American brings back the CRJ-200 on 10 regional routes

At American Airlines, one of the most uncomfortable jets is making a comeback.

A spokesman for the Fort Worth-based carrier confirmed that the 50-seat Bombardier CRJ-200 will be reintroduced on some regional routes.

The plan calls for American to deploy the CRJ-200 on 10 routes from Chicago. As American adds more of these jets into its American Eagle fleet, the number of routes will increase.

One of the most cramped experiences in the sky can be found in the CRJ 200, which has just 50 economy seats. The overhead bins aren't large enough for a backpack, and taller passengers need to be aware of their heads when walking up and down the aisle.

There isn't much in the way of amenities on the plane. Don't expect to have access to wi-fi or charge your devices on the plane. The economy seats are not all that comfortable and there is no first class cabin.

All of American's CRJ-200 routes are shorter than 200 miles. SkyWest Airlines ran the CRJ-200 for American Eagle in June 2020.

The return of the CRJ-200 is a strategic move by American to make sure it can continue to offer a robust regional network.

American has been aggressive in leading the industry in tackling this challenge, but it will take some time before the issue is resolved, according to an internal memo written by American's chief financial officer.

In August, the carrier announced that it would once again partner with Air Wisconsin to provide CRJ-200 service out of its Chicago hub.

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Up to 60 CRJ-200s are covered by American's new capacity purchase agreement with Air Wisconsin, with the possibility of adding more aircraft, including the larger CRJ- 700, down the line if demand warrants.

American Eagle has partnerships with Air Wisconsin before. When US Airways and American Airlines operations were combined, this regional affiliate became American Eagle.

Air Wisconsin began flying solely for United Express in March of last year.

The exclusive agreement between United and Air Wisconsin will end early next year. United is doing the opposite of what American is doing.

The Chicago-based carrier plans to phase out all 50-seat operations as part of its United Next growth strategy.

American's 10 initial CRJ-200 routes

• O'Hare International Airport (ORD) — Appleton International Airport (ATW).
• ORD — Bishop International Airport (FNT).
• ORD — Dayton International Airport (DAY).
• ORD — Eastern Iowa Airport (CID).
• ORD — Eppley Airfield/Omaha Airport (OMA).
• ORD — Huntsville International Airport (HSV).
• ORD — Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO).
• ORD — Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK).
• ORD — Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE).
• ORD — Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO).