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The exclusive bi-monthly magazine covering the news and activities of the Regional Association

January/February 2009 Issue 32 Available on the RAA website www.raa.org

CHAIRMAN’S VIEW Regional lead

Dealing with the the NextGen transition economic challenges Citing regional airlines’ investment from a position of in “the whole alphabet” of NextGen strength technology, RAA President Roger Cohen told the Aviation Subcom- As I begin my term as chairman mittee of the House Transportation of the RAA for 2008-2009, I have and Infrastructure Committee, to admit that the current environ- “modernizing the nation’s air traffic ment appears as challenging as the control system would aid service to association has ever faced since its small and medium-sized communi- creation in 1975. ties by easing access to the nation’s busiest hub airports.”

Having served on the RAA Photo: WINS Board for more than a decade, In February 11 testimony before RAA President Roger Cohen testifies before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee I’m proud we’ve survived — and the Subcommittee, Cohen under- even grown stronger — through lined the current cutback in flights for decades. Despite the fact that substantial investments in a range turbulent times before: recessions, provided “a time out, some breathing regional aviation has been “squeezed of new technologies to make flying deregulation and most notably, room to make real progress” that hard from all sides,” Cohen acknowl- safer and more efficient – particularly the post-911 period when airlines stakeholders have been seeking edged RAA members are making since nearly 75 percent of US >>13 struggled to return to normal operations. Regionals and major airline partners Consider today’s landscape: gyrating fuel prices which led to revise their relationships double-digit schedule cutbacks; Report by Carole Shifrin a seemingly overnight reversal >>9 Under the stress of an ailing econo- James’ annual report on growth than a ‘partnership’ relationship,” my, capacity reductions and the drive airlines noted. Delta’s actions have Brad Rich, SkyWest Executive Vice to cut costs, relationships between included withholding $25 million President and Chief Financial Of- regional airlines and their legacy in reimbursements from SkyWest ficer, lamented. carrier “partners” have grown more Airlines and its notification to Pin- On the sidelines of the confer- strained, attendees at the Raymond nacle Airlines and ence, another CEO James 2009 Growth Airline Confer- that it intended to terminate certain concurred. Signed contracts ence in were told. contracts, even recent ones, with between regionals and legacy airlines This has been particularly them. Delta and others also have in the past used to be slipped into true of regional carriers having air reduced the amount of flying their a drawer and virtually never looked service agreements with Delta Air regionals do, in some cases with fairly at again, he said. Now, majors are Lines, which has been aggressive short notice and a schedule that may going through the contracts line by in attempting to exit or restructure be variable month to month. line to find ways to get out of their Rick Leach, RAA CHAIRMAN existing regional contracts, Raymond “It’s turned to more of a ‘vendor’ commitments. >>16

PUBLISHED BY The entire Regional Airline Association expresses its deepest sympathies to the families of the IN PARTNERSHIP WITH passengers, crew and victims of the Continental Flight 3407 tragedy. This flight was operated by RAA 3 10-11 member airline, . regional horizons | January/February 2009 1 Editor’s Note: The editorial coverage of this issue was drafted prior to the Flight 3407 accident. GXg\ic\jj%

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800.527.2531 • 512.331.5323 www.dacint.com • [email protected]

DAC-money-Reg Horiz-full.indd 1 12/6/06 3:57:03 PM TECHNICAL SERVICES Sharing best practices between RAA and ATA Ramp Safety employees is key to reducing accidents and incidents

RAA members’ accident/incident aircraft ramp data has indicated little, if any, progress toward reducing aircraft damage events over at least the last five years, Vice President-Technical Services Dave Lotterer tells Regional Horizons.

During a recent joint RAA/ATA (OSHA) concerns and best practices Preparing for OSHA audits was • Hazard Communication Ramp Safety Meeting, regional in ramp safety,” notes Lotterer. Shar- also a major discussion topic for • Walking Working Surfaces airline members agreed on the ing effective company procedures both associations during the joint Since the sharing of common prob- continued value of sharing event and policies is beneficial as well. For meeting. RAA members now have lems and solutions was so beneficial data. They also explored various root example, what steps might a safety some valuable ideas for preparing for to both RAA and ATA members, it cause analysis techniques and the im- manager take in preparing for ramp their next OSHA audit and are in was agreed that the exchange of in- portance of “drilling down” through safety conference call among station the process of developing and sharing formation should continue at future several layers of analysis to get to the managers? an audit checklist on the following meetings among each group. An root cause so that a more effective The group discussed the follow- OSHA compliance topics: ATA member will therefore be in- corrective action is identified. ing “best practices”: • Emergency Evacuation vited to attend the next RAA Ramp The most productive committee • Adding limit switches to belt- • Fire Prevention Safety Meeting in discussions are those in which the loaders to avoid runaway events • Fall Protection during the RAA Annual Convention members share their “best practices” • Marking jet bridge structure for • Lock Out; Tag Out on May 21. ideas for corrective actions. “This better RJ alignments • Electrical is the second meeting we have had • Placing a sock over the GPU • Powered Industrial Vehicle Contact Dave Lotterer 202/367-1252 with the ATA members and in each receptacle as a reminder to “pull • Confined Space [email protected] for more informa- meeting our members have picked the plug” before pushback • Respiratory Management tion or visit www.raa.org up new ideas from the ATA mem- • Eliminating the hazard of climbing • Spray Booth/Eye Wash bers for responding to Occupational on deicing trucks by drilling a tap • Asbestos Safety & Health Administration at ground level in the holding tank • Hazardous Substances

regional horizons | January/February 2009 3 Industry Forecasts for 2009 Regional Horizons asked RAA member airlines and associate members to rank their concerns for the coming year—both for the industry and as a company. All agree that around the world there is a distinct awareness of the economic volatility that every business is struggling with. However, in true regional aviation-style many are preparing now for the economic recovery that still may be at least a year or so away.

