And as the CEO of ExpressJet stated slightly more than a month ago, "Continental has their foot on our neck and has crushed us." ExpressJet recently negotiated a deal with Continental for the 274 aircraft which includes returning most of the 69 aircraft back to Continental, reducing cost per block hour well below the previous rate, but allowing ExpressJet to keep the remaining aircraft once the CPA expires. Their short-lived ExpressJet Airlines was a success from a capacity viewpoint, but with high fuel prices, was not able to turn a profit. Their Delta Connection agreement was mutually terminated by Delta and ExpressJet, Delta realizing it would be cheaper for them to park the planes than continue operating them. Only ExpressJet's Charter Division is doing well, with additional aircraft to be operated on the Charter Side shortly. They have announced furloughs and want cost concessions from all employee groups, the results of having accepted an agreement from Continental below their operating costs.

Thus continues the Continental Express story. . .