News and notes from around the interweb:
- Discussions underway with Korean Air, Delta and Samsung for a Seoul – Austin flight there has been some interest in this – Austin’s first Asia non-stop – for about 8 years, disrupted by the pandemic, but Samsung’s plant makes this more viable (and subsidies, natch). Delta has also grows its presence in Austin, and clearly plans for a new Austin Delta One lounge anticipate more joint venture long haul flying.
- Video proves Delta flew Liam Ramos and his dad to ICE detention center
Footage obtained through FOIA of Delta Airlines deporting Liam Conejo Ramos
by
u/MN50501 in
minnesota - Does American attracts these customers because it lags in premium, or does it lag in premium because of its customers? Eh, maybe a little of both.
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- I don’t see how Spirit Airlines can survive outside bankruptcy protection at $100 oil. They don’t have that same sweet sweet credit card revenue, because what’s aspirational about Spirit? A big part of their strategy is trying to move more upmarket and driving remium revenue. They even want more Big Front Seats on planes. But they’re still Spirit Airlines. I really think they need to consider changing the name if they want to change the brand image.
- Lufthansa is rolling out basic business class fares which don’t even allow seat assignments for elite passengers. U.S. routes – where Lufthansa operates as part of a joint venture with United and Air Canada – won’t see these fares (at this point).
I actually sort of think of Lufthansa’s product as basic business class, so these fares are on point. Besides, even on regular fares it can cost as much as $1,380 for two passengers to sit together.
- Allegiant’s deal to acquire Sun Country has passed antitrust muster at DOJ. Expect to see fewer planes focused on Minneapolis.
The window for the DOJ to challenge @Allegiant's proposed takeover of @SunCountryAir has ended with no objection.
The merger is still subject to DOT and shareholder approval. pic.twitter.com/1xZBZd4lZs
— Edward Russell (@ByERussell) March 16, 2026
- John Cornyn is still in a tough Republican primary, hoping for Donald Trump’s runoff endorsement against the worst possible candidate his party could nominate – and potentially lose the Senate. He had a run-in with Austin congressman Greg Casar, formerly a member of Democratic Socialists of America.
.@JohnCornyn was scheduled to drop off Whataburger to TSA agents at Austin's airport and speak to the media about funding @DHSgov
Right before he arrived, @GregCasar showed up and started speaking to media as Cornyn pulled up with burgers and fries.
Here's what the two said: pic.twitter.com/DaUtTr1bsT
— Dylan McKim KXAN-AUSTIN (@DylMcK14) March 16, 2026
I have said for years that the DL/KE joint venture and the ICN hub will be the best if not only Asian hub that will allow adding Asia service from small hubs.
AUS is a big enough city to support int’l service to Europe, Asia and at least northern Latin America. Even LHR is much more possible w/ decent feed behind it.
as in BOS, DL will win the competitive contest because of its larger global network and more complete product offering.