Interesting Doug and thumpa
News down here (particularly in HBA) has been harping on BB and freight probs. One of my main points was that freight pays better than cargo on international runs as it is on a set formula in general, and not like the domestic discounted market on "backloading" routes like Tas to North Island.
Point is taken re BB offloads, however in most cases the flight deck crew would not be aware of an offload, as if you are presented with an aeroplane in trim and within weight parameters then you dont need to know.
Initial problems were apparently due to a paper only problem, and nothing to do with the aeroplane.
SLF appeal is very high on the 717 - have nver heard a bad word about the girl.
Lets face it, it is a DC9 and they were a beaut aeroplane to ride in too.
best all
EWL