Passenger Airlines
Case studies in passenger airlines.
Delta Air Lines — Sequencing Premium-Capacity Growth
On March 1, 2024, imagine you are preparing a commercial and network review for Delta Air Lines. Delta has reported faster growth in premium-product ticket revenue than in Main cabin and has announced a firm purchase of 20 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026. Read case
JetBlue Airways — The Spirit Decision
On 7 March 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), joined by Massachusetts, New York, and the District of Columbia, sued to block JetBlue Airways’ proposed acquisition of Spirit Airlines. JetBlue and Spirit said they would continue to advance the transaction. Read case
Joby Aviation — Scaling Before Certification
On 1 March 2024, Joby Aviation’s leaders faced a sequencing question. The company had announced a large manufacturing plan in Dayton, Ohio, while its electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft remained in development and FAA certification was still underway. Read case
Southwest Airlines — Rebuilding the Seat Experience
Southwest Airlines had spent more than fifty years letting passengers choose any open seat after boarding. On 25 July 2024, the company announced that it would adopt assigned seating and offer premium seats with extra legroom. Read case
United Airlines: Where Should the Next Dollar Go?
On July 18, 2024, United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (UAL) had released its second-quarter results and filed its quarterly report. The quarter was profitable, demand was strong in several customer segments, and cash generation had improved United's flexibility. Read case