Originally Posted by
acl65pilot
Yes, by buying another airline you are buying preexisting airframes and leases. We do not want to do what AMR is doing and buy a fleet a spanking new 73N's that in reality can and probably will fly to 2050. We want something we can dump in the next 15-20 years. Anything used in the NB market that compliments what we have fits in to that.
You're on the right track. In relative technological terms, the 737 is nearing the end of its competitive life cycle. Advancements in the next generation engine are significant and right around the corner. These advancements are significant enough to provide an operator a distinct advantage over a competitor. This advantage currently doesn't exist, especially when one blends in cost of capital of the new vs. pre-owned asset.
As long as you can provide a comparable cabin experience, the average passenger doesn't care what the plane looks like when booking a ticket.
As a launch customer, one can historically expect a "b i t c h i n' deal."