First Prop Flight
 

After many years of flying on nice big jets we are taking our first flight on a prop plane soon. We'll be on a Horizon DH8, if that means anything to you veterans. I would appreciate any advice regarding good/bad seat locations and any comparisons with jet travel that would help us know what to expect. Thank you!

In reference to the Dash 8 aircraft, and prop aircraft in general.

Make sure that you go to the restroom before boarding. Some smaller aircraft do not have lavatories. I believe that the Dash 8 does. The seats are a fraction smaller, and it seems that they do not recline quite as much. We are talking fractions of an inch, but, 'tis true.

Prop jobs are slower at about 300 mph vs. 520 mph or so, and make a bit more noise. Other than that, buckle up and enjoy the ride.

I recently flew a USAirways Dash 8 from PHL-DCA. The Dash 8 is fairly comfortable for a turboprop and has a stable ride. The only annoying thing you will notice is the noise.


Jay



[This message has been edited by JayBrian (edited 07-26-2000).]

Besides a bit more noise, you might notice some engine vibration from the props. Nothing to be uncomfortable with, but more vibration than on a jet.
Have a good flight.
bj-21.

The DH-8s do not have very much overhead space (nothing bigger than a very slim briefcase). If you want to "carry on", you can leave the carryons on the cart before you embark. You retrieve it when you deplane.

QX does serve nice packaged snacks as well as good (micro) beer and decent wine free, as opposed to paid on sister airline AS in the rear cabin.

Seats do not recline. I'd try to get a seat in front of the prop (row 1 if not on a -300 or -400). The windows by the prop get the feel/pressure of the prop wash and can be irritating.

I find ear plugs are nice. If you are lucky, you might be on a Q model which has noise cancelling technology. I use ear plugs anyway so I am not sure if this works. It did seem more quiet the last time I was on a DH8-200Q though.

There is a washroom on the DH8s.