I've heard these same lines at Midwest a few years ago...
Q: How is this partnership different than a traditional codeshare arrangement?
Under a traditional codeshare, the flying by the regional carrier is done on a contract basis without regard to the number of passengers onboard, the regional partner typically paints their planes into the larger carrier’s livery and their employees wear the larger company’s uniforms.
Under this marketing partnership...
Q: If this is the right way to go, why don’t we operate the CRJ-200 ourselves?
This partnership allows both AirTran and SkyWest to do what we do best. For us, that is offering the best low-cost, high-quality service in the sky using North America’s youngest all-Boeing fleet and for SkyWest, it is operating the CRJ-200 from MKE to these six cities. SkyWest is the world’s largest independent operator of the CRJ and has vast experience with this aircraft and type of operation.
Q: What approvals did AirTran have to receive before beginning this partnership?
AirTran required no approvals to enter into a partnership with SkyWest. This partnership is also consistent with all labor agreements
Asking AirTran management for scope covering all marketing, code-share, and partnerships on aircraft over 50 seat, 500 mile stage length, 70000 lbs GTOW, etc...
Don't become the next Midwest.