On the Ground: I arrived at the counter at JFK with plenty of time. The check-in agents were busy with their own conversations regarding the flight, but check-in was quick and efficient. I received a pass to the business-class lounge located before security and went on my way. The lounge is spacious and comfortable; it is shared by several other air carriers with flights also departing for the Middle East at the same time. I got a bit of work done and headed for security. (28/30)

Pre-flight: Once in my window seat (with a 2-2-2 seat configuration), I started to settle in and realized I left my computer charger plugged into the wall at the lounge. The same person who checked me in was on board going through other pre-flight checks. I told him my problem. He made some calls and said they located the charger, but as the lounge was before security we didn’t have time to courier the charger through the airport to the plane. They would hold it for me upon my return. The error was mine, and the Royal Jordanian employees did the best they could, which I appreciated. I successfully picked up the charger on my return to JFK 10 days later. When I had a chance to take in my surroundings, my seat was comfortable. It was not a lie-flat pod but more like the older first-class version where the seats went nearly lie-flat. It had an 83-inch seat pitch. There was no privacy between my seat and the seat next to me, but there was plenty of space to stretch out between my seat and the seat in front of me. The flight attendants were pleasant but not very attentive prior to take-off. I made myself comfortable and was ready for the flight ahead. (27/30)

In-flight: The Boeing 747-200 was noisy as we took off, but once airborne it was smooth sailing. Flight attendants distributed menus once we were in the air. The menu featured RJ colors with a crown adorned on every page, a regal touch that I enjoyed. We could choose between Western and Oriental selections for the appetizers. I went with Oriental, comprising baba ganoush on lemon crown, kishkeh with tomato wedges and makdous halves on lemon slices. Appetizers were placed on the prepared tray along with soup and salad. I had a main course of cheese tortellini with sweet tomato and oregano sauce and had the choice of beef, chicken or grilled hammour as well. The food presentation was not elegant but was neatly displayed and made for easy distribution. The food was good, which is always the ultimate goal, and flight attendants moved quickly with the service, also offering a variety of wines to accompany the meal. The seat provided me with enough comfort to sleep for the majority of the flight. I awoke to a simple breakfast and a warm welcome to Amman from the crew as I exited the aircraft. (35/40)

The Experience: Business class on board RJ was all business. I did not feel like I was seated in the comfort of someone’s living room, but service was pleasant and efficient.

Total Score: 90/100