Originally Posted by
Adam Smith
There's no need for rouge to do that, they could just have a sub-fleet of 330s that were only PY/Y. I'm not sure how much they really need that though. Some former rouge destinations seem to be doing very well as mainline, e.g. ATH, and the XLRs will give them the ability to target many lower-volume routes while still offering a proper J product. And they can use the 7M8 for a few things like KEF and DUB.
As for overhead, rouge exists, but there are surely ongoing costs to maintaining it.
I meant overhead for the A330s. Simulators, MX, manuals, procedures, training, etc.
Many routes are doing well on mainline at the current Y prices, but my whole premise is that these are inflated by YOLO travellers maxing out credit cards and COVID payments. I suspect that will subside by EOY and markets where TATL rates currently selling for $1,200-$1,500 will return to $800-$1,000. That needs a different weapon to defend against.
Over the last 20 months any airline with staff and planes was making revenue hand over fist, except LCCs. Those days are ending soon, me thinks.