Delta Cancels Freedom’s CRJ-900 Agreement

Even after Delta terminated Freedom’s Embraer ERJ-145 service, the seven-aircraft CRJ-900 service remained with expectations that a further seven aircraft would be added to the system in May 2009. Related Story That is not so now, judging from the August 1 notification to Mesa that the larger aircraft service will be terminated as well, and the seven aircraft, for which Mesa pays $1 per year, per aircraft, will be returned. Delta, once again, alleged Freedom failed to maintain specified operational performance, as outlined in the contract.
The early termination of the contract for the smaller RJs is the subject of a suit launched by Mesa against the major carrier disputing Delta’s contention that it failed to perform. Mesa won a preliminary injunction against Delta’s action ealier this year.
“Mesa strongly disputes these allegations and intends to vigorously defend its contractual rights,” said the regional carrier in a statement. “Mesa believes the cancellation was driven by Delta's stated intention to reduce capacity and its inability to reduce aircraft at its wholly-owned Comair subsidiary without incurring significant ongoing expense."
"For many years Delta has built a reputation of working closely with its regional airline partners in a spirit of co-operation and good faith," said Mesa Air Group Chairman and CEO, Jonathan Ornstein. "We are disappointed to see Delta now appears to have chosen a different approach with its regional airline partners. We appreciate the difficulties faced by Delta and remain willing to work cooperatively in the mutual best interests of both companies.”