Originally Posted by
Mesabah
That's true, and several other reasons, for why RJ flying is off the mainline list. Keep in mind however, mainline is flying a massive amount of routes with mainline aircraft in slots that are allocated to RJs. Subsequently, the RJs are flying elsewhere in the system. If mainline gets rid of the RJs, those slots then go up for bid to other airlines. It's usually the RJs that get canceled when bad weather starts restricting traffic. Mainline simply can't give up the RJs, they have to operate them at mainline eventually.
Slots are important at the hub, but no shortage in Podunk Falls. Some hub slots would be used for expanded NB service, but you're right they would need to get creative to hang on to most of them.
But bringing flying in house is permanent... they'll try everything else first. The good thing about regionals is they can always pay them now if need be and then COMAIR them later when the labor market is more favorable.