Punta Arenas I predict!!!

 

So, Delta is never going to do JFK to ICN, HND, DEL, BOM, RUH, PVG, PEK, HKG, DXB, SIN, or something equivalent with heavy payload requirements? The expansion of Delta into Asia will not just be LAX+SEA, but JFK as well. An eventual 350 base is all but certain at some point. As to 35K ops, I’m sure it’ll transit through JFK on a few routes, but the 359 will be much more prevalent.

 

Not with the 78

 

with the 35K of course, it is a completely different beast compared to the 359, especially the brand new ones DL are getting. JFK-ICN could be done with a 359 right now, LAX-SIN could be done with a 359 right now, SQ with 22 less seats, takeoff around 273 tonnes with full pax and cargo on LAX-SIN.

 

I am curious about how the 35K will perform in JNB, it is the rare stretch that has better payload range than its smaller sibling. 77L outlifted the 77W at a certain point, A332 did more than the 333. Even a RTOW restricted 35K it seems would have quite a decent payload advantage over the 359 because like the 77L it has a lot of margin even on ULH flights

 

ICN; supposedly. HND; we had the chance and all but gifted our slot to AA. DEL & BOM; maybe. RUH, probably not; RX will likely do that. PVG, PEK, HKG, DXB and SIN; highly doubtful. Delta has historically been rather gun shy to Asia from NYC and I don't necessarily see that changing but hope to be proven wrong. The other thing to remember is that we hold a finite number of slots at JFK so we can't just add all of these flights without securing more slots or trading other profitable flying to do it. And finally, consider how many frames it takes to operate a single ULH route. When you think of it in those terms, 20 aircraft isnt much especially the need for spares as well. I know we have options for more; again I'd be pleasantly surprised to see us exercise them.

 

You obviously missed what our CEO said in December

 

Ed says a lot of things. Like I said, I'm willing to say I was wrong if/when it happens and Im not talking about one token JV flight to ICN. We have always covered Europe very well from NYC but never much to Asia. I'd love to see it though.

 

All good points. But between the M&A activity that may occur over the next several years (JFK growth and/or cont. up gauging) the breadth of WB’s we’re getting going into 2030, and management’s clear direction on TPAC expansion I see NYC to Asia being vital to continued premium revenue. Especially, if it means giving NY’ers an alternate to UA if/when they decide to grow EWR > Asia again.

I’ve said for a long while now, historic Delta is dead network-wise. Current ambitions are much more aligned with United’s network goals (no, not XLR niche market flying). The second global scope was added it was clear. It will take years to iron out the intl. network, but the firm and optioned orders we have can/will support a vast intl. network with growth from all hubs, but LAX, SEA, and JFK being the focus.

Regarding JFK slots, B6 is in trouble and AA is weak. Both have been relying on the ridiculous NYC slot extension that is harming DL and protecting AA/B6. Oct. 24, it hopefully comes to an end and B6 and/or AA will be forced to lose money on NYC flying or give up slots to yours truly.

 

He specifically talked about our future expansion in Asia. Glenn did as well before he retired. It's not a myth.