Originally Posted by Chapel Hill Guy
My understanding from previous discussions about the BA146 is that it was developed for restricted runways that would normally be limited to turbo props. With four engines, you can do shorter and quieter takeoffs. Someone with more expertise can probably clarify.
That is essentially correct.
http://www.airliners.net/info/stats.main?id=45
PSA bought a bunch of them in the early 80's, because they felt it was ideal for the noise restrictions at SNA and other airports they flew into. It worked very well, and PSA expanded service to Concord, CA and other small airports with this aircraft. It's not a very comfortable plane by any stretch of the imagination, but it's well designed and quiet. As RJ's go, you could do much worse than one of these.