Delta: 757 Mania
November 7, 2008 – 4:03 pmOne thing is sure. You can’t fault Delta for not trying. Via the OTR, Delta has announced non-stop service to Paris from Pittsburgh and Raleigh-Durham. My thoughts:
1. As I alluded above, Delta has a strategy and regardless of whether it will work, they are at least implementing it. They are going international and they clearly are not going to leave any stone uncovered. Bravo for giving it a shot.
2. The 757-200 is a gem. What was once a has-been aircraft is now possibly the best thing that ever happened to the airline industry in a post-2001 world. It is fuel-efficient and is the regional jet equivalent to international flying. It is opening doors for airlines and the people who live in secondary cities (see point below).
3. Raleigh-Durham has service to London on AA, so from a city perspective this is bigger for Pittsburgh. It is the only direct link to Europe and as somebody living in Pittsburgh it puts a smile on my face. Still, you’ve got to wonder if the economy here can really support it.
4. So will these routes live on. Who Knows? Both routes are 5 days a week with each losing a peak day and an off-peak day. Raleigh loses Monday and Saturday. Pittsburgh loses Friday and Tuesday. I see the Friday loss hurting Pittsburgh, but it is likely the only way they could get it done with the aircraft. Still, it is hard to build traffic when you are not flying on the peak day. Eos did take a look at both these routes to London. Pittsburgh business lobbied and I wouldn’t be surprised if Delta already has some corporate contracts lined up. So, maybe it will work out.
The point is that the 757 makes this work. With a 757 and no competition, the risk/reward is relatively high and that is what Delta is betting on.
One Response to “Delta: 757 Mania”
Delta also recognizes that the true big $$$ margins are done via international routes and will likely cut back on domestic routes due to recent merger.
By John C. Couleur on Nov 8, 2008