Top three industry priorities (1) Passenger Demand – how much does it decline in the face of the worldwide slowdown and where does it hit. For example, certain interna- tional markets – like the Caribbean – are already hard hit while some do- mestic destinations will benefit from a “vacation near home” mentality; (2) Fuel Costs – how do the airlines plan when there is so much uncertainty; There was a time in our industry especially after the near-death experience they faced during the run-up last that creating a five-year growth year; and (3) Fleet Mix/Scheduling – as markets thin out, historical capacity plan was relatively straightforward. In today’s world, it’s difficult to plan for applications will be invalid, and everyone will be guessing in the dark six five months, and as an industry it’s become critical for us to remain flexible months out. to address the fluid environment in which we operate. The challenges our On the CommutAir side industry faces can change almost overnight, as is evident in last year’s oil Our biggest problem will continue to be aircraft availability. There just prices ranging from $147 to $40 a barrel. aren’t used available right now, and the orderbooks are very We’ve already begun 2009 with a softened economy producing excep- full for new deliveries. Next in line is the lack of financing/leasing sources. tionally weak demand – despite already significant reductions in capacity Even if we find a few aircraft from time to time, the lenders/lessors just across both and regional route networks. As we continue to exer- aren’t there, or the terms are worse than the Mafia. cise capacity restraint, we’re hopeful we can address the softened demand Finally, I think all the regionals need to be worried and continue to cater to our mainline partners and our passengers. We’re about what is going to happen to their major also looking at a new Administration, which seems to favor additional airline affiliate(s), and the abrupt decisions that regulation on our industry. We all know the possibility of legislation reflect- are likely to be made if passenger demand falls far ing a form of a passenger bill of rights would serve neither the passenger enough. nor our businesses. Finally, as an industry we face continued oil volatility, and it’s clear in several airlines’ fourth quarter earnings that hedging was a John Sullivan gamble that most lost last year. I believe oil will continue to be a challenge Champlain Enterprises, Inc., throughout 2009 until the market stabilizes. dba “” Chairman & CEO SkyWest 2009 priorities SkyWest Airlines is not immune to our industry’s challenges, though we do believe we have the right people and the right model to address the We are in an unprecedented time of market change volatile environment. Like most regionals, we continue to face contract as evidenced by the back half of 2008, and this was scrutiny and fierce operational competition as capacity is removed and op- certainly seen in our world with traffic falling off around erational performance improves across the industry. As the economic crisis the globe, the takeout of aircraft equipment, and predic- worsens, the challenge to meet our partners’ needs at competitive costs tions for an airline industry contraction in 2009 for only will become increasingly important. We’re also dealing with weakened the fourth time in our industry’s history. demand, which poses a significant threat to small community air service We are planning for a year of volatility and change, as the impact of throughout the country. Finally, we face the challenge of right-sizing our the world economies continue to adversely impact the airlines, causing fleet and workforce to match schedule reductions we expect to continue contractions in fleets and slowdowns of deliveries. throughout the year. Our ability today to predict the outcome of 2009 is more uncertain than Overall, we expect 2009 will produce one of the most challenging years normal as a result of the market volatility, and our planning takes this into in our industry’s history; however, we may also be better equipped to face account. That being said, GE is very well positioned to see this through the economic crisis as oil prices forced us to evaluate our business earlier and continue our investments in the future. And being a part of the big- than others. Whatever the challenge, SkyWest ger GE gives us unprecedented insight into the Airlines continues to focus on what we do global markets through our colleagues in the best: providing an exceptional, efficient various business sectors. product to current and potential mainline Hence, our ability to prepare and stay in partners. front of what is on the horizon in 2009 with the confidence that we can handle it. Our diversity is a plus in these difficult times, but the reality is our industry is contracting, Russell “Chip” Childs and so will we. SkyWest Airlines David Joyce President and COO GE Aviation President and CEO

4 regional horizons | January/February 2009 Top three 2009 industry issues Top three 2009 industry issues • Economy-slowdown Optimizing capacity and costs to market demand • Lower passenger revenues We anticipate continued growth in the large and • Fuel stabilizing segments as a means to optimize capacity while at the same time reduc- Top three 2009 Great Lakes issues ing seat-mile costs. At Bombardier, we are well positioned with aircraft • FAA Reauthorization Bill-continued funding of the EAS Program and at a such as the Q400 NextGen, CRJ700 NextGen and CRJ900 NextGen. higher amount for fiscal year 2009 and beyond And, airlines will have the ability to take fleet optimization to another • Availability of adequate aircraft to support level with the new CRJ1000 NextGen – the lightest, most efficient our growth in the EAS Program 100-seat aircraft on the market. • Accessibility into larger hubs in order for Planning for an economic recovery EAS markets to have real sustainability Having addressed the downturn by making narrowbody capacity cuts, we expect airlines will begin planning for the replacement of their aging fleets of 100- to149-seat aircraft. In this regard, we are well positioned with a new generation, advanced technology single-aisle narrow body aircraft, the CSeries. Chuck Howell A more sustainable airline business Meeting expectations of major stakeholders, aircraft companies like Bom- President bardier will work to strike the right balance of return on investment with a sustainable environmental footprint. Top three 2009 industry issues Top three 2009 priorities for Bombardier Commercial Aircraft Adapting capacity to meet consumer demand CRJ1000 certification The contraction of the economy has reduced de- CRJ1000 flight tests are progressing well and confirm our new 100-seat re- mand for air travel just as it has for other products gional jet will deliver best-in-class economics, high commonality with other and services. Matching supply and demand in a CRJ Series jets and excellent reliability when it enters service in early 2010. low fuel, low variable cost environment will be one CSeries product development of the biggest issues determining airline fortunes during this cycle. Our design and engineering activities on the CSeries continue to intensify Managing employee compensation demands in a declining economy throughout 2009 for entry-in-service in 2013 of a new generation of nar- The number of cases filed with the National Mediation Board for assistance/ row body aircraft in the 100- to 149-seat category with 15 percent better mediation has climbed dramatically in recent months. This fact reflects the cash operating costs. divergence in opinions between labor and management over the level of Q400 momentum employee compensation which airlines can support. Recent firm orders of the Bombardier Q400 Financing aircraft and other capital requirements to Colgan Air (15) and Ethiopian Airlines Tight capital markets make airline and other capital equipment acquisitions (8) reinforce the appeal of this large tur- and borrowing in general more challenging. boprop. Q400 aircraft economically serve routes previously flown by turboprops and/ American Eagle’s 2009 focus or jets. It also features ‘jet-like’ speed Safety is always our primary focus and highest priority combined with low operating costs and In addition to safety of flight, and in compliance with the FARs and our a reduced environmental footprint. own operating procedures, Eagle will reinvigorate efforts to avoid employee injuries. Employee safety is a long-standing priority at Eagle and has re- sulted in one of the lowest injury rates in the industry. Philippe Poutissou Dependability Bombardier Commercial Aircraft Eagle improved reliability in absolute and relative terms over the course of Vice President-Marketing the past year and aims to consistently rank in the top three regional airlines in terms of dependability indicators, in spite of its large presence in and the Northeast, which suffer more ATC and weather delays than other regions of the country. Top three 2009 industry issues Innovative use of technology • High fuel price volatility Eagle will be developing and implementing a range of • Decreasing passenger demand software application integrated systems – from inven- • Congestion at major airports tory management to maintenance overhaul plan- Top 3 Priorities ning and execution to ramp operations – which • Grow and diversify our business will improve efficiency and reliability. These tools, • To continue to operate with the highest combined with Eagle’s experienced and safety standards and to support our professional work force, will contribute to employees making Eagle a stronger, more customer- • To continue to run an efficient and cost focused and more competitive airline. competitive airline with excellent operational performance

