Originally Posted by ClarenceOver

But would mainline jets be economical? I cant see A320s being used on routes like PHL - JFK

No it wouldn't be economical. However regional flying is less economical than mainline. I dont know the exact numbers but a 777 moves someone only 9 cents a seat mile while the beloved rj moves someone 21 cents a seat mile. Regionals were never logical. They just did it because they could.

anywhere near a crew base, however if I commuted to newark (a short 30 minute flight) for an NYC base, would this be a good idea?

Commuting is never a good idea. If you are young and single just move to base. Don't even think about commuting if you have the means to live in base. Living in base will make life at the regionals almost tolerable. Almost...