Commuter Airlines

Commuter airlines make up the fastest growing segment of the air transportation industry. Since the early 1960s the regional/commuter airline industry has become an integral part of the air transport network in the United States. Since deregulation, the number of regional/commuter passenger enplanements has increased more rapidly than that of the major carriers. This growth is expected to continue as the "majors" turn over more short-haul, low-density routes to the "commuters". This book provides a comprehensive overview of the industry and the primary operating and management functions of a typical commuter airline. Part One presents the origin and development of commuters, the regulatory environment in which they operate, the structure of their industry, and the important role they play. Part Two begins with a description of the FAA certification process and is followed by coverage of market measurement, forecasting, and planning. Part Three addresses the future of U.S. regional airlines.