RA and LC meeting
Here are some of the things heard today:
-We will post a profit in 2010
-$1.3 billion spent on Capital Expenditures as opposed to $2.8-3.0 billion per year. Means we will use the difference to beef up pensions and pay down debt.
-We want 60 MD-90's
-Once we have 40 or so MD-90's, all M88 pilots will be qualified on MD-90
-Airtran has dipped to 170 departures in ATL. Down from 270
-We will be getting VERY, VERY close to Alaska. No, not a merger, just a very close relationship at all stations. ie they will be moving to our gates.
-China Southern and Eastern will be on board soon.
-We are now co-owners of terminal 4 in JFK. Announcement in May about improvements there.
-We ARE bringing the 22 757/767s out of the desert.Not sure of the timeframe but there will be a substantial investment in these a/c to get them ready to fly again.
-He believes ANA and JAL will merge
-Not getting JAL is not a bad thing. We would be writing alot of checks the next 2 years
-narrowbody order not before 18 months
-All 747-400s have renewed their leases
-Many RJs will be parked as they come off leases
-Very frustrated with Obama Administration and their "hands on" approach to the de-regulated airline industry. ie LGA/DCA swap, healthcare
-We are looking at some changes to health care coverage next year. Not alot was said about this but he mentioned a need to keep costs down by having DAL select doctors for certain procedures
-He hopes UAL and USAirways get together. Consolodation is good for the industry right now. He sees 3 airlines eventually in Europe.
-3 goals in 2010: Improve IT, Maximize revenue from synergy, and finalize the remaining labor issues.
-GUM is off...for now
-No international bases
-Lay flat coming to A330 eventually
I'm sure I am forgetting some, but maybe someone else can fill in the gaps.