I'm new to this game and I don't know which plane to lease. Is it possible to start with a 737 or should I go with a Q400?
Depends on Server and Route.
Hi,
It is probably wiser to start with a few Q400's or regional jets. If you find good routes, replace the Q400 by a 737 and use the smaller plane to try out new routes.
Jan
You can start with everything if you know how.
You can start with 737, but you need to know which routes you need to fly to make the flights fully booked. Better idea is using props or RJs, more connections and easier to fill in
Why use the Q400 when the ATR 72-600 is more cost efficient and also offers a wider family range using the same maintenance that is still in production.
Yes, it is fully possible to start with an 737. For example I started Malaysian with 3 E195s and 1 A320 on a fully established server. But I have a developed and tested business model which I know will work in most cases.
If you are starting in big markets like USA/China, it is better to start with narrow-bodies, There is demand even in established servers, For smaller markets regional jets would be better choice.
Thanks for the help guys! I ended up leasing some ATR 72-210's since they were 10 times as cheap as the Q400's.
They’re also much older. They can get you started just fine, but if you take too long to switch to the 72-500 or -600 it will cripple your airline image - also maintenance costs are higher for older planes.