Delta Schedules Initial SkyWest CRJ-550 Routes

The carrier plans to deploy the aircraft in markets previously served by the CRJ-200.

A Delta Connection CRJ-700 aircraft (Photo: Shutterstock)

[ Planes ]May 25, 2024 9:06 am ET

By Ryan Ewing

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.

Delta’s CRJ-550 seat map (Photo: Delta.com)

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,

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Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

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Author

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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