Originally Posted by newarkblows

The q 400 has a small baggage compartment and has had to leave bags behind on full flights. Usually they throw them on the next flight. What CAL found out when they originally brought in CHQ was that when you start bumping people due to weight restrictions, or leaving bags behind forcing compensation it adds up to a pretty sizeable number fast.

Originally Posted by Laxrox43

Gee you sound like you went to one of those pilot factory flight schools. I've flown both. It takes more skills, knowledge, and flying ability to manhandle a turbo-prop. Enough said.

Originally Posted by newarkblows

The emb 135 can usually fly full with a full load of bags as long as there isn't a big alt fuel burn. It makes sense if you have really light loads between two points. Ever since CAL started charging for bags the carry ons have been adding up. The q 400 has a small baggage compartment and has had to leave bags behind on full flights. Usually they throw them on the next flight. What CAL found out when they originally brought in CHQ was that when you start bumping people due to weight restrictions, or leaving bags behind forcing compensation it adds up to a pretty sizeable number fast.

These 135's are already being paid for by CAL who was able to work out a deal with the lease holder. The replacement parts are already there, the replacement parts cost a hell of a lot less when you are ordering for 245 airplanes vs 30 airplanes, no new maintenance guys needed, no new pilot training required, and if it breaks there are 245 more of them to find a replacement to still operate the flight.

Originally Posted by stoki

Flying itself aside. TP time is inferior to jet time. After speaking to various recruiters from various companies, ESPECIALLY overseas, a jet guy is more likely to get on somewhere then a turbo-prop driver (unless he is applying at a turbo-prop carrier). Even if it does take more piloting skills and effort to fly a turbo-prop properly. And I have been flying one for the past 3.5 years.. and wish I could replace it with jet time, being as that is what lots of employers seem to prefer.

Stupid? Yes, but it seems to be the case, more and more here in the U.S, where traditionally that hasn't been the case, but especially anywhere overseas, where your TP time is about as good as piston time.

Originally Posted by g-code

The memo said the 5 135s were for additional block hours....

Originally Posted by GlobeTreker

If that were true they would pay people more money to fly turbo props. All ATP's has a jet transition course you can take to get you back up to speed on the jets. I would hurry up and get your 1000 jet pic if you want to catch the next big wave of hiring at the majors. They are going to pass right over the guys with turbo prop only time.