Originally Posted by
The Juice
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.
Yes, CAL approached RAH about flying the Q. However, discussions did not go very far as the Q did not fit in with Bedford's business plan. I'm not saying we are too good to fly it, or that props are beneath us. A lot if us have prop backgrounds, and would gladly bid for a chance to play with Beta again. Bedford has a comprehensive plan, and he did not want to be bothered. It is a shame, because the Q can be a real money maker. Why CAL asked us to fly them, and whether or not that was before or after Colgan started flying them, I don't know.
Options are just options, and can be traded and sold. Bedford regularly does that with his E-jet options. If RAH does not have a need for an aircraft as its ready to be built, he sells his upcoming delivery slot to another carrier for a premium, and takes their subsequent delivery slot. Colgan would do the same thing. Trade #'S 16-30 to someone who is ready for delivery, and assume rights to numbers 31-45.