But JFK controllers not on our side, and BOM controllers with us? I am baffled. Clear explanation is due.
As others have said, genuine third-world airports require you to pay special attention but ATC are generally trying their hardest to give you a good service. Many times into JFK I have been messed about like
tailspin2001 above, including being given a stream of taxi instructions a few seconds after touchdown. Of course, there are days when everything is fine but you still get the impression that your needs are secondary to something more important. It's like being the puck in a game of ice-hockey.
Almost a racist theme here.
Sorry, I don't know what race the controllers belonged to. All I can judge them on is their level of service and professionalism.
...can anyone tell me if the approach lights to 27 still look like every single bulb is of a different wattage?
Not something that has stuck in my mind but it wouldn't surprise me if this were the case. Delhi has taxiway edge lights like that and they are actually quite attractive, with a range of brightness and colour that would make great fairy lights. Some of the blues are almost into the ultraviolet!