Joe Randall Jazz Air LP Peter Bowler American Eagle Airlines President and CEO President and CEO

regional horizons | January/February 2009 5 <<5 Industry Forecasts for 2009 Top three 2009 industry issues Negative economic scenario The deep recession creates the most challenging revenue environment in the last 50 years, leading to big challenges during 2009 in all world regions. Economic growth is the main driver of the air transport demand Our industry has seen downturns and airlines will be on survival mode in 2009, and part of 2010. before and has done well coming back Decrease of air travel demand from them, but the current downturn Passenger demand was growing at robust rates during the last years is extreme by most measures. The dif- (~5 percent). However, this positive trend disappeared since business and ference this time is that the impact of the current recession reaches beyond consumer confidence slumped in last October, as a result of the banking our business to other industries, significantly impacting our people and our system collapse. customers. Lack of aircraft financing The current economic scenario and the credit crunch will affect severely Top three issues the aviation industry will face in 2009 new aircraft financing for all manufacturers. Because of the hardships our industry has faced decade after decade, I think we’re better prepared than other industries to endure what 2009 Top three 2009 issues will throw at us. With that said, 2009 will have its share of challenges and • Develop alternate aircraft financing structures to support contracted regional carriers certainly won’t be immune to that. Regional airlines will deliveries. need to work much harder to prove our worth. The basics of safety first, • Accelerate productivity and efficiency great customer service and an efficient cost structure haven’t changed, improvements, with further implementation but the way we accomplish these things may be very different. It’s no of lean manufacturing and development small order, but we have some very bright people in this industry and I’m initiatives. confident that we will figure it out. • Closely monitor market drivers and com- petitive scenario and advance market, prod- Top three issues ASA is prioritizing for the upcoming year uct and technology studies/developments to Unfortunately, there’s no silver bullet to ensuring long-term success for prepare for the launch of new commercial any company. When it comes right down to it, there isn’t much that aircraft programs. substitutes for good, old fashion hard work. We must have a plan and a purpose but it’s all for not if we don’t execute – and that takes work. Mauro Kern Embraer Following are a few things that represent the foundation ASA will build Executive Vice-President, Airline Market on this year: Safety This remains our top priority and is above all else. We will continually evalu- ate and improve our processes and procedures to ensure the safety of our employees and customers. Improved people program The aviation industry faces several major challenges in 2009. I expect the We will continue to work to improve support programs for our people in a most significant will be the deteriorating economy, which may lead the time when our people need it the most. This industry and our economy has industry into the potential for increased demand destruction. been tough on not only businesses, but on our people and their families. Creating and upgrading internal programs to help them is a top priority. Also affecting the airline industry this year will be the new political environ- Improving our product ment in Washington and continued fuel price uncertainty. Continuing to improve our key indicators regarding completion factor, on- time performance and customer satisfaction through continued implemen- As for Air Airlines’ plans for 2009, we are focused on creatively tation of process improvement measures meeting the demands of a changing marketplace—helping our partners will remain a key focus in 2009. meet their goals in a very difficult environ- Efficiencies ment. Our leaders will engage employ- We will continue our no-stone- ees through a variety of communica- unturned approach to reducing tion tools and personal visits. It is very our costs and improving efficien- important to us that employees – at cies through waste elimination and every location and in every depart- smarter business practices. ment – share a common vision and, most importantly, incorporate that vision into their daily activities.

Brad Holt Jim Rankin Atlantic Southeast Airlines Airlines Corp. President & COO President

