Delta has scheduled the first batch of routes set to be operated by its new CRJ-550. The aircraft – which will be operated by SkyWest – is slated to enter service on July 1, 2024.
According to Cirium Diio schedule data, the CRJ-550 will initially be based out of the carrier’s Salt Lake City hub. Delta is adding the aircraft to a handful of routes this summer, including Butte, Mont., Cedar City, Utah, Elko, Nev., and West Yellowstone, Mont.
Most of these markets are subsidized under the federal government’s Essential Air Service (EAS) program and have been long served by CRJ-200 aircraft. Delta removed the CRJ-200 from its fleet late last year, now mandating that all of its aircraft have a first class cabin. In EAS markets, SkyWest receives the contract award and markets the flights under a mainline carrier’s respective regional brand.
SkyWest and Delta will join United Express as the only CRJ-550 operators. The regional jet has a total of 50 seats with 40 in economy and 10 in first class.
SkyWest will operate 19 CRJ-550s for Delta, which previously were CRJ-700s under the American Eagle brand. “The 19 CRJ-700s expiring from our American contract this year will transition to become CRJ-550s in our fleet,” said SkyWest’s Chief Commercial Officer Wade Steel in a first quarter 2024 earnings call.
While Delta has not shared specifics about the interior configuration, United’s CRJ-550s do feature some onboard premium amenities. These include closets for additional baggage storage and a snack bar,
