Continental's scope is everything over 50 is mainline (for jets). However, are they allowed unlimited number of turboprop's?? If so, that is a huge problem. The Q400's can hold 76 seats, and they are equally as capable as any jet. And now they are being flown at Colgan for less pay than any 50 seat operator!! Less than Mesa and less than GoJet. And for more seats. It is really sad!!

With the exception of Continental's turbo prop clause...
Continental scope is everything above 50
American's scope is everything above 70
United's scope is everything above 70.

Delta's scope is everything above 76
Northwest's scope is everything above 76
I think US Air is everything above 86! Not sure, but I know the Mesa CRJ-900's hold a lot!! And they are starting to bring EMB-175's online at Republic!


Continental should be the model. Everything above 50 seats should be at mainline. However, Continental should work to protect mainline flying from advanced turboprops (like the Q400) (in a perfect world). United and American should hold it at 70 seats. This is probably the realistic goal. Everything above 70 seats should be mainline.

The problem is with Delta, Northwest, and US Air. While 6 seats doesn't sound like much, it is a big deal! These airlines are flying CRJ-900's and EMB-175's (that can hold about 86), but they are only flying them with 76 seats (12 first class, 64 coach). That allows them to make more revenue without more pay. In the upcoming negotiations, Delta, Northwest, and US Air should try to make everything over 70 seats mainline. There are not that many 71-76 seat aircraft flying at regionals YET! Yet is the key word. They need to act soon. Otherwise the precident will be set and we will be stuck with 90 seat aircraft at the regionals!!!