Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
I don't need to fly WN to know that I want flights with nonstops from MSP departing from the main terminal, FC, reserved seats, airport lounges,fewer kids on average, interlining and IROPs rebooking on other carriers, and FAs that let me work in peace and quiet rather any annoying me with onboard games and jokes.
You've given this some thought!
A few years back an AA exec observed for attribution that most people on the plane weren't accruing miles in any program, let alone AAdvantage, and certainly not carrying elite status. (AA was no slouch in promoting FF plans, either.) In that environment, an E fare doesn't forego much: those flyers weren't upgrade-eligible, they probably weren't priority boarding-eligible (CC benefit noted), MQDs mean nothing.
I don't think for a minute that DL's choice of city pairs for E fares is random - I think DL is trying to figure out just what it needs to offer at what price points to compete with WN, Spirit and Allegiant. WN has been strong in Texas from day 1 and ATL-SAT/AUS are good test routes. On-time performance, frequency, and network depth may be enough, even without seat assignments.