Originally Posted by CODC10
I respect your opinion, but could you clarify on which 'basics' he is neglecting? From my point of view (aside from natural factors, i.e. weather) Kellner is running about as tight a ship as possible, and CO's product is as consistently strong as I can remember.
The ship is tight, but I think it's too tight for CAL's own good in the long term.
Some issues:
1. Staffing cutbacks already implemented or planned that have already and will continue to erode service to the customer (CSR, f/a's, longer hrs. worked by all line emloyees, etc.)
2. Limited investments planned in infrastcture improvements as well as fleet modernization (CAL is planning to buy new planes, but a relatively small number over the next 5 yrs)
3. Management refusal to recognize the paradigm shift that is about to produce a higher-quality product across the industry. This is in areas such as improved IFE and coach cabin comfort. Once this occurs in a significant fashion, CAL will be very behind and catching up will be hard & expensive
4. CAL leaving itself vulnerable to aggressive LCC's on its domestic trunk routes because CAL's fare structure on these routes is very high & comfort of coach cabin sub-standard.
5. Similarly, CAL is vulnerable to competition on int'l markets where competitors can fly bigger more comfortable planes with updated premium & coach cabins.
6. Slow erosion in on-board service which is deteriorating CAL's reputation as a reliable full-service airline