Yes. Everything you’ve heard is true. Flying on a United CRJ-200 is about as craptastic as it gets when it comes to commercial air travel.
The windows are so low that you’ll hurt your neck trying to see what’s happening outside. The seats are so narrow that you’ll be rubbing thighs with the person sitting next to you. The white plastic walls turned yellow 15 years ago, and touching any of the stains you encounter without being fully vaccinated is a recipe for disaster.
That said, there comes a point when it starts being cool to be an outcast. On a recent trip between Flint and Chicago, I discovered that the CRJ-200 just might be annoying (and disgusting) enough to be fun.
UA4805
Flint, MI (FNT) – Chicago, IL (ORD)
Monday, October 23, 2023
Aircraft: CRJ-200
Registration: N956SW
Duration: 51 minutes
Seat: 3D
United Express CRJ-200 (N956SW) side view illustration by NorebboStock.com.Our route from Flint to Chicago this afternoon as UA4805. Mother Nature was a little more than hell-bent on preventing us from seeing anything along the way unfortunately.
My full review of the United Express CRJ-200 from Flint to Chicago
I’m no rookie when it comes to the CRJ-200. This 51-minute hop from FNT to ORD was my 47th flight on one of these little regional jets, and I’ve absolutely despised nearly every one of those experiences. But it’s 2023, this aircraft is getting on in years, and I’m starting to feel nostalgic. It’s amazing how a little nostalgia can make me say nice things about stuff I used to hate.
Arrival at the Flint Bishop International Airport (FNT)
Those of you who read my American Eagle ERJ 145 review already know how much I enjoy flying out of FNT. It’s a small (and efficient) airport, so arriving one full hour before boarding time will always be too soon.
Welcome to (and sayonara from) the Flint Bishop International Airport!WTF is happening here in Flint which necessitates machinery of this kind here at the United check-in counter? They seem to be ready for an apocalypse of some kind.Ready or not, I’m about to fly on a CRJ-200 for the 47th time. Maybe I’ll get lucky and there will be a 777-300ER parked at the gate instead?Nothing I’m seeing so far here in the terminal is leading me to believe that there is enough demand for this flight to justify anything but a CRJ-200. Crap!At the very least, having all this room to spread out is just the thing you’ll need to prepare yourself for a flight on a tiny (and very cramped) regional jet.Patiently waiting for that little bastard to arrive from Chicago.It arrived (exactly on time, in one piece, and seemingly capable of flying back to ORD under its own power). Looks like my 47th flight on a CRJ-200 is about to happen whether I like it or not.
I found it interesting that this particular aircraft (N956SW) was operated by Skywest. Flint seems to be awfully far east for an aircraft operated by a western regional carrier, so I’m not exactly sure how it ended up here. Perhaps it was being punished for something.
The boarding process
It was looking to be a very full flight in the moments leading up to the boarding process. The gate area was completely full (full of people not looking very excited about flying on a United CRJ-200 lol), and boarding was called precisely on time. I was on my way down the jet bridge within minutes.
Gate 1 is where the escape from Flint will be happening this afternoon.Uh oh. Everything looks correct here on my boarding pass (which isn’t what you want to see when you’re desperately trying to avoid adding another CRJ-200 segment to your flight log).“This carpet is dope, yo.” (Anything to take my mind off the airplane that I despise the most is a good thing I guess).OK, get ready to tuck in those extremities, because s**t’s about to get real.The United Express CRJ-200 main cabin. Dragging your head along the ceiling as you walk down the aisle is normal. Don’t panic. Keep going.
The seats
Every seat on the United Express CRJ-200 is the same. There are no first class seats (or any with extra legroom for that matter). It’s all economy class in a 2-2 layout, and every seat sucks.
United express CRJ-200 seats. Closing your eyes imagining a “happy place” might be the only way to slip into one without cussing.Yup. The view across the aisle to the other side sucks just as hard.Honestly (and don’t tell anyone that I said this), it’s not that bad. I probably wouldn’t have all that much to complain about if it weren’t for the low windows.Wait. I take that back. It’s just too much fun to be overly critical of an interior as stylish as what you’d find in a ’77 Lincoln Continental. The build quality is right up there as well.Realizing that there’s zero justification to complain about a lack of legroom hurts more than you know. This was supposed to be the most epic moment in the entire review!WTF? There weren’t even any used needles (or old bras) stuffed here in the seat pocket to complain about.That moment when you realize that maybe the CRJ-200 isn’t so bad (and you might actually have to say something nice about it for the first time in your pathetic little life).Hmm. The fact that I’m not making a break for it (even though the boarding door is still open) speaks volumes about my tolerance of this situation.
