Originally Posted by
xj200capt
With the new aircraft came a 6 year contract, so we are amendable in 3+ years.
Considering nothing happens that fast I suspect that the SAAB replacements could come later than that. The only but in the issue is whether or not "Delta" or "Northwest" require more 70+ seat aircraft. The only way that can happen with the scope on 70+ seat jets is to do a 70+ seat turboprop. A Q400 is plenty fast and has plenty of range to replace the AVRO and we flew those things all over the place.
Mesaba could really save some money on salaries, there are many senior jet Capts. that would go to a Q400.
Or they could honestly take out six seats out of a 900, and presto!!!! No more scope issues. They could also take out two rows of coach and add on row of first class, and once again they are below the scope limit. All these guys claiming that scope is ironclad keep forgetting that it limits the seats and the weight but not the aircraft. The 900 is below the weight limit (87000ish i believe) and changing seating configuration is not that difficult, as in reality it started out as a 90 aircraft, and ironically I believe mainline had a scope clause to some effect on 90 seat aircraft?