Originally Posted by
bzcat
The shrinking/disappearing PE cabin probably also has something to do with codeshare and how much the airline partners are willing to pay. Since none of the Taiwanese airlines are in any sort deep metal neutral codeshare/profit sharing relationship, they have to manage the seat inventory in a way that doesn't end up being a free upgrade for someone. It's easier to just eliminate it especially if the the simple codeshare involves both short haul and long haul segments.
JX's relationship with AS is probably one of convenience for both parties. AS is really the only one that can do feed and non-alliance onward connection on the West Coast which is why AS has a lot of non-alliance codeshare and interline relationships (e.g. SQ). So I wouldn't read too much into whether that means JX is primed for OW entry... it's just too early for them (and OW) to think about it.
JX is obviously not in the position to join an alliance right now. They need to get their network to a decent size and passenger volume to a certain number before it works for the alliance and for them (i.e. additional traffic justifies the cost of joining an alliance).
The reason I think onworld is because CI is not going to let JX join Skyteam and BR is not going to let JX join or Star Alliance. JX did not do the deal with AS because of oneworld - it is probably a somewhat decent airline that JX can get a deal with. I think that did impact the plan for SEA service.
As far as the shrinking PE class, it comes down to numbers and I think it takes time to find the sweet spot depending on the airline, season and route. Airlines negotiate the prorated prices when they make deals so I am not sure if shrinking PE was driven by that.