Republic 170s To Spell Midwest 717s
Midwest Airlines will replace all but nine of its Boeing 717s with 12 Embraer 170s flown by Indianapolis-based Republic Airways as part of an effort to res

Midwest Airlines will replace all but nine of its Boeing 717s with 12 Embraer 170s flown by Indianapolis-based Republic Airways as part of an effort to restructure its fleet and fend off bankruptcy. As part of the deal, Midwest announced that Republic flight crew would fly the 12 E170s as Midwest Connect, temporarily replacing Midwest Airlines Boeing 717 crew until they receive training on the Brazilian equipment. Plans call for Republic to transfer the airplanes’ operating certificate to Midwest, which would lease the airplanes from Republic. However, that process could take between eight months and a year, according to Midwest, and hinge on concessions from crewmembers accustomed to Boeing 717 rates.

Republic said it has lent Midwest $15 million for a one-year term, and has committed another $10 million if Midwest achieves certain goals.