6 regional horizons | January/February 2009 Economic situation The good news is that owing to the As it affects the ability to finance higher fuel prices in 2008, we as an aircraft as well as capital to sustain the industry had already cut capacity, so business during this slowdown. we have ‘pre-adjusted’ for the drop in This will have a negative effect on demand for business travel and leisure demand. Both in our business and leisure markets, traffic is down with trips (no more hopping on a plane for a weekend’s fun if people are con- advance bookings off by up to 20 percent. cerned about jobs and credit is limited). Regionals need to prepare that the economic downturn we’re in will Airlines and aircraft can contribute to the infrastructure ‘gaps’. As the probably be longer than the recession of World War II. Like weather US does not have significant mass transit options and these are particularly forecasting, there’s a better than 65 percent chance that the economic capital and time intensive; our industry can serve to provide solutions. challenges will last through the fourth quarter this year, and a 40 percent Effective coordination in moving people between areas that do not have chance or better that it will last through 2010. train service for example, through the right mix of aircraft capacity and Having watched the fuel spikes last summer, the economic factors and frequency, can enable people and industry to match needs. getting through the election, we now have to plan how to get out of this situation. The new normal will be different. Going green & dealing with fuel volatility The industry needs to keep asking for an investment in the infrastruc- The industry continues to find ways to be more efficient; look no further ture to fund capacity constraints and prepare NextGen. I’m optimistic this than boarding passes on our Smartphones and manuals and charts loaded will happen. into Electronic Flight Bags. Both of these reduce the impact to the environ- Here at , we’ll continue to look for small market opportunities, ment and improve productivity. for example, on March 24 we’ll start The fuel spike in 2008 woke everyone up to the exposure of dramatic nonstop service from to rises in fuel prices. Having the right mix of aircraft types is important to Hagerstown, MD and Lancaster, give airlines proper flexibility and efficiencies. Educating consumers on PA. In the last year, we’ve added the realities of airline costs and making their expectations more realistic is eight more Cessna 402s bringing important for industry stability. our total of the type to 56, and we The new administration has already demonstrated a desire to move cars operate two ATR42s. We love the to higher fuel efficiency and clean air standards. It is not unrealistic for it relationships with Continental and to ‘take advantage’ of the economic environment to implement higher JetBlue and enjoy some good syner- standards for the aviation sector. gies and overlap culturally. Technology Dan Wolf Technology is a double-edged sword; when used properly can cut signifi- Cape Air cant costs out of businesses, it also has the ability to cut demand by giving President people more options for interacting. Unlike the post 9-11 period, the internet has matured and presents alternatives to the standard way of doing business. This could have a sig- Industry – top three issues in 2009 nificant impact to business plans, if people use as an alternative to flying • The current economic climate, with for meetings and collaboration. passenger traffic declining, is putting pressure on pricing. The industry is full of technical resources and serves on the frontline in- • The industry must somehow reverse the losses of 2008 so that they will novation. It is important that all parties take advantage of the efficiencies be able to secure future financing in a tight credit environment. Further that these technologies can give us all. consolidation to reduce operating expense is needed. • Gaining support from the DOT / FAA to modernize the Air Traffic Con- Priorities for ATR in 2009 trol system. Carriers will continue to pressure FAA / DOT for ATC improve- Turboprops are achieving higher commercial results than jets in the regional ments to help operating efficiency, but the economic crisis the Obama market. The commercial potential for turboprops is high both in growing Administration is trying to solve may result in little funding available for economies and in regions where turboprops are replacing regional jets or ATC system improvements. previous turboprop versions. In addition to this, ATR is today the only manu- facturer of a 50-seat turboprop. ATR continues the objective in 2009 to Colgan Air, Inc. – top three priorities in 2009 maintain its leading position over 50 percent of the turboprop market share. • Establish Colgan Air Inc. as the industry leader Concerning the support and services activities, ATR will officially in quality, performance and price and recognize this year a number of MRO providers in key areas of the world, attaining superior operating performance to provide guidance and ensure the best quality of for all of our code-share partners. maintenance to ATR operators. ATR is evaluat- • Developing our people for future ing further developments of its regional policy. growth opportunities. This includes the evaluation of further training • Continue to explore ways to lower our centers in the USA, Latin America and Africa. cost structure to improve Colgan’s profit- In 2009, ATR will continue the development ability. of the ATR -600 series. The ATR pre-series aircraft will do its maiden flight this year. The entry into service of the first ATR -600 series aircraft is scheduled for 2011. George “Buddy” Casey Colgan Air, Inc. Guillaume Gasparri President and General Manager ATR North America President

regional horizons | January/February 2009 7 CEOs on Training A SERIES

“Atlantic Southeast Airlines’ passion for safety is supported by FlightSafety’s commitment to enhance it.”

BRAD HOLT Atlantic Southeast Airlines President and Chief Operating Officer

A pilot from a young age, Brad Holt started his airline career in the cockpit. President and Chief Operating Officer of Atlantic Southeast Airlines since December 2007, he served the previous 16 years as Vice President of Flight Operations at SkyWest Airlines. After joining SkyWest in 1983, Holt held various management roles including Director of Training and Standards, Chief Instructor Pilot and FAA-Designated Pilot Examiner and had responsibility for Corporate Safety and In-Flight Services, to name a few. He has flown both fixed-wing and rotorcraft and is type-rated in a range of aircraft including Bombardier CRJ regional jets. He has more than 15,000 flight hours.

tlantic Southeast Airlines has always made safety in 34 states, District of Columbia, Bahamas, Belize, its No. 1 priority. Founded in Atlanta in 1979 Turks and Caicos, Canada and Mexico. Through three A by three entrepreneurs to provide safe and decades of growth, Atlantic Southeast Airlines has convenient local air transportation, Atlantic Southeast never wavered from its commitment to safety. That’s Airlines and its sister carrier SkyWest Airlines now why it chooses to train with FlightSafety International. form the world’s largest regional . “FlightSafety has the same dedication to safety as we do,” says Brad Holt, Atlantic Southeast Airlines President and Chief Operating Officer. “As a commercial pilot with thousands of hours in the cockpit, I know how important it is to have the

best possible training. And FlightSafety is the best – The Most Trusted Name in Training. from its state-of-the-art training technology to its devoted instructors to its excellent customer service.” For more information, please contact any of our Learning Centers or call Scott Fera, Atlantic Southeast Airlines has more than 4,300 Vice President Marketing: 718.565.4774. Our headquarters are at the Marine Air aviation professionals and 159 aircraft serving more Terminal, LaGuardia Airport, New York 11371-1061. Email: sales@flightsafety.com

than 12 million passengers annually from 146 airports flightsafety.com

FLIGHTSAFETY HOLT/ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST - REGIONAL HORIZONS BLEED: 8-3/4” X 11-1/4” TRIM: 8-1/2” X 11” COLOR VERIS PROOF HIRES PDF INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

3Q regional airline traffic

Percent Percent YTD 2007 YTD 2008 3Q07 3Q08 Change Change

Passengers 121,418,383 122,167,109 0.6% 42,834,198 41,388,103 -3.4%

Departures 3,993,331 3,861,011 -3.3% 1,397,496 1,306,808 -6.5%

RPMs (000) 55,150,070 56,497,062 2.4% 19,680,804 19,063,091 -3.1%

ASMs (000) 73,667,288 76,486,032 3.8% 25,869,208 25,498,179 -1.4%

Load Factor 74.9% 73.9% -1.3% 76.1% 74.8% -1.7%

Block Hours 5,591,422 5,628,691 0.7% 1,950,212 1,821,134 -6.6%

Note: Figures for Holdings (Chautauqua, Republic and Source: OAG Form41 iNET ) were obtained from company press release as the carrier has currently requested confidentiality in DOT filings.

