Whoever has the 70 seaters that 'Dave' wants, is surely only interested in making money with their shiny new airplanes. Can anyone here say Wet-Lease?
Do not outsource any more flying!!!! There is no need to contract out any flying. For the love of God, NO MORE OUTSIDE CONTRACTING.
MDA, or even PSA, PDT or ALG can wetlease the necessary equipment (from MESA or whoever) until such time as their own crews are trained, at which time the Wet-Lease can become a dry lease. Problem solved and the flying stays in the group. If US Airways can, in bankruptcy, enter into a new code share agreement for 70 seaters, it can most certainly Dry or Wet lease the same aircraft.
When our buddy Dave took over he emphasised the immense value and brand recognition of the US Airways 'FRANCHISE'. I fear that was not a slip of the tongue. Correct me if I'm wrong but US Airways is an Airline with real property and employees. It is not a 'Franchise'.
Of course if you contract most or ALL of the flying out to franchisees.........