SkyWest has reported 153,300 block hours in July 2018, compared to 162,400 block hours in July 2017, a decrease of 9,100 or 5.6%. The net decrease was consistent with SkyWest's fleet transition plan to improve the mix of aircraft in its fleet by adding new E175 aircraft, while reducing its 50-seat jets.
The year-over-year net change was primarily driven by approximately 6,900 additional block hours from its E175 aircraft (includes the E175 aircraft and the E175 SC aircraft) and a decrease of approximately 16,000 block hours from its other aircraft types.
In July 2018, SkyWest's E175 aircraft represented approximately 26% of SkyWest's total block hour production for the month compared to approximately 21% for the month of July 2017.
SkyWest reported 1,029,000 block hours for year-to-date July 2018, compared to 1,082,000 block hours year-to-date July 2017, a decrease of 53,000, or 4.9%. This net change was primarily driven by approximately 46,000 additional block hours from its E175 aircraft and a decrease of approximately 99,000 block hours from its other aircraft types.
SkyWest had 89,300 departures in July 2018 compared to 97,500 in July 2017, a decrease of 8,200, or 8.5%. Additional flight statistics for July are included in the accompanying table.