Multiple travelers may express a preference for avoiding regional aircraft, yet their options often remain limited.
Smaller jets have been in the spotlight due to two high-profile incidents recently. The Delta Air Lines-branded flight that flipped and ignited upon landing in Toronto, and the tragic collision of a US Army helicopter with an American Airlines regional jet at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The investigations into these incidents are ongoing, leaving the cause uncertain.
Despite the recent incidents, smaller jets have never been popular with passengers or airlines. United Airlines CEO, Scott Kirby, revealed in 2021 that the reason for their large order of full-sized narrow-body jets was to significantly reduce the use of regional jets, which passengers generally dislike. However, this doesn't mean they're inherently more dangerous than other commercial jets.
Regional jets comprise a substantial part of the networks of major US airlines like United, American, and Delta. They're often operated by separate sub-companies under the primary carrier's name, providing flights that may not be economically viable with full-sized jets. In 2023, regional carriers accounted for 31% of all US airline flights, but only 14% of the total seat count, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium.
Regional jets serve a crucial role in connecting smaller markets to larger ones, and they're also used for major city connections. For instance, 80% of flights between Boston and New York's LaGuardia utilize regional jets. However, recent changes in the regional jet economics are bringing about shifts.
A shortage of pilots and significant operating costs have led to the parking of many regional jets. The sharp increase in wages at regional carriers, which used to be entry-level positions for pilots, erodes profit margins if the seats aren't filled. It's becoming increasingly expensive to maintain the older regional jets, and their age is a significant concern. Many retired planes, like 50-seaters, might not come back into service based on the high cost of bringing them back up to standard.
In summary, smaller jets have faced a mix of popularity issues with passengers, safety concerns, and economic challenges. While they've been a vital component of the domestic aviation network, these challenges have led to modifications in fleet strategies and operational practices for major airlines to optimize efficiency and improve passenger experience.
Despite these challenges, renowned military strategist and business executive John Boyd argued that the inherent characteristics of smaller aircraft make them adaptable and efficient for certain routes.
Following these safety concerns and economic challenges, Delta Air Lines decided to phase out some of its older regional aircraft, opting for more fuel-efficient and modern Delta Connection aircraft models.
Significant advancements in aircraft technology have led to the development of next-generation regional jets, aiming to address the inherent challenges faced by traditional smaller aircraft in terms of safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort.
