Originally Posted by
LostInPA
Because it's the largest traffic market in the U.S. Even though it may be losing money right now, that isn't necessarily a good predictor of future performance during a recession. Look at Delta. They're clamoring to get more presence in NYC, both at JFK and LGA, even to add the same destinations that US is dropping. The major carrier I used to work at (nonflying position, of course) had it as a stated strategic goal to grow in NYC, no matter what the cost.
This isn't some podunk town that's lost its mills and now the traffic is drying up. Either win in NY, or forever keep shrinking back into oblivion ala BWI/PIT/LAS. I can't think of a better place to take a stand.
So you do not work for the airlines and thus dont have access to the hub or any other site that shows all the stats and reasons behind the closure of LGA? Because I'm sure if you did you would understand the amount of money being lost in LGA for USairways. Its different for USairways then DAL/CAL/American etc. DAL for example has JFK and the ability to connect through NY a lot better. They can also go International out of JFK. Thus their Market share is a lot larger. USairways only has some 3% of the flying out of NY. As compared to some 30% I believe is the number for DAL. CAL has a large amount as well due to Newark..... Where USairways does not have such a network to support growth or an airport, LGA, that allows the most profitable routes.
Now if the port authority were to drop their strick rules on the distance a plane can go out of LGA. Then maybe it would be worth USairways to stick around. But that has not happen and probably never will. I think as of right now the furtherst a flight goes out of LGA is to DEN. Nothing further then that. Thus LAS/PHX are not able to be serviced out of LGA fo USairways and thus hubs they serve include PHL/CLT out of LGA for connections.... You think many want to do that when they can go to JFK/Newark and go direct?