Jin Air LJ88 Flight Review: Budget Airline

  • by Trip with Kim

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Jin Air LJ88 Flight Review1

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Hi everyone, it’s Trip with Kim!

If you’re planning a trip from Nha Trang (Cam Ranh Airport) to Incheon, you might be considering Jin Air, a popular budget airline. I recently flew on their LJ88 flight, and while it was affordable, there were some challenges, particularly with delays. Here’s a detailed breakdown of my experience, covering ticket pricing, check-in, baggage policies, seating, in-flight experience, and pro tips to make your trip smoother.

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or flying for the first time, this review will help you decide if Jin Air is the right choice for you.

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1. Pre-Flight Experience Jin Air LJ88

Flight Details

  • Flight Number: LJ88
  • Route: Cam Ranh (Nha Trang) → Incheon (Seoul)
  • Aircraft Type: Boeing 737
  • Flight Duration: ~5 hours
  • Check-In Method: Counter only (no mobile check-in for Nha Trang departures)
  • Meal Service: Available with pre-order

Ticket Pricing

For my one-way ticket, I paid ₩137,400 (about $100 USD), which is excellent value for a 5-hour international flight. Round-trip tickets usually cost around ₩300,000 ($230 USD), depending on the season and promotions.

I booked my ticket through Jin Air’s official website, which often has discounts. While third-party booking platforms like Skyscanner or Expedia are convenient, Jin Air’s site sometimes offers exclusive deals.

Tip: Monitor ticket prices at least a month before your planned trip to secure the best rates.

Delays and Challenges

One of the biggest downsides of my flight was the 3-hour delay. The flight was scheduled to depart at 12:35 PM, but we didn’t board until 3:15 PM. This was due to Jin Air’s tight aircraft turnaround schedule, where delays from earlier flights snowballed into my flight.

This kind of delay isn’t uncommon for budget airlines, especially on busy routes. If you’re booking LJ88, I strongly recommend leaving a buffer day after your arrival, just in case your flight gets delayed like mine did.

Pro Tip: Download flight tracker apps to stay updated on your flight’s status. Apps like FlightAware or FlightRadar24 can provide real-time updates and historical delay patterns for your flight.

Check-In Process

At Cam Ranh Airport, mobile check-in is not available for Jin Air flights, so you must check in at the counter. Arrive at least 2 hours early, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure a good seat.

Here are some important details about check-in:

  • Seat Selection: Free at the counter, but popular seats (e.g., window seats) go quickly.
  • Emergency Exit Rows: Can only be purchased online or at the counter. Online prices are much cheaper ($20 USD) than on-site prices ($45 USD).
  • Baggage Allowance:
    • Carry-On: 1 piece (max 10 kg)
    • Checked Baggage: 1 piece (max 15 kg)

If you’re slightly over the weight limit for checked baggage (e.g., 15.5–15.9 kg), Jin Air staff are usually lenient. My bag weighed 15.6 kg, and it was accepted without any issues. However, if you’re significantly over the limit, expect to pay additional fees.

2. Lounge Experience at Cam Ranh Airport

Due to the long delay, I opted to wait in the airport lounge. While Jin Air doesn’t provide complimentary lounge access for delays, I found the lounge well worth the additional fee. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Comfort: Comfortable seating with air conditioning (a lifesaver in the tropical heat).
  • Amenities: Snacks, beverages, and charging stations.
  • Quiet Environment: Perfect for avoiding the chaos of the overcrowded boarding areas.

Without lounge access, you’ll likely find yourself sitting on the floor or standing, as Cam Ranh Airport’s public seating is extremely limited during peak hours.

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3. In-Flight Experience Jin Air LJ88

Seating and Cabin Comfort

The Boeing 737 aircraft used for this route has a typical low-cost carrier layout, with relatively narrow seats and limited legroom. At 180 cm (5’11”), I had about a hand’s width of space between my knees and the seat in front of me.

Pro Tip:

  • If you prefer extra legroom, consider upgrading to an emergency exit seat during booking. It’s worth the additional cost, especially for taller travelers.
  • For longer flights, choose a window seat for more headrest support while sleeping.

Passenger Load and Atmosphere

The flight was fully booked, with no extra seats for a “lie-flat” experience. Despite the crowd, the atmosphere was calm, and the crew did their best to assist passengers quickly.

Cabin Service

Jin Air doesn’t provide complimentary meals or beverages, but you can pre-order a meal when booking your ticket. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase on board.

In-Flight Food Options:

  • Korean instant noodles
  • Sandwiches
  • Drinks (coffee, tea, soft drinks)

Since my flight departed late at night, I skipped ordering food and instead focused on catching up on sleep.

4. Arrival in Incheon

  • We landed at Incheon Terminal 2 after a smooth 5-hour flight. Despite the initial delay, there were no further issues during the journey. If you’re arriving late at night, note that public transportation options (like buses and trains) may be limited, so plan accordingly.

    Pro Tip: Pre-book an airport transfer if your flight lands after midnight.

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5. Final Verdict: Is Jin Air LJ88 Worth It?

  • Jin Air LJ88 is a great option for budget-conscious travelers flying between Nha Trang and Incheon. While the affordable pricing and basic amenities make it appealing, the potential for delays is a major downside. If you prioritize comfort and reliability, consider alternative airlines like Korean Air or Asiana.

6. Power Tips for Jin Air LJ88 Traveler

  • Check-In Early: Arrive early to secure your preferred seat.
  • Monitor Delays: Use a flight tracking app to stay updated.
  • Upgrade Smartly: Book emergency exit seats online to save money.
  • Pack Wisely: Stick to the baggage weight limits to avoid fees.
  • Consider Lounges: If delayed, the lounge is worth the cost for comfort and convenience.

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