I have begun to consider this question on this trip at least in part because I’ve travelled with 4 different airlines each associated with a particular country: IcelandAir, SAS, RyanAir, TAP ( Air Portugal) and Air Canada.
Iceland Air did not shine. Despite my personal experience in Iceland that timeliness is very important, the flight was late and there was little communication. I would also say that the Icelandic national character which is brisk and no nonsense doesn’t work well for me when I am looking for good service on an expensive ticket. The air stewards looked amazing, but their service was lacking. Also, on an international flight in business class I expect there to be space for my small carry on and a welcome beverage - not a thing for Iceland air. And despite it being a more than 7 hour flight, not lay flat seats in business.
SAS - Scandinavian Airlines - shared national airline amongst Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Efficient is the word that comes to mind. The boarding was smooth and problem free. And also accommodating - folks who had noodles in a cup got hot water for their noodles - not something I’d seen before. Friendly, but not fawning. Id fly them again - in economy.
Ryanair - low cost Irish carrier. You know what you are in for, but it can still be a bit of a surprise. The two flights we were on seemed to be operated by Buzz, perhaps even more bargain basement? What does this carrier say about the Irish? Money matters? Time matters too - both front and rear door boarding made that go swiftly the low cost was very evident in the small seats and buses out on the tarmac to climb stairs into the plane. Hot and crowded on the first flight from Bari, crowded but not hot from Dubrovnik to Rome. Short flights only! I’d not want to fly with them longer than 2 hours.
TAP (Air Portugal). Our most recent flight experience. I am a sucker for good food and a well presented meal. They even had their own branded dishes. And a nice vinho verde.
Finally, Air Canada. While there is much to malign, there is good too. Generally good service if often harried. Chris had a flight delayed by an entire day getting to Rome. AC paid for a hotel and meals, more than I got from West Jet when I was delayed by a day when I travelled internationally with them in 2024. AC seems to have improved their customer service in some respects in recent years. In flight the drinks are good, the food is reasonable.
What does all this say about the national character? What do you think?
