Originally Posted by
hiflyer
Lets just stick with facts.
1. The reason you merge (notice I did not say takeover, this will be a merger of equals) is to create synergies that do not already exist.
2. To accomplish above, right-size and rationalize fleet. 115 old DC 9's flying around does not make sense with regard to above. Besides, Compass and DCI can fill in the DC 9's if needed when the industry cycle changes.
3. ATL will be right-sized. No need for a fortress hub when MSP is very lucrative and provides the int'l reach DAL has been looking for pre-merger.
4. DAL has not hired a CFO. Isn't the president E. Bastian pulling double duty? The new Flt. Ops. guy at DAL is former NWA. Has R. Anderson actually relocated to ATL? The point is, this has been in the making, these guys are going back to MSP to run the show. ATL will be the ops center, HQ will be in MSP (just a guess).
Maybe you could offer an educated point-of-view before dismissing statements the way you do. Or do you not have an opinion? Check out the fleet composition of the two airlines and you will see that in order to maximize the synergy of the deal, the fleet will have to be rationalized to a more common mix.
Just trying to connect the dots, nothing is hidden, all this info is available publicly and has been discussed publicly.
1. The "synergies" between NWA and DL could be done through their current codeshare at arm's length.
2. Great - outsource more flying. Is that why Delta is trying to reduce Connection flying by 15% this year, even to the point of parking their own jets at their Comair operation?
3. Yeah, the World's busiest airport in Atlanta has nothing on MSP.
4. No, Delta has not hired a President. Ed Bastian was the CFO.
I agree the fleet makes no sense and the merger makes no sense. In about 60 days I hope the Board realizes this cash out plan has no legs.