Originally Posted by
sailingfun
Turboprops now count against the total number of aircraft operated. I would have to reread section 1 to see if there is a exemption for under 50 seats but don't have time at the moment. I am sure someone else can check but my understanding is that the 340's would count toward the 425 airframe limit.
Don't have the contract open right now, but I'm pretty sure any aircraft below 37 seats don't count against the the total cap* laid out in the new Section 1. As I understand it, the 340's will have 30 seats, and thus not be counted in the new limit.
Also, I think 425 is the "end state" limit which is not fully in effect if/until management exercises their option to operate more 76 seaters at DCI. I'm sure they'll do it, but the delivery of a 76 seater is what triggers the requirement to reduce the DCI fleet count - ie park 50 seaters.
They also must take delivery of 1.25 717's for every one 76 seater they want to operate. As the 717's aren't slated to show up until mid-2013, they still have plenty of time to announce where the 76 seaters are going.
*It should be noted that there was no limit in the previous PWA either.