Delta/NWA still face pressure from Minnesota--article

[Superpilot92]

If Delta abandoned MSP after a merger someone else would move in (read: LCC). The passengers could be routed elsewhere but yields would undoubtedly drop due to longer segment lengths (more fuel burned) and lower fares due to increased competition. It wouldn't take long to lose way more than $245 million.

It is arrogant to think that Delta doesn't need MSP. On the other hand, Minnesota is better served with a large network carrier using MSP as a hub. In other words they need each other. I'm sure there is middle ground to be found. Perhaps keeping some kind of presence at the current headquarters or a smaller penalty for leaving.

Agreed, it would be one thing if the planes weren't full but they are. Why would they dump any major hub when the planes are full of people? Doesn't make sense. The hubs will stay in place, they will change but they aren't going to just close up shop. IF it did happen it would probably be CVG or MEM which wouldn't be dumped but probably just turn into a regional hub. Who knows, stranger things have happened!!

 

[NuGuy]

Heyas Super,

Great observation. Look at IND. Makes a pile of cash for NWA, and is just a skip and a jump down the road from DTW. The thing that the DAL boyos ignore is that our hubs aren't infested with LCCs, and that DTW and MSP have HUGE catchment areas.

I used to think those in MSP were the most self centered people around, but I see those in ATL are in the running as well.

If the NWA/DAL thing happens, I want to watch when the first senior MSP or SEA mama has to fly with some Southern Belle. Hillarity will most certainly ensue...

Nu

 

[XJohXJ]

I'm sorry, but a MSP hub isn't what this merger is about. It's about broadening network reach. Passengers can just as easily be moved through another hub.

The local politicians up at MSP will realize that do what it takes to keep MSP as a hub.

These issues will be worked out if it comes to that and MSP will do what it takes to make itself attractive as a hub.

Umm, political support will be absolutely essential for any merger to be approved. Currently MN has enough heavy hitters in both parties to stall any deal. MN won't be shut down.

 

[FDJ2]

Umm, political support will be absolutely essential for any merger to be approved. Currently MN has enough heavy hitters in both parties to stall any deal. MN won't be shut down.

Like I said:

"These issues will be worked out if it comes to that and MSP will do what it takes to make itself attractive as a hub."

 

[trip]

Yep, the tax payers of the great state of Minnesota have been pumping dollars into NWA for decades now, dont think they will let it slide away by way of merger. Then again stranger things have happened!