Of course they ordered, Have to do something to replace aging 757's, and it is the only real choice if you want new planes to the gate sooner rather than later. Fills a need for AA, but may or may not prove to be the long-term long-and-narrow route solution.
But not so specialized an aircraft it can't be reassigned to the more traditional narrow-body route pool if the 797 proves to be such a consumer favorite it becomes a competitive necessity.
My only real concern is if the extra fuel creates another center-of-gravity issue requiring a specialized pilot group.
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