Premium #235 – The ageing US long range twin fleet

Two weeks ago your correspondent experienced a second significant operational delay within a year because of a technical aircraft problem.  Same airline, similar aircraft, same EU departure airport.

The first time was annoying; the aircraft had to have an engine starter replaced after pushback and this took 45 minutes, with everyone seated, on a hardstand.  Most recently, it was a similar aircraft (same airline) but this time the mechanical fault was hydraulic.  The second time was much more annoying – a two-hour delay at the start, which then led to a missed connection adding another five hours to my trip.  Sitting in a 17-inch-wide seat for that extra time is cruel and unnecessary punishment.