<<1 CHAIRMAN’S VIEW

from a labor shortage to layoffs our limited resources might suggest. tion, the more effective we can be regulatory issues and reduce avia- of thousands of workers; airlines Leaders in Congress, at FAA, DOT, in delivering the regional message tion’s impact on our environment. merging or disappearing; a host of TSA and across the industry look across the nation’s capitol. A special “VIP Preview” of the looming labor contracts – all while to RAA for our views, and routinely To help guarantee the success Exhibit Hall where vendors, regard- the nation is suffering through the ask “what does RAA think” before of this year’s RAA Convention — less of size or tenure, will get the worst economic crisis since the acting on new rules and laws affect- in addition to the Western-style opportunity for one-on-one time Depression. Against this back- ing commercial aviation. hospitality of our hometown host with the CEOs and senior officials drop, our Association is charged Maintaining this strength and SkyWest — we have added several from all RAA member airlines. with advancing our legislative and influence for the regional airlines valuable new features for airlines While it’s unlikely all our indus- regulatory agenda during a period is our top priority, and it’s why this and exhibitors alike. try challenges will be solved by mid- of turnover at the highest levels of year’s annual convention in Salt May when we gather in Salt Lake, FAA, transition to a new Admin- Lake City, UT, May 18-21 is so RAA and ACI-NA forge I’m convinced that we’ll have made istration, and without a long-term vitally important on two fronts. alliance for “Airport Alley” solid progress towards finding solu- funding measure for the nation’s First, the RAA Annual Conven- at Convention tions and that the second half of my aviation system. tion represents the only venue where We’ve partnered with the nation’s current term as RAA chairman will But because RAA has grown all the decision-makers gather to leading airport group, ACI-NA, seem less daunting than when I was stronger over these past 35 years, meet with regulators, industry inviting senior officials from North handed the gavel late last fall. I’m confident that our Association experts and most notably, the indus- America’s top airports, large and Thanks, in advance, for your will continue to successfully help try’s primary suppliers. I-phones and small, to have their own dedicated participation at this year’s Conven- us navigate these public policy Blackberries can only do so much “Airport Alley” in the Exhibit Hall, tion and for your continued sup- challenges despite the difficult – deals and decisions get started, as well as explore with us how to port of RAA. I’m looking forward environment. Through the unified nurtured and closed face-to-face. control costs, improve customer to seeing you in Salt Lake City, in action of our members, large and Second, the Convention pro- service and share best practices. in 2010 and hopefully, small, we’ve been able to speak with vides the lion’s share of the financial Our first-ever “Green Pavilion”, back in my hometown of St. Louis a single voice. Our savvy RAA team resources for our RAA staff to con- exclusively for companies offering for a future RAA meeting some- in DC has been able to deliver our tinue fighting for us in Washington. products and services designed to time soon. message with far greater impact than The more successful RAA’s Conven- help airlines and airports deal with

regional horizons | January/February 2009 9 Wednesday, May 20 7:30 am – 5:30 pm Media Center Open Sponsored by GE Aviation 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration Open Badge Lanyards sponsored by Tuesday, May 19 ExcelTech Aerospace Registration sponsored by Superjet RAA 2009 Annual 7:30 am – 5:30 pm International Media Center Open Hotel Key Cards sponsored by Convention Sponsored by GE Aviation Lodge X Airline Solutions 8:00 am – 5:00 pm 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Preliminary Registration Open ALL DAY TALPA/ARC* Meeting Schedule Badge Lanyards sponsored by 8:30 am – 5:00 pm ExcelTech Aerospace ATA Environmental Group All events take place at the Salt Registration sponsored by Superjet International Meeting Lake City Convention Center Hotel Key Cards sponsored by 7:30 am – 8:30 am unless otherwise indicated Lodge X Airline Solutions Continental Breakfast 8:00 am – 3:00 pm in Exhibit Hall Monday, May 18 Exhibitor Move-In Sponsored by PowerJet 7:00 am TBD 8:30 am-10:00 am Golf Tournament buses depart General Session and Policy Panel General Session and Policy Panel for Thanksgiving Pointe Golf 8:00 am – 11:00 am 8:30 am –11:30 am Thursday, May 21 Course Associate Member Council Safety Directors Meeting 8:00 am – Noon Bus sponsored by Breakfast & Meeting Registration Open FlightSafety International 8:30 am – 11:30 am Breakfast Sponsored by Flight Training Forum Badge Lanyards sponsored by Current Golf Hole Sponsors: World Fuel Services, Inc. ExcelTech Aerospace 3 Points Aviation, Aviall, ATR, 10:00 am – 5:30 pm Registration sponsored by Superjet Bombardier, ExcelTech, Magellan, 8:30 am – 11:30 am Exhibit Hall Open International Midwest Aero, PPG, Pratt & Whitney Maintenance Forum Internet Cafe Sponsored by PowerJet Hotel Key Cards sponsored by Canada, Saab Aircraft Leasing, Wings Lodge X Airline Solutions 8:30 am – 11:30 am 9:00 am – Noon 7:30 am – 8:30 am Regional Operations Council RAA Environmental Group 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Golf Registration and Meeting ALL DAY TALPA/ARC* Meeting Continental Breakfast 8:30 am – 4:00 pm Breakfast sponsored by ALL DAY TALPA/ARC* Meeting Buffet Lunch in Exhibit Hall 8:00 am – 9:00 am Continental Breakfast Saab Aircraft Leasing Noon – 1:30 pm Sponsored by Pratt & Whitney Canada in Exhibit Hall 8:30 am Joint ROC and Ops/Maintenance 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm Golf Tournament Shotgun Start Lunch Security Directors Meeting 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Box Lunch sponsored by Sponsored by Dangerous Goods Meeting 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm STG Aerospace FlightSafety International Safety Meeting 8:30 am – 3:30 pm 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Noon – 1:30 pm Airline Dispatch Forum Presidents’ Council Luncheon 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm Exhibitor Move-In 8:30 am – 1:30 pm Sponsored by ATR-North America Flight Training Committee Noon – 6:00 pm Break sponsored by Exhibit Hall Open Exhibitor Registration Noon – 1:00 pm Pratt & Whitney Canada Internet Cafe Sponsored by PowerJet Badge Lanyards sponsored by ATA Environmental Meeting 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm 9:00 am – Noon ExcelTech Aerospace 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Public Relations Meeting Registration sponsored by Superjet RAA “Happy Hour” Joint ATA & RAA Environmental International in Exhibit Hall 8:30 am – 11:00 am Committee Meeting Hotel Key Cards sponsored by Based on last year’s great success, Security Directors Meeting Lodge X Airline Solutions 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm join us again for “Happy Hour” in 8:30 am – 10:00 am RAA Operations and the RAA Exhibit Hall. Drinks and 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm Inflight Forum Operations and Maintenance Maintenance Forum light snacks throughout the hall. No other meetings, no excuses – 10:30 am – 3:00 pm Reception (Invitation Only) 1:45 pm – 4:15 pm everyone in the Exhibit Hall for free Inflight Committee 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm RAA Board of Directors/ “Happy Hour”. Lunch Sponsored by Annual Media Dinner Presidents’ Council Meeting Pratt & Whitney Canada Sponsored by Embraer Break sponsored by PowerJet 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm AMC Joins at 3:30 pm (approx) RAA Evening Event 8:30 am – 1:00 pm 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Sponsored by Ramp Safety Meeting Presidents’ Welcome Hospitality 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm Bombardier, Rockwell Collins and 9:00 am – noon Suite, Hilton Hotel Environmental Vendors Forum SkyWest Airlines (Airline CEOs & Invited Guests) FAA Flight Training School 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm Sponsored by GE Aviation Session Private Exhibit Hall Walk-thru with Airline CEOs 9:30 am – 1:30 pm Purchasing Forum 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm Box Lunch Sponsored by Exhibit Hall Open Accessory Overhaul Group, Inc. (AOG) RAA Convention Ribbon Cutting & Opening Reception Sponsored by PowerJet and Superjet International Napkins sponsored by Avmax Group *Take-off and Landing Performance Assessment (TALPA)/ 10 regional horizons | January/February 2009 Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) New Features at the 2009 SLC Convention

