Originally Posted by Pigeye01

Republic/F9 will not be successful anywhere until it aligns itself with a major loyalty program. Could F9 be positioning for an acquisition?

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-0...le-planes.html

If I'm AA, I realize consolidation is essential. I don't want to have anything to do with US. AS is successful on their own (not looking to merge) and doesn't offer any value (N-S network, no TPAC). Getting in to the DEN market is risky, but if I am in fact considering bringing Airbus on the property, and RAH offers F9 assets for "cheap," F9 may be attractive. JetBlue has lost its glamor as well, and additional market share in NYC may be something I'm interested in by purchasing B6.

Mergers / acquisitions are difficult. Two mergers / acquisitions are even more painful. Speculation: look for AA to acquire either B6 or F9. F9's LOI with Airbus may be a strategic move to attract a buyer, especially considering the C-Series order. 160 new airplanes doesn't make sense. F9/RAH is up to something... Maybe courting AA for an F9 purchase?