Originally Posted by
Coehill
If the Q400 does in fact violate delta scope. By being too heavy of a turboprop. I could see DALPA using this as a bargaining tool to get Embraers or CRJ-900s back to mainline.
The Q400 is such a comfortable and efficient airplane I wouldn't be surprised if this is what is holding back the orders right now.
How would everyone at the DCI's feel about a 1 for 1 swap, Q400 for their large RJs?
As unrealistitc as it is I'd say DALPA try and force a 2-1 swap. 2 RJs of any size going to mainline for 1 Q400 going to the regionals. Let the Q-400s and the current trubo props fly truly regional routes instead of ATL-CVG or ATL-MDW etc. Grow the higher paying mainline jobs and crush the regional growth.
I say this as a regional guy who would get totally screwed by this type of growth at the majors and cuts at the regionals. I'd rather stay flight instructing or flying night cargo for a few extra years than get recalled by my regional. If I'm going to "pay my dues," I'd rather do it flight instructing or 135 night cargo flying than fly at the regionals. At least in that way I would have the possibility of a good career at the majors instead of a lousy/mediocre one that it looks like I'll be having at the regionals.