Originally Posted by
StuMcIlwain
Wow. I've never heard a CEO speak like that before. I take back the F8 part of my post.
But my point is that other airlines (maybe just PD right now?) will fill the gaps, and once they are established on those routes it will be hard to AC to dislodge them should AC ever want to come back.
I completely disagree...if AC wants to re-enter a market and win back share, they will. Air travel is a price driven, commodity business...who can take me from A to B for the cheapest price gets the deal, unless you're a committed FF like most of the people who are commenting on this thread and now pissed that AC is 'abandoning them' after their years of loyalty.
AC has the ability, if they so choose, to come into a market and take losses for a period of time to build back share, push out weaker competitors who don't have the financial staying power and bring back all of the prodigal FF children.
Right now they are focused on maximizing the International network, which is a clear differentiator against anyone else, particularly those who are going to compete with them on YWG - YXE, or YYC - YQR. If you are a shareholder, probably a good strategy for you!