Southern Metro
In the early to mid 1970s, Southern was operating a fleet of DC-9 jets for their major routes, alongside aging Martin 404 airliners for short and thin segments. Southern had shunned the F-27s and Turboprop Convairs, and was left with a decision to make on replacement aircraft.
The daring choice was the new Metro Commuter airliner which offered great economics, but limited passenger appeal. Southern opted for the economics and operated the Metros from 1977 through the merger with North Central.
Shown on this IAWP historical card is their first Metro, N5389M, which became N60U upon delivery.
After the merger, Republic sold the Metro fleet to Britt in 1980 and 81. Although Southern was the first (and only) Regional Airline to acquire Metros, the aircraft became a staple of the major airlines through their code sharing commuter affiliates.
The daring choice was the new Metro Commuter airliner which offered great economics, but limited passenger appeal. Southern opted for the economics and operated the Metros from 1977 through the merger with North Central.
Shown on this IAWP historical card is their first Metro, N5389M, which became N60U upon delivery.
After the merger, Republic sold the Metro fleet to Britt in 1980 and 81. Although Southern was the first (and only) Regional Airline to acquire Metros, the aircraft became a staple of the major airlines through their code sharing commuter affiliates.
Photo 53 of 62, Southern Metro.jpg, 99KB, 817x516, 58 Hits
Other Sizes: Medium Large Original