Originally Posted by
digibart
This is an attractive idea. Red Oxx customer service told me the Small Aviator packs down to 2.5”x6”x12", enough to squeeze into a Western Flyer, which is small enough in turn to qualify as a personal item and fit under the seat. I like the sturdy construction and efficient rectangular shape of the Aviator. Other forum members have had consistent success getting these in the CRJ overhead bins.
Too bad the Aviator doesn't have a shoulder strap; I don't care to be rushing through a large airport with a fully loaded 22 bag on my wrist. Perhaps an Extra Small Aviator. A lightweight duffel, while compressible, just might be too flimsy for what I'm looking for.
1) Have D-rings for a shoulder strap added to the aviator. Your luggage or shoe repair place can do it.
2) The carry on space in the dash-8 is going to limit you more than the CRJ. Direction wise, that might not be a problem. The extra small would fit under your seat while the small won't if full. But it might be that neither will fit overhead in the dash 8.
3) I'd consider a very light weight nylon bag or large packing cube so that if the overhead fit is tight, you can "split" the bag on board and slide it in.