The rich get richer!

[Fly-By-Cable]

The only problem with AirTran operating their own RJs, is that it would drive the cost of training up. including mx ect.
Besides I don't know anyone here who wants to give up 2 year upgrade on 717 for over $100 an hour...and take an early upgrade in RJ for about what they can make as 2nd year FO on 717...
I think as long as the company keeps growing, which they're planning to do, Air Wisc's RJs are a good thing.
Scope clearly says that Express carrier will be used for company's growth only, and not to cut cost of main line flying, which is what they're doing.
From press release: "With the launch of AirTran JetConnect, we will also be able to redeploy our Boeing 717s to increase frequencies in longer haul, more profitable markets and facilitate growth in larger markets we do not currently serve."

 

[Cardinal]

FBC, that is exactly what CAL, DAL, AMR, etc said back in '95. The logical fallacies abound, however. Of course adding CRJ's would drive up mainentance costs, but who do you think is paying for the mainentance and training? It ain't AirWis, it's your company, the customer! Where is Air Wisconsin's competitive advantage? It seems AirTran has mastered flying a jet from point A to point B, so why subcontract? Cheaper labor, perhaps? And if the left seat of an RJ is below you today, perhaps dozens of pilots below you on your seniority list would look more appealing after a catastrophic economic event (But those don't happen, right?)

Do me a favor: Ask the next Continental pilot you run into on the hotel van what their 50-seat scope clause has done for them, then look at your 70-seat limitation and do the math.

 

[Fly-By-Cable]

The scope also includes % of ASMs that can be flown by Express carrier.
AirTran is presented with opportunity to grow in this crumbling economy...but is unable to do so fast enough with retirement of DC9s. and limited deliveries of 717s
So by covering some of existing routes...All three are by the way currently served by DC9, Company can expand perhaps west...and put more people in airplanes with @ on them.

This isn't DAL, AMR or CAL....all of which have long established names, routs and reputation among pax. Then RJs came and ruined their pilot's lives...

This company is growing and there are many travelers out there who never heard of AirTran. So the company is trying to grow aggressively while majors are vulnerable, and if it's RJs that will help that happen then so be it.

As a result of expansion there will be a lot of hiring next year (according to training dept.) So how is that bad for AirTran pilots?

Besides 717 is more efficient then any RJ, based on double the seating capacity, so it's cheaper to operate one 717 instead of 2 RJs. DAL's or AMR's 727, MD80....not so much.

Another good thing is AirTran picked Air Wisconsin who has one of industry's highest pay. If saving money was an object I'm sure Mesa would have gotten a call.