As far as FA's go...it needs two...and for comparatively only 20 more seats from the previous model, it's 35 apiece per F/A compared to the 50 seat model where there is only one required...by regulation. That is 'one reason' why the initial RJs stopped at 50 seats (to damn cheap to dream about more seats and having to hire more F/As). So that why your service was more enjoyable....I would think so myself. The leading edge devices are for better landing and takeoff performance which was a necessity for the aircraft......not for climb to altitude. I haven't heard any problems with balance problems on the craft, but for now, I'll take their word for it since I haven't been interested in reading much info on the -700. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Dennis W Zeuch" <DZTOPS@aol.com> To: <AIRLINE@LISTSERV.CUNY.EDU> Sent: Wednesday, April 24, 2002 13:08 Subject: Re: Trip Tucson to Portland Oregon > In a message dated 4/24/02 3:25:12 AM !!!First Boot!!!, wlw-jr@att.net writes: > > << Better not call the RJ a "Commuter aircraft" >> > OK but not exactly a intercontinental jumbo jet > > actually loved it-just wish I was about 20% smaller > Head touches cabin ceiling and shoulders touch overhead racks and middle > touches seat tops when I try to walk down the isle......but armrest go up and > gave up on looking out the windows much so not bad. F/as were great-really > put Delta to shame. Friendly, free wine and beer and they made 6 or more > passes up the plane for refills or anything else we wanted. The big guys > could really learn from them-almost first class service. > Plane climbed lots better than the 50 seat version (leading ege flaps?) and > cruise 37,000 feet. > Seat belt sign on a lot and we were told not to change seats after takeoff > because ""Weight and balance"" Is this a big problem with them? > Dennis >