Not All Wings Are Created Equal
Now, in the airline world, this gift of cheaper fuel won’t be shared out equally. Take a look at the big American carriers. Delta has always prided itself on operational efficiency. For them, lower fuel costs simply amplify what they already do well, potentially turning decent profits into spectacular ones. United, with its sprawling international network, has always been more exposed to the pain of high oil prices. Suddenly, that exposure could become an advantage, as the savings on long haul flights become disproportionately large.
And then there’s Southwest, the master of the no frills, cost effective model. Cheaper fuel gives them even more room to manoeuvre, perhaps allowing them to undercut rivals further or expand their routes without taking on too much financial risk. Each stands to benefit, but in their own unique way.