The pitch seems too good to be true: an all-business airline, less than 50 passengers on a 757, flying from Stansted, fast track all the way, and considerably less expensive than BA or Virgin. Could EOS possibly live up to the hype?

As one of the world's biggest cynics, I have to say that it's almost all true! This flight to JFK was one of the smoothest I have ever had, and probably the best business class service.

The EOS staff whisk you through the check-in and security process as fast as possible to the smart lounge where attentive staff are on hand to service up a number of tempting goodies. As I settled down with a cup of green tea, I looked around the lounge at the business passengers, mostly absorbed in their laptops or other devices. The chances of air rage seemed remote.

Once on board, it's just odd to see so few seats. For once, it doesn't matter whether you turn left or right. Every seat is a good one, with as much - possible more - space than I have ever had in business class. It's certainly more than BA or Virgin.

Top marks have to go to the cabin crew: smart, attentive, cool - only Qatar's crew in First Class were better, in my experience. I was kept supplied with endless cups of green tea all the way to JFK. They also dealt very well with my complaint about the vegetarian meal. It was horrible - like something from the worst nightmares of Gate Gourmet. Not only did they do their best to find an alternative, they also encouraged me to fill out the feedback form.

I said on the form that the only improvement EOS needs to make to the service is much better food. Why don't thet get a Michelin-star chef on board to create some signature dishes for them? That would be worth paying just a little extra for, and be in keeping with the brand they are trying to create.

If you want to spend your flight watching the usual terrible Hollywood movies, EOS has portable video players available. I didn't bother with that, but did put my seat back and got two third of the way through a brilliant new novel. I actually wished we had been in the air just a little longer so I could have finished it.