What would you do? Let's say you and David Neeleman of JetBlue were able to raise a huge amount of capital for a startup carrier. How would you do it? What would you do different? Here's my idea, kick it around....

1. "Focus on the T". Take a map of the USA, and place a T on it. My focus would be on the areas that currently have little or no low fare options. North-South across the heartland, East-West across the northern third of the country. Yes, essentially take on NW. With the Humphrey Terminal at MSP currently open, it could make MSP a very strong focus city. My other focus city would be MKE. I would draw from S. Wisconsin and the Northern Chicago suburbs. Would also focus on US-Canada markets. To me that seems to be a ripe market for a low-fare carrier.

Fare structure: All fares are one-way, like WN. 14 day advance, 7, 3, and walk-up fares offered. Only full Y fares are refundable. Tickets sold by web and thru selected (not all) travel agents only. travel agents will have access to same web-only fares, and I feel that a 8% commission on each ticket will still be cheaper than labor costs of a telephone res center. Will not participate in TA Res systems like Sabre, all bookings via web. All ticketless travel.

Fleet: New Airbus A320 family. I prefer the comfort of the Airbus over the 737, so my choice is based on my preference. But the common rated cockpit is a plus as well.

Cabin: 2 class cabin. Minimum 16 seats in FC cabin. FC seats available for $50 per segment above full Y fare. Leather seats throughout, DirecTV screens at every seat. No meal service on board, even in FC. BYO.

FF Program: My program will recognize distance traveled, but will also recognize fare paid. For example:

Segments <250 miles = 1 credit
251-750 miles = 2 credits
751+ miles = 3 credits

fare bonus 14 day advance fare = 0 credit
7 day advance fare = 1 credit
3 day advance fare = 3 credits
walk up (full Y) = 5 credits

Credits may be used for upgrades or free tickets. FF rewards will be similar to Southwest. If a seat is available and you have enough credits, it is yours. No blackout dates on awards, but there will be capacity controls. During holiday periods only. All award travel must be booked online thru website. Elite levels will be offered with bonus points, but no free upgrades.

Thats as far as I've gotten. I tend to think about this when I'm waiting for an airplane. Anyone have any other ideas?