Originally Posted by
waflyboy
I see your point, but I'm not sure I agree entirely.
Given the efficiencies required for a regional to make money, it wouldn't surprise me if the cost to carry a passenger on the RJ is the same or lower than on mainline.
It's often discussed that RJs are less fuel efficient and thus more costly to operate on a per-seat basis. I do not contest this. What often isn't considered is other operational efficiencies that regionals specialize in: quick turns, fleet commonality, and a high rate of aircraft utilization.
Mainlines are much better at making money on longer-haul legs. Until such time that more mainline carriers are able to operate shorter legs with greater cost effectiveness (ala Southwest), I see their growth in international and longer domestic routes. Regional flying may take a hit in the near future, but mostly due to a current overcapacity in the domestic system.
I'm not saying that the regional jet days are numbered, but I believe we will see a combination of two things:
1.) Resurgence of turboprops on medium-short haul doemstic routes (less 400nm
2.) Larger capacity domestic regional jets (80-100 seats)
This bickering back and forth about which regional is better and has the best contract is silly and immature. It's a business, and comapanies need to operate in a matter that will keep them in business, so that ALL employees can benefit and still have a place to work. You can have the best labor contract in all the world, but if your company goes out of business what good will it be?