Originally Posted by
Leyland1989
We have unique requirements for visiting austere airfields (e.g. ice and gravel strips) hence the PC-12 (we don't have the budget for a 737-200) and yes, we fly commercial for TATL or even cross country unless we are able to tag along on a repositioning trip.
Honestly I don't think I'd mind flying a PC-12 across the pond with a scenic detour in Greenland and Iceland but I'm speaking from a plane nerd perspective.
My point is, it's down to airlines configuration, the tube size play a role but the context is also important. A330 and 767 are undeniably best for 8 and 7 abreast economy class config, but it doesn't translate to a better experience in J.
Other example is SQ who has the same short haul product on their A350 and 787, their J pod is optimized for the 787, there are a lot of wasted space in J, having a slightly wider tube doesn't translate to better J on the A350. (Economy class on the other hand is slightly better though)
Indeed. Airlines are in the business of maximizing revenue space in the tube. Look at UA's newest Polaris Studio where they market 25% bigger but have found a way to keep the same number of seats.
AC will offer a seat in the XLR they can sell as Signature with the highest capacity. And with all the constant complaining I hear from people on SQ/BA/DL/LG etc. forums about how people hate their J product, it would be impossible to get a product everyone liked and still make money on it. As someone who does not want to waste a minute experiencing the miracle of manned flight sleeping, I have yet to find a pod I dislike, especially when I take a gander in Y. But that's just me.
If there's room on the Pilatus for that TATL trip, I'm in. I'll even supply my own cold water survival suit and diaper. Though I would prefer a twin and keep those stored in the back.