Air Canada review by Annie

Oh dear, where to begin? Sydney to Vancouver at a time of year when all should be filled with Christmas spirit. Unless you're flight crew with Air Canada. The staff are woeful - the worst I've come across in many, many years of long haul travel. Hate to say it, but they make United staff look good. Rude, dismissive and unhelpful, they made it very clear passengers are a pesky nuisance. Not a smile amongst them, and a 14.5 hour trip needs a smile or two. Boarding in Sydney was like sheep being loaded on a truck bound for the abattoir, only less organised and not as kind. Surprised they didn't break out the cattle prods. Catering was by far the worst airline food ever. As a pesky vegetarian had pre arranged meals, but shouldn't have bothered. Bland and soggy, most of it was hard to recognise. The snack meal was a dry wholemeal roll with one segment of tomato, a slice of cucumber and a small wisp of wilted lettuce. No butter, no dressing, no seasoning - dry and tasteless.Tea and coffee were never served as the seat belt sign seemed to be permanently on. Amazing that every other airline seems to manage it. Seats were adequate, but on the smaller side. Entertainment was standard. Unfortunately had to return with the same airline, and hoping it had just been an unlucky experience was prepared to forgive and forget. But no....just as bad on the way back. The only positive comment I can think of is that it was a safe flight. This is an airline that seriously needs to review it's staff training, customer service and catering. And a few lessons in how to smile wouldn't go astray. Very disappointing.