Originally Posted by
Hedley
From what I understand, C5 is going to end up operating some of those planes, not all, and probably not even most. It isn’t just due to COVID that they were considering ways to dramatically shrink the 50 seaters. Several years ago in a company statement when they announced the 737-700’s that never happened, they said that the order would allow them to get down to around 100 of the 50 seaters. CommutAir may get some temporary growth, but it will most likely be short lived. My guess is that by 2025 the single class 50 seaters will be gone, and United will have 3 or 4 regionals flying the 175’s and 550’s.
Prior to COVID, United was doubling down on the 50 seaters, especially the 145s. They were getting new paint, cabin refreshes, and even wifi. XJT was told the only limitation to increased 145 flying at that point was their ability to hire and retain pilots. All of XJT's old 145s (and TSA's) are now on the C5 certificate. How many actually get operated is the question, but I'm betting there will be 80-100 total in operation by late summer. Maybe that only lasts for a few years, but it's a doubling or tripling in size for C5.