Originally Posted by
Lapon
Wrong. 785 firm orders in a programme still ramping up vs 100ish 71's ever suggests the 220 already is more useful, oh and when the -500 is announced you'll find that order book swell along with the existing Qantas order.
Besides, the 717/220 is perfectly fine for Atlas.
If their intention is to go overseas, then there is absolutely no point in waiting for the A220. All the US operators will accept 717 time. I can’t think of a single job where an A220 type rating is a requirement…except NJS, but no one wants to work there.
Waiting for an Airbus/Boeing type rating on the other hand I could understand because there are plenty of DEC contracts available as well as narrow body to wide body opportunities.
BTW 785 orders is relatively small. A320 family alone have 10,000 plus in service with a backlog of around 7000.