Originally Posted by
sxf24
All flights do at some point. That's why you have the most seats possible, regardless of average LF.
Exactly right. This is why AA finally had to give up the "More Room Throughout Coach". Load factors are at historical highs right now. AA just couldn't risk losing 10-12 passengers per flight (on full flights) to the competition.
In addition, AS switched to the new, slimline seating to squeeze in 4 more seats on the 737-700's and 12 more seats (than AA) on the -800's. More people per flight = more revenue for AS (and a CHANCE of actually making a profit like successful businesses should).