Bombardier CRJ-700 vs. Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8)

The Bombardier CRJ-700 is a narrow-body regional aircraft, designed for short to medium-haul routes. Introduced in 1999 as a member of the Canadair Regional Jet series, the CRJ-700 is a stretched derivative of the CRJ200. Regional carriers use CRJs, like the -700, to serve smaller cities and transport passengers to hub airports for connecting flights.

The CRJ-700 is approximately 32 meters (106.0 feet) long, and 23.3 meters (76.4 feet) from wing tip to wing tip. This aircraft is tailored for operations in smaller airport environments with limited runway lengths. The size and design of the CRJ-700 facilitate efficient airport operations and quick turnarounds, essential for the high-frequency schedules typical of regional airlines. Powered by General Electric engines capable of delivering a maximum thrust of 122.6 kN (27,600 lbf), the CRJ-700 is equipped for a range of approximately 2,593 kilometers (1,400 nautical miles). This range allows airlines to deploy the aircraft on a wide array of routes, from short hops to longer regional journeys, without sacrificing efficiency or performance. CRJ-700 flights can typically range anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple hours in duration.

The cabin of the CRJ-700 is designed to seat around 66-78 passengers in a standard single-class configuration. Features such as improved cabin lighting, ergonomic seating, and overhead storage contribute to an enhanced passenger experience. Additionally, the cabin's design allows for quick and efficient boarding and deplaning, a key consideration in regional air travel.

In the competitive landscape of regional aircraft, the Bombardier CRJ-700 holds its ground against counterparts like the Embraer E175. The CRJ-700's introduction served to address a growing market demand for regional jets that could offer better performance, more seats, and improved passenger comfort compared to earlier models. US-based airlines including American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express have utilized the CRJ-700 extensively. Its operational strengths make it well-suited for building and maintaining effective regional networks, providing vital connectivity between smaller cities and major airports. The aircraft's role extends beyond just transportation; it facilitates economic growth and accessibility to remote areas, proving to be a valuable asset in the regional aviation sector. At launch, the -700 had an estimated sale price of $35 million. Production for the entire CRJ family was discontinued after 2021.

The Bombardier Q400, belonging to the DHC Dash 8 series, is a turboprop aircraft engineered for regional aviation. With a length of 32.9 meters (107.9 feet) and a wingspan of 28.4 meters (93.2 feet), the Q400 is designed to operate efficiently in diverse regional airport environments. It strives in operations that require agility and short takeoff and landing capabilities. From the outside, the Q400 can be identified by its high-wing design, 6-bladed propellors, T-tail, and wing-mounted landing gears. The Q400 was the most popular variant of the Dash 8, with over 600 delivered as of September 2019. De Havilland ultimately paused Dash 8-Q400 production in 2021 due to the pandemic and lack of demand.

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW150A engines, the aircraft is capable of producing a substantial power output, . This power enables the Q400 to achieve a range of approximately 2,040 kilometers (1,102 nautical miles), making it a suitable choice for various regional routes, from short hops to more extended connections. The selection of turboprop engines for the Q400 reflects a focus on fuel efficiency and operational cost-effectiveness, key considerations in the regional airline market. The cabin of the Q400, configured to seat about 76 passengers in a standard layout, can be adapted to accommodate up to 90 passengers in high-density seating arrangements. This flexibility allows airlines to optimize the aircraft for different route profiles. The cabin design incorporates elements aimed at improving passenger comfort, such as noise reduction, which is particularly beneficial during the shorter flights typical in regional travel.

In the regional aircraft market, the Bombardier Q400 offers an alternative to similar capacity regional jets, like the ATR 72. The aircraft's competitive edge lies in its combination of turboprop efficiency with a passenger capacity that approaches that of larger regional jets. This balance makes the Q400 a viable option for airlines operating a range of regional routes. Operators of the Q400, including Porter Airlines, Flybe, and Horizon Air, have found the aircraft suitable for their diverse regional networks. The Q400's operational profile allows these airlines to service routes efficiently, connecting smaller cities and towns with major hubs. The aircraft's role in these fleets underscores its suitability for the specific demands of regional air travel, where efficiency, versatility, and cost-effectiveness are paramount.

In summary, the Bombardier Q400's introduction into the regional aviation sector provided airlines with an aircraft that aligns well with the operational requirements of short to medium-haul routes. Its design, capacity, and range capabilities make it a noteworthy choice for airlines looking to enhance their regional operations.