I so rarely use the optical drive in my notebook that it wouldn't be my primary complaint with the Air. Of course the first time i'd really need to use it (badly) I'd probably be swearing up and down.

But that's what the external drive is for. When I do need to use a disc, 90+% of the time it's when I'm at home with the machine on a desk.

Just some perspective since I'm not the slightest bit interested in the Air.