As U.S. Airlines Cut, Air Canada Introduces Celebrity Chef Meals In Coach

by Gary Leff

Jul 20 2020

Airlines are differentiating their approaches to the pandemic. Offering a better experience is a key strategy to winning business away from other airlines.

For U.S. consumers who do not live in an international gateway city, a connection is required. And as Air Canada brings U.S. flights back online, this matters because they’ve historically been the foreign carrier serving the most U.S. destinations – making the one-stop required for an international trip just as easy via Canada as via many U.S. cities. Air Canada is a direct competitor of U.S. airlines for U.S. passenger international trips.

Continue Reading »

Marriott Will Require Guests To Wear Masks Indoors Starting July 27

by Gary Leff

Jul 20 2020

Masks seem to have some effect limiting the spread of Covid-19. Even if their efficacy is overblown that shouldn’t be a reason not to use them. They’re something easy and low cost we can do, and they’re one of the few things within our own control besides staying completely isolated.

U.S. airlines now require masks. And Marriott has become the first to announce a mask requirement for all guests in on-property indoor spaces and not just for employees. This requirement goes into effect July 27. I expect the other major chains will follow.

Continue Reading »

How Close Did American Airlines CEO Come To Losing His Job Last Year?

by Gary Leff

parker talking to somebody
Jul 20 2020

Before the pandemic American Airlines underperformed the industry. They had more debt and lower profit margins. They had managed to alienate customers, employees, and investors alike. Their own data shows they had chased away frequent flyers.

When American Airlines lost their LATAM partnership last fall the floodgates of criticism finally opened. People were openly asking how the Board of Directors could abide a plummeting share price and broken operation at an airline which seemed strategically adrift?

Continue Reading »

Why First Class Meals Matter, And American Airlines Is Headed The Wrong Direction

by Gary Leff

Jul 19 2020

American Airlines is dropping meals on most domestic flights that are over 2200 miles as well as short haul international. These flights, that have been receiving single tray meal service in first class throughout the pandemic, will get a fruit and cheese plate instead.

Here’s why this ‘first world problem’ actually matters more now than ever.

Continue Reading »

Southwest Airlines Flight Attendant Fired After Criticizing Union President’s Support For Abortion (‘Harassment’)

by Gary Leff

Jul 19 2020

Unions take political positions their members disagree with all the time. And members should feel free to communicate with their union leadership over those disagreements. It’s fair to proscribe the time, place and manner for those disagreements – but shocking for a union President to secure for the firing of a union member over an internal union matter.

Continue Reading »