Originally Posted by
youngdlplat
But in the end, no matter how good these things are for MEM, O&D is what drives Delta's decisions. Perhaps that really is the only thing that can make a hub profitable. If so, then the future of MEM seems certain. (Though I still don't understand why O&D is the major thing, as many people must connect. And ATL just doesn't seem like an ideal connecting airport anymore, too crowded, congested, and delayed. But then what do I know?)
This can be explained by the purchasing behavior of most consumers. Yes, MEM is much easier to connect in than ATL. But how much extra will you pay? If you search online and connecting through MEM is even $5 more expensive, will you pay it? Some Flyertalkers might, but most people won't. Therefore, factors like ease of connecting and congestion do not play into Delta's decision on keeping the hub.
ATL has the economy of scale and the O&D traffic, therefore it is going to be cheaper. That's really all that matters.