We have 2 sets here at Spooky that I convince Ricky to put on my Slalom bike for the big races.
Airlines is the best shifting system ever implemented for gravity bicycling.
As a developmental project it is beyond impressive. For a project that was started in the fall of 1996 and put into limited production in 1999, Airlines has many features and patents that were developed that shimano is now implementing in the newest Saint and Durace systems.
From hand-cast parts made one at a time to the beyond thorough installation instructions, Airlines represents the creativity and innovation that is truly possible when dedicated perfection driven manufacturers and elite athletes collaborate to produce a no-limits piece of gear.
Ride the hell out of it. It's a machine, not a wimpy bike part, and everything on it can be serviced, repaired or a replacement piece can be easily fabricated.
They just don't make em like that any more.