SkyWest replaces T-Props w Larger Jets at UA
SkyWest, Inc. will add 18 of the 22 new regional jets it is acquiring to its United Express program as part of a transition plan replacing 23 Embraer Brasilias for 66-seat as yet unnamed regional jets. It is also replacing four Bombardier CRJ 200s for four 76-seat regional jets for its Delta Connection operation. The regional airline will begin discussions with both Bombardier and Embraer immediately for deliveries in late 2008 through 2009. The turboprop retirements will be timed to the arrival of the regional jets in order to ensure a smooth transition in existing markets. The new jets will be operated by subsidiary SkyWest Airlines under its existing agreements with the two major carriers for 10- to 13-year terms.
“These new regional jet aircraft will enable us to improve the experience of our customers by providing our United ex-plus product, which offers Economy Plus and First class seating,” said Alexandria Marren, Vice President of Operational Services & United Express for United.

Skybus Drops Bellingham
After just a few months in the market, Skybus is dropping its service to Bellingham, Wash., Horizon Air’s territory, citing increasing fuel prices for the move. It also dropped its Columbus, Oh.-San Diego service in favor of introducing expanded service from its base at Columbus to Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point, N.C. and Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers, Fla. Expanded service from Columbus beginning Jan. 6, 2008, will include a second daily nonstop between Columbus and Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point, N.C. and a third daily nonstop to increase winter service to Punta Gorda/Ft. Myers. The third flight will operate through March 31.
Skybus service to Bellingham, Wash., and one of two daily nonstops to Burbank, Calif., will be discontinued as part of the schedule adjustment, effective Jan. 6. Service to San Diego will be discontinued effective March 7.
Skybus offers at least 10 seats at $10 on every flight, every day. On average, Skybus fares are half the comparable fare offered by other airlines to the markets it serves.

Porter Adds Seasonal Service to Mont Tremblant
The number one ski resort in eastern North America will be closer to Toronto thanks to Porter Airlines’ new service from Toronto City Center Airport to Mont Tremblant International Airport which begins December 22 and running through March 31. The 70-minute flights are on Mondays and Wednesday and holiday weekends. From December 22 to January 6, Porter is offering a total of eight TCCA- Mont Tremblant round-trips. Regular weekend service begins January 7, with one Toronto-Mont Tremblant round-trip on Saturday mornings and another round-trip on Sunday evenings. Tremblant was voted the number one ski resort in the east by the readers of Ski Magazine, for 11 years in a row.

Mitsubishi Joins ERA
Just after announcing its entrance into the regional jet marketplace, Mitsubishi Heavy Industry joined the European Regions Airline Association on the eve of the organizations annual meeting. Related Story  “Mitsubishi is the second aircraft manufacturer to join ERA in the last 12 months and its application for membership is a clear indication that aircraft manufacturers believe that the European air transport market offers substantial new opportunities,” said ERA Director General, speaking at the start of the ERA General Assembly in Athens.