The departure
One of the other really nice things about flying out of Flint is that you’ll never have to wait for a departure slot. You’ll simply push off the gate, taxi out to the runway, and take off. No waiting.
Would it be a true ‘crappy little regional jet’ experience without smudged up windows? I’m certainly getting my money’s worth today.For those of you that are curious, yes, this was a completely full flight. They may need to upgauge to a 77W yet…What do you suppose the pilots are thinking at this point? Are they content with shuttling idiots like me between FNT and ORD on a crappy little CRJ-200 all day? Or are they fantasizing about launching a C-130 off a carrier deck somewhere in the South Pacific instead?I don’t know about them, but I’d much rather be in Asiana A380 first class right about now. *sigh*Hear that? Imagine a noisy vacuum cleaner at full power (one of those handheld things you can buy for $10 at a yard sale), and you’ll get a sense of what the CRJ-200 sounds like on takeoff.And you thought this was going to be exciting.
In-flight entertainment
Trying to avoid rubbing thighs with the stranger sitting next to me did qualify as ‘in-flight entertainment’ I guess. I actually didn’t mind the fact that there was no Wi-Fi, and it wasn’t all that big of a deal that I wouldn’t be able to stream any movies or TV shows to my personal device. My full concentration was on avoiding thigh contact!
I know it’s hard to believe, and I promise that this image is not Photoshopped but…there are no video screens in these seats.I don’t even think the Internet existed before the CRJ-200 was designed, so it shouldn’t be of any surprise that Wi-Fi was not available on this flight.Spotting the coastline of Lake Michigan was the highlight of my in-flight entertainment on today’s flight.
The food
Although my assumptions of no food being served on this flight were spot on, it should be noted that you might get a snack and a drink depending on the length of your flight. It’ll probably also depend on the mood of the flight attendant. This was a 51 minute flight to Chicago (and the flight attendant didn’t seem all that proactive), so we got zilch.
Seat comfort
10 years ago, trying to say nice things about the seats on the United Express CRJ-200 would’ve been impossible. I’m not sure how I didn’t notice it before now, but the leg room isn’t all that bad actually. Would you believe that it felt darn near as spacious as United 737-800 economy? The horror!
I think the boredom killed her.SANspotter to the rescue! A quick blast of fresh air from the overhead air vent was all it took to bring her back to life.
The descent (and arrival) into ORD
Approaching Chicago O’Hare from the east (over Lake Michigan) is always quite scenic. Especially if it’s sunny. I mean, just look at the pics…
I haven’t seen water this turquoise since my Hawaiian Airlines 717-200 economy class review! Say what you will about Chicago, but when the sun hits it just right, she shines like a diamond.The tropical vibes were short-lived however. Sunshine can do a lot of amazing things, but it absolutely cannot make a hemorrhoid cream factory look good IMHO.Welcome to Chicago! Fingers crossed that this is ORD and not MDW.ORD confirmed (unless United recently launched hostile takeover of MDW or something).Looks like our arrival gate is B22 this afternoon, and anyone familiar with ORD knows just how much of a mother*****r that is. Anyone not familiar with ORD is about to find out why in just a few more pics…Now that we’re nearing the end of this review (and almost nobody gets this far), I think it’s safe to start complementing the CRJ-200 again. Basically – the generous legroom in the seats made this a not so terrible experience.I know! I was expecting more derogatory expletives in this review as well.Ready to unclench in 3, 2, 1…Wait. What?Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the mother*****r that is gate B22 here at ORD. If ever there was a longer jet bridge than this to exist, I have yet to find it.
Pros and cons of the United Express CRJ-200 experience
OK. Even though I’ve had a slight change of heart about this admittedly crappy little airplane, that doesn’t mean you need to go out of your way to fly on one. All I’m saying is that maybe it’s not as bad as everyone says it is.
Pros
The legroom is surprisingly spacious for an aircraft of this size.
Speaking of size, it’s small enough to be able to get on and off quickly (even if you’re seated in the last row).
