Mainline flew some of the larger cities but much of the service to smaller places like Chihuahua was started when the 50 seaters became popular. A handful were flown with small turbo-props by the regionals that became xjt.

I dont think you are going to find anyone on here that disagrees with your view of scope relaxation but there is little we can do now. A lot of scope was given up in bankruptcy court and "concessionary" contracts to prevent bankruptcy. Which is complete BS to me. How can it be cheaper to guarantee a profit to another company, while paying the salaries of every management type at that new company, create the training curriculum, have another spare parts and mx department.... you cant tell me that it wouldnt be financially beneficial for them to operate the aircraft themselves. It doesnt cost that much to pay the crew right.