Yep. Looks like DAL is following UAL's lead on this one. Why have wholly owned, or a few express carriers when you can have multiple and have them all bid against each other. Then when the contract is up, (and the contracts are getting shorter), throw them out on their arse and hire another one (see UFS, Air Wisconsin, ACA, Mesa, Chautaugua). You can always find someone cheaper. Not to mention the whole strike hedge thing (Comair). If one goes on strike, the others can fill in and you may even be able to sue/drop the carrier for breach of contract!!