Ah! But windows 7 WILL run an XP partition.
That's what I've done on mine. The partition is free with 7 pro and all that mine has on it is I.E. 6, the link to Airbus world and a stand alone version of airnav with all the necessary plug-ins. I've also disabled all updates and it works fine. even printing on local printers (drivers required of course)
You can even copy and paste across from the partition into an e-mail on the windows 7 section.
Airbus are talking about changing the set up required so that when you access via Airbus world all the plug-ins, etc will be based on the server and not required on the local computer. However, I wouldn't hold your breath.