Sorry to join late:
I too am with unablereqnavperf, my local ID90 service provider have got some idea about crossing the pacific/north pole in something called 'a twin', does that have 8 engines, 2 on each of the 4 pylons like a B52, by any chance?
As for the Sydney Morning Herald, they remember all the best bit's about the 744. Wasn't it Qantas that flew the record non-stop service to Sydney with an english cricketer and a cricket ball onboard as pax? Coals to Newcastle if you ask me.
Seriously - the RR model is suffering from a 'weak chest' these days. The compressors are not as good as they used to. Wouldn't be surprised if one of the HPC1 blades has parted company, they produce a lovely titanium compressor fire, temps over 1,100 degC on a good day. But, who am I to prospect, let's wait and see huh?
