Originally Posted by
cfischer
true and there is a VA-SQ connection as well. With UA getting closer to SQ ,,, there could be some really interesting options on the table now
The UA-SQ partnership announcement was really short on details. We still don't know how far it will go and how elites in both programs will benefit.
Originally Posted by
uanj
Yes, it has the potential to change travel between the US and OA since VA has dropped all long haul flying. As a result VA is now reliant on their US partner for all connectivity to/from the US. DL is only flying one flight, LAX-SYD. DL onward connections from LAX are limited unless you add two connections involving an additional DL hub. UA will first give VA pax more flight choices from SYD and MEL and much better connectivity within the US, especially from SFO or IAH. UA historically flies far more people into OZ than DL, if VA coordinates well they should pick up the lion's share of onwards domestic connections on the OZ side.
VA is emerging from bankruptcy and needs to focus on their core business. From their side I can see why they are looking for a partner who will deliver the most passengers into their domestic system. DL with one flight a day is of limited benefit.
Pre-COVID, did UA have more flights to Australia than DL?