Will Swap Out Older Turboprops, CRJ-200s

Regional carrier SkyWest and United Airlines announced Monday SkyWest plans to acquire 22 new regional jet aircraft, 18 of which will fly for United Express, as part of an aircraft transition plan... allowing United Express to retire 23 EMB-120 Brasilia 30-seat turboprops (shown at bottom) and make room for 66-seat regional jet aircraft.

Additionally, SkyWest will swap four CRJ-200 50-seat planes for newer 76-seat planes under its Delta Connection banner. The Salt Lake City, UT-based regional airline has not selected a manufacturer for the new aircraft, but discussions with Bombardier and Embraer are due to begin shortly (it's worth noting the carrier currently flies Bombardier jets exclusively -- Ed.)

"We are pleased to have been able to work cooperatively with United Airlines and Delta Air Lines management in a well orchestrated opportunity to transition to larger regional jet aircraft and to extend the term on a portion of the fleet flying for both of these major partners," said Bradford R. Rich, EVP and CFO for SkyWest. "We believe the transaction represents an excellent opportunity for our major partners, our passengers, and for the employees of SkyWest Airlines."

It is anticipated that deliveries would begin in late 2008 and continue through 2009.

The additional regional jet aircraft will be flown under existing capacity purchase agreements with both United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The new regional jet aircraft to be added will operate under existing agreements for a term of 10 to 13 years, and all the planes will be operated by SkyWest.

FMI: www.skywest.com