Topic: Economy Mode

Airlines have begun allowing the use of electronic devices in flight mode during all phases of travel. The experience of flying coach on Delta and KLM is contrasted with the high cost of international business class tickets, which can reach $3,500 per person. The value of "economy comfort" seating, providing an additional two inches of legroom, is noted as a necessary upgrade for tall travelers.

A listener email from the UK explains that "Eco Mode" or "Start-Stop" technology is becoming standard in Europe to meet CO2 and fuel economy targets. The hosts discuss how these systems, which shut off the engine at stoplights, are often disliked by drivers but necessary for manufacturers to hit the 54.5 MPG average required in the U.S. by 2025.

The "economy mode" in modern cars, which shuts off the engine at stoplights, is criticized for being unnerving and potentially unsafe on steep inclines. Dvorak recounts a test drive where a vehicle rolled backward before the engine restarted.