Originally Posted by
calmwinds
I just can’t see it being “the end”. There is no regional that can pick up the flying being done. I suspect it is streamlining of resources, possibly outsourcing more functions to corporate.
Basically 2 things will shut down ExpressJet.
1. They can’t staff the flying that they have signed contracts to fly.
2. United buys additional mainline planes to replace those seats.
Neither has happened or will happen overnight. Even if United were to buy new planes it will take years to get them. I don’t see ExpressJet getting any large rj’s, but I don’t see them completely going away as long as there are 50 seat jets running around. Scope is maxed out and even if United added another fleet type it would only allow around 65 more big rj’s. Even if they all went to express the number of pilot seats would be slashed over what is present now. My guess is that those planes will be spread out between the companies already flying them. I don’t see ExpressJet having a bright future when the 50 seat jets are parked, but until then I see the worse case being shrinking considerably but surviving. If I was there I’d be looking to get out, and if I was applying to the regionals I’d go somewhere with big rj’s and your best guess of a quick upgrade. Being that United changes it’s mind on a daily basis, what actually happens is anyone’s guess.