Dublin-based Patrick Edmond is a former CityJet GM Commercial (part of Air France). Recently Patrick wrote an article for Airline Business in which he makes the case that while regional airlines are threatened by industry structural changes, they remain viable. We go on to discuss right sizing, emerging airplane programs and the potential of replacing the ~30-seater turboprop.
When regionals consolidate to the extent of their mainline customers and match fleet to consolidated network needs, pricing power and (capped) profitability will return.
Excellent point