A very sleek machine indeed. Saw it arrive in PH and taxi to NJS. Yummy!
Jarse, don't take this as a windup, but....
Why would QF repeat the pain and suffering of the Ansett/Kendell introduction of a medium jet into a turboprop operation? A very professional tprop operation, yes, but have a look at what would be needed...
... most importanlty from the point of view of a dash driver wanting to sit in an embraer, you would need to import at least ALL the check and trainers for the new type and put them over the top of your most senior dash captains. Probably advisable to also import enough experienced jet left-seaters for initial operations too.
Might sound sexy to lie back with eyes half closed and imagine the dash transforming itself into a sexy brasilian, but the reality might be no progression. You would be watching 'outsiders' fly your company's new toy.
Suspect that QF might shy away from the problems inherent in merging seniority lists, working out progression plans, etc.
I reckon that IF [if!!] the embraer is an option for QF, they will be most interested in the least fuss solution.
Best advice to a tprop driver that wants to get into jets [if that is your thing] -- don't base your plans on your company maybe upgrading to jets. Apply to a company that operates jets!
Repeat, just my 2c worth, not a shot at the very professional QLink dash crews.