Originally Posted by ContinentalFan

I have been reading various commentaries on the strategic direction of EI, particularly under the leadership of Willie Walsh. What they're doing doesn't make sense. They've always discussed following the LCC model, but the carrier hasn't bitten the bullet on that one. For example, the carrier offers business fairs. The prices are competitive, about $3k from the east coast, but I think if you want to call yourself a true LCC, get rid of the front cabin.

I think that the carrier must be thinking about who it is and where it belongs in the world. My gut tells me that EI will move in the direction of a long-haul, two-tier service carrier. It may be price competitive in coach, but it will continue to offer full service up front. I also expect it to join another alliance; I would love that alliance to be ST!