I disagree that THESE planes have only been a problem as you put it the last few years. I flew for a REGIONAL ( when most of these companies really were just regional companies ) 15 years ago when our average seat capacity was probably less than 30. we flew Jetstreams, shorts, saabs... and a few ATR's. Seat capacity has risen for 15-20 years as this "model" has evolved. the -900 and similar sized aircraft is just the latest pushing of the envelope.

I agree the 80 million is probably years if ever from being realized and mesa will limp along. Although if they continue to bleed pilots as they are that could definitely put a different twist on things. Especially if they loose a major codeshare because of performance.