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Skybus Airlines
I know that this appeared in an earlier thread about companies preparing to launch, but I am curious enough to start a dedicated thread. What is the deal with this CMH based company? Any insider info or obscure facts? Any forcasts as to future routes/success?
RE: Skybus Airlines
read in this months Columbus monthly that they will make an anouncement by the end of Sep. and hope to start flying and the end of March. Again as 95% will agree with me on this " I'll believe it when I see it"
The voice of moderation
RE: Skybus Airlines
JLB54061
RE: Skybus Airlines
Skybus will be setting up shop in Concourse B at Port Columbus, likely taking gates 17, 19, and 21, which are currently unleased and are stationary, mainline-only jetbridges. The former TWA-ops rooms below the B17-B21 boarding areas will also be leased by Skybus, presumably for their operations and breakroom areas.
Official routes, cities, and schedules have not been released, however word circulating around here is that Skybus will start operations early next year and quickly grow to roughly 60 flights a day from CMH. While the 737-700 appears to be the aircraft chosen for Skybus' operation, no official choice has been made regarding aircraft type.
Lastly, I've said it before and I'll say it again; this is an endeavor that is doomed to failure, not necessarily because it's a bad idea per se, but that Columbus is not the right location to start such an airline. The market is not underserved, nor is it large enough to support the kind of operation they plan to establish. Early reports concerning their start-up plans were very far-fetched, including flying international routes from CMH and transcons. I'm still puzzled as to how the accouting departments at Huntington, Nationwide, and Wolfe saw it prudent to invest so many millions of dollars into this venture. Maybe they'll pull out before it's too late.
Official routes, cities, and schedules have not been released, however word circulating around here is that Skybus will start operations early next year and quickly grow to roughly 60 flights a day from CMH. While the 737-700 appears to be the aircraft chosen for Skybus' operation, no official choice has been made regarding aircraft type.
Lastly, I've said it before and I'll say it again; this is an endeavor that is doomed to failure, not necessarily because it's a bad idea per se, but that Columbus is not the right location to start such an airline. The market is not underserved, nor is it large enough to support the kind of operation they plan to establish. Early reports concerning their start-up plans were very far-fetched, including flying international routes from CMH and transcons. I'm still puzzled as to how the accouting departments at Huntington, Nationwide, and Wolfe saw it prudent to invest so many millions of dollars into this venture. Maybe they'll pull out before it's too late.
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- eraugrad02
- Posts: 732
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RE: Skybus Airlines
How could they get 737NG's that fast? i'd think they'd have to order a long time ago to have them by then but what do I know.
Desmond MacRae in ILM
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting ERAUgrad02 (Reply 4): How could they get 737NG's that fast? |
They could get 733's as an interm until they could get 737NG a/c.
MCOflyer
Never be afraid to stand up for who you are.
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting FlyCMH (Reply 3): . Early reports concerning their start-up plans were very far-fetched, including flying international routes from CMH and transcons. |
Based upon that they would not be only flying the 737NG, for transcon internationally they would need atleast a fleet of 757s.
Just wondering, the livery shown on their site, is that the official one? My god that has to be the worst I have ever seen.
RE: Skybus Airlines
I spoke some time backwith Skybus. They were very interested in the Ryanair model but were not aware of the revenue diversion laws set by congress.
I agree with:
There are alot of "wanna B's",
But remember the fastest way to become a miollionair,
Be a billionair and put flights into PIE.
I agree with:
| Quoting CMHSRQ (Reply 1): read in this months Columbus monthly that they will make an anouncement by the end of Sep. and hope to start flying and the end of March. Again as 95% will agree with me on this " I'll believe it when I see it" |
There are alot of "wanna B's",
But remember the fastest way to become a miollionair,
Be a billionair and put flights into PIE.
Some people don't get it. Business is about making MONEY!
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- jetblueatjfk
- Posts: 1556
- Joined:
RE: Skybus Airlines
That is absolutely the uglies livery I have ever seen.
So far they have poor main ops base choice and they are going to start off with some 733's until they get their new planes and paint them in that disgusting paint job. I don't know about this one...
Yes I know the Livery won't make them fail but CHM probably will.
B6jfk
So far they have poor main ops base choice and they are going to start off with some 733's until they get their new planes and paint them in that disgusting paint job. I don't know about this one...
Yes I know the Livery won't make them fail but CHM probably will.
