Aviation Competition: Regional Jet Service Yet to Reach Many Small Communities

摘要

Many aviation experts view U.S. airlines growing use of small regional jets1 as arevolutionary development that is significantly changing the aviation marketplace. Because jets are generally faster, quieter, smoother, and perceived to be safer than turboprop aircraft, the public tends to prefer travel by jet. Additionally, because regional jets (typically seating between 32 and 70 passengers) tend to have lower operating costs than larger mainline jets (e.g., the Boeing 737, which may seat 110 passengers or more), expectations rose that air carriers would provide regional jet service to smaller communities that could not profitably support mainline service. The report focusses on three questions: What is the status of regional jet deployment in the United States, and how has this service evolved. What factors have affected the airlines decisions in deploying regional jets. What effects have regional jets had on air traffic and airport congestion, according to published studies and experts in the field.