Originally Posted by
scambo1
DAL has always been a follower with "innovations." On the surface, this may seem smart, you save money by not buying into a scheme that doesnt make you money. However, DAL goes a step futher, by buying from the lowest bidder. In flight entertainment - lowest bidder - problems with the system for years; Lie flat seats - late to the game and mod lines continue to be full; Cockpit tablet; Every airline has gone with Apple, DAL seems intent to again go with a different one - one that isn't yet faa approved - Save a penny, but in the end it costs them more.
This is so true.
Case in point: The infamous MD-11. Carriers that were serious about US to Asia service bought the 747-400. Delta (under Ron Allen's "leadership") went with the MD-11 as it was cheaper.
So how did that work out? It didn't live up to the range/performance guarantees from McDonnell Douglas (are you stunned?) which required additional fuel stops.
...You buy a ticket on Delta to fly nonstop to Tokyo and then the pilots make a PA saying "sorry folks we've got to stop for fuel and we'll be an hour or two late". Meanwhile your buddies (who booked on UAL or NWA) flew in a 747 and made it all the way. Would you book on Delta the next time?
My viewpoint is if Delta goes with the iPad instead of some "el-cheapo" alternative (that the manufacturer claims is just as good) that would signify a shift in management philosophy about looking for "value" instead of "price".