15% decrease in flights for MEM
Nov 29, 2012 | 5:26 pm
#46
Original Poster
Suspended
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Orlando, FL Area
Programs: Delta SkySponge ExtraAbsorbent, SPG Gold
Posts: 29,980
Ok...I'm just thinking in realistic terms. As far as I'm aware the only traffic DL used as a bargaining chip with ATL were the south/Latin America flights. I just have trouble believing Delta ever seriously considered moving those flights to MEM. The infrastructure and network just isn't there and it would have cost DL millions to make it happen. No way where they going to overfly ATL with its unbeatable connection opportunities.
Dec 3, 2012 | 12:01 am
#47
Moderator: Manufactured Spending
Join Date: Jul 2011
Posts: 6,703
But in the end, no matter how good these things are for MEM, O&D is what drives Delta's decisions. Perhaps that really is the only thing that can make a hub profitable. If so, then the future of MEM seems certain. (Though I still don't understand why O&D is the major thing, as many people must connect. And ATL just doesn't seem like an ideal connecting airport anymore, too crowded, congested, and delayed. But then what do I know?)
ATL has the economy of scale and the O&D traffic, therefore it is going to be cheaper. That's really all that matters.
Dec 3, 2012 | 12:14 am
#48
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: KARB
Programs: DL 2MM
Posts: 26,646
This can be explained by the purchasing behavior of most consumers. Yes, MEM is much easier to connect in than ATL. But how much extra will you pay? If you search online and connecting through MEM is even $5 more expensive, will you pay it? Some Flyertalkers might, but most people won't. Therefore, factors like ease of connecting and congestion do not play into Delta's decision on keeping the hub.
ATL has the economy of scale and the O&D traffic, therefore it is going to be cheaper. That's really all that matters.
ATL has the economy of scale and the O&D traffic, therefore it is going to be cheaper. That's really all that matters.
Actually, MEM is often cheaper due to the lack of PFC's. The issue is likely more a lack of frequency/destinations and the prevalence of CRJ's. Business fliers want schedule flexibility and a chance of an upgrade, something that is difficult to obtain when connecting through MEM vs. ATL.