So flying Q1's and Q2's gives you the training and infrastructure for a completely different airframe? The Q4 has very few similarities (pretty much ends with looks) as the Q1/2/3's and they do not cross over..........at all. It's no different from operating CRJ's and moving to the Q4. I’m also certain that most who flew all three (Horizon) would agree that the CR2 is more similar to the Q4 than the Q1/2/3’s. (Speed, Fuel Burn, Automation, etc.)

BTW, SKW has never said they want out of the TP’s markets or that they want an “all jet fleet.”. They had a retirement schedule for their E120’s but always hinted that they are interested in a replacement. Also the Q4 is not a good replacement for the E120……….the Q4 is WAY TOO large to operate in the markets the EMB operates in. Just look at Horizon who retired their Q2’s and ended service to many of their smaller markets. No, the Q4 is an excellent replacement for CR2’s and CR7/9’s on their shorter runs (<2 hrs or so). In order to replace the E120 SKW needs a NG 30-40 seat TP.

I don't see this being an option since Colgan would have to transfer bases and flying to the west coast which would take some time. It sounds like United wants this deal completed SOON. If anyone has more credible info please post on how this would be done.

It is Colgan.

United and Colgan had a deal in principle for the Q's to fly either out of DEN of LAX . A week or so before it could be finalized 3407 happened. United pulled out because of the bad press with the crash.

United wants those Q's but has to hold of for a bit more before making the announcement. Colgan already owns the options on Q's for 2011 so the planes are there just looking for a home.

And you already stated it. I HIGHLY doubt UAL wants more bad press. And awarding Colgan flying after 3407, which is still on the minds of many, would provide that. I HIGHLY doubt Colgan would be the replacement. To be honest if Mesa does lose this contract, I DOUBT THEY DO, I would be willing to bet AWAC more then anyone. Ground handeling ability, the ability to fly larger planes (over 70 seats), and relations between UAL and AWAC. But to each their own. I sure hope it goes to a better regional carrier not one which is nearly on the same level of mesa (Colgan).

Colgans better then mesa?

I heard it from Chuck Colgan himself, when he called me for an interview. Colgan has 10 Q400's coming in 2010 and 10 more for 2011. The 2010's are for ual an the 2011's are for cal. He was trying to sell me the growth Colgan was getting in the future. But I turned it down because I got another job offer from a cargo company with better pay.

Where can I find the details for this RFP?

Here we go with the whole 'my airline is better than your airline' war.

I give it 4 more pages of debate on why one is better than the other before it gets locked; same old childish games here on APC.

Sad, and this was a good thread too.

[QUOTE=hslightnin;669504]Colgans better then mesa?[/QU


Same Boat .............

As someone who is very close to being furloughed but still hanging on, I want to say thank you for that attitude and comment. I understand a lot of people hate this company, but we are fellow pilots and we need to adopt a mentality of working with each other, not rooting against each other. Again, thank you, I wish there were more like you out there.