Just read your account of the dreaded CRJ-100 and I second that motion. I call it the flying porta-potty. My experiences are similar. 1. MHT/ DTW had computer malfunction that gave me a bonus night in DTW. 2.LAX/SAN where all the lights shut down inside the cabin and at night it was total darkness flying in a tin can. 3. SYR/ORD (I think one of my first times in the beast) where the lav smell was so bad that the FA put a coffee packet on the coat hook inside the lav door that masked the putrid smell. 4. SFO/PSP where the turbulence was so bad coming over the mountain that I actually almost hit my head in the window seat against the wall. Wasn’t the plane’s fault except for it being so unstable and small. Had to brace myself from head injury
Haha, “flying porta-potty”! I’m just really glad that most airlines are in the process of getting rid of them and rebuilding their regional jet fleets with larger aircraft such as the E175/90. I hope never to fly on a CR2 ever again!
I’ve said before that I like the CRJ-700/-900/-1000 (they’re a but narrow, but the 2-2 configuration and large windows are great). However, the -200 is a whole different bird. It feels especially tight and the windows are way too low. I’ve heard that it’s objectively more cramped because the floor is higher than on its longer siblings.
It’s unfortunate that American is bringing back the CRJ-200 due to their contract with Air Wisconsin, while at the same time retiring their ERJ-145’s.
I know, it doesn’t get more “first world problem” than this. Lol
Yup, I can’t believe they are bringing them back! On the other hand, it’s been a while since I’ve been on a CRJ-200, and it might be fun to review the AA version of it. On a really short flight of course.
For whatever reason, I’ve seen a lot of SkyWest operating United Express flights out ORD over the years, to the extent I didn’t actually realize they were a western regional carrier until you mentioned it (I never even thought about the name, haha). With DAY as my home airport I’m no stranger to regional jets, but I’d gladly take a ERJ-145 over a CRJ-200 any day of the week, particularly if I can get that ERJ single seat. But I get what you’re saying about the nostalgia; while I don’t want to fly a CRJ-200 if I can avoid it, I’m also going to miss them when they’re gone, you know?
Yeah, the ERJ wins all day long with that sweet 1-2 configuration. I know I’d like the CRJ-200 a whole lot more if I didn’t have to sit thigh to thigh with complete strangers lol.
Anyway yeah, this flight reminded me of what I was feeling as the American Airlines MD-80 retirement drew near. I was never a fan of that thing – but it was definitely sad to see it go.
Wow! I wasn’t expecting this review to be that positive! I guess that legroom really did help. Anyway, my feelings on the CRJ-200 are the same as what I commented above, back when this article was still that SAN-LAX review.
That being said, as an avgeek, I really like the CRJ (even the -200). I love the look of it (it & the ERJ are the only remaining t-tail aircraft in “mainstream” airline service); the fact that you can board them by airstairs/ramp; sitting right by, looking at, and hearing the engine (sitting ahead of the wing for an extremely quiet ride is nice as well lol); and even its flying characteristics (takeoffs feel steeper and turns feel sharper on the CRJ, which can be fun. I even kinda, sorta like how turbulence-prone these things are. Basically, I like how you can “feel” the plane’s movements).
Oh, and random trivia regarding me and the CRJ: the rare CRJ-1000 is actually my most flown CRJ variant! Just wanted to point that out because I don’t think many people can say that lol.
I know, right? I used to really like these things too when they first came onto the scene, but that admiration didn’t last long. The nostalgia is finally hitting me though! The CRJ-200 is far from perfect, but I’m not afraid to admit that they’re a lot better than the old turboprops they replaced.
I agree – you may be the only person in the world who can claim to have flown on a CRJ-1000 the most (out of any other CRJ variant). How is that even possible?
Er…while the pilots may not be content with flying the CrappyRegionalJet-200 between Flint and Chicago, they certaintly won’t be able to launch a C-130 off an aircraft carrier. Aircraft carriers are only supposed to launch fighter jets, and the C-130 is too big (that’s what she said) and heavy.
Edit: Yes, I know a C-130 has done just that once or twice,but it was deemed unsafe and unpractical. Just thought you’d like to know a nerdy fact.
stevin henderson
Just read your account of the dreaded CRJ-100 and I second that motion. I call it the flying porta-potty. My experiences are similar. 1. MHT/ DTW had computer malfunction that gave me a bonus night in DTW. 2.LAX/SAN where all the lights shut down inside the cabin and at night it was total darkness flying in a tin can. 3. SYR/ORD (I think one of my first times in the beast) where the lav smell was so bad that the FA put a coffee packet on the coat hook inside the lav door that masked the putrid smell. 4. SFO/PSP where the turbulence was so bad coming over the mountain that I actually almost hit my head in the window seat against the wall. Wasn’t the plane’s fault except for it being so unstable and small. Had to brace myself from head injury
SANspotter
Haha, “flying porta-potty”! I’m just really glad that most airlines are in the process of getting rid of them and rebuilding their regional jet fleets with larger aircraft such as the E175/90. I hope never to fly on a CR2 ever again!
