Hmmm, interesting theory: Buying airplanes to keep wages low for a fraction of a workforce.

I don't think a sane investor would have such a thought as it's a self-defeating business model. What a driver is paid is peanuts (even if they tripped wages) compared to the capital outlay and maintenance expenditures of a $30mm machine operating 15-20 hours a day. I think a better explanation is they are buying aircraft to grow the business and fulfill contractual obligations going out the next 8-10 years? Investor groups are there to make money with the least amount of risk and with the most stability. Investors look to take cash and reinvest, or increase the value with a long-term strategy. $600,000,000 dollars are not invested/obligated with the express purpose of sticking it to the pilot group.

I think the best takeaway from the aircraft purchases is that Mesa's investors are meeting current needs, are committed to a long-term growth strategy, and their clients are equally onboard. Perhaps they are setting the business up for sale, an IPO, acquisitions, organic market expansion, who knows. They do present Mesa as being the best value for the money and have set up a model through long-term contracts to do just that. As an employee you are always better to be with a company growing rather than shrinking.

Regarding previous comments; Mesa will be kaput in 2-3 years because it won't pay top wages to their pilots simply does not pass the logic test. But, if one is convinced Mesa is sinking they are foolish not to jump ship as quickly as possible. The only person looking out for your best interest is you.