So Delta wants to start flying direct flights between PDX and London....and Delta also just announced that Virgin Atlantic will start flying the route, instead of Delta metal, between SEA and London

Delta Airlines To Offer Direct Flight From Portland To England In 2017 . News | OPB

I could see Delta making PDX a virtual base....have that business pick up...and end up giving that flying to Virgin. I could be wrong, but this looks like more ways we are are losing widebody flying. While United and AA fly 777-300s, and 787s....we'll still be flying 767-300ers....which ultimately the company doesn't want to replace, except maybe via Jkint Venture.