contact
Web: www.airnamibia.com
Email: reservations@airnamibia.za.com
Nina Harms