Doesn't seem like the month to be taking that bet.

I do think that failing to get adequate HND access would give DAL a legitimate angle to oppose the ATI applications for both of the alliances. If the DOT is as far in bed with AMR as it appears, then it might be a good tactic to placate DAL. Just to shut us up.

So while I won't put any precious beers on the line, I'm going to guess 3 DAL, 1 Hawaiian. Of course, we haven't seen LCC apply. They're in STAR (for now), but not part of the ATI, I believe. If they apply, 2 DAL, 1 LCC, 1 Hawaiian.

Unless, of course, the DOT goes for the default result, and doesn't bother to actually see who applied. In which case: 2 LUV, 2 JB, and DAL has to give up 5 NRT slots, and 5 JFK slots for good measure.

No, it's a contractual issue with the 50/50 JV. They have to do a taxi-off, for every taxi-on we accomplish. Even worse, they must also contractually have a flight that undershoots their destination. The pilots that were selected are grieving. It's still up in the air.

I love it!

That would be quite interesting to see them get a 320 over there from JFK!

I already commute to reserve, but I was definitely kidding. I'm happy with my keester in the right seat of the A320 until I can hold the A330. Then I will probably stay there for a while. ;)

I'm pretty sure the default DOT award forces us to give them a pair of 777's. Full of gas. New interiors. Painted. With a witty "Little Boy Blue" or such nonsense on the nose.

Gawd, I think I'm starting to sound bitter. I sure hope not.

Be honest with me: do I sound bitter?

Status quo. It was my understanding that they were on a lease back to JAL. They are dumping them so unless the deal fell apart they should be headed this way.

I do not see it as bitter, just shockingly accurate.

Wouldn't it be "Big Blue", or "Blue by ya", or "We got a Blue Senator in our pocket", or nonsense of that nature.

I think you should bid a Boeing. :D

You mean like "Blue Schu", or "Schu-me Blu-me"? Certainly has a ring to it.

Does anyone really think that this US Government really cares about the industry? You saw it with GM/Chrysler, you saw it with banks, now you will see it with airlines. The government will take an equity interest in AA and it will be the winner. They will dictate the rules of the marketplace and erect barriers to their competition ala Toyota.

We had better be ready to become the Ford of the airlines. We will have to go it alone and win market share based on our independence from the Federal Gov. Lee M should send that pilots letter to the Wall Street Journal Editorial page. We should emphasize the DOT's role in tilting the playing field towards a chosen recipient. We should dig up campaign contributions from AA, JB, SWA, and others lining them to this ruling.

This is Chicago thugocracy pure and simple. How's that Hope and Change working out for you now?