Chasing the Longest Bird: My Bizarre Journey with Suriname Airways

• Airline: Suriname Airways
• Class: Business
• Route: Paramaribo (PBM) to Amsterdam (AMS)
• Aircraft: Airbus A340 – 600

Suriname is a hidden gem nestled in the rainforests of South America, but its national carrier, Suriname Airways, is a story of its own. Thanks to my Patreon supporter, Max, I headed to Paramaribo to review one of the continent’s most unique aviation experiences.

What I found was a mix of vintage aviation glory, a surprisingly wonderful crew, and one very “creepy” German pilot.

Since Surinam Airways retired its own fleet, they’ve been wet-leasing an Airbus A340-600 operated by Universal Sky Carrier. This 22-year-old beauty, formerly of South African Airways, was once the longest aircraft in the world.

Walking across the tarmac in Paramaribo to board this four-engine giant was a nostalgic dream until things got a bit weird.

While filming my approach to the plane, the German captain took major offense. In a bizarre move, he actually left the flight deck during his pre-flight checks just to stare at me from the galley.

Luckily, the Surinamese crew was the polar opposite. They were warm, professional, and handled the situation with grace. They even encouraged me to keep filming, noting that while the captain had his “concerns,” they were proud to show off their hospitality.

I paid $500 for an upgrade at the airport for the 10-hour flight to Amsterdam. Here is the breakdown:

• The Seat: A 2-2-2 configuration. While the massage function worked (you could hear the tiny motor struggling!), my seat wouldn’t recline into a bed. I ended up moving to the seat next to me, which worked but was quite uncomfortable for a long-haul flight.
• The Food (The Highlight!): The crew recommended the local Pom with Chicken. It’s a traditional Surinamese-Jewish dish made with root vegetables, and it was genuinely delicious.
• Amenities: A basic kit, pillow, and a rather thin blanket that felt more like Economy class.

Suriname Airways is a fantastic “niche” experience for AvGeeks who want to fly the A340-600 before it’s gone forever. The crew is easily some of the best I’ve encountered truly lovely people.

However, if you are looking for pure comfort and a superior product, KLM on the same route remains the stronger choice.

My Rating: 6/10

Want to choose my next flight? Join my Patreon to vote on which airline I should hold accountable next!

If you’re searching for flights, you can use my Skyscanner link. It’s the same tool I use, and it supports my work at no extra cost to you.

I stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott during this trip to rest up before the next leg of my journey. If you’re looking for a great place to stay, use my link to book your next stay!

This is it guys, wherever you’re off to, have a safe trip!