Originally Posted by
sailingfun
Hawaii is not a profitable market for most airlines. It is offered because it is a network component needed to attract corporate and FF accounts. The yields are very low and rarely does it make money for anyone. Its a loss leader so to speak.
Any decision by Delta to purchase HNL would not involve their aircraft. Good used aircraft are available within days for the taking. No ones is going to buy a airline for their fleet with the current airline market. There are parked A319's available tomorrow and A330 next week.
OK, what about any Haneda slots or Asia flying? Not worth the trouble? You are probably right about the aircraft availability but all things being equal it is better to combine with a likeminded fleet rather than have an oddball (think SWA). If Delta were to do another acquisition/merger who would you say is a worthwhile target if any? Some people say Jetblue. I dont see that ever happening. Too much divestiture to get the deal done.