I doubt whether the MD is still the cheapest aircraft to operate. Those jt8's are thirsty. Even a 734 burns almost 500kgs per hour less with 160 pax. Not to mention 738 with 180 pax in LCC config. Seems like beancounter spin at best, unless the majority of carriers just got it wrong and are wasting resources on NG aircraft. Ipad will make life easier but won't make up for old tech aircraft.