Originally Posted by
spampurse
The problem is that the number of signature service flights are relatively stagnant and the number of "saver service" / Skyway / Skywest flights will be increasing. Will you be able to find ample overhead space at the last minute and avoid gate checking baggage on the new SkyWest 50 seat CRJ aircraft?
The Signature Service configuration probably does provide an experience that is 100% better most other carriers, but the economics of that configuration makes it extremely hard to provide it economically on just about any other aircraft. Even though I am in favor of the AirTran merger I was very curious to see if YX really had a viable "growth plan" that they have been talking about, and I was even hoping that they would prove me wrong and come up with something innovative (everyone likes an underdog). YX's potential for growth at the same level of service is a HUGE question (with or without the FL merger). If 15 to 25 SkyWest 50 seat CRJs, 2 used gas-guzzling MD80s, and adding a very insignificant number of signature service seats to their Saver aircraft is their answer to this question, than their brand that they have worked so hard to differentiate along with their airline is in serious trouble.
Thank you for getting the argument Spampurse! As for Porkrind and DC Bob both of you only see this situation inside the routes you fly that happen to be signature routes. As annoying as you say I am getting Pork you are equally so with saying how effing great Midwest is. If you had experienced what Midwest Express was you would be firmly in my camp on this one. As Spam says the Signature routes have stayed the same relatively while connect and saver routes have increased. In doing so they have diluted their own brand. I' m puzzled as to the mystique Midwest has. If I had opined that Northwest or any other carrier sucked I'm sure you would agree.(actually I don't feel that way). Yet, say your dearly beloved Midwest Airlines is merely above average and some of you act like your dog was shot. Or could it be that air travel has become so mired in mediocrity that a somewhat wider seat and a chocolate chip cookies passes for God's gift to air travel?
RIP-James Brown