USAirways scope does not currently permit Q400s to be operated at the regional level. They could adjust their scope pending negotiations with USAPA, and those negotiations are currently pending an integrated seniority list.. which is right around the corner...
In my opinion, given the weak financial position of USAirways, it is far more likely that Colgan/Mesaba gets a Q400 contract than Piedmont. The simple fact is that Airways doesn't have the capital to invest in the renewal of their mainline fleet, and that clearly would take priority to any airline over investing in regional aircraft. So, I expect to see Airways getting out of the "wholly boned" regional business in the next few years.
Yeah, we at PDT are aware of all that. We are scoped out of planes certificated for more than 70 seats. I've heard Bombardier told PDT that if we order a large number of airframes, they will certificate a "PDT" version for 69 seats. They are putting first class in larger regional jets, so adding first class seats to a 400 can bring it down to 69 seats. Mainline is replacing much of their fleet over the next few years. The main reason for this thread was just to find out what other people know. We've been bypassed for everything. Unless mainline gives all the PDT pilots a class date for mainline, the 400's are our last hope for a future here. A contract carrier flying 400's will be a major slap in the face to PDT.