Flying over the Atlantic has its difficulties

Q: Recently, it has been rumored that some airlines are considering using the Airbus A321-LR for trans-Atlantic flights. Do you think narrowbody aircraft will be the future for international travel? Will that open up international travel for budget airlines?

— Submitted by reader Korey, New York

A: It is possible that several airlines could begin flying A321LRs on trans-Atlantic routes. The airplane has the range to make the flight. The Boeing 757 has been used on less-traveled trans-Atlantic routes for many years. Both are single-aisle airplanes, also known as narrow-body aircraft.

The ability to fly non-stop instead of connecting in a hub to a wide-body aircraft will be very appealing. The planes will not replace the wide-body aircraft flown between the large cities.

There is growing discussion about low-cost trans-Atlantic airline service. In the past, it was not successful; however, there are several budget international airlines entering the market or interested in doing so.

Q: If a twin-engine plane has one engine that fails midway over the Atlantic, what options do the pilots have?

— S. Reginald Pratt, Monrovia, Liberia

A: The pilots will divert to the nearest suitable airport. On overwater flights, the en route diversion airports are planned before departure. If there is a need to divert — for an engine problem or any other issue (e.g. passenger medical, weather) — the pilots have the plan in place.

Q: Regarding the Dreamliner that landed and took off from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: Wouldn’t it be a game changer to fly from DCA to London?

— Gabriel, Norfolk, Va.

A: A Boeing 787 has landed at Reagan Washington National Airport. Considering the runway length, capacity control and distance limits on flights from DCA, I do not think there will be any trans-Atlantic flight from there in the foreseeable future.