Originally Posted by
pax britanica
I havent heard a 78 close up but I imagine with those monster fans, fancy cowlings and much improved attenuation technology they are pretty quiet on take off and do not need to climb out as steeply as possible for noise abatement. if thats the way of the world its abit of a shame because watching a nice light BA757 off to CDG was an impressive sight as they seemed to be trying to make the 6000 ft initial SID level by the end of the runway. Good point about the photo opportunities though.
I was once the only passenger on a late evening BA AIrbus 319 from MAN - LHR just after they had bought BMI. We taxied out behind two heavies going to the Middle East, but when they turned left for the beginning of the runway, we went straight on, turned right onto the runway about half-way down and were airborne within about five seconds. Phenomenal rate of climb as well.