The simple fact that Delta has changed strategy to reflect the "four cabin strategy" is all the evidence needed that Delta is taking the ULCCs seriously.

Doesn't mean they're going to try and compete heavily with us, but I bet they do take the financial model seriously. It's not about market share or passenger loads, it's all about MONEY. I bet Delta (United and American) are seeing the money the ULCCs are making as a lost opportunity for them.

BUT, you can copy the model, but it may not be the same. See Apple and Samsung.

And, I wouldn't worry much about what RA says, he pretty much just insinuated that the Gulf airlines were complicit in 9/11. Not actually what he said, but the perception of that was made.