Originally Posted by Puros

I find it interesting how the E190 deal is tying everything together for Delta pilots, USAirways pilots and even AAI and LUV crews. What we have seen since the early 90's is an explosion of the fee for departure model across the board, except the airlines which have stayed away from it are the only ones which seem to have a defined market and are financially successful. This is not a dig in any way at the regional pilots, however it is a question of economics and more importantly the confilct of interest we are starting to see with operations such as Republic. No matter where you look, I believe you would have a hard time finding the same business model we see between the regionals and their life line a.k.a. the majors. Our system in the airlines would be similar to Delphi building parts for GM and then turning around building/ selling their own cars at a dealership right across the street from a GM dealer. As another poster stated "only in the airlines".
Because of the high fuel prices, the success of airlines without regional jets and the absence of the business traveler, it is becoming more difficult to see how the RJ can add to the bottom line of an airline. I have always felt they were a liability, however perhaps in the 90's they were able to retain the business traveler in-house leading to better or more frequent ticket purchases thus justifying their existence. Now, with the economy the way it is, I think that model is long gone. Throw in the apparent conflict of interest we are starting to see with RAH and other regionals it seem the fee for service contract flying isn't a viable business plan.
This E190 debate is really turning up some interesting points and that is what I like about this message board.