Oh I know they could sell to anyone. But it's all in theory but SkyWest does have the biggest pockets of all the regionals combined and I doubt Alaska would sell it at a lower price to someone to avoid selling to SkyWest. Still it's all theory and horizon isn't for sale (that we know of) so speculation is just that.

+1

I wonder what the plan is for Horizon's branded flying now since it is 55% of their operation. Will Alaska provide a CPA to cover most of it?

ACA/Independence Air, ExpressJet(both as ExpressJet AND Delta Connection), and now Horizon's branded. Do you need more proof?

So why didn't DAL sell Mesaba or Compass to Skywest? Compass went to Trans States for $20 million. Chump change. Something to think about.

Because it wasn't in SkyWest's best interests. Mgmt said as much in their numerous press releases. Think about that.

Horizon is the best contract airline. Free beer!

Well what do you think they are going to say? Yeah, well we really wanted Mesaba but DAL wouldn't sell them to us? Skywest is showing interest in Comair whom is loaded with 50 seaters and few 700/900's, but Mesaba has 41 CRJ900 configured to 76 seats wasn't in SkyWest's best interests? Yeah. Ok.

All ASA needs is GO and Horizon and we get all 50 states right?

Because Delta is already forcing Skywest's competition in there with Mesaba and has continued to increase the presence for a while now..

Interesting, Mesaba manegement told their people that Skywest and Pinnacle both put in the same bid (Skywest first, you do the math) and Delta CHOSE to sell to Pinnacle.