A 752 isn't necessarily a downgrade from a 762... except for the lousy BF seats (which entropy tells us are in the process of being upgraded), the 752 actually holds more pax... and, the BF service on the narrow bodies, IMHO, is better.

NWA runs the 753 to Hawai'i and it has a range of 3,395 nautical miles VS the 752 which has a range of 3,900 nautical miles. Depending on the flight its a minor difference. It just depends on how the aircraft is used. Sticking somee extra fuel tanks on the 753 and those puppies COULD make it across the pond...

They are planning out an upgrade for them(757-200 BF), which will include a DIGITAL IFE (whether it AVOD has yet to be decided), newer BF seats, and 120V power ports instead of empower. Atleast this is what I was told by Jim when I asked him at the DO...


-Vincent

What else is required to garner the ETOPS certificate? I know it requires an upgraded maintenance program but I am hazy on the details.

There is a while FAA certification procedure... I don't know the technical details of it, but there are proving tests and modifications that are made... I am sure someone more technical could provide better details..

-Vincent

I still think the 752 seats are decent and I too agree that the service is better.

Coach is an entirely different story, but one - IMHO - that is more personal preference than harsh reality. Considering that most coach passengers do not have an idea of what they are flying until the safety demonstration, I believe that if the price is competative they will fly almost anything over the pond.

The major item is better fire supression equipment in the holds, including fireproof blankets and tapeing within the holds.

Most people don't care, a seat is a seat to them. Its those like us who have a finer knowledge who have prefernces...

-Vincent

I would prefer a 757 on this route, as then free upgrades would be a possibility. However, just having another airline flying into EZE would be much nicer. I'm flying Copa there and it's a bit of a hassle, for sure.

The fares to EZE from PHX is often 1000 or more, which is just high compared to the mileage involved. Competition is good.

Do you think CO is going with the 767 over the 757 FC (not BF) because they want to offer a product that can compete with DL's BE?

I can't say I know the answer to this. I'm flying this route next week on Delta, but on the back of the bus. Maybe I can peek up front and compare and contrast for you. :)

The CO press release makes specific reference to BF. I wouldn't expect them to offer a domestic-configured plane on this longhaul route.

The 752 does not have the range to fly IAH to EZE. It takes a 767ER.

Both CO (IAH-EZE) and DL (JFK-EZE) are now trying to wrest seven of UA's unused frequencies to Argentina. Expect UA to put up a fight (and perhaps AA to seek UA's slots for a third daily MIA-EZE).

The widget's BE is not that great on the 767 the seats are considerably narrower than Continental's and I think only 1 in wider than coach...

I will pray for you. (I HATE DELTA)...

-Vincent