1. Don't compare regionals to these guys. It's apples to oranges. We are talking about regional airlines, let's stick to regional concessions. It's easier for a DAL pilot to accept a DAL paycut than a $21,000 /yr regional FO to take a 30% cut.
2. The same customer will also spend 50 bucks on a baseball game ticket. If the prices are high and he has to pay it, he will pay it. He does not decide major league baseball is too expensive and go to a bowling game to save money.
3. Again, if the price is set and can't be dashed around, they have to pat it.
4. Sure they are, maybe not so much as before. But what is being overlooked is the PLEASURE traveller. Look at who makes up the crowds on JB, SWA, AirTran----THIS is why they are thriving.
5. Yes it is, but it can be compared in that certain markets in air travel is also a closed market. Sure, people bellyached baseball, but the end result was in players favor.
6. Tell me that the public does not need air travel. Then look up in the sky at the planes. People can not live without it these days.