• For the first-time ever, an alliance with ACI-NA (Airports Council International- North America) will feature an “Airport Alley” section of the Exhibit Hall with 20+ airports and service providers from across North America to exhibit and attend the RAA Annual Convention. New in 2009!

• The new RAA-organized Environmental Committee has paved the way for a “Green Pavilion” area in the Exhibit Hall with companies providing “Green” solutions to the aviation market. Airport • The Board of Directors and Presidents’ Council meeting will move to Tuesday afternoon (1:45 pm – 4:15 pm, May 19). Alley • CEOs and senior airline officials will be invited to a “sneak preview” walk-through of the Exhibit Hall to meet indi- vidually with all exhibitors prior to the regularly scheduled 5:30 pm Grand Opening Ribbon-Cutting and Reception. Featuring 20+ airports and service providers from across North America

New in 2009! Green Pavilion Companies providing “green” solutions to the aviation market

New in 2009! Hometown Pavilion

Local businesses providing services to the aviation industry

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ExpressJet’s dispatch area at its location Sweeping proposed regulatory changes for dispatcher training (“N&O”) as “RAA offers several forums to our members to make sure they stay current well as new Department of Transportation drug tests rules (DOT Part 40) on the constantly changing regulation landscape and industry trends,” said were key issues discussed by nearly 30 regional airline dispatch department RAA Vice President Scott Foose. “Until now, we did not have an activity directors at ExpressJet’s Houston facility in early December to receive guid- geared specifically to meet the needs of the airlines’ flight dispatch depart- ance and exchange ideas. ments. The fantastic turnout in Houston is a clear signal to us that this group This new RAA Dispatch Management Committee will meet for a second is meeting the needs of our members. We will bring everyone back together time during the RAA Annual Convention in Salt Lake City for an all-day for a second meeting in Salt Lake City. I expect the turnout will increase as it session on Thursday, May 21. The group was able to learn about the associa- usually does at the convention, especially since we will be opening the meeting tion’s services available to dispatch management, as well as network among up to our exhibitors.” the dispatch community and prioritize top issues for this segment of regional Contact Scott Foose at [email protected] or 202/367-1212 for airline operations. Labor relations, code-sharing issues/coordination, and additional information. department staffing were the top discussion topics.

<<1 Regional Operations Council Regional airlines lead the NextGen transition readies for New Administration communities rely exclusively on re- forced cutbacks in service last year FAA officials Hank Krakowski, cussed rulemaking efforts including gional airlines for scheduled service. at more than twice the rate of larger Air Traffic Organization-Chief the recently published overhaul of For example, four RAA member mainline-served airports. “Consider Operating Officer, and Doug crewmember and dispatch train- airlines are adding another layer of that between December 2006 and Dalbey, Aviation Flight Standards- ing rules. RAA President Roger safety to prevent runway incursions December 2007, regional airlines Deputy Director of Field Op- Cohen briefed the group about the by installing Electronic Flight Bags added a net gain of 77 new nonstop erations, briefed the Regional influence of the new Administra- (EFBs) on their aircraft, including markets. However, last year, there Operations Council (ROC) during tion on the industry. RAA Vice SkyWest at Internation- was a net loss of 243 non-stop a February 19 meeting at RAA President-Technical Services Dave al; Shuttle America and Piedmont at markets—compared to a net loss headquarters. Krakowski talked Lotterer provided the association’s International and New of 101 mainline routes. Even more about FAA efforts to reduce airport perspective on key FAA regulatory York’s JFK and LaGuardia airports; troubling, some 31 airports lost all delays and the agency’s renewed efforts. The ROC will meet again and Commutair in . their scheduled service last year— focus on delivering mid-term ATC during the Salt Lake City Annual Cohen underlined the tough chal- including airports serving three state modernization benefits. Dalbey dis- Convention on Tuesday, May 19. lenges regionals are facing with the capitols.”

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AAR 1P Commercial Regional Horizons 20080414.indd 1 4/14/08 12:05:09 PM AMC proposes new sections to Annual EPA & FDA reps address Convention Exhibit Hall RAA Environmental The Associate Member Council (AMC), comprised of over a dozen repre- Committee sentatives, has suggested a number of revenue generating ideas for the RAA Annual Convention in Salt Lake City. Attracting a number of new The EPA’s Office of Effluent Standards, and representatives of the FDA dis- market-related companies to attend the convention, RAA, through a new cussed their role in the existing and pending regulations on potable water alliance with Airports Council International-North America, expects 20+ to the RAA Environmental Committee during its quarterly meeting on large and small airports to exhibit at a special “Airport Alley” section dur- February 25 in Washington, DC. Any RAA member employee can attend ing the three-day event. In addition, a Green Pavilion area will encourage these committee meetings. environmentally conscious companies in this sector to participate, as well as For more information contact RAA Director-Industry and Regulatory local-based companies. (See page 11 for more details.) Affairs Liam Connolly 202/367-2409 or [email protected].

