I'm not sure if anyone knows the answer to this but does ExpressJet use RIC as some sort of "Mid-Atlantic" storage site for replacement aircraft. The last few times I have driven by the south end of the airport there have been at least three or four of the Miami Dolphin color livery E145's sitting on the tarmac by the Continental Express (which I know is operated by ExpressJet) hanger. I also noticed on Flightaware.com that several of the ExpressJet flights were to destinations such as Hartford, Myrtle Beach, Baltimore, etc. Could these have been charter flights or planes sent to replace temporarily grounded Continental Express aircraft? Just wondering why the sudden abundance in these particular aircraft.
ExpressJet Picture