While I agree that the VLJ's will have a more or less positive impact on pilot hiring, I disagree with this statement:

"Air-taxis should attract some folks who would have driven otherwise, and even if they steal significant airline pax, well then you have 2 pilots flying 1-4 pax around instead of flying 30-90 pax...big net gain in pilot jobs."

The economics of 2 pilots flying 1-4 passengers dont lead me to the conclusion that the "huddled masses" will be seen on VLJ's. A lot of the "regional" operators have had a hard time making any money with 2 pilots flying 55 people around. That's *part* of the reason why we have the "race to the bottom" for pilot wages.

In my opinion, the VLJ's will cater to a more exclusive crowd and will steal customers from the first class cabins of the main line airlines and corporate charter operators.