Originally Posted by
CALMSP
I've long thought LHR-JFK for EK would certainly be a great opportunity. Yes, competition from BA/AA specifically, but I think many would pull to the EK side if offered (granted it would have to be an updated a/c to truly be above). What would also be advantageous is if EK could get this, add this to the UA codeshare.
Additionally, I do see frequency being added back to numerous, but for new routes I can see EK doing DEN with a codeshare to expand reach in the smaller cities in the US. I think they missed out on getting into MSP/DTW prior to TK, but if they can jump on before QR, that would be great. I'd also like to see EK jump on an 11am EWR-DXB to offer a second option with UA in the evening.
I suspect that if the US and UK authorities allowed EK fifth freedom rights between LHR and JFK, EK management would be laughing with tears at their stupidity, because I think it’s only momentary stupidity from the Brits and Yanks that would see this happen lol.
As for other routes, the main constraint is aircraft (and crew). First 15 A350s being delivered are configured for medium and short haul, so are unsuitable outside an eight (?) hour ring. At the current rate of deliveries, it might be two years before longer route expansion can happen off of A350s when the variants configured for long haul ops start delivering. Of course, by then we don’t know what the status of the 388 fleet will be with respect to crew and parts (both presently in short supply). Don’t think EK are expecting any 777Xs before 2027, despite Boeing’s claims, and possibly the first ones delivered will replace the oldest 77Ws that are overdue for retirement by EK’s standards.