07-30-2009
06:26 PM
1 Love
Competition will improve with an WN acquisition, just not in DEN. WN would like F9's slots at DCA and LGA plus access to ATL and higher cost traffic to ANC. I just don't see how the second ring cities like DAY and CAK would fit in the acquisition since WN flies to nearby CMH and CLE. The ANC flight is a red eye, which AFAIK, WN just doesn't do red-eyes, but this would help with utilization so it will probably stay. Plus the ANC flights can be bundled with cruises/ and vacation packages. But 5+ hours with no in-flight entertainment.
I believe the Airbuses would be gone over time. There's no way WN is going to double up on aircraft types/parts over the long haul since it doesn't fit with their core business model of standardizing on one aircraft and engine type. F9 pilots and mechanics would be the first to go, unless they are certified for 737's too. Lynx may not be totally dead under WN since much of DEN's "home traffic" is from the region including COS, DRO, GJT, etc.
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