Skippy, the regionals had their 10 year or so run. I haven't heard anyone with any credibility say their future is bright. Assuming the majors don't cave further on scope, when you figure in retirements, the inefficiencies of smaller airplanes in a high fuel cost environment, and the whipsawing potential in the regionals, I think anyone who stays at a regional instead of jumping to a major is very short sighted. That cozy job flying an RJ right now might not be so cozy or even exist in another 5-10 years.

I would suspect, that most of those guys bypassed because they've been on the street for many, many years and have moved to a different stage. Its not CAL or UA...it's life. Either, family, financials, risk tolerance and new careers are the drivers. I know numerous that have moved on and have told me they will not come back at all. Also, the regional survival is dependent upon a major and as fuel prices rise and profitability continues to reduce, they are on the table..

Smart man (or woman).