Originally Posted by
iflyabunch
Alright, one more try. Obviously you guys are not answering the question. If the 744 is too much for KIX and ICN, why not run it to LHR, BOM, HKG like they're planning for the 77W? Why use the 77W to upgrade routes that don't need more capacity? I find it hard to believe United bought 14 77Ws to replace perfectly good 772ERs out of EWR when they had other planes in the fleet to work with. Doesn't make sense.
There's more to route/capacity planning than replacing a plane 1:1 when there is additional demand. Although from a high level, it makes sense to go from 772 to 747 when demand is there; there are also logistical challenges, such as no 747 crew base in EWR, no 747 maintenance/facilities at EWR, etc.
Moreover, if 747 goes MX, where would UA get the parts in BOM? from AI and their 2-3 744? It's not like LHR/HKG/NRT where there's still a healthy batch of 747 flying out of those airports.