With loads teetering against the single digits the US carriers must cut deeper to rationalize their operations. And there are few good justifications for not making that move.
United Airlines
US carriers cut frequencies, not destinations as they seek federal funding
Getting that federal bailout cash means keeping all existing destinations in service for the US airlines. That could prove troubling for some as the cutbacks are already in motion.
Converting to cargo: Putting passenger planes to use in the COVID-19 era
Passenger demand may not exist right now for airlines but global supply chains still demand the cargo capacity those aircraft represent. Passenger aircraft are being pressed into service as freighters, filling their belly space with goods to fly across the globe. And, in some cases, even a bit more.
Emirates, Turkish Airlines slash route networks, ground aircraft
Two more large airlines announced major cuts to their route networks this weekend. Emirates will suspend all passenger service while Turkish Airlines will cut nearly all its international destinations.
Airport lounges shutter as airlines slash capacity
The lounges are closing. Not every airline and not every location, but for the trickle of passengers still flying opportunities to duck into a private space in the terminal for a bit are starting to disappear.
Trans States Airlines: The first US airline victim of COVID-19
Trans States Airlines will halt operations on 1 April 2020. The carrier, which provides regional jet capacity to United Airlines, will halt operations as the parent carrier slashes flights in response to cratering demand tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond route cuts, airlines initiate extended suspension of operations
A week ago this level of cuts to airline route networks seemed beyond the pale. Now, it appears to be just the start.
United brings in-seat IFE back to the high density 777s
United Airlines is bringing a new version of its highest capacity aircraft to the skies with a notable improvement for economy class passengers: in-seat entertainment screens. And how the company pulled it off is an interesting recycling lesson.
New month, new snacks and drinks coming to JetBlue, United, Delta
As the new month starts some passengers will have new snack options on board their flights. Both JetBlue and United Airlines plan updates to their complimentary inflight snack rotations, while Delta Air Lines is switching up the beverage cart beginning in March 2020.
Goodbye Waterski, hello IFE on the E145s: United shakes up its regional operations
The Embraer E145 inflight experience is set to improve on United Airlines. The carrier will add streaming IFE on board, helping keep passengers entertained on its smallest aircraft.