Albert
Hey, at least it was not a ERJ-120, then I had a feeling you would not even get on the plane.
SANspotter
Haha! Even as much as I enjoy flying, it IS hard to get on airplanes every now and then. Especially regional jets!
Peter
I’ve said before that I like the CRJ-700/-900/-1000 (they’re a but narrow, but the 2-2 configuration and large windows are great). However, the -200 is a whole different bird. It feels especially tight and the windows are way too low. I’ve heard that it’s objectively more cramped because the floor is higher than on its longer siblings.
It’s unfortunate that American is bringing back the CRJ-200 due to their contract with Air Wisconsin, while at the same time retiring their ERJ-145’s.
I know, it doesn’t get more “first world problem” than this. Lol
Scott (SANspotter)
Yup, I can’t believe they are bringing them back! On the other hand, it’s been a while since I’ve been on a CRJ-200, and it might be fun to review the AA version of it. On a really short flight of course.
Luca
Are you excited about UAs CRJ550s coming to FNT at some point? If they ever retire the CrapRJ200 lol.
Scott (SANspotter)
Not as excited as I would be about a 777-300ER, but yeah. Sounds like a nice upgrade!
Paul
For whatever reason, I’ve seen a lot of SkyWest operating United Express flights out ORD over the years, to the extent I didn’t actually realize they were a western regional carrier until you mentioned it (I never even thought about the name, haha). With DAY as my home airport I’m no stranger to regional jets, but I’d gladly take a ERJ-145 over a CRJ-200 any day of the week, particularly if I can get that ERJ single seat. But I get what you’re saying about the nostalgia; while I don’t want to fly a CRJ-200 if I can avoid it, I’m also going to miss them when they’re gone, you know?
Scott (SANspotter)
Yeah, the ERJ wins all day long with that sweet 1-2 configuration. I know I’d like the CRJ-200 a whole lot more if I didn’t have to sit thigh to thigh with complete strangers lol.
Anyway yeah, this flight reminded me of what I was feeling as the American Airlines MD-80 retirement drew near. I was never a fan of that thing – but it was definitely sad to see it go.
Peter
Wow! I wasn’t expecting this review to be that positive! I guess that legroom really did help. Anyway, my feelings on the CRJ-200 are the same as what I commented above, back when this article was still that SAN-LAX review.
That being said, as an avgeek, I really like the CRJ (even the -200). I love the look of it (it & the ERJ are the only remaining t-tail aircraft in “mainstream” airline service); the fact that you can board them by airstairs/ramp; sitting right by, looking at, and hearing the engine (sitting ahead of the wing for an extremely quiet ride is nice as well lol); and even its flying characteristics (takeoffs feel steeper and turns feel sharper on the CRJ, which can be fun. I even kinda, sorta like how turbulence-prone these things are. Basically, I like how you can “feel” the plane’s movements).
Oh, and random trivia regarding me and the CRJ: the rare CRJ-1000 is actually my most flown CRJ variant! Just wanted to point that out because I don’t think many people can say that lol.
Scott (SANspotter)
I know, right? I used to really like these things too when they first came onto the scene, but that admiration didn’t last long. The nostalgia is finally hitting me though! The CRJ-200 is far from perfect, but I’m not afraid to admit that they’re a lot better than the old turboprops they replaced.
I agree – you may be the only person in the world who can claim to have flown on a CRJ-1000 the most (out of any other CRJ variant). How is that even possible?
I don’t think I’ve ever seen one in person lol.
Michael
Er…while the pilots may not be content with flying the CrappyRegionalJet-200 between Flint and Chicago, they certaintly won’t be able to launch a C-130 off an aircraft carrier. Aircraft carriers are only supposed to launch fighter jets, and the C-130 is too big (that’s what she said) and heavy.
Edit: Yes, I know a C-130 has done just that once or twice,but it was deemed unsafe and unpractical. Just thought you’d like to know a nerdy fact.
Scott (SANspotter)
+100 points for the “that’s what she said” reference. Well played!