Calling all Easy pilots: Opinions about the 737-700

[LAVDUMPER]

I just read that EasyJet recently received its first couple 737-700 aircraft and incorporated them into their schedule.

Any opinions thusfar? Initial impressions? How does it compare to your 737-300s in terms of performance, technology, etc.?

Appreciate your opinions

Cheers

[Flap 5]

It's just a 737-300 with TV screens!

The overhead panel is the same. The controls are the same. Not a lot different really.

[Stampe]

Flap 5 are you actually rated on the 737NG your answer seems over simplistic I only fly the 738 and have not answered the post it does however have a totally new wing and numerous minor differences.I,ve flown the 732 and 733 previously and the aircraft is a significant improvement.I,m off on a 4 day trip involving 5.30 hr. sectors with 189 pax so this is a capable aircraft with a MTOW of 79015kgs(B738).If you ,ve got any other questions on the type be delighted to answer them when I get back.

[This message has been edited by Stampe (edited 10 December 2000).]

[take ECAM action]

I am rated on the 737NG even though I have never even been on one, so I can't help. (When my licence went to the CAA to have a different type added it returned with 737 300-800 in place of 737 300/400/500!)

[wallywombat]

I think the -700 is a significant improvement in both handling and flexibility compared to the -300. Although we don't operate it on very long sectors (yet)it has the weight and thrust capability to do so, and the flight deck in terms of the EFIS is a quantum leap.It's a pity that some type of EICAS was not incoprporated into the system, also push buttons on the overhead like the 767 would have helped as well. Unfortnately, there is no denying the reasons why these features were not installed. The predictive windshear and Enhanced GPWS are excellent new geatures also.

[LAVDUMPER]

As far as the EFIS technology on the 700s is concerned, do you guys use the 777 "speed-tape" style on the PFD or the analog imitation with moving map found on Southwest and Continental 737-700s in the States?

Every time I have flown on a 737NG I have enjoyed it - terrific power!

Any interesting flight stories?

[Stampe]

In answer to your question PFD which I find excellent almost to much information and many permutations available.The speed tape is very good but I find it a little to instantaneous in gusty conditions lacking the damping of an analogue instrument which can lead to chasing the speed if you over react to excursions.

[get'em to heaven & back]

what about performance in terms of climb rates at lower levels, and final approach speeds (especially if they're different for precision & non-precision approaches)?

[wallywombat]

The approach speeds are actually lower in the 700. Min Clean speed is around 198 knots, as compared to 210 for the 300. Other improvements are:FMC much faster to operate; windscreen wipers much quieter and the "INT" setting and independent controls work well;certain engine start protection features and the EFIS display is a huge improvement.On the minus side, the recirc. fan is noisy.

[CaptainSandL]

Is that just with the left recirc fan? which versions have 2 fans?