Associate Member Council 2008-2009

Chair – Karla Cadden ARINC [email protected]

Vice Chair – Barry MacKinnon Bombardier [email protected] DHS Aviation Security Advisory Council names Members Dan Wisnieski Craig Elliott Connolly as member Aero Instruments & Avionics Rockwell Collins A major achievement for the regional airline industry, RAA Director Guillaume Gasparri Lucas Aardenburg Industry & Regulatory Affairs Liam Connolly has been named to the Avia- ATR North America SNECMA tion Security Advisory Committee (ASAC) for a two-year term starting Rudy Toering Al Ainsworth in January 2009. CAE World Fuel Services This standing committee of the Gordon Preston Department of Homeland Security Embraer Aircraft (DHS) is comprised of federal and private sector organizations and was Andre Robert Education created in 1989 in the wake of the GE Aircraft Engines Tom Vick crash of 103 over Lockerbie, Averett University Scotland. Todd Freeman GECAS Purchasing Forum The ASAC is tasked with review- Jerry Schumacher ing and formulating security policies Brent Johnson US Technical for the aviation sector. The commit- Midwest Aero Support tee presents its outcomes to, and Immediate-Past Chair RAA’s Liam Connolly works directly with, the Secretary Tom Tatro Rick Townsend Pacific Propeller International AAR Aircraft Services of DHS. Connolly was selected to represent the view of aviation management and will serve along with repre- sentatives from the mainline carriers, airports, and passenger organizations.

regional horizons | January/February 2009 15 <<1 Regionals and major airline partners revise their relationships

Regional airline growth man, President and Chief Executive stymied by capacity Officer, concurred. “2009 is not a reductions growth year for us,” he said. Regionals traditionally have grown and prospered when legacies were not Republic looks for ways to profitable as the majors outsourced improve unit costs more flying to them. But the current Republic’s high growth rate of recent economy is different, with capacity years has slowed dramatically, Bed- being reduced across mainline and ford said, adding that its diversifica- regional fleets alike, in part because tion - with no more than 30 percent of last year’s record fuel prices which concentration with any network made 50-seat jets particularly vulner- carrier - would help it through. “But able. Raymond James analysts, who in 2008, we felt like the Federal It’s important to have been following the regionals in Reserve Bank dealing with troubled “ earnest since 1992, expect regional carriers,” he said, as they sought to diversify. carrier long-term contracts to be push back, especially on smaller jets. We fly for four “ It’s turned to upheld by the courts, noting that the Low demand, however, has presented court reprimanded Delta for seeking opportunities, he added, noting of the five more of a to amend its contract unilaterally with Republic’s dual-class 76-seat Embraer ‘vendor’ than Mesa, suggesting its action “indicates E-jets are being deployed by Delta largest network bad faith.” into the Northeast Corridor shuttle a ‘partnership’ But future “organic growth market previously dominated by carriers… we opportunities are limited,” accord- larger narrow-body jets. “We hope expect more relationship.” ing to analyst Duane Pfennigwerth. 2009 is the year when legacy partners This is the case even though lower stabilize.” In the meantime, it is look- growth. Brad Rich fuel prices have removed some of ing for ways to improve its unit costs. ” SkyWest Phil Trenary Executive Vice President and CFO the urgency from regional capacity Pinnacle reduction efforts. Bryan Bedford, Pinnacle and Delta reach an President and CEO Republic Airways Holdings Chair- agreement on fleet Pinnacle Airlines also had “a dust-up” Although SkyWest has chal- with Delta when the major sought for Continental to 30 in 2010-2011, lenged Delta’s actions in court, to terminate a contract last year to with a financing commitment for the Rich said the regional is “working operate up to 16 CRJ-900s, noted additional 15 aircraft already in place. hard to do our part to re-establish a Phil Trenary, President and Chief Ex- The versatile aircraft is being used healthy partnership.” Delta in Janu- ecutive Officer. But the two reached on Continental’s shuttle between its ary awarded SkyWest ten additional an agreement to keep the contract Newark hub and Washington Reagan Bombardier CRJ-900s, currently going, while deferring the in-service Airport, previously an all-jet route. being added to its fleet, which will dates of the seven aircraft that had Because Colgan Air was able to replace 20 smaller 50-seat CRJ- not joined the fleet yet to the first rebid its markets 200s it operates. Rich said the quarter of 2009. As a result, though, last year, it expects its fleet of 34 small airline’s executives thought manag- Pinnacle incurred $2 million in unre- turboprops to make some money or ing through the high-growth rates imbursed aircraft ownership costs. in the “worst case, break even,” added it had over the last several years was Trenary. challenging. “Managing and leading Pinnacle’s Colgan Air to Pinnacle also is seeking to reduce through periods of slower or no “ We hope 2009 double its Q400 fleet for costs and improve its balance sheet, growth is more difficult.” SkyWest Continental Trenary underlined. Cost-cutting is now focusing on overheads and is the year when Although Delta represents about two- steps include the elimination of some costs, he said. “When the schedule legacy partners thirds of its revenues, Pinnacle has positions that will impact 30-50 em- being flown goes up and down, the been seeking diversification and grow- ployees; a pay freeze for executive and inconsistencies of the schedule are stabilize. ing its relationship with Continental senior management, and suspension hard.” ” Airlines, Trenary said. Pinnacle’s of the company’s 401(k) company Bryan Bedford Republic Airways Holdings Colgan Air will double the Bombar- match during 2009. Chairman, President and CEO dier Q400 turboprop fleet it operates

16 regional horizons | January/February 2009 NEWS BRIEFS

American Eagle will launch nonstop jet service between Yeager Cape Air will offer new roundtrip service to Baltimore-Washington Airport in Charleston, WVA and New York’s LaGuardia Airport International (BWI) beginning on March 24. The Hyannis, MA- (LGA) on April 7. The one daily roundtrip is timed for an early based largest independent regional airline will offer four daily morning departure from Charleston and an evening return from roundtrips from Hagerstown, MD, and five roundtrips from Lan- LGA, and will be operated with the Embraer ERJ-135. caster, PA, to BWI.

Saab Aircraft Leasing reported a successful 2008 with all of its Gulfstream International Airlines will launch new nonstop portfolio allocated to customers. “Demand for good Saab aircraft Continental Connection service between Orlando and Tallahassee, continues to be strong and steady,” said SAL President and CEO FL, starting April 5. The three daily roundtrips will be operated by Michael Magnusson. In total, SAL completed 17 aircraft transac- the Ft. Lauderdale-based company’s Beech 1900s. tions last year and was limited by the number of available aircraft.

