Go Ahead, Ask Away Part 3

Date: February 6th, 2009
Author: Dale Moss

There are some great questions you’ve posted. So let’s get to answering them.

Deatra and Connor posed some questions (and a couple suggestions) about adding new routes.

We’ve no plans as of right now for new routes. The economic conditions are a big reason why we’re not expanding routes in the near term. We’re keeping our focus on what we’ve got, doing the most with our current routes, and completing the integration of L’Avion. But we always have an eye toward the future and closely consider expansion opportunities when they come up.

The flight range of our Boeing 757s also plays a role when reviewing possible new routes. Ideal for connecting the US East coast to Western Europe, some longer routes just aren’t feasible with our current fleet. And as I mentioned in an earlier post, I’ll definitely share the news when new routes are decided on.

We had a couple different takes on our point-to-point (direct flight) structure from Doron and Henry.

I touched on this a bit in a post a few month backs, but it’s definitely worth going over again. One of the big benefits about being strictly a point-to-point carrier is that it frees us from the intricacies and cost of connecting flights and transferring luggage—which means savings for you. It also means Henry gets to visit NYC for the first time! We look forward to seeing you in May—and reading about your trip on your blog.

That leads us right into George’s question as to whether we’re planning on joining the OneWorld Alliance.

We’re not. Joining OneWorld would add operational complications and costs—something we strive to avoid. But we are partner airlines in British Airways Executive Club (as is L’Avion), so you can earn Executive Club miles when you fly.

As for George’s other question—how many additional B757s is British Airways going to transfer to us—the answer is none. BA has decided to sell the remainder of their fleet (sorry Luke, we aren’t the unnamed airline who bought them!). That said, the fleet we have perfectly fits needs.

We had a question regarding our in-flight entertainment system from Ann. While she thought the Archos 705 personal players is a great add-on, she commented on the battery life of the unit and wanted to know if we are considering installing standard in seat entertainment systems.

We aren’t planning on installing standard in-seat entertainment system. It’d also be a significant investment to make the change, and we’re out to provide good value—and keeping cost down is a big part of that. As for the battery life, the Archos system can always be recharged from the in-seat power supply.

The economy—and how it’s affecting us—is another question frequently asked. Loric says, “It terrifies me to think the airline I departed on might go out of business and leave me stuck in Europe on a student budget.”

We have every intention of being around for a long time. And we’re taking every measure necessary—including keeping costs down—to ensure it. Like all airlines (all companies for that matter), this economy is a challenge. But I truly believe we are the perfect airline for these times—real value and exceptional comfort. And having the strength of the BA family definitely helps.

You’ve all posted great comments, questions, and suggestions. I really enjoy reading through them—and getting a chance to answer them directly. So keep writing. I’ll keep reading.

Dale