I've seen some comments on LinkedIn and other channels on this topic. The only case for Norwegian adding an extra type to the fleet is with a major cash injection. The complexity associated with hiring relevant crew, maintenance and parts for the fleet and the added complexity that comes with such a move would not appear feasible.
Norwegian's opinion on the MAX status could play a role in this. Sukhoi need to get this machine into a market with scale in the western world... however, Sukhoi could do something creative with this; example. Hypothetical of course;
Sukhoi agree to do a sort of ACMI arrangement to fill the gap for some 737MAX routes, paint a fleet in DY colours,operate them from one base of DY, install MRO facilities at same base, prove the operational case for other carriers to come on board. It seems like a good little aircraft.
Does anybody have any knowledge of it's economics outside of capital or lease costs, ie operational costs?
Thanks.
EI-BUD