I used to go into Funchal regularly with Air Europe in the Boeing 737/200 and then the Boeing 757. It didn't use the 757 for Funchals until November 1985, over 2 years after it's introduction. I was one of the first to be checked out into Funchal in November 27th 1985 and cannot remember any real frights on the short runway. The 757 had a better take off performance the the 737 and all our Manchester and Gatwick fiights were non stop. Landings were Captain only, but First Officers were allowed to do the take-offs, which were the most frightening part of the operation!