Originally Posted by
FlyJSH
Colgan is, as a whole, one of the last true regional carriers. The longest regularly scheduled leg of the q400 (EWR to CMH) is 400nm. The vast majority of Colgan's legs are under 300nm. Compare that to "Contenental's" flights from CMH to IAH (855nm) and you will see HALF of the flights are operated by "regionals". So, rather than having three 737s on the mainline (crew earning roughly $220 per hour combined) there are two 73s and two RJs (earning roughly $110 per hour combined).
By no means am I saying Colgan's rates are fair and equitable, but quit bashing the puddle-jumpers for bringing down the industry when there are RJs competing against Boeings.
For me, I would rather have fewer jobs paying better salaries than a zillion jobs paying busboy wages.
P.S. I'm glad I'm at Colgan flying the Saab for that reason, we don't take jobs away from the majors. Can't see a Boeing landing at Del Rio or Victoria, TX
Here is my thought on fixing this industry, I think regionals should not be allowed to fly between two B class airports. Hence the word regional, they should be used to feed the smaller destinations. I hear the longest express flight is 4+ hours to Canada I think. That's not regional flying. This change would force the majors to fly the routes with larger equipment and more pay. In my opinion no one needs 7-10 flights between two airports a day.
I know this change would severely shrink the regionals with Rjs but openings at majors would def increase. Thoughts???