There are some really interesting thoughts in this thread. I agree we'll probably never know the real reasons for the 175s going away, but it is frustrating to not know why, especially after such a great effort by so many here to stand up that fleet.
I wanted to add one thing regarding UA making the decision to put in that 49% stake. What are the chances UA mgmt was concerned about certain regional airlines getting so large, with so much market share, that they'd have too much bargaining power? I'd be interested to hear the group's thoughts.
Be well all.