Swiss is also 5 abreast. 5 Abreast didn't make sense for BACF due to EDI/LCY flights that need the extra capacity. I think our passengers will like the 2 - 2 config of the E-Jets. They are very nice indeed!
@ Flying Phil. You can have a thump on landing on either aircraft. In LCY landings are meant to be a bit firmer than normal.
And regarding the spoilers during the approach. The aircraft uses the same basic aircraft controls, but the software enables the fly-by-wire system to deploy the spoilers to create extra drag. Physically, there is one extra button in the cockpit, which tells the system that a steep approach is to be performed. That simple button commands the number 4 and 5 outer wing spoilers to offset slightly while the control column is in a neutral position, creating the drag required to increase the rate of descent.
Initially when Crossair signed for the E170's the plan was to have an air brake, but that was later changed to this intelligent solution. It is retrofittable, so if airlines operating in Europe with E-170s or E-190s want to operate into London City, they will be able to do so with the aircraft they already have. In fact the software for this steep approach will be part of a bigger software upgrade package that the aircraft will be getting later this year. (2009)
Next airline to operate into LCY wit the E190 steep approach function wil be Babboo.(my guess!)