Great Lakes Aviation launched service to a number of cities on February 1, including three daily roundtrips between Grand Island, NE, and Kansas City, MO. Also, Great Lakes returned service to four Montana communities between Billings and Glasgow, Glendive, Havre and Wolf Point. In addition to current service to , CO, Great Lakes also began operating flights between Bill- ings and Sydney, MN. Currently Great Lakes provides service to 59 airports in 17 states with a fleet of 30-seat Embraer Brasilias and 19-seat Beech 1900s. Beech 1900 flown by Gulfstream International as a Continental Connection carrier

RAA-1-2PgAd_RonLosasso-OLT.indd 1 regional horizons | January/February12/31/08 2:04:29 2009 PM 17 A coin a day makes a thousand coins in a thousand days.

Chinese Proverb

Global Headquarters 9800 N.W. 41st Street, Suite 400 , 33178 Tel. 305 428 8000 Fax 305 392 5621 A Fortune 500 ® Company Europe • Middle East • Africa Kingfisher House, Northwood Park Gatwick Road, Crawley West Sussex, RH10 2 XN Our promise: Tel. +44 1293 400333 Fax +44 1293 404333 Premier service at the best prices. For other global locations, please visit: 18 regional horizons | January/February 2009 www.wfscorp.com NEWS BRIEFS

Seattle, WA-based introduced its newest Bombar- Empire Aerospace recently added the capability to offer Level 2 dier Q400 aircraft colorfully outfitted in University of Washington NDT (non-destructive testing) in Eddy Current and Ultrasonic Inspec- livery. The turboprop replaces a similarly liveried Horizon CRJ-700 tion for all makes and models of aircraft. “This now gives us the A coin a day regional jet that the airline phased out as part of its ongoing tran- flexibility to accomplish in-house NDT Inspections which meet aging sition to an all Q-400 fleet. aircraft requirements,” noted Empire Aerospace Chief Inspector and Quality Manager Jim Culora. makes a thousand coins A subsidiary of , Empire Aerospace has been providing heavy maintenance in a thousand days. and avionics modifications on Fokker F27s, ATR42s and ATR72s aircraft for several US and Canadian operators. Empire Chinese Proverb is also authorized to perform heavy maintenance, avionics and structural modifications on Bombardier Dash-8, Q400, 300, Avmax_RAA_BC_ad_2008.qxd 4/8/08 9:50 AM Page 1 REGIONAL MARKET LINKS 200, 100 and Embraer Brasila aircraft, as well as being an authorized dealer for Rockwell Collins, maintenance and installations of avionics systems in aircraft under We’ll put you into the blue. 70,000 gross weight. Or the red. Or the white.... Names in the News In addition to heavy maintenance and modification, our Great Falls, John Buckley, a longtime ATR employee, has moved to Super- Montana facility offers full aircraft jet International as Vice President-Development establishing the painting capabilities. manufacturer’s North American office. In addition,Patrick Sullivan US Sales Office has been named Head of Customer Services-Americas. Marty Craig 843-686-3949 [email protected] Mark Neeley has been appointed Vice President-Sales at ATR North America. Neeley had previously served as Embraer Regional Vice President-Sales and held similar positions with Fairchild-Dornier and .

Former Big Sky President Fred deLeeuw has joined associate member AirNet Systems as Chief Financial Officer of the Columbus, OH-based company. Mark Neeley

Barry MacKinnon of Bombardier Regional Aircraft has moved to the Business Aircraft division as Director-Market Development. Philippe Poutissou is now the Global Headquarters Vice President-Marketing for 9800 N.W. 41st Street, Suite 400 Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. Miami, Florida 33178 Tel. 305 428 8000 Fax 305 392 5621 Hideo Egawa will become the new A Fortune 500 ® Company President of Mitsubishi Aircraft Europe • Middle East • Africa Corporation effective April 1 after Kingfisher House, Northwood Park final board approval. Currently Direc- Gatwick Road, Crawley tor and Senior Executive Vice President Our promise: West Sussex, RH10 2 XN of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Tel. +44 1293 400333 Fax +44 1293 404333 Egawa will succeed Nobuo Toda who will become Vice Chairman. Premier service at the best prices. For other global locations, please visit: Hideo Egawa www.wfscorp.com regional horizons | January/February 2009 19 UPCOMING RAA EVENTS

Regional Airline Association 2025 M Street, NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 2009 Tel: 202/367-1170 Fax: 202/367-2170 [email protected] • www.raa.org

March 10-12 Flight Technology Committee RAA staff Jeppesen, Englewood, CO President Roger Cohen May 18-21 RAA Annual Convention Vice President Scott Foose Salt Lake City, UT Vice President-Technical Services Register on-line at www.raa.org David Lotterer Vice President-Legislative Affairs Faye Malarkey Black Director-Industry & Regulatory Affairs Liam Connolly Operations Manager 2010 Staci Morgan Association Associate May 24-27 RAA Annual Convention Pepper Weeks Milwaukee, WI Convention Manager John Rubsamen Sponsorship Manager Diana Lundie Sponsorship Assistant Welcome to the following Susan Young 2008-2009 board of directors new RAA members Chairman Rick Leach, Vice Chairman RAA Member Russell “Chip” Childs, SkyWest Airlines Airline Treasurer James Rankin, Air Wisconsin Secretary Dan Wolf, Cape Air Directors Peter Bowler, American Eagle Airlines RAA Associate Tim Komberec, Empire Airlines Member Jim Ream, ExpressJet Doug Voss, Great Lakes Aviation Dave Hackett, Gulfstream International Airlines Absolute Aviation Services Joseph Randell, Jazz Air BGI Worldwide Logistics, Inc. Steve Farrow, Bryan Bedford, Republic Airways Blue Grass Airport Broadwing Air Repair Desser Tire & Rubber Co., Inc. Regional Horizons is published on a Inventory Locator Service, LLC bi-monthly frequency by Emerald Media in partnership with RAA. Meggitt Aircraft Braking Systems Editor Kelly Murphy Par-Kan Company, Inc. Emerald Media [email protected] Ramco Systems Contributing Carole Shifrin Saft America, Inc. editors Al Ditter Repair Group, LLC Design Jennifer Moore and Aeris Graphic Design Superjet International layout [email protected] -Chem Products Advertising Cheryl Goldsby [email protected]

Printed in USA February 2009 20 regional horizons | January/February 2009 ©2009 RAA All rights reserved