The Air Show The Transatlantic Evolution
Oct 2, 2025
Brian and Brett dive into the booming transatlantic market, revealing a staggering 75% increase in daily flights over two decades. They explore the impact of joint ventures on competition, noting that just three groups dominate fares. Independent airlines like Icelandair and TAP still navigate this landscape, while the viability of low-cost carriers is questioned. Seasonal shifts in travel and the rise of leisure destinations highlight changing patterns, as they ponder the future of European markets and national carriers.
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Interviews With Failing LCCs Proved Skepticism Right
- Brett recalled interviewing Norse and Play executives who insisted 'this time will be different.'
- Both efforts failed to sustain transatlantic low-cost operations, validating earlier skepticism.
Leverage Hubs And JVs For New Routes
- Use existing strengths when launching Euro routes: focus on hubs like New York, Boston, or Seattle rather than broad network builds.
- Consider joint venture alignment to make long-haul European flying economically viable over time.
JVs Increase Options But Tighten Competition
- Joint ventures produced more choices in routing and schedule options even as they likely raised fares.
- Customers now get many flight options across JV partners if they accept higher pricing.