Boeing Puts the Kibosh on Ryanair's Bathroom Scheme

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

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The Associated Press (AP) is reporting that “budget airline Ryanair says aircraft manufacturer Boeing Co. does not want to fulfill its request for planes with more seats and fewer toilets because it believes that would compromise passenger safety.” This plan would coincide with the airline’s dream of one day charging passengers to use the lavatory.

Boeing did not offer a comment on the issue. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary apparently still thinks he can convince Boeing that trading restrooms for seats is a good idea.

My sense, or hope, is no self-respecting aircraft manufacturer, certainly not one of Boeing’s stature, would participate in such an absurd scheme. Quite frankly I hope I never see the words “Ryanair” and “bathroom” in the same sentence again.

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