To say the least.

 

Here's what I believe to be an accurate breakdown on our MD-90 fleet, as well as what's left to be had elsewhere in the world

In Service:
Manufactured for Delta: 16
Acquired from Hello: 3
Total: 19

In Mod:
China Eastern: 9
Blue 1: 5
China Southern 1
Total: 15 (running total 34)

On Order:
China Southern: 12
Hello: 3
JAL: 9
Total: 24 (running total 58)

Total Remaining, world wide:
Eva Air 3
Lion Airlines 4
Uni Air 8
JAL 7 (running total 80)
*Saudi Arabian Airlines 29 (running total 109)

As far as pilot staffing goes, these airframes put us slightly above the number of total mainline airframes we currenty have actively flying, after accounting for the retrement of the remaining -9's (Currently just the 30 -50's are flying, and they are scheduled for retirement by Year end 2012. Subject to change, of course. This was from network at a base meeting last month.) The stage lengths are also longer than the 9's they are "replacing," - so barring any major capacity reductions this should not result in a decrease in pilot staffing. More likely to do the opposite, but time will tell...

 

The * on the saudi birds is because of the 717/MD-11 panel. The 3 that Hello has now are supposedly going to be leased to us.

 

Also remember that the FTDT NPRM is going to duty time limits in a two week period. If this rule goes as proposed, the way we and the company looks at flight time and duty time will change.

Fyp: The new FAR; 117, should be posted in August.

 

After winning the KCX tanker award, Boeing might reopen 767-400 production for FEDEX to keep the 767 line open continuously...

Boeing and FedEx eye 767-400ER freighter to extend commercial production - FlightBlogger - Aviation News, Commentary and Analysis

Cheers
George

 

Thanks to all of you that have been thinking of us. Unfortunately, during a final check up they found some other areas of concern and the transplant was postponed and we're now in medical testing limbo. My wife and I are both more grateful than all of you can know for your support. Thanks and I'll post what I can whenever I know more.

 

You will continue to be in our prayers. Update us when you can.

 

Still thinking about you and your wife, DAL. Keep us posted and stay positive.

 

Prayers for you and your wife coming to you from SoCal. Hang in there brother and give your wife a hug from all of us.

 

Best wishes to you and your wife. Hang in there, we're all rooting for her.
Let us know if you need any help from your Delta family!

Cheers
George