J/S to Hong Kong
 

I'm planning to visit Hong Kong next month and wonder if anyone had done it with a US based carrier. I'm thinking about J/S with CAL out of EWR, I guess my concern is coming back, can I list myself ahead of time so when I check in with the agent in Hong Kong it'll be easier? Any pointers? Thanks.

If you're planning on going on a US carrier (CAL for instance), and can list yourself ahead of time, do it, it can't hurt by any means. You'll have an easier time if you list for sure than just saying you're going to JS. So, if you can list, do it. I've never traveled internationally personally, but I've gotten advice from some people who have.

Risky. EWR to HKG is very limited on seats because of the high fuel load required for the 16 hour flight. You are the first to go when the bumping comes.

Most of my international travel is on Delta (and I do travel over there a lot. Ireland like 11 times last year) but I did get stuck in DUB in 07 once, and CAL took me to EWR. Gave me my own row in BizFirst and treated me like royalty. I had such a good flight, every single crew member was so kind and nice to me. I'll never forget it, and I always love having a CAL jumpseat on board so I can attempt to return the favor as much as possible.

Thanks for the advice guys, I'm going to get a zed fare with CX as well out of JFK. If I can't make it with CX, then'll I'll drive to EWR and try CAL. Anyone know the # for CAL for listing? if they have one.

Why do you go to Dublin so much? Next time take me with you! haha

Do yourself a favour and take all the stress of jumpseating to the not-so-Fragrant Harbour by catching a ride on Atlas or Polar.

They don't charge taxes, feed you until you roll off at the end of the flight and seem to genuinely appreciate a different face on board.

I didn't even thought about that, I assume a stop in ANC with those guys right?

Yep, I'm pretty sure you stop in ANC both ways and and extra stop on the way back in CTS.

The hardest part of JSing on Atlas and Polar is working out how to meet the damn crew. I don't work for them but I've done the trip a few times, so if you need any info I might be able to help.

First thing to do is get on the website and fill out a request.

Polar was great.

The station manager at HKG will give you info on where to meet the crew and when. Just talk to him on the phone.