In what has been an exciting week for American Airlines (it announced its merger with US Airways on 9th December), another announcement has been made regarding the airline’s regional jet fleet.
It will purchase 90 new 76-seat regional jets. Consistent with American’s Plan of Reorganization and Merger Agreement, these aircraft will provide much improved economics for the airline as they will replace smaller, less efficient 50-seat regional aircraft scheduled for retirement.
American has firm orders for 30 Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen aircraft, with options for up to 40 more. The aircraft will be operated on behalf of American by PSA Airlines, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of US Airways. American expects to begin taking delivery of the CRJ900s in the second quarter of 2014.
American also has firm orders for 60 Embraer E175 type aircraft with options for up to 90 more. American expects to begin taking delivery in the first quarter of 2015. The company will determine which regional carrier will fly the E175s at a later date. Both the CRJ900 and the E175 will fly in the American Eagle livery.
