Stuck in San Fran?

We made it to San Francisco with no problems—actually, a few minutes ahead of schedule. It was a nice Air New Zealand flight with food that was okay and seats that were almost comfortable. The choice of entertainment was rubbish, and I couldn’t find anything I could get into. I even tried Paddington Bear in Peru. 😂

After the main meal, it was time to settle in with a sleeping pill, my new Temu memory foam pillow (very comfy!), new earplugs (very effective!), and an eye mask. It was almost 10 p.m. NZST. No trouble sleeping—I woke up almost five hours later. I’ll take that as a win. Breakfast was served soon after, and we were on the ground not long after that.

We had registered through the MPC (Mobile Passport Control) app, which many in the longish line obviously hadn’t heard about. We skipped the queue and got through quickly—no rubber glove treatment or awkward questions about political leanings. We picked up our backpacks and rechecked them at the drop-off counter, which was quick and easy. There was a bit of a wait going back through security for our next flight.

With still over 90 minutes until boarding, we found a bench seat and tried to have a snooze. That nap was cut short by an announcement about boarding—but it turned out to be a mistake, too early. When the actual boarding time arrived, there were further announcements about a mechanical issue with the engine that needed sorting. Yep, best they do that!

The flight was delayed by at least an hour, and to our surprise, they sent us US$60 worth of food and drink vouchers for the inconvenience. We found an airport café and enjoyed a grilled cheese sandwich, fries, Diet Coke, and a coffee. Just over $50—let’s call it $60 with the tip, given United Airlines was paying.

Further delays getting the engine fixed. We are kept very well informed including the Captain telling us exactly what the issue is and what they are doing to fix it. Fingers crossed we get to fly out today. Stay tuned...