The following qoute makes a lot of good points. I would like to add just one addtional comment that is significant. Why is this a major issue for DL and not UA, AA, CO etc. They fly more routes and flights than DL and offer 3 class cabins or Bus. AA just had a better F on the DC 10 than the old L 1011 and certionaly the new 767-400. This is a poor design for a Domestic F. The seats a narow, poor recline, leg room, and hard to get off. Why this for a long haul???

[b][QUOTE]Originally posted by hfly:
And the CDG flight has about 100 less passengers.

Airlines do not fly routes that lose money year in and year out. HNL is not a big money maker for anyone due to the distance and fares, however no one loses money on the routes. The idea for the airlines is to be cash positive on the routes and then in addition burn up as many frequent flier miles as they can.

In addition there is a lot of cargo business from HNL,

I should also mention that HNL flights operate with a smaller and cheaper cabin crew as domestic FA's have less seniority than Int'l and are paid less. Also, the 1st service is far less than Biz Elite (less costs in material and crew presentation).

Furthermore, on many European routes you NEED A 3RD PILOT!!!