B6jfk
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- PlanesNTrains
- Posts: 9524
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RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting KSUpilot (Reply 6): Based upon that they would not be only flying the 737NG, for transcon internationally they would need atleast a fleet of 757s. |
I would think a 73G would be able to do CMH-CUN, CMH-YVR, or CMH-SAN. I don't see where they specifically mention Europe, Asia, or Hawaii so I don't see a need for a 757.
| Quoting FlyCMH (Reply 3): Lastly, I've said it before and I'll say it again; this is an endeavor that is doomed to failure, not necessarily because it's a bad idea per se, but that Columbus is not the right location to start such an airline. |
What about the Ryanair concept of stationing X number of planes in multiple cities? For example, Skybus could put 4 73G's in CMH, then put, say, two in MSN or GRR or TOL or some other midsized city, adding flights to LAX/ONT, LAS, MCO/SFB, FLL/PBI, TPA/PIE, JFK/EWR/Newburgh, etc.?
Just a thought.
-Dave
-Dave
MAX’d out on MAX threads. If you are starting a thread, and it’s about the MAX - stop. There’s already a thread that covers it.
MAX’d out on MAX threads. If you are starting a thread, and it’s about the MAX - stop. There’s already a thread that covers it.
RE: Skybus Airlines
I'm hoping they change the livery. I like the American flag, but what is with the yellow? If they are going for the "America" theme why not white and then the red nacelles.
The website is tacky as well. If they deffinatly need the website, then just stick to the nacelles.
The website is tacky as well. If they deffinatly need the website, then just stick to the nacelles.
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting PlanesNTrains (Reply 9): I would think a 73G would be able to do CMH-CUN, CMH-YVR, or CMH-SAN. I don't see where they specifically mention Europe, Asia, or Hawaii so I don't see a need for a 757. |
Sorry, I misinterpreted international as overseas ops.
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting KSUpilot (Reply 10): I'm hoping they change the livery. I like the American flag, but what is with the yellow? If they are going for the "America" theme why not white and then the red nacelles. |
Maybe the Yellow envokes the image of a taxi or school bus (Sit down and shut up during taxiing...don't make me land this thing...just sit down and Shut up) or "pissing" your money away. Just maybe they are looking to become the official airline for the "Wonder Woman" fan club.
My name is Centrair but HND is closer. Let's Japanese Aviation!
RE: Skybus Airlines
If they're going for a Ryanair-type model, would they consider flying to secondary airports?? [a la Allegiant]
RE: Skybus Airlines
Being here in Ohio myself I have to second what others have said, I'll believe it when I see it.
You can cut the irony with a knife
RE: Skybus Airlines
Hey if they eventually open up a CLE to EWR route, or better yet, a CAK to EWR route I would fly them home from college, that is of course if they have the lowest fare.
CLE to EWR is highly unlikely as that is prime Continental territory, but they could try to compete with AirTran at CAK if they do become somewhat powerful.
CLE to EWR is highly unlikely as that is prime Continental territory, but they could try to compete with AirTran at CAK if they do become somewhat powerful.
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- eraugrad02
- Posts: 732
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RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting KSUpilot (Reply 6): Based upon that they would not be only flying the 737NG, for transcon internationally they would need atleast a fleet of 757s. |
the 737-700ER can make it across the atlantic. dont forget that plane.
| Quoting Derik737 (Reply 17): Wrong airplane. 20 Airbus aircraft to be leased before the first direct buys start showing up in 2009. Look for announcements in October. |
How come their pix r of 737NG's? Are they leasing A320s and buy 737's you're saying?
Desmond MacRae in ILM
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting Derik737 (Reply 17): Wrong airplane. 20 Airbus aircraft to be leased before the first direct buys start showing up in 2009. |
If that is the case, then that image on their site may mean nothing at all. Who knows what their livery will even look like if the only image is of an aircraft they will not be using.
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting JetBlueAtJFK (Reply 8): That is absolutely the uglies livery I have ever seen. |
Ditto. IF they ever get airborne, 3 months tops. Anyone trying to start an airline today is not firing on all thrusters. Except maybe Mr. Branson?
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting ERAUgrad02 (Reply 18): How come their pix r of 737NG's? Are they leasing A320s and buy 737's you're saying? |
It was a concept picture. The direct buys will be Airbus as well.
RE: Skybus Airlines
Just heard that Skybus will be taking gates B17 and B19 at Port Columbus. The jetways that are currently there will be removed, and a second ground-level hold area will be constructed in the former TWA and America West operations areas, to be accessable via an escalator from the main departures level. Apparently, Skybus will not use jetways on its aircraft and will use ground-level loading and unloading, so as to be able to use the forward and aft doors. I'm telling you, this hair-brained scheme keeps getting more and more comical!
RE: Skybus Airlines
I've spent time working with an all ground level operation...and it's a NIGHTMARE!! I still wake up in a cold sweat thinking about all the WCHR pax that were up the proverbial creek without a paddle. Not having a jetbridge is not something that should be desired, IMO.
RE: Skybus Airlines
Why in gods name would anyone want to fly on this airline? We don't know their fares yet, but how low could they possibly in comparison to other airlines serving Columbus?
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quote: I've spent time working with an all ground level operation...and it's a NIGHTMARE!! I still wake up in a cold sweat thinking about all the WCHR pax that were up the proverbial creek without a paddle. Not having a jetbridge is not something that should be desired, IMO. |
Believe me, I'm positive the geniouses behind this train wreck haven't thought about that. I doubt that have they put into consideration that Columbus' climate isn't exactly ideal during the winter either. Nothing like 130+ passengers slipping on ice, trudging through snow, or freezing in line waiting to go up or down a set of air stairs into the plane...
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- WesternA318
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RE: Skybus Airlines
Next thing youll hear is that theyve hired Peter Graves as their cheif pilot...
RE: Skybus Airlines
Well new press release and updated website
http://www.dispatch.com/business-sto...tch/2006/09/22/20060922-A1-02.html
quote
Efforts to create a Columbus-based airline received a major boost yesterday when local and state officials offered plans to contribute $57 million to help get the airline started.
Officials said the investment in Skybus might help create as many as 1,000 jobs within three years, while producing an annual economic impact of $600 million.
Skybus officials said the airline is to be based at Port Columbus and plans to begin flying in the spring.
unquote
http://www.dispatch.com/business-sto...tch/2006/09/22/20060922-A1-02.html
quote
Efforts to create a Columbus-based airline received a major boost yesterday when local and state officials offered plans to contribute $57 million to help get the airline started.
Officials said the investment in Skybus might help create as many as 1,000 jobs within three years, while producing an annual economic impact of $600 million.
Skybus officials said the airline is to be based at Port Columbus and plans to begin flying in the spring.
unquote
The voice of moderation
RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting CMHSRQ (Reply 27): Efforts to create a Columbus-based airline received a major boost yesterday when local and state officials offered plans to contribute $57 million to help get the airline started. |
I hope it is on soft dollars, such as reduced landing fees and such, not hard cold cash.
I really think this venture is a day late and dollar short.
You can cut the irony with a knife
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- DeltaRules
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RE: Skybus Airlines
| Quoting FlyCMH (Reply 22): Just heard that Skybus will be taking gates B17 and B19 at Port Columbus. The jetways that are currently there will be removed, and a second ground-level hold area will be constructed in the former TWA and America West operations areas, to be accessable via an escalator from the main departures level. Apparently, Skybus will not use jetways on its aircraft and will use ground-level loading and unloading, so as to be able to use the forward and aft doors. |
Well...that's interesting. I wonder how appealing that'll be to passengers, having to walk across the ramp compared to boarding via jetways on pretty much every other mainline carrier in the US. I personally don't mind, but I don't know what the rest of the public would think.
DeltaRules
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RE: Skybus Airlines
I like the new logo. Think we are going to see a blue and orange livery? Might be nice to see orange worked back into airline color schemes.
RE: Skybus Airlines
As much as I like the new look compared to the previous "Wonder Woman" scheme, the logistics of this venture still do not meld in a way to create a viable business product.
Skybus says the want to keep costs low, ala Ryanair and easyJet. Doing so would mean high aircraft utilization on short/medium segments into seldom-used airports and having all aircraft return to base at the end of the day. Yet the city and business officials putting money into the airline are anticipating Skybus connecting Columbus to the west coast, to places like San Francisco, Seattle, and San Diego. These are segments that would require dedicating one aircraft to the route, operating out of costly airports, and possibly require aircraft to RON in other cities, which will significantly increase costs. There are several other gaps in their proposed operation, which unfortunately will lead to this airline's quick demise.
Skybus says the want to keep costs low, ala Ryanair and easyJet. Doing so would mean high aircraft utilization on short/medium segments into seldom-used airports and having all aircraft return to base at the end of the day. Yet the city and business officials putting money into the airline are anticipating Skybus connecting Columbus to the west coast, to places like San Francisco, Seattle, and San Diego. These are segments that would require dedicating one aircraft to the route, operating out of costly airports, and possibly require aircraft to RON in other cities, which will significantly increase costs. There are several other gaps in their proposed operation, which unfortunately will lead to this airline's quick demise.
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- DeltaRules
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RE: Skybus Airlines
CMH preparing for Skybus' arrival: http://www.port-columbus.com/news/press/release.asp?PID=224
DeltaRules
DeltaRules
A310/319/320/321/333, ARJ, BN2, B717/722/73S/733/734/735/73G/738/739/744/757/753/767/763/764/777, CR1/2/7/9, DH6, 328, EM2/ERJ/E70/E75/E90, F28/100, J31, L10/12/15, DC9/D93/D94/D95/M80/M88/M90/D10, SF3, SST
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