Originally Posted by
transportprof
The only downside on the 175s is the increased risk of delay due to wx compared to mainline. UX flights are at the low end of the priority scale when it comes to delaying and canceling flights in restricted air traffic flow conditions.
Exactly. My initial thought about the 175 I flew on this route in December was, "A more comfortable F cabin and better upgrade chances" -- until a low ceiling in IAH prevented us from landing, forced a diversion to SAT (where several other RJs had diverted), and I missed my connection. In the meantime, the A319 that left DCA an hour after we did landed without problems and on time -- a couple of hours before ATC allowed our category of aircraft to land. I confirmed with the captain that the plane type was the issue.
Also, even though RJs now serve meals in F on longer routes, all meals are cold, because there is no oven.
Not complaining -- just other factors to consider when making booking decisions.