I too had to fly them in 1988 Zurich-Caire return in business. (Reason for flying them was, that the ticket was paid by the Egyptian state owned brewery with the 'Stella-brand', we did license them for our non-alcoholic beer). The equipment was ok, and, on advice by my export manager, I did bring my own food and liquids on board both ways).
The flights were less than 30% booked - plenty of space then to sleep flat., using several seats, with that equipment, then it was possible to take away the businessclass-armrests.
[This message has been edited by Rudi (edited 11-28-2000).]