Originally Posted by
ToiletDuck
1. It depends on the routes. Over a longer route the Q becomes less and less efficient.
2. CAL did want more Qs. I don't know if they still do or not. CAL went to Republic wanting them to place a bid to fly 12 Qs for them but the company didn't find it financially feasible.
So CAL wanted Republic to fly Q's? Where was Republic going to get these Q's? Colgan's Q options were available to any airline to codeshare with and CAL wanted the first 15 (which they got) and then they signed for 15 more (next year)...and they signed for first option for Q's 46-60. Q's 31-45 are still available to any airline.
Bottom line is cost cost cost. Q's are the best within 400 miles as you mentioned. Airlines are going to have to find any and all ways to save a buck with the new era in aviation which is on the way.