"For those of you who didn't get the union update:

Yesterday SkyWest Inc. announced that it has entered into an agreement with Embraer for a firm order of 100 EMB-175 aircraft and an option for an additional 100 EMB-175 airframes to be exercised at a later date. ExpressJet President and COO Brad Holt, in a memo to all ExpressJet employees, stated that 40 of the firm 100 EMB-175 aircraft will be operated by SkyWest Airlines under a 12-year CPA with United Airlines.

 

The addition of the EMB-175 to the SkyWest Inc. portfolio opens up new opportunities to secure future flying with any of ExpressJet’s three mainline partners. American, Delta, and United all have new scope language that must be evaluated and analyzed for potential placement of 76-seat dual class aircraft. Mr. Holt claims that these aircraft are not currently destined for ExpressJet due to uncertainty associated with the cost to operate the aircraft. He stressed that with multiple labor groups engaged in contract negotiations it is difficult to accurately forecast the costs associated with operating a new airframe and thus makes the process of strategically bidding on the flying difficult.

 

The ASA MEC is fully committed to securing a JCBA that allow for improved cost and operational efficiencies for ExpressJet. However, the ASA MEC remains dedicated to protecting pilot quality of life and benefits throughout this process. It is encouraging that the placement of the remaining balance of the firm order is unknown. This highlights the positive opportunities that are on the horizon for ExpressJet pilots. It is this positive opportunity that continues to keep the ASA MEC engaged and working aggressively with the XJT MEC and Company to conclude JCBA negotiations in a fashion that rewards the contributions of all ExpressJet pilots and provides financial and operational stability for the company."