A thoroughly negative view of the proposal. I don't think it will be a disaster at all. Do you think you or any of us is aware of what is planned? There is a bigger picture here and we only see a small part of the plan.
To rebutt one assertion...
have a sticker price of around USD $20 Million, not including simulator (a new 'sim' if the ATR and full market rate rental off QF if the Q-400)
The "sticker price" is not really relevant in that the monthly or yearly lease cost is what counts, agreed that is a function of the "sticker price".
If ATR get the nod for the fleet I think you will see them fund or partially fund a sim. 18 airframes would be worth it. Just as Boeing through Alteon assist
VB with 737 NG sim training.
Full market rate on a Q400 sim. Yep. Just like they will pay full market rate for their fuel. Full market rate for landing and ANC. Full market rate for advertising. Full market rate for any outsourced service. So what, that would be in the budget for the operation.