In regards to AQ's future, the more I think about it, the more I'm convinced they're going under REALLY SOON!

If, and when this happens, one may want to consider how to add the 11,000+ daily seats that need to be made up, as well as the lost cargo space. All would preferably be done in an effective and cost-efficient matter. The RJ theory can solve the pax shortfalls, but this would mean a total interisland fleet of at least fifteen RJs for it to be viable. That and the structure for interisland travel will have to change to keep HNL running efficiently.

AQ's cargo contracts are another story. Their all-cargo flights will be somewhat difficult to do on an RJ (if at all possible). I see a couple options with this one:

1) The (3) 737-200s for cargo will be kept around until a suitable replacement is found (I'm hinting at another 737 variant or an E190 pax/cargo quick-change, a first for that line if it's possible)

2) The RJs will carry limited cargo and the bulky contracts will be transferred to other companies.

3) Fleet simplification. The new fleet choice (one A/C type) will be QC capable and suited for the interisland market.


Of course this is just my mind wandering, but it's never harmful to think of what can happen.

asu-ua772