Originally Posted by
RU4692
The only problem with fuel efficiency and the Q400 is that they maximize their performance (fuel savings) at FL250, and they hardly get to cruise there. Most of the props get FL180 (max FL210) in the NE due to the CRJ/ERJ's cruising in the FL200 to FL300 range, at faster speeds than the Q400 can achieve.
Actually the Q400 saves the most fuel during take off and climb. Jets are fuel drinkers by comparison at the lower altitudes. The fuel burn for the Q per mile is almost the same at 180 as it is at 250 (.15 lb per nm vs .16) while at cruise. It isn't hurt nearly as much when your kept down low. Any company would love to have a full Q at 180 than a full RJ in the 20's. I usually get to 250 in 8-10 minutes (from DEN) with an unrestricted climb under average wts and temps. How long does it take an RJ to get to its filed altitude? And what is the fuel flow during the climb? Thats where the fuel savings occurs.
The only US company to fly both the RJ and Q is getting rid of the RJs. Not saying both airframes don't have a place in aviation... but the Q can be a market killer.