Thanks for your comments
I've been away a bit recently traveling...
Thank you all for your comments.
Regarding the glass cockpits. Yes, it does seem that MOST of the advantage is to the crew and not the check writer. However...there can be advantages to the owner as well.
In many cases, the increased value of the aircraft (from blue book values) can reflect a significant recoup of the expenditures. In some cases, it is over 100%.
Also, the increase in situational awareness afforded can be a major safety enhancement.
Also, the lowered costs of maintenance on the mechanical instruments along with increased reliability / dispatchability can be an attractive selling point to the owner.