Quote:
Originally Posted by Prestwick Pioneer
Im sure 30 or so years ago, this kind of service could have been done by an "entrepreneur" and a Beech 18 or a Beaver or Otter, but these days with everything so heavily regulated, there aint much money going to be made, but if I was in Government, I would want to see more for my peoples tax dollars. As an enthusiast, I would prefer to see a Beech 18!!!!
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The operational costs and safety regulations associated with operating an aircraft of more than ten seats is much greater than one of ten seats or less. With the dismal load factors on EAS routes, costs and regulations will make or brake a carrier operating the Beech 1900. Two carriers who operated this aircraft have gone by the wayside for these two reasons: RegionsAir due to safety factors and most recently, Big Sky because of a 3% load factor on their service in Montana.
On a brighter note, two EAS carriers, Cape Air and Pacific Wings (under the brand name, New Mexico Airlines) are using the nine seat Cessna 402C aircraft. Hopefully, the lower operating costs and less stringent safety standards associated with this aircraft will keep these two airlines flying.
A glimmer of hope: The Cessna 402C: