Air India

Does out there have any experience flying Air India? They have an unbelievably good deal flying to Paris. I did some quick research and the primary negative comment which I found was that their planes were too old. This flight would be on a fairly new 777, so I think I can set that criticism aside.

The truth is that I really don't like flying, but accept that France is on the other side of a good sized ocean and this is the best way to get there. It's also a good amount of money, even at 1/2 to 2/3 of the cost of comparable flights. Oh yes, and I'm scared that I'll mess up the times, not get my passport on time, lose my ID, miss my connection, etc. I am delighted about the opportunity, but there may be some nervousness peeking out in the next few months.

Edit:
h_postmortemus has found some rather unflattering information about cancellations and cleanliness. On the plus side, authentic indian curries and Bollywood films.

http://www.airlinequality.com/Forum/air_india.htm

sigh.

General theory of appropriate complaints

There are many things which it is appropriate to complain about on an airflight. However, invalid sources of complaints on an Indian airline (see link in previous post) include:

1. Bollywood films
2. Curry, especially its spice level
3. Lack of lemon in mixed drinks

Particularly amusing was the demand that the Indian film industry 'give up' and subtitle U.S. films into Hindi. I have no idea which Indian films they chose (and the more valid complaints mean I may never find out[1]) but rejecting an entire culture's film industry because you didn't enjoy your inflight movie is pathetic.

I don't even care if there is an inflight movie, but I do agree that if there are seatback screens, they should work.

[1]dirty planes (including the new 777s), lack of working toilets on overseas flights, cancellations without explanation or assistance in rebooking, lack of tea.