CALIFORNIA- American Airlines (AA) and Delta Air Lines (DL) are discontinuing specific regional routes that cater to passengers traveling within California. These route eliminations are being made to reallocate resources to more lucrative routes.
Competition among airlines in California is intense, with no single airline dominating the market. Removing these flights by these carriers may lead to reduced competition, potentially negatively impacting passengers in the region.
American and Delta Cuts California Flights
In December 2023, American Airlines announced service cancellation from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC).
Alaska to Step In
American Airlines had subcontracted the route to SkyWest Airlines, utilizing the Embraer E175 aircraft with a seating capacity of 76 passengers. The twice-daily flight service will be discontinued on April 3, 2024.
Between March and April, the number of flights offered will be drastically reduced from 62 to just five. Additionally, the available seat capacity will decrease from 4,712 to 380. Cirium’s forecasts indicate a 1,334,256 Available Seat Miles (ASM) reduction.
Alaska Airlines (AS) will step in to fill the void left by American Airlines exiting the market. Alaska Airlines, a member of the oneworld alliance like American, will have the opportunity to codeshare, enabling passengers to access American’s extensive long-haul network.
Cutting 17 years Old Route
Delta Air Lines, renowned as one of the world’s largest carriers and self-proclaimed top carrier at LAX, has made significant investments in the airport, including extensive renovations and enhancements to Terminal 3. However, it is now following suit with some competitors by scaling back routes from the hub.
The airline has discontinued its service from LAX to Oakland International Airport (OAK), a route it has operated since 2007, effective May 7, 2024, after 17 years of operation. Currently, the airline offers a total of 88 flights per month, accommodating over 6,500 passengers.
In May, the number of flights will be slashed to just 33, with a seating capacity of 2,310 passengers. Southwest Airlines (WN) will monopolize the route, with the legacy carrier withdrawing from the market. This concerns passengers, as competition typically helps keep fares at affordable levels.
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