Originally Posted by SDF_Traveler
If given a choice, between the two, I would opt for the Boeing 777, even if flying in economy. I understand there are some routes where a 777 may not be possible because of ETOPS; in those cases then definately the 747-400.
If we assume 180 (or 207) minute ETOPS there are very few routes that the 777 cannot do. If you look at page 10 of this Boeing ETOPS presentation:
http://www.boeing.com/assocproducts/...enroutealt.pdf
you'll notice that routes between South America and Aus/NZ & Asia are the only (sane) ones that cannot be done under ETOPS 180 rules (assuming that all diversion airports are open for business). It's interesting to note that HI to the lower 48 US requires 180 minute (not 120) ETOPS.
As to the topic at hand, I find that airline configs are more important than the individual aircraft.
The coolest aircraft are those that I have not yet been on (IL-62, IL-86/96, DC-3, etc.) The problem with the 777 is the dearth of emergency exit seats in Y (I lucked out on my last 777 flight; I snagged 31B on NGO-ORG